Maritime development is recognized as a key approach for enhancing economic growth and social welfare in coastal regions, especially in the Makran coast. This paper, using a theoretical-documentary methodology, analyzes the social impacts of maritime development with an emphasis on the smart specialization approach. Smart specialization, which focuses on identifying the unique capacities and advantages of each region, can serve as an effective strategy for guiding sustainable development and social justice. Findings indicate that the Makran coast, with economic advantages such as maritime transportation, fisheries, energy, and tourism, possesses significant potential to generate employment, improve public services, and increase social participation of local communities. However, challenges such as inequality in access to basic services, widespread poverty, high unemployment rates, unmanaged migration, and weak social capital hinder the realization of balanced and sustainable development. Maritime development without adequate attention to social dimensions and local participation may exacerbate regional disparities, increase informal settlements, and cause resource degradation. In this context, the smart specialization approach, by emphasizing community empowerment, endogenous innovation, and equitable distribution of benefits, can reduce negative impacts and strengthen positive outcomes. Accordingly, policymakers should pursue development pathways that are economically successful as well as socially just and inclusive by establishing mechanisms for community participation, comprehensive social impact assessments, and fair resource allocation. This paper provides a theoretical and analytical framework for maritime development policy in the Makran coast, which could serve as a model for other maritime regions in the country.