The description of the transformation of shore in larger scales, i.e. the far-field effects, is summarized in Chapter 2 while the near-field mechanisms, encompassing different overall and local failure modes, stability and performance are dealt with in Chapter 3. Both are foliowed by Chapters 4 and 5 with design computations and examples, respectively. Unconventional design is illustrated in Chapter 6, and national policies of coastal management and defence are depicted in the closing Chapter 7. The design procedures for coastal structures should include geometrical design and structural design reflecting respectively the far-field and near-field requirements imposed on structures. This corresponds to our division of design procedures into two basic groups concentrating on • overall layout and configuration of a structure as a whole, and its interaction with the coastal environment to produce desirable sedimentation patterns and coastal management effects • stability and reliability of the structure and its components, hence dimensioning of structural constituents, associated with possible unavoidable and undesirable hazards due to the loadings exerted by the coastal environment. In other words, the first group involves design parameters producing the best environmental effectiveness of a structure in 'ideal' conditions, i.e. upon negligence of possible 'harmful by-effects' such as different modes of failures and instabilities, both overall and internal. The second group is concerned about these 'by-effects' and provides the tools which secure the integrity and proper operation of the structure and its components.