Shorelines can be classified based on various factors such as their formation, shape, and geological characteristics. The classification of shorelines is important for understanding coastal processes, landforms, and ecosystems. Here is a detailed explanation of the method of classification and some major coastline features:

Method of Classification:
Shorelines can be classified based on the following factors:

1. Formation: This classification is based on the processes that shape the shoreline. It includes erosional, depositional, and tectonic shorelines.

2. Shape: Shorelines can be classified based on their shape, which is influenced by factors like wave energy, geology, and tides. Common shapes include straight, concave, convex, embayed, and irregular shorelines.

3. Geological Characteristics: Shorelines can also be classified based on their geological characteristics such as the type of rocks, sediment composition, and landforms. This classification includes rocky, sandy, muddy, and deltaic shorelines.

Major Coastal Features:
Coastlines exhibit a variety of landforms and features that are a result of natural processes. Some major coastal features are as follows:

1. Headlands and Bays: Headlands are elevated areas of land that extend into the sea, while bays are recessed areas. These features are formed due to differential erosion by waves and currents.

2. Beaches: Beaches are accumulations of sand or pebbles along the shoreline. They are formed by the deposition of sediment carried by waves and currents.

3. Cliffs: Cliffs are steep, vertical or near-vertical rock formations that often form along erosional shorelines. They are created by the continuous erosion of waves, which undermines and collapses the coastline.

4. Deltas: Deltas are landforms formed at the mouths of rivers, where sediment carried by the river is deposited in a fan-like shape. Deltas are characterized by their intricate network of distributaries.

5. Barrier Islands: Barrier islands are long, narrow islands parallel to the mainland, separated by lagoons or estuaries. They act as a buffer, protecting the mainland from the open sea and are formed by the deposition of sediment by waves and currents.

6. Estuaries: Estuaries are partially enclosed coastal areas where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with seawater. They are often characterized by diverse ecosystems and serve as important habitats for various species.

7. Sea Stacks: Sea stacks are isolated pillars of rock that protrude from the sea near the shoreline. They are formed through the erosion and collapse of headlands.

In conclusion, shorelines can be classified based on their formation, shape, and geological characteristics. This classification helps in understanding the processes that shape coastlines and the various landforms and features associated with them.