Mary, I don't like responding without having solid knowledge or evidence of my opinions, but your question interests me. The only facts in favor of my input is that I live in Idaho, and I sail (not fanatically, but eagerly).
I would think that probably the difference is due simply to population...the western states are way less populated than the eastern. Although we are rich in resources, it seems much more difficult for people to easily support their families. Perhaps the resources are not easily useable.
I suspect that boating in general is less popular in the west than the west, per captita. I consider myself a middle-class citizen, yet I cannot afford a sailboat. The 15' cat I have was given to me by my boss. Most of the boats I see on the lakes are simple fishing boats (although bass fishing is very popular, and the boats are quite spendy).
Our ocean is not easily sailed. I understand that the waters are much colder, the storms fiercer, the "good days" fewer. I love the coast, and we have many miles of public beaches, yet I've never seen a beach cat on the beach in my 46 years in this region. We cannot swim in the surf...too rough, too swift, too cold. Those who do must be expert swimmers in protective clothing.
As I write this I realize that I am really speaking of just the Pacific Northwest. I've not been to California, so it's probably a world apart from here. I'll bet that per capita it is just as beach-cat happy as any eastern state.
What a bunch of rambling! Sorry for the pap, but it's the best I can offer.
