This paper addresses the need for a simple model for managers to employ when planning strategies for management of sandy beaches. It is based on the premise that in the overwhelming majority of cases beaches are suitable for recreation or for conservation or a combination of the two, whereas other uses are rare. The broad range of physical, ecological and socio-economic factors relevant to beaches, are reviewed briefly. Then three key factors are selected to develop each of two simple indices, an index of conservation value, CI, based on dune state of health, the presence of iconic species and macrobenthic species richness; and an index of recreation potential, RI, based on the extent of infrastructure, the level of safety/health of the beach and its physical carrying capacity. By combining these two indices, a beach can be simply classified as suitable for intensive recreation, or primarily for conservation, or for mixed use. Ten principles are outlined for consideration and potential application to beach management strategies. Finally, 23 beaches from three continents are classified, with detailed descriptions of a beach typical of each major use type.