This sea arch is a wave-weathered rock wonder which formed due to the power of the Atlantic Ocean. Sea arches form at headlands, or areas of rocky land that jut into the sea. The waves wear away or erode the rock from both sides of the headland, creating sea caves that eventually join to form a sea arch. The Tickle Cove Sea Arch is an excellent example of this coastal feature, and is made of sedimentary rocks, including red sandstone, siltstone and conglomerates. Do you see curved cracks filled with a white-looking mineral? A closer look at the arch’s cliff faces reveals tension gashes filled with quartz, recording the great stresses these rocks encountered on their journey to this current location.
A well-developed walking trail with sections of boardwalk follows the shore of Tickle Cove Pond. As you walk along the trail you will see large granite erratics, or boulders transported by glaciers from the other side of Bonavista Bay. A legend tells how the glacial erratics were used by a giant as skipping stones, who tossed them across Bonavista Bay. This legend was mentioned in the movie ‘Bayo’ that was filmed in the town.
Getting Here
Exit Route 235 at the Tickle Cove sign and drive into the community. For the Sea Arch exit left at the Sea Arch sign just before the beach. Park in the designated area and follow the trail.
Cultural/Historical Attractions
Tickle Cove is a scenic traditional outport community. Tickle Cove Pond is also the focus of a well-known Newfoundland folk song, “Tickle Cove Pond”. The popular song was written by a fisherman and songwriter Mark Walker (1846-1924), a resident of Tickle Cove. Tickle Cove Pond is also known locally for its dory races.