Coastal regions are experiencing increasing pressure from climate change and human activity, with County Cork, Ireland, particularly at risk due to its high percentage of population living near the coast. Recognizing the limitations of traditional Coastal Vulnerability Indices (CVIs), which emphasize physical susceptibility while neglecting broader socioeconomic and environmental factors, this study proposes a novel framework for assessing coastal vulnerability. Building upon recent reviews of CVIs, this research integrates a diverse range of variables spanning physical, sociocultural, economic, as well as environmental dimensions into a Sustainable Coastal Vulnerability Index (SCVI). Independent sub-indices, incorporating both exposure to coastal hazards and the capacity of communities and ecosystems to adapt, offer a nuanced perspective on vulnerability when combined. This integrated index moves beyond traditional assessments focused solely on hazards and physical susceptibility, delivering a broader evaluation of the interconnected systems shaping coastal vulnerability and resilience, beyond an anthropocentric approach. It emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research and collaboration, leveraging insights from social and natural sciences. The variables are easy to determine, making it adaptable to the specific needs and priorities of local ecosystems and communities. The SCVI provides a foundation for more informed decision-making, supporting strategies that balance environmental, social, and economic considerations to enhance the long-term sustainability of coastal regions.