Much diversity exists among the beaches and shores of the world. Some
have features as unique as fingerprints, from the cliff divers of
Acapulco to the Samoan herbalists of Ofu Island. In Vietnam, Halong Bay
charged aboriginal imaginations with its sea corridors, rock spindles,
and sculpted tors. At Punta Espinosa, Ferdinanda, life's clear model of
biological engineering influenced the scientific philosophy of Charles
Darwin. This reference work begins with an introduction expressing the
significance of beaches and shores to human history, religion,
philosophy, and eco-awareness. Each entry begins with a topographical
description and contacts for the region, discusses topics such as
mythical and tribal stories, artistry, religious meanings and
pilgrimages, activism, conquests and the slave trade, piracy, human
development, and tourism, and concludes with a summary of coastal
activities available today. The work also includes a glossary,
appendices of beaches and shores arranged by country, and selected
literary works and films arranged alphabetically and chronologically.
From Nukey Poo, the Antarctic nuclear reactor, to sandcastle contests at
Woolacombe, Devon, this encyclopedia covers fascinating aspects of the
world's coasts.