Understanding children's preferences and activities at recreational beaches is crucial for the effective planning and management of these tourism destinations. However, most research on public beaches prioritizes adult perspectives, often overlooking children's spatial and behavioral needs. This study develops a model for child-friendly beach planning and management, emphasizing nature-based experiences and playful activities supported by environmental affordances. Using a participatory, arts-based approach, data were collected from 202 children (ages 8–12) through 46 wall newspapers. A combination of deductive coding, based on predefined model categories, and inductive coding, identifying emerging themes, was employed for analysis. Findings reveal that children interact with natural and social elements through playful activities within three behavioral zones: the sea fosters movement and exploration, dry land encourages sensory engagement, and the intertidal zone nurtures creativity and construction. As children age, gender differences and autonomy become more pronounced, with older girls expressing a stronger preference for spatial equity and gender inclusivity, seeking greater independence in beach activities. While parental supervision remains crucial, it should not restrict children's mobility. Additionally, a child-friendly beach integrates functional features with imaginative elements, offering nature-based affordances. This study contributes to nature-based tourism management by outlining two core principles for sustainable child-friendly beach planning: (1) preserving ecological structures with minimal intervention and (2) maximizing nature-based affordances to support children's playful interaction. Concluding with a practical model, the study provides actionable insights for balancing ecological preservation with spatially and gender-inclusive participatory planning, ultimately promoting sustainable tourism.
