Coves

Coves are small coastal inlets or bays that typically have a narrow, curved entrance leading into a sheltered interior. They are often formed where resistant headlands enclose softer rock that is more easily eroded by waves, creating a protected, crescent-shaped bay with a beach or flat bottom.

Formation results from a combination of coastal processes. Waves exploit cracks and weaknesses in the rock to carve sea caves, and over time the cave walls may collapse or the surrounding rock erodes back, producing a more enclosed, curved shoreline. In limestone and other soluble rocks, karst processes and cave collapse can contribute to cove development. The entrance of a cove is usually narrower than the width of the inner basin, which creates a calm environment that shelters boats, sediments, and habitats from stronger open-water conditions.

Morphology varies with geology and coast shape. Some coves open directly to the sea via a narrow channel and host a sandy or pebbly beach inside, while others may retain clear, rocky interiors. They are common on many coastlines around the world, from chalk and limestone coasts to sandstone shores, and may be part of larger complex coastal systems that include bays, arches, and stacks.

Ecology and use. The sheltered waters within coves support seagrass, mollusks, and fish, making them useful for fishing and as small anchorages. They are popular for recreation and tourism, especially where views and beaches are appealing. Owing to ongoing erosion and sedimentation, coves can be sensitive to environmental change and rockfalls, requiring careful management to preserve their geological and ecological integrity.

See also: Bay, Inlet, Cove.