Ways to Travel

How An Ancient Roman Law Could Impact Your Next Beach Vacation

Published

6 days ago

July 29, 2025

Life is full of laws and restrictions, whether it be local ordinances, religious guidelines, family norms, speed limits on the interstate, or federal tax laws. Some of these laws make absolutely no sense, such as a law in Arizona that outlaws donkeys from sleeping in bathtubs, prompting many people to wonder why and how these restrictions came to be in the first place.

However, history shows that nearly every law, restriction, and rule has a distinct purpose, having been created to address a societal issue at some point in history. Although some restrictions, such as those regarding artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency, are relatively new to the scene, some have been on the books for thousands of years.

For example, beachgoers this summer may be impacted by an ancient Roman law that continues to influence coastlines all across the globe, even thousands of years after the decline of the Roman Empire.

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A Roman Law Influenced Modern Judicial Systems

In the sixth century, Emperor Justinian of the Eastern Roman Empire, or the Byzantine Empire, took decisive action to restore the might and glory of the declining Roman Empire, the western portion of which had essentially collapsed after repeated raids and economic hardship. One of Justinian’s most lasting policy initiatives involved the codification of ancient Roman Laws, and among them was a provision that declared natural features, such as air, coastlines, and running water, as public trusts.

This meant that they were protected by the state and open to public use, preventing any individual or entity from holding crucial public features hostage. Like many ancient laws, this one remained on the books for many centuries, and future world powers, such as the British Empire and ultimately the United States, adopted these policies into their own respective legal codes.

Following is a text excerpt from the Roman Empire’s Justinian Code, 535 AD – “The public use of the seashore, too, is part of the law of nations, as is that of the sea itself; and, therefore, any person is at liberty to place on it a cottage, to which he may retreat, or to dry his nets there, and haul them from the sea; for the shores may be said to be the property of no man, but are subject to the same law as the sea itself, and the sand or ground beneath it.”

However, this archaic policy has created a divide between those who enjoy public access to America’s beaches, some more scenic and underrated than others, versus the people who own expensive beachfront property. In many cases, property owners find that to protect their property properly, they must install preventive measures to keep the ocean from engulfing it, including seawalls and other defensive structures. These defensive structures impact nature’s natural defense mechanisms, such as sand dunes, which prevent the ocean from spilling out too far onto land, creating ecological nightmares like severe beach erosion.

As a result, local governments across the United States and elsewhere have been forced to come to terms with these ancient laws. Many states and localities heavily tax beachfront properties, generating millions of dollars in revenue for the respective locality. As coastlines continue to change, this task has become increasingly urgent in recent years, with hotels, resorts, and oceanfront property owners seeking to preserve their properties.

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Sunbathers Have Ancient Roman Principles To Thank

Dreamstime

A summer day view of the beach and boardwalk in Avon by the Sea along the Jersey Shore

This summer, millions of people are expected to enjoy America’s many beautiful beaches, where they can sunbathe while reading their favorite book, play a game of beach volleyball with their friends, or even propose to the love of their life.

American law, influenced by both Roman law and English common law (also influenced in part by Roman laws), often applies the public trust doctrine to navigable waters and their shores. Not many will appreciate the principles of public trust that the Romans established centuries ago, demonstrating the enduring influence and power of the Roman Empire.

Other Ancient Laws In Modern Society

Every year, lawmakers create a lengthy list of new laws and regulations to keep pace with societal changes; however, many legal codes worldwide have ancient foundations. The oldest known legal code dates back to approximately 2100 B.C. and served as a foundational legal code for Mesopotamian society, with Babylon, located in modern-day Iraq, as its capital. This code established basic principles such as monetary compensation for those who had bodily harm inflicted upon them by another party, and capital punishment for serious crimes such as murder and sexual assault.

However, historians often regard the code of Hammurabi, a collection of 282 laws and codes, as serving as the basis of modern legal systems. This code, which dates back to anywhere from 1792 BC to 1750, encompasses a wide range of policies, including those related to family life, trade, debt, and even marriage. Ultimately, the Roman Empire, which at its height stretched from northern Britain to the deserts of Sudan, shared its advanced legal code with much of Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa.

DerHexer, Wikimedia Commons, Wikimedia Commons

Napoleonic Code

As northern European nations once under the thumb of the Roman Empire rose to power, i.e., the Portuguese, Spanish, French, and British, these powers spread Roman legal principles to every corner of the globe.

This means that virtually every part of the world that had contact with these European superpowers, from the Philippines to Argentina, has at least some Roman influence in the legal codes.

Significant recordings of the law throughout the centuries, such as the drafting of the United States Constitution, the establishment of the Napoleonic Code, and even Justinian’s codification of Roman Law, slightly altered these ancient principles and policies, allowing them to adapt and fit into modern society.

