The purpose of the proposed study is to explore the degree to which different racial groups utilize South Carolina’s beaches, with a particular focus on determining whether visible minorities – in particular, Blacks, non-white Latinos, and Asians – are underrepresented amongst beachgoers. The study also will examine whether usage patterns differ between these groups, regarding behaviors like time of day visited or activities undertaken. In addition, the study will explore the possible barriers to South Carolina beach visitation that are perceived by residents of South Carolina, and these will be compared between the different racial groups.
South Carolina’s beaches represent one of the state’s natural treasures, and “blue space” recreation is known to have various benefits relating to mental, physical, and social wellbeing. However, various studies have found that racial minorities are frequently underrepresented in outdoor recreation spaces, including beaches, owing to a variety of barriers (limited access, cost, feelings of being unwelcome, etc.). Such issues are particularly troublesome when considering the history of racial minorities being prohibited from accessing certain beach areas (e.g., under Jim Crow laws). Consequently, it is important to determine if such underrepresentation applies to South Carolina’s beaches, and what barriers are reducing beach usage by racial minorities in South Carolina.
This research will shed light on whether racial minorities are underrepresented in their usage of South Carolina’s beaches. It also will reveal how different racial groups tend to use the beach, with regards to time of day visited and activities engaged in. The research additionally will identify key barriers that reduce beach usage by different racial groups. Together, the findings will be used to inform recommendations for promoting enjoyment of South Carolina’s beaches by all racial groups.