Nearshore breaking waves are the main drivers for many nearshore processes. However, though they are easily discernible to the naked eye, their automated detection using either in situ sensors or remote sensing platforms remains a very difficult task. In turn, these difficulties can have consequences in how we understand, model and predict this important stage of wave evolution. In this seminar, we will discuss about remote sensing techniques used to monitor the nearshore environment, and recent advances that could help to overcome this long standing hurdle. We will also discuss about opportunities these developments offer.