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An old Roman law, specifically the concept of community ownership of public properties such as the sea and seashore, has influenced modern beach laws worldwide, including the United States of America. The underlying principle is that these public properties, such as the sea and seashore, are “common to mankind” and are rooted in Roman law, having been adopted, either directly or indirectly, in many modern legal systems. As a result, they impact and influence access to many beaches today.

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Ways to Travel

Where to go for an adventure experience in Dhaka – Prothom Alo English

Published

5 hours ago

August 4, 2025

Md Jannatul Nayeem

Where to go for an adventure experience in Dhaka Prothom Alo English

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Ways to Travel

Inside Sara Tendulkar’s Glamorous European Summer Vacation: Boat Rides, Beach Looks & Gourmet Bites | News

Published

5 hours ago

August 4, 2025

Zee Media Bureau

Sara Tendulkar’s luxurious European summer vacation has taken social media by storm. From stylish beachside outfits to scenic boat rides across the French Riviera, her Instagram reel showcases the ultimate celebrity getaway. Fans were treated to glimpses of Sara’s glamorous looks, including a stunning yellow dress and chic group shots with friends. Her food choices—truffle pasta, grilled chicken, and vibrant salads—reflect a perfect mix of indulgence and wellness. With poolside views, ocean sunsets, and iconic European backdrops, Sara’s holiday highlights are trending across travel and fashion circles. This dreamy escape cements her status as a rising lifestyle and fashion influencer.

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Ways to Travel

Explore A Nature Lover’s Playground In Southwest Florida

Published

10 hours ago

August 3, 2025

Tara Massouleh McCay

Southwest Florida is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Its scenic coastal cities and barrier islands are some of Southerners’ favorite places to get away for a beach vacation, whether they’re interested in deep sea fishing, shell hunting, or spending a long day relaxing in the sand. From sunny Fort Myers and Naples to remote Sanibel and Captiva, visitors have plenty to choose from when deciding on a destination.

For nature lovers, Bonita Springs, located almost perfectly between Fort Myers and Naples, is a dream. Home to several state parks and natural preserves, not only does Bonita Springs offer beautiful beaches to explore, but it also features mystical marshlands, forests, and rivers. May through September has the best weather for boating, but temperatures are mild year-round. Visit in spring or fall for a less crowded experience. Here are our favorite ways to explore Bonita Springs.

The Great Outdoors

Credit: Getty Images / Barbara Reichardt / EyeEm

Plan A Beach Day

With its prime location on Florida’s southwest coast, every trip to Bonita Springs should start with a day at Bonita Beach. The 2.5-mile beach is lined with natural vegetation, giving it the appeal of a remote escape, while still offering all the modern-day conveniences of more tourist-heavy shores. At Bonita Beach Park, located on the southern tip of Bonita Beach, you’ll find restrooms, covered picnic tables and grills, and a sand volleyball court. Spend a long day birding, beachcombing, or just relaxing on Bonita Beach. For those who want to bring their furry friends along, head to Bonita Beach Dog Park, a dog-friendly, off-leash tidal flat where pups can roam freely and frolic in the shallow waters. When it’s time to pack it up for the day, you can even give your four-legged companion a quick rinse at provided doggie showers.

Credit: Getty Images / Hanneke Luijting

Explore Nearby Barrier Islands

A big part of what makes Bonita Springs such an unforgettable beach destination are its mystical mangrove forests, unusual shell mounds, and remote landscapes, all of which can be found at Mound Key Archaeological State Park and Lovers Key State Park. Start your adventure at Lovers Key, a collection of barrier islands with 2 miles of sandy beach. A popular spot for romantic getaways and even weddings, the park also includes 5 miles of multi-use trails that offer the chance to see butterflies flitting between flowers, egrets and herons wade and fish along backwaters, and even gopher tortoises munching on vegetation.

floridastateparks.org, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

Paddle To Mound Key Archaelogical Park

From Lovers Key, rent a kayak and make the short 2.5-mile paddle to Mound Key Archaeological Park, which is only accessible via waterways. On the way, don’t be surprised if you spot manatees, stingrays, jumping mullet, and a symphony of coastal birds. Once you make it to Mound Key, hike the one mile trail that takes you over two massive mounds and includes interpretive kiosks detailing the park’s thousands of years old history and original inhabitants, the Calusa Native Americans.

