- Beaches are formed when waves deposit sand and other sediments on the shore.
- The size and shape of a beach depends on the amount of sediment available, the wave energy, and the tidal range.
- Beaches can be sandy, gravelly, or rocky.
- Sandy beaches are the most common type of beach and are found in areas with a lot of sand available.
- Gravelly beaches are found in areas with less sand available.
- Rocky beaches are found in areas with very little sand available.
Barrier Islands
- Barrier islands are long, narrow islands that are formed by the deposition of sand and other sediments by waves.
- Barrier islands are typically found off the coast of mainland in shallow water.
- Barrier islands help to protect the mainland from waves and storms.
- Barrier islands can be several miles long and up to a mile wide.
- Barrier islands are often home to a variety of plants and animals.
Sand Bars
- Sand bars are underwater ridges of sand that are formed by the deposition of sand by waves.
- Sand bars can be found in shallow water near the shore or in deeper water offshore.
- Sand bars can be a hazard to navigation, especially for small boats.
- Sand bars can also be a popular spot for surfing and fishing.