Experience gained during shingle beach replenishment from offshore sources is described. Schemes undertaken along the Southern coastline of England reveal that the presence of fine-grained material in the sediments can lead to the formation of a more compact beach which has a lower permeability. This (generally) leads to the formation of a hard vertical face around high water mark as opposed to a mobile beach crest. Such features could reduce the sea defence and amenity values of beach replenishment schemes.