By Anvil N Ink Publishing · Updated October 2026 · 5 min read
A beach battle map works best when the coastline runs across the map with shallow and deep water, sand that turns into rocks or dunes, a few strong features like a shipwreck, tide pools or a cave mouth, and an inland edge such as jungle or cliffs. The water line is the star: it slows movement, hides creatures, and changes the fight.
This is how we built Shipwreck Beach, one of the four sample maps that ship with Ink Hammer.
What to include in a beach battle map
- Surf and shallows: difficult terrain, and somewhere for sea creatures to lurk.
- Deep water: swimming rules and real danger.
- Open sand: no cover, which is what makes it tense.
- Rocks and tide pools: cover and slippery footing.
- A shipwreck: broken hull for cover and loot to fight over.
- The inland edge: palms, jungle, dunes or cliffs for ambushers.
Build the coastline first
Paint the sea, then the surf line, then wet and dry sand. In Ink Hammer the ocean and coast plugin paints shorelines with surf and sand, and the rocks and outcrops plugin scatters boulders that cast shadows. Add the wreck and props last, and leave open sand so ranged attackers have a field of fire.
Light it by time of day
A beach at noon is harsh and bright; at sunset the shadows stretch long across the sand; at night a smugglers’ lantern on the wreck is the only light. Make a day and a night scene of the same map.
Five beach encounter ideas
- Smugglers’ landing: the party interrupts a night drop and lanterns go dark.
- The wreck: scavengers fight over cargo while the tide comes in.
- From the surf: sahuagin rise out of the shallows.
- Castaways: the party washes ashore with nothing, and something watches from the trees.
- The landing: raiders row ashore to attack a fishing village.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I show tides on a battle map? Make two scenes: low tide and high tide. Swap mid-fight to shrink the dry ground.
How big should a beach battle map be? Around 30 by 20 squares, with the coastline running the long way.
Can I use this map in my VTT? Yes. Export walls around the wreck and rocks so line of sight works. See VTT-ready battle maps.
More map guides: how to make D&D battle maps · ship battle map · forest battle map