The level of seawater pollution in tourist resorts and the environmental satisfaction of tourists

Nan'ao County, as a popular coastal tourism destination in eastern Guangdong, has seen continuous growth in tourist numbers in recent years. This increasing pressure has led to deteriorating marine environments—seawater quality is declining, foam accumulation and occasional odors have become noticeable, causing discomfort among visitors. This study focuses on this issue, attempting to capture the subtle connection between pollution reality and tourist perceptions. By collecting data through field sampling and analyzing indicators such as fecal coliforms and petroleum content, combined with spatial analysis, it was found that pollution in the nearshore waters of the main scenic area exhibits a clear aggregation characteristic, especially in summer. A simultaneous questionnaire survey indicated that over 60% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the water quality. When the desire for a blue sky and vast sea contrasts with the reality of a turbid environment, satisfaction declines due to the psychological gap. There is a nonlinear response relationship between environmental perception and pollution data, and even minor deterioration in water quality can trigger a significant emotional backlash. This not only affects the quality of experience but also potentially poses a risk to the reputation of regional tourism. Research shows that ecological protection is never an abstract proposition; it should be integrated into every governance decision.