The development of sorted bedforms on the inner shelf has been simulated using a modified version of the model originally developed by Murray and Thieler (1994). The model is here used to analyze the effect of hydrodynamics on the emergent characteristics of sorted bedforms (spacing, height, orientation and growth rate). Results indicate that for increasing wave height, sorted bedforms are characterized by larger spacing and smaller relief. For increasing current speed, sorted bedforms are characterized by larger spacing and relief. Variability in wave height only affects the growth rate of the pattern while variability in current speed and direction affects pattern regularity. © 2007 World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd.