Beaches

Beaches

A beach is a landform alongside a body of water which consists of loose particles. The particles composing a beach are typically made from rock, such as sand, gravel, shingle, pebbles, or cobblestones. The particles can also be biological in origin, such as mollusc shells or coralline algae.

Formation

Beaches are formed by the action of waves and currents that deposit and move sediment along the shore. The size and shape of a beach can change over time due to erosion and accretion processes. Longshore drift is a significant factor in the movement of sediment along the coast.

Types of Beaches

Beaches can be classified into several types based on their composition and location:

• Sandy beaches: Composed primarily of sand particles.
• Pebble beaches: Made up of larger particles such as pebbles and cobblestones.
• Shingle beaches: Consist of small to medium-sized pebbles.
• Barrier beaches: Formed by the accumulation of sand and other sediments parallel to the coastline, often creating a lagoon between the beach and the mainland.

Beach Features

Beaches often have various features, including:

• Dunes: Mounds of sand formed by the wind.
• Beach berm: The nearly horizontal part of the beach formed by the deposition of sediment by wave action.
• Beach cusps: Arc-shaped patterns on the beach formed by wave action.
• Tide pools: Shallow pools of seawater that form on the beach during low tide.

Human Impact

Human activities can significantly impact beaches. Coastal development, pollution, and climate change can lead to beach erosion and habitat loss. Efforts to protect and preserve beaches include beach nourishment, coastal management, and the establishment of marine protected areas.

Recreational Use

Beaches are popular destinations for recreation and tourism. Activities commonly enjoyed at beaches include swimming, sunbathing, surfing, beach volleyball, and picnicking. Many beaches have facilities such as lifeguard stations, restrooms, and concession stands to accommodate visitors.

Notable Beaches

Some of the world's most famous beaches include:

• Bondi Beach in Australia
• Copacabana Beach in Brazil
• Waikiki Beach in Hawaii
• South Beach in Miami, Florida

See Also

• Coast
• Shore
• Tide
• Wave
• Erosion
• Sediment transport