Background: Fragile tourist spots—such as coral islands, alpine lakes, mangrove zones, and heritage cliffs—are highly sensitive to human disturbance. Ecological carrying capacity (ECC) assessments are essential to determine the visitor load that such ecosystems can sustain without degradation.

Objective: This study evaluates the ecological carrying capacity of three fragile tourist spots using a multidimensional framework incorporating physical, environmental, social, and managerial indicators.

Methods: Field data were collected from:

1. St. Martin’s Coral Island (Bangladesh),
2. Tsomgo Alpine Lake (India), and
3. Maya Bay Marine Reserve (Thailand).
   Measurements included vegetation loss, wildlife disturbance, trail erosion, water quality, waste generation, and tourist perceptions (n = 300 surveys). ECC was calculated using the Cifuentes model, GIS mapping, and environmental impact indicators.

Results: The actual carrying capacity of the sites was significantly lower than the current visitor load. St. Martin’s Island exceeded safe limits by 312%, Tsomgo Lake by 185%, and Maya Bay by 240%. Key stressors included trampling of vegetation, coral bleaching from sunscreen pollutants, trail degradation, microplastic accumulation, and disturbance of rare fauna. Zones with community-led management had 22% lower ecological pressure.

Conclusion: ECC assessments show that fragile ecosystems are under substantial strain due to tourism. Strict visitor caps, zoning, rotational access, and restoration measures are essential for long-term sustainability.