Transforming Coastal Spaces Into Event Destinations: A Case Study of Sumpang Binangae, Barru Regency-Indonesia

Abstract

The existing tourism literature offers a limited exploration of coastal areas as venues for organising tourism events. This study aims to (1) assess the current condition of coastal areas from a tourism and event perspective and (2) propose strategies for planning and implementing international events that support tourism development in these regions. The research draws on observations and interviews conducted with fifteen informants, including government officials from the regional tourism board and community members in the Sumpang Binangae sub-district, Barru Regency, Indonesia. Thematic analysis revealed significant opportunities for hosting international tourism events in Sumpang Binangae. However, challenges persist due to the limitations of utilising coastal areas for such events. The study identifies three types of outdoor events—maritime-based, cultural-based, and modern-based—that local stakeholders can effectively plan and organise. It proposes a framework for leveraging coastal areas as locations for international tourism events, emphasising the importance of applying the principles of inseparability, perishability, intangibility, and heterogeneity in event management. Additionally, the study highlights the potential for local residents to become event planners and organisers through targeted training and infrastructure development. This research contributes to the advancement of event planning in marine tourism destinations.