The beach is home to cowrie shells and other tropical varieties that travel thousands of miles via the Gulf Stream.
It is one of the few places in the UK where you can find sea-washed shells that are not native to British waters.
The beach was historically known as 'Combesgate Beach' in older local records.
The rock formations surrounding the beach are part of the Morte Slate geological formation, dating back to the Devonian period.
Barricane Beach is a small, secluded cove situated to the north of the main Woolacombe Sands in Devon. The beach is geologically distinct for its high concentration of exotic seashells, many of which originate from the Caribbean and are carried to the shore by the North Atlantic Drift. During low tide, extensive rock pools are exposed, providing habitats for anemones, crabs, and small marine organisms. The beach is framed by dramatic rugged cliffs and rock formations that shelter it from the wider expanse of the coast. A long-standing seasonal cafe operates on the beach, serving curry as its signature menu item during evenings. Access is gained via a steep path descending from the South West Coast Path above. The site is a popular destination for fossil hunters and beachcombers searching for uncommon shell specimens. It is situated within the North Devon Coast National Landscape.
From the clifftop coastal path looking down at the cove during low tide.
Wear sturdy footwear as the shore is composed of dense crushed shell debris and stones rather than fine sand.
Check local tide tables before arriving, as the beach becomes completely submerged at high tide.
Bring a headlamp if staying for the evening cafe service, as the path back up the cliff can be dark.
Attempting to swim during high tide, as the beach disappears, or visiting during heavy North Atlantic swells.
The beach cafe operates seasonally, typically from spring through early autumn, and is closed during the winter months.
Take all trash with you; the beach is fragile and lacks public bin facilities.
