Seasonal Variations in the Coastal Beach Profiles at Calabonita Beach in AL Hoceima Bay, Morocco

Sandy beaches are among the Earth's most dynamic natural environments, with wave action and swells critically influencing the energetics of erosion and sediment transport. This energy's temporal and spatial distribution significantly affects coastal morphological evolution. This study investigates the seasonal morphodynamic variability and short-term alterations at Calabonita Beach, located within Al Hoceima Bay, by analyzing topographic profiles collected from June 2022 to May 2023. Findings indicate that Calabonita Beach is relatively narrow, averaging a width of 27.53 meters with a slope of 6.82%. The annual vertical movement balance was found to be negative, showcasing a distinct pattern of sediment accumulation during autumn and increased erosion during winter. These results highlight the beach's dynamic nature, governed by natural processes and human activities, underscoring the intricate interplay between accumulation and erosion patterns.