Why this is not a thing everywhere in the world is a little confusing. If you've ever walked out onto a beach during a really hot day, then you probably know just how scolding the sand can get. Sometimes, it's nearly impossible to even make it to the water without shoes on. This mat is located on Victoria Beach in Canada. Not only does it allow you to avoid hot sand, but it could also probably be used by those in wheelchairs.
Sure, you could build a normal wooden boardwalk out to the water, but that can be expensive, and sometimes the wood gets just as hot as the sand. Not to mention maintenance.