Large black bill is diagnostic. Slightly larger than similar plovers, with large blocky head. Breeding plumage shows thick black band across breast, white forehead, and bolder face pattern; nonbreeding birds show less contrast. Legs dull pinkish. Found on sandy beaches, usually singly but sometimes in small loose flocks. Medium-brown upperparts similar but slightly paler than Semipalmated Plover, notably darker than Snowy or Piping.