This article provides a synthesis of the virtual Coastal Dunes for Resilience Workshop held on December 8th and 9th, 2021. In an effort to foster knowledge-sharing across these sites and disseminate information and lessons learned, the California Dune Science Network hosted the Workshop that featured recent dune research, information about nature-based dune and resilience projects, and collaborative learning opportunities at California's pilot project and natural dune sites. It also engaged diverse perspectives on coastal resource stewardship, public access, and culturally inclusive climate adaptation approaches and how these play a role in the success of coastal dune resilience efforts. 

The Coastal Dunes for Resiliency Workshop provided an initial opportunity for ideas and strategies to be shared amongst the many practitioners working in the coastal resilience space. The workshop highlighted common challenges, needs, and four emerging themes for implementing coastal dunes for resilience in California: (1) there is no one-size-fits-all approach to designing dunes for resilience, (2) defining resilience goals and expectations are key to selecting an effective dunes approach, (3) importance of socio-cultural engagement and perceptions in dune project success, and (4) evaluating project and shoreline resilience is key to optimizing project designs and developing best practices.

These initial recommendations will allow for further conversations on how to evaluate strategies and move forward in a more unified and efficient way to meet the needs of our coastal communities and ecosystems. The Network will continue to build its base of knowledge and contribute to best practices that make sense for the California landscape. Further workshops should dig into the details of how to effectively design dune resilience projects and monitoring and management strategies, while meeting the changing and unique needs of beach users and coastal community members and infrastructure impacted by sea-level rise.