This paper intends to explore the relationship of integrated coastal zone management and river basin management. To achieve this it is necessary to investigate the characteristics if coastal areas and river basins and their functional relationships. In this context the policy responses to the management of coastal zones and river basins is investigated in terms of process and content with a view to identify opportunities and limitations of policy integration in these two types of geographical areas. Finally, a tentative structure of guidelines is proposed for integrated management of coastal zones and river basins.