Dinámicas de género en los espacios costeros: el caso de las playas de Cataluña y Gran Canaria

Abstract

This study, framed within debates on socio-territorial transformations and inequalities, explores how gender influences beach use, offering an initial perspective for more equitable coastal management. It is based on 2,025 surveys conducted with beach users in Catalonia (867) and Gran Canaria (1,158), Spain, and examines variables related to social profile (place of residence, age, education level) and beach use (companionship, means of transport, time spent, and beach type), disaggregated by sex and region. The results show that sex is a relevant factor in both social profiles and beach use preferences. Women, especially younger ones, more frequently visit urban and semi-urban beaches, tend to go accompanied—mainly by family—and rely more on public transport. This pattern may be linked to issues such as safety, available services, and caregiving roles. In contrast, men, particularly older ones, are more likely to visit beaches alone and are found in greater numbers in natural environments compared to women. This trend may be associated with factors such as feeling safer in isolated areas or having more free time to enjoy solitude and travel longer distances to reach these locations. These differences reveal how gender shapes experiences in coastal spaces, influenced by perceptions of safety, accessibility, and social preferences. Although exploratory, the findings highlight the importance of incorporating a gender perspective into coastal management policies to promote more inclusive and equitable spaces. This approach can help develop strategies that enhance women’s safety and autonomy and ensure equal access to diverse coastal environments, thereby strengthening sustainability and inclusion in coastal territories.