Abstract
Beaches are valuable tourist resources, and determining their carrying capacity is critical for ensuring their sustainable use and effective management. This study builds upon the evaluation of carrying capacities at three beach resorts in Barangay Tagnanan, Mabini, and Davao de Oro within the Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape (MPLS). Using Boullon’s Carrying Capacity Mathematical Model (BCCMM), the research assessed physical carrying capacity (the number of individuals a site can physically accommodate) and socio-cultural carrying capacity (visitor thresholds beyond which satisfaction diminishes). Data collection methods included site measurements, visitor counts, and structured interviews to evaluate landscape perception, user behavior, and limiting factors such as environmental conditions and infrastructure availability. The findings reveal significant exceedances of both physical and socio-cultural carrying capacities during weekends and peak seasons, highlighting critical challenges in balancing visitor influx with environmental preservation. As with similar studies in coastal environments, this research demonstrates the complexity of producing a universal carrying capacity formula, as site-specific conditions and visitor behavior play essential roles in management strategies. The study underscores the importance of integrating ecological and social dimensions into flexible management plans tailored to the unique characteristics of beach areas. These insights provide a robust framework for sustainable beach management, offering actionable recommendations to address visitor overcapacity while preserving ecological and recreational values.
