YES, I agree the Hobie 16 is the best beach Hobie! I've sailed most of my life in the Atlantic Ocean! Yes, I have the exact same Cat Trax... and, yes, they are awesome in soft sand.
Let me clarify: my problem is that I suffered a back injury which prevents me from being able to move my 16 around like I used to... instead of going solo, I have to have not 1 but at least 2 friends help with moving and launching my 16 on the beach. Don't get me wrong, it's a blast to sail with my friends but I miss my option of being able to sail solo, which I did alot... and I can't anymore
If I could move a Bravo or Wave by myself and sail solo... albeit, lose the performance of the 16, believe it or not, I'd be extremely happy. I think it would be alot better than not being able to sail at all
(an option I just can't handle right now).
Also, I have to disagree with you about the durability factor. I've owned Hobies all my life... from the 14 Turbo to numerous 16s. The fiberglass is not very durable. I've repaired the decks of many hulls (epoxy injection) through the years. The rotomolded hulls are alot more durable... my neighbor has a'99 Wave that's been on the beach since he bought it new and the hulls are still solid.