A general framework to assess coastal vulnerability taking into account the functions supported the coast is presented by defining specific coastal optimum and failure states for each function. It considers morphodynamic hazards acting on the coast in a separated manner (erosion and inundation) and it assess their magnitude at different time scales (medium-, episodic- and long-term). The framework has been applied to the Catalan coast (Spanish NW Mediterranean) and, obtained results show that the present status of beaches along the Catalan coast reflects a significant vulnerability for recreation and protection.