A smaller sand-and-rock beach at the north end of Woolacombe, good for rock pools at low tide on a long Atlantic surf coast
Combesgate is the northern of the beaches that run along the front at Woolacombe, on the Atlantic-facing coast of north Devon. At high tide it’s a modest patch of sand tucked below the cliffs, but as the water drops it opens out and rocky ledges appear, which makes it a good spot for rock pooling and scrambling about. The water quality here is rated Excellent.
It sits right next to Barricane Beach, the little cove known for its shells, with the long sweep of Woolacombe proper just to the south and the headland of Morte Point to the north. The South West Coast Path runs along the top, so it’s easy to string several of these beaches together on a walk.
This is a proper surf coast, with waves rolling straight in off the Atlantic, so the sea can be lively and rip currents are a real risk along this stretch. If you’re swimming with children it’s worth heading to the main Woolacombe beach, where lifeguards patrol through the summer season. Parking is up in the village, with a short walk down.
