Sea-Level Rise Perceptions and Adaptation Strategies in South Carolina’s Coastal Tourism Destinations: Perspectives of State and Local Officials

Author

• Tzu-Hsuan TsengFollow

Date of Award

8-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (MPRTM)

Department

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

Committee Chair/Advisor

Charles Chancellor

Committee Member

Charles Chancellor

Committee Member

Bob Barcelona

Committee Member

Elizabeth Baldwin

Abstract

Sea-level rise poses a significant threat to coastal communities worldwide, yet understanding of how governance systems respond to this slow-onset hazard remains limited. This qualitative study examined how state and local government officials in South Carolina perceive sea-level rise risks and develop adaptation strategies in coastal tourism destinations.

Drawing on Resilience Theory and employing a phenomenological interviewing approach, this research analyzed perspectives from three South Carolina Office of Resilience officials and five local officials responsible for Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island. Data were analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis.

Five key themes developed: First, officials acknowledge sea-level rise with increasingly observable impacts, yet risk perceptions vary by place. Second, adaptation strategies range from retreat to staying in place, highlighting how climate framing can build public acceptance by enabling depoliticization, communication, and education. Third, multi-level and collaborative governance issues shape the dynamics of climate governance. Fourth, major barriers to adaptation include political complexity, institutional and regulatory constraints, and resource limitations. Fifth, while there are tensions between tourism and resilience, there are some solutions to support long-term development.

This research contributes to sustainable tourism literature by illuminating governance challenges associated with climate hazards in tourism-dependent communities. It also provides practical insights for coastal destinations navigating the intersection of climate adaptation and development, highlighting the need for long-term, resilience-oriented governance strategies.

Recommended Citation

Tseng, Tzu-Hsuan, "Sea-Level Rise Perceptions and Adaptation Strategies in South Carolina’s Coastal Tourism Destinations: Perspectives of State and Local Officials" (2026). All Theses. 4824.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/4824