There are a few components that characterize what a beach is. The main and most obvious component of a beach is sand, which can differ in particle size. Some beaches have large rocks or sandstone along with sand. Sometimes, beaches may also have vegetation. Some common plants that grow at beaches are coconut trees and/or naupaka kahakai (Scaevola taccada). Not many plants grow at beaches because of the harsh conditions, which are high amounts of saltwater spray and insufficient amount of rain. Other than a few plants and sand, beaches are fairly simple. The most common species found living at beaches are sand crabs, more specifically ghost crabs. Many of other species are found living in the water.
Beaches are arguably the most well known type of intertidal zone. The reason being is because people are able to enjoy a number of different activities at beaches, which includes: barbecuing, swimming, surfing, fishing, diving, reading, sleeping, etc. Land associated near beaches were quickly sought after when foreigners arrived to Hawaiʻi because they recognized the value of this resource. Many hotels and condos are located alongside nice sandy beaches, which are popular attractions for tourists. Certain places in Hawaii like Waikīkī have been modified to become a beach. Below are two photos of two very different beaches here in Hawaiʻi. The left photo is of Honokanaiʻa, Kahoolawe where human presence and activities are little to none. On the other hand, the right photo of Waikīkī, Oʻahu has high human presence, especially of tourists.
Beaches are arguably the most well known type of intertidal zone. The reason being is because people are able to enjoy a number of different activities at beaches, which includes: barbecuing, swimming, surfing, fishing, diving, reading, sleeping, etc. Land associated near beaches were quickly sought after when foreigners arrived to Hawaiʻi because they recognized the value of this resource. Many hotels and condos are located alongside nice sandy beaches, which are popular attractions for tourists. Certain places in Hawaii like Waikīkī have been modified to become a beach. Below are two photos of two very different beaches here in Hawaiʻi. The left photo is of Honokanaiʻa, Kahoolawe where human presence and activities are little to none. On the other hand, the right photo of Waikīkī, Oʻahu has high human presence, especially of tourists.