Evolution and reconstruction of settlement space in tourist islands: a case study of Dachangshan Island, Changhai County

This study analyzes the evolution of the land use structure, demographic reconstruction, and social reconstruction of Dachangshan Island, Changhai County, using a geographical information system (GIS) and remote sensing images, the expansion strength index, and coupled system modeling. The findings are as follows: (1) The current development indices of tourism and the ecological environment of Dachangshan Island are approximately 0.30, suggesting medium coordination. The development of tourism has induced the evolution of land use patterns and settlement landscapes, with rural landscapes significantly differing among villages. (2) The spatial reconstruction index of the island is 0.19, suggesting a low level of reconstruction. Additionally, tertiary industries have the largest working population among all industrial sectors and the population structure is unbalanced with evident "hollowing". (3) Dachangshan Island has witnessed some progress in urban transition, transportation, and other sectors; however, the functional zoning of rural and urban areas remains unclear.