Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

What Is Coastal Erosion?

Coastal erosion can occur along any type of shoreline and is primarily concerned with two forces of erosion. Along most ocean front locations, wind and water can combine to break down rocky shorelines into sand and then move the beach sand from one locale to another.

Wave Erosion
- The first process of coastal erosion involves the creation of beach sand. This is a natural process that has been going on for eons and involves the pounding of rocky shorelines by wave and water action to create small particles of sand.
Water Erosion
- Sand can also be deposited in coastal areas by the natural flow of rivers and streams. The natural material is then moved along a beach by ocean currents, where it might form sand bars or be deposited offshore. Many factors such as tides, the shape of the shoreline, the contour of the sea bottom and the activities of man affect the movement of sand.
Dune Building
- Wind acts as an erosive force on beach sand that is above the tidal zone and not held in place by vegetation. Prevailing winds have a natural tendency to create sand dunes in certain locations. A sand dune can be stabilized by the growth of sea oats and other plants that survive the harsh micro-climate.
Catastrophic Storms
- Catastrophic storms such as hurricanes, typhoons, Nor'easters and tornadoes can quickly alter the beach landscape. Although infrequent, these powerful storms are part of the natural weather cycle.

Nature