A beach is the land that is surrounded by the sea. They vary in shape and size and can be long, narrow, steep, or gentle. Some have a lot of shells while others have little or none. They can also vary in depth and width. When you visit a beach again after a long period of time, you will likely find that its width has changed. This can be due to some unseen force of nature. You may also notice tree stumps or outcrops of mud or rock on the beach.
The material on a beach is made up of sand, gravel, rock, shells, and other sediments. The beach is always changing, with each tidal cycle revealing new features. As you walk along a beach, you may see particles of shells, seaweed, and other sea life on the surface.
A beach is a place where you can relax and unwind. Many cities in the world have beautiful beaches. In fact, more than half of the world’s coastline is made up of beaches. Some beaches have lifeguard posts and other infrastructure like showers and changing rooms. Other beaches may have hotels and housing. In general, a beach is a place where people can relax and have fun.
Some sediments form a barrier that encloses the coast. Another type of beach is called a free beach. In Texas and eastern Florida, a sediment-covered barrier reef runs parallel to the coast. These are generally narrow strips of accumulated sediment that are anchored on compact clay. They often separate lagoons from the open ocean, and tidal inlets often cut them in half.
The composition of a beach is influenced by the types of sediments upstream. The type of sediment is determined by the particle size and degree of compaction. The more compacted the sediment, the less likely it is to be eroded. Other factors that influence the composition of a beach include wind and water.
Keeping the coastal plain vegetated will help filter runoff. This runoff carries silt and other organic matter that feeds coastal flora. As runoff reaches the sea, it tends to percolate and emerge on the beach at low tide. This is what keeps the beach sands clean.
Mauritius’s beautiful beaches are protected by reefs and are great for snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. On the island of Le Morne, two and a half miles of sugar-soft sand are lined with filao and palm trees. Surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the beach.