Environmental characteristics such as depth, turbulence, and substrate composition influence the structure and dynamics of benthic communities in marine ecosystems. This study examines the biological descriptors (α- and β-diversity, abundance, and biomass) and functional traits (mobility, feeding mechanism, and diet) of benthic communities across a depth gradient from the surf zone (SZ) to shallow subtidal zones (SSZs) on an exposed sandy shore of a small tourist beach (38°59′S, 61°18′W, Argentina). Samples were collected in spring 2018 and autumn 2019 from three depths (1m, 5m, and 14m) using a benthic sledge (500μm mesh size). Overall, 10,055 individuals from 132 taxa were identified, with Arthropoda, Annelida, and Mollusca being the most represented groups. Arthropods were the most abundant at 1m, while mollusks and annelids dominated at 5m and 14m, respectively. The maximum abundance and biomass were recorded at 14m depth (1450.54 ind/100m², 264.72 g/100m²), while α-diversity was higher at 5m depth (93±15.40). β-diversity indicated high species turnover across the gradient (β_SOR=0.72; β_SIM=0.55), especially between 1m and 14m depths. More mobile, deposit-feeding, and detritivore organisms were found at 1m, while sedentary, filter-feeding, and omnivore organisms were more abundant at 5m and 14m. The results indicate that biological descriptors and functional traits differed significantly across depths. At 1m depth (SZ), the lowest abundance, richness, and diversity suggested that fewer species are adapted to this area, where higher mobility is advantageous to cope with the turbulence generated by continuous wave action. At 5m and 14m (SSZ), where environmental conditions are more stable, sedentary species prevail. Significant differences in diet could be related to the main food sources available in each zone. These findings suggest the existence of distinct benthic assemblages at variable depths. The heterogeneity of the marine benthic environment increases diversity and influences ecosystem functioning.