Sustainable Management of Tourism in Small Coastal Towns

Abstract

Sustainable management of tourism in small coastal towns is a critical issue that requires urgent attention, particularly in places such as Port St Johns in the Eastern Cape. With a particular emphasis on the opportunities and challenges of Port St Johns, this study attempts to investigate the conceptual framework of sustainable tourist management in small coastal towns. The study adopts a qualitative research approach, utilising a case study design to collect data from a purposive sample of key stakeholders in Port St Johns. Interviews were conducted with local residents, tourism officials, business owners, and environmental organisations to gather insights into the town’s current state of tourism management. The study’s key findings show that small coastal communities need to manage tourism sustainably by taking a comprehensive approach that considers the social, economic, and environmental effects. The study emphasises that to guarantee the long-term viability of tourism in Port St Johns, successful community participation, capacity building, and resource management are necessary. The main takeaway from this study is that sustainable tourism management is crucial for the social and economic advancement of the surrounding communities and the preservation of the natural and cultural legacy of small coastal towns. The study concludes that small coastal towns cannot manage tourism sustainably without a cooperative strategy incorporating all stakeholders.