Spatial Planning for the Economic Development of Coastal Cities with a Focus on Beach and Water Sports Tourism (Case Study: Farahābād, the City of Sāri)

Document Type : Research Article - Case Study

Authors

1 Professor, Department of Human Geography and Planning, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 PhD Student, Department of Human Geography and Planning, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

10.22124/gscaj.2026.29821.1346

Abstract

In recent years, sports tourism has emerged as one of the dynamic and appealing branches of the tourism industry, playing an increasingly significant role in shaping travelers' destination choices. Among its various forms, coastal and marine sports have gained considerable popularity, particularly in areas rich in natural marine resources. Their thrilling, recreational, and health-oriented nature has made them highly attractive to a wide range of tourists. Coastal regions and marine shorelines serve as natural settings for such activities, offering substantial potential for economic development and tourist attraction. Mazandaran Province, benefiting from its strategic geographical location and proximity to the Caspian Sea, is considered one of the most promising regions in Iran for the expansion of coastal and marine sports tourism. This potential positions the province as a prime candidate for both domestic and international travel. Accordingly, the present study aimed to identify the key factors influencing the economic development of coastal cities through coastal and marine sports tourism, with a specific focus on the Farahābād region of the city of Sāri. Methodologically, this research was applied in terms of purpose, descriptive-analytical in nature, and inductive in its research approach. To collect the required data, both documentary (library-based) and survey (field-based) methods were employed. The indicators used in this study included economic development and coastal and marine sports tourism, which encompass tourism attractions, infrastructure and facilities, human resources and management, as well as socio-cultural aspects. For data analysis, SPSS statistical software was utilized, employing Pearson correlation tests and multiple regression analysis. In addition, AMOS software was used to perform factor analysis to identify the most significant contributing factors. The findings of the study indicate a significant and positive relationship among the research variables, confirming their mutual influence. Moreover, the results of the standardized factor loadings show that all five identified factors (research variables) have positive and statistically significant coefficients at the 0.05 level. Therefore, each of these factors plays an effective role in the economic development of coastal cities through coastal and marine sports tourism, specifically in the Farahābād region of Sāri.

Highlights

  • The contribution of coastal and marine sports tourism to the economic and social development of coastal cities.
  • The importance of integrated and sustainable management to prevent environmental degradation and reduce livelihood pressures on local communities.
  • The significant potential of Mazandaran Province to emerge as a leading hub for coastal and marine sports tourism in northern Iran.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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