Walk On The Wild Side At Wonder Gardens

Longtime Floridians know Wonder Gardens as one of the last holdouts of Old Florida. The animal and botanical attraction opened in 1936, featuring the natural flora and fauna of Florida with help from a few international tropical species. Today, the park continues its original mission and is home to more than 300 rescued and non-releasable animals, ranging from turtles and parakeets to golden pheasants and alligators, all set in a gorgeous botanical garden.

wondergardens.org, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL

Hit The Links At A Scenic Golf Course

Unleash your competitive spirit or tag along for the golf cart ride and scenic views at one of around 20 golf courses in the area. Bonita Fairways is an 18-hole executive course is set on a beautiful nature preserve dotted with lakes that offer a challenge to seasoned golfers. The recently overhauled Saltleaf Golf Preserve is set on an 144-acre Florida uplands preserve adjacent to Estero Bay. It has an 18-hole championship course and nine-hole short course surrounded by natural wonders.

Shopping And Culture

Visit The Artists At Riverside Park

At the center of town lies Riverside Park, a sprawling green space that’s popular for picnics, gatherings, and special events year-round. It’s also a hub for arts and culture. The Bandshell hosts regular live music performances. Six Artist Cottages serve as studios for members of Bonita Springs’s art community. They create everything from seashell art to ceramics and paintings. There’s also a butterfly garden, fountain, and veteran’s memorial to check out.

bonitaspringspark.org, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Search For Treasure At The Flea Market

You could spend an entire day perusing the 600-plus booths at Flamingo Island Flea Market and still not have time to see it all. The massive indoor flea market hosts vendors from all over the world who sell everything from vintage décor and apparel to houseplants and handmade pottery. In between hours of treasure hunting, you can stop for a bite to eat at one of two onsite restaurants: Freddie’s Pizza & Subs or Corona Cantina. From November to April, there’s live music, and special events happen throughout the year.

flamingoisland.com, 11902 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Take A Stroll On The Promenade

The Promenade isn’t just any open-air shopping center. Ornate ironwork, bridges, waterfalls, a snaking river, and lush landscaping make this an enjoyable spot to stroll and relax. You’ll find high-end boutiques, a gourmet market, and bars and restaurants, as well as frequent live entertainment.

promenadeshops.com, 26811 South Bay Dr., Bonita Springs, Fl 34134

Food And Drink

Order A Big Breakfast

Down-home breakfast and lunch are best at Old 41. Try the giant Belgian waffles or a Philly cheesesteak omelet, which pays homage to the owner’s hometown.

old41.com, 25091 Bernwood Dr. #1, Bonita Springs, FL, 34135

Enjoy Fresh Seafood On The Waterfront

Fish House Restaurant has been Bonita Springs’s go-to spot for fresh seafood since 1994. Beginning at 11 a.m., the waterfront restaurant’s outdoor patio and boat dock are humming with activity as boaters pull up for a bite to eat and beachgoers find some shade and a meal between hours of catching rays and waves. The massive menu offers just about anything you can dream up, but for a true taste of the area, order fresh Gulf grouper—deep-fried in a basket, broiled and stuffed with crab meat, or tucked into a taco.

thefishhouserestaurants.com, 4685 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Say Yes To Pie

For more nostalgic eats, head to Dolly’s Produce Patch & Eatery, where you should definitely order whatever’s on the daily special board and always finish with a slice of the restaurant’s legendary pie. The fillings are seemingly endless and every flavor’s better than the last.

facebook.com, 9930 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Plan A Date Night At Angelina’s

Reserve a table at Angelina’s Ristorante for fine Italian dining. Housemade pastas, a huge wine list, live piano music, and a specialty Sea Salt Baked Snapper for Two are all ready to make your night.

angelinasofbonitasprings.com, 24041 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Go Global At Local Restaurants

Chef Jarrod Davis synthesized his experiences cooking at fine restaurants in Asia and America at A Table Apart Global Cuisine. The menu’s regional American and Pan Asian dishes use locally sourced produce, fresh-caught seafood, and free-range meat.

atableapart.com, 4295 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

The similarly chef-driven kitchen at The Bohemian produces sharable selections with global influences. Their Florida hardwood oak grill also uses locally sourced ingredients, while herbs come right from their organic rooftop garden.

thebohemianbonita.com, 27975 Old 41 Road Suite 104, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Places To Stay

Credit: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa

Splurge On A Full-Service Resort

Kick back and relax at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, an award-winning tropical resort that’s ideal for both family trips and romantic getaways. Water is a main attraction at most Florida destinations, and with five waterslides, four pools, a lazy river, and access to a secluded private island, Coconut Point more than has that covered. Contemporary coastal-inspired rooms feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors to let in the famous Florida sunshine and provide sweeping views of Estero Bay and the Gulf coastline.

hyatt.com , 5001 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Stay At A Boutique Hotel

Historic Shangri-La Springs has been around in various iterations since 1921. The organic gardens and restaurant and full-service spa make it a destination for relaxation and healing. Depending on the day, yoga classes, art workshops, and garden tours are available. There are two guest suites in the main building and six flanking the lush tropical courtyard.

shangrilasprings.com, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

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