What describes the area on a beach located above the high tide mark?

The area on a beach located above the high tide mark is referred to as the backshore. This region is typically above the reach of the waves during normal tides, meaning it remains relatively dry except during very high tides or storm surges. The backshore often includes features such as sand dunes or vegetation, which play a vital role in coastal protection and ecosystem maintenance.

The foreshore, in contrast, is the area between the high tide and low tide marks, actively influenced by wave action during coastal conditions. Offshore refers to the area further out from the shore, which is typically deeper water and not directly related to the beach itself. Rip rap is a form of coastal protection made up of large stones or boulders placed along the shoreline to prevent erosion, rather than a specific area of the beach. Thus, understanding these distinct terminologies helps clarify the various components and dynamics of coastal environments.