Numerical Simulation and Analysis of Rip Currents on a Typical Headland-Bay Coast, Hainan Island

Abstract Rip currents represent a significant coastal hazard, and their dynamics have been studied globally on various types of coastlines. However, research on their characteristics along the headland-bay coasts of Hainan Island, China, remains limited. Hainan Island features numerous headland-bay beaches, most of which are subject to varying degrees of rip current risk. To address this gap, this study established a high-resolution numerical model for rip currents in Zhu Bay, Sanya, based on the FUNWAVE-TVD model. By integrating numerical simulations with remote sensing imagery and comprehensively considering the effects of topography, wave parameters, and tides, we systematically analyzed the distribution characteristics and dynamic patterns of rip currents in Zhu Bay. The results provide a reference for research on rip current hazards and their prevention along typical coastlines of Hainan Island.