1 Introduction
1.1 Coastal areas or coastal zones?
1.2 Defining the coastal area
1.2.1 Scientific definitions of a coastal area
1.2.2 Policy oriented definitions of a coast
1.3 The unique characteristics of coastal areas
1.4 A brief history of coastal management and planning
1.4.1 Sustainability—the dominant pari coastal planning and management
1.5 Summary