We reflect on the nature, limits and types of coastal spaces, with reference to their archaeological value. Some observations are made on the ancient forms of economies and cultures that are generated on the shoreline. We consider the impact of natural and anthropic dynamics on the coastal territories, on the specific types and methods of adaptation to the environment of archaeological contexts and on their formation processes. A summary of the main methodologies of topographic research in the coastal environment is offered and, finally, reference is made to some guidelines of the European bodies on the value and protection of coastal zones.