Estimating the value of beach recreation from property values: An exploration with comparisons to nourishment costs

This paper explores how the economic value of recreation at local public beaches can be estimated from nearby property values. The negative effect of distance from the nearest public beach on coastal property values was used to reveal recreational value. Estimates of recreational value were also compared to the costs of beach nourishment that were calculated from a simulation of beach erosion caused, in part, by increases in relative sea-level. Although a complete benefit-cost analysis was not feasible, the results suggest that potential losses of recreational value by local users alone could establish the efficiency of beach nourishment projects.