How do mixed coasts show the effects of both waves and tides?

Mixed coasts are defined by a significant, near-equal influence of both wave and tidal processes on the landscape. These environments demonstrate the effects of these forces through specific morphological features:1

• Barrier Island Structure: Unlike wave-dominated coasts, which feature long, narrow barrier islands, mixed coasts are characterized by short, "stubby" barrier islands that are often wide at one end and narrow at the other.1
• Tidal Inlets: These coasts contain numerous, relatively stable tidal inlets. Because both tides and waves are active, these inlets typically feature large sediment bodies on both their landward and seaward sides.1
• Interaction of Forces: While waves generally distribute energy parallel to the shore through wave action and longshore currents, tides exert their influence perpendicular to the coast as they flood and ebb. On a mixed coast, the interaction of these perpendicular tidal currents and parallel wave-driven currents creates a distinct coastal morphology that balances both processes.1

The coasts of Georgia and South Carolina in the United States serve as primary examples of this coastal type.1