Published:25th October 202430th August 2026 Last Updated:30th August 2026

General Nautical Terminology | Nautical Topics | Depths & Clearance | Navigation | Sea State & Waves

Headland

A projection of land extending from a coast into the sea or another body of water.

Headlands are often visually prominent and may serve as charted landmarks, but they need not be high or narrow. Their shape reflects geology, erosion and deposition, and bays commonly lie between adjacent projections.

Tidal streams, wind and waves can change strength or direction around a headland, producing overfalls, acceleration zones, eddies or sheltered water. These effects depend on conditions, depth and coastline shape and should be assessed from charts, local information and observations rather than assumed from the landform alone.

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