A
spit or
sandspit is a
deposition bar or
beach landform found off
coasts. It develops in places where re-entrance occurs, such as at a cove's
headlands, by the process of
longshore drift and longshore currents. The drift occurs due to waves meeting the beach at an oblique angle, moving sediment down the beach in a zigzag pattern. This is complemented by longshore currents, which further
transport sediment through the water alongside the beach. These currents are caused by the same waves that cause the drift.