The number of nature restoration- and development initiatives in dunes, estuaries and beaches along Europe's coasts is rising, ranging from small isolated projects to large-scale integrated programmes. The way the plans are conceived, scientifically underpinned, carried out and monitored varies enormously. Planners, managers, scientists and the final users of these nature restoration projects all have every reason to learn from each other and exchange ideas and practical experience. In order to achieve this, the Nature Division of the Ministry of the Flemish Community (AMINAL-Nature Division), the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), the municipality of Koksijde and the Coastal Union (EUCC) are organizing a four-day international conference in late summer 2005. To focus the content and discussions the conference will concentrate on the dunes, beaches and estuaries of the Atlantic coasts of Europe. The form and content of the preliminary programme are intended to maximize the exchange of specific know-how and expertise among all those dealing with nature restoration in Atlantic, soft-substrate, coastal habitats