I think beaches in Kerala are one of the most used phrases by travelers or tourists when it concerns Indian natives and foreigners alike. Once you visit the beaches of Kerala, you will instantly plan your next trip while you are on it. So, yes, the hype about Kerala’s beaches is real and can be one of your finest traveling experiences ever.
Whatever your mind conjures up when you think about a beach, Kerala will do it a thousand times better. Even if you are terrified of water, you will be busy being mesmerized by the view, and if you aren’t, Kerala promises you the beach trip of a lifetime.
Since the state has a 550-km Arabian Sea coastline, you will have to sit and research to ensure you do not miss out on any remarkable beach while you visit God’s own country. However, this is where I come in and help you with this task. I have curated some scenic beaches in Kerala and a list of the things you can do there. So for the next 5–10 minutes, pretend that I am your tour guide and hop on.
1. Kovalam Beach
I don’t have any particular reason to put Kovalam on top, but once you finish reading this section, you will understand my bias towards it. The place is not only an influx of three other beaches in its 17 km coastline but has witnessed the hippy culture along with a taste of royalty.
12.6 km (7.8 mi) southeast of the city center, the beach witnesses local and international tourists daily. One of the main reasons for its popularity is the right balance of natural landscape and a touch of urban elite pubs and restaurants. Moreover, the beach has a circular formation giving you a glimpse of the Arabian Sea, which attracts every photographer and social media enthusiast.
Things To Do:
Kovalam is the ideal place if you are looking to unwind on your vacation. You can sit back and watch the fishermen at work while sunbathing with the sea.
- You can go bar hopping and get the drink of your choice while you admire the clean breeze and the pristine seawater. If you are not a fan of alcohol, you can go to a café and let caffeine do the rest.
- If you feel a bit adventurous, you can get to the top of Kovalam lighthouse and have an entire ariel view of the area just for Rs. 20 and Rs. 10 extra for the camera.
- Since the beach has three more adjacent beaches, you can explore the same and opt for any water sports too, to appease the adrenaline junkie in you.
2. Varkala Beach
If you can’t decide whether you should visit a mountain or a beach, Varkala is your answer. This Kerala coastal attraction has the Varkala formation cliffs along with the Arabian Sea skirting it; this is nature at its peak. One interesting anecdote about the place is it is also known as the Papanasam beach, and it is believed that a dip in the holy water of the beach can help you get rid of your mortal sins.
The place has a much bigger coastline compared to Kovalam and has multiple cafés that you can hop into to have a nice time. But what will actually stay with you after you leave Varkala is its lovely people and the calming weather.
Things To Do:
- You can take a hike in the cliffs to appease the mountain lover in you and enjoy the view.
- It has the Janardhanaswamy Temple that overlooks the entire beach, which you can visit for a blessing.
- Even though Varkala is a calm and serene place, you can enjoy various water sports and have the best of both worlds.
3. Cherai Beach
Cherai is one of the most preferred Kerala coastal destinations owing to its clean beaches, and most importantly, its white sand. The narrative to equate an Indian place as a foreign land to highlight how beautiful it is goes really well with Cherai.
You will not only be able to collect some antique-worthy seashells but if you are lucky enough you can even get a glimpse of the Dolphins.
Things To Do:
- The beach doesn’t have too deep waters, and you can frolic in it, but you have to be mindful to not go far.
- One of the best things about Cherai is it has a parking spot that allows you to park right by the shore and enjoy a nice stroll.
- If you are looking for a clean beach with a place to sit and talk whilst enjoying the waves, this can be your place. You will also be able to grab some quick snacks from the shacks nearby.
4. Bekal Beach
If you think Cherai is a bit mellow for you, you can visit Bekal beach and witness the tough terrain and deep waters. It is usually dangerous to swim on this beach owing to its high tides and the proper pavement to navigate through the area. But, needless to say, it’s white sands and the hilly terrain nearby ensure that your stay on the beach is pleasantly adventurous.
Things To Do:
- You can visit the Bekal Fort and enjoy the view from the top.
- If you go to the Taj Bekal Resort and Spa, a private property, you can access the beach from there and even opt for photoshoots of the sunrise and sunset.
- Even though it has a repute of rough terrain, you can have a nice walk on the beach and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- There is also the Nityanandashram caves, that you can visit near the beach if you are feeling a bit adventurous.
5. Marari Beach
Marari denotes the word Mararikulam, which is a fishing village in the coast of the beach. The areais mainly known for being the ideal picture of how a beach is supposed to be, golden sands and populated with coconut trees.
Marari should be in your itinerary if you want to enjoy a day by the beach grabbing snacks, enjoying some water sports, or just sitting and staring at the horizon. The interesting part about Marari is even though it can get crowded sometimes, you won’t feel strongly against it.
Things To Do:
- If you are someone who wishes to refrain from water sports, you can rent a chair and sit by the beach.
- The fishermen are welcoming and exchange pleasantries often, along with a quick dive into their lives.
- You can also take a quick cruise for the view and a bit of the thrill.
6. Alappuzha Beach
Alappuzha’s reputation precedes it. People who have never even been to Kerala know it not only due to its breathtaking views, but it is a host of a bunch of festivals each year. Located near the Alappuzha town, the beach is known for its sand art festivals.
Even though the beach is fairly clean, it has strong currents and had some construction going on recently, which was a major turn-off for the users. While the beach is breathtaking in itself and won’t disappoint you, if you’re looking for a secluded place to relax, this may not fit the bill.
Things To Do:
- Even though the practice of horse riding should be condoned, there is a provision for you to enjoy the mighty waves on the back of a horse and feel the wind.
- Alappuzha lacks water sports, which it compensates with its views and festivals in which you can take part. The Alleppey Beach Festival is packed with a cultural fusion along with music concerts and vibrant people bonding together on the banks of the Arabian Sea.
7. Kappad Beach
You have to visit Kapad Beach if you are a history enthusiast since this was the point where Vasco da Gama landed in India in 1498. Moreover, it is a Blue Flag Beach. It is an award to given to beaches that meet the standards of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) globally.
Hence, it is very clean, and you can have some serene evenings or breathtaking sunrise to witness on this famous beach in Kerala. It has a well-maintained restroom along with shower facilities and vigilant staff who will make your experience more memorable.
Things To Do:
- There is a huge rock near Kappad Beach and you can climb that to seek a bit of a thrill.
- It is an ideal place for long stretches of walking and some quality time. The various boats lining up the beach during sunset also provide a picture-perfect moment, straight out of a postcard!
8. Payyambalam Beach
Located on the western side of Kannur city, it is one of the famous tourist attractions. Payyambalam offers you everything that you can expect from a beach along with a less chaotic environment and some amazing resorts to stay in. It has gentle waters, which works well in the favor of water sports, and is loved by tourists and natives alike.
Things To Do:
- You can opt for a variety of water sports like surfing, or swim in the Payyambalam beach and make the most out of your vacation.
- However, if you wish to unwind, you can taste the lip-smacking seafood while gazing at the waves.
9. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
Located between Kannur and Thalassery, visiting Muzhappilangad Beach can be one of the most exhilarating experiences of your trip. As the name suggests, it’s a drive-in beach, which means you can ride along the beautiful coastline and enjoy the picturesque setting.
Apart from the beach ride, it is also a bird watchers’ paradise, offering you layers of experience once you step foot in it.
Things To Do:
- Take a ride along the coastline in your four or two-wheelers and enjoy the waves crashing in your way.
- If you wish for a place to relax, you can visit the resorts nearby and rejuvenate in the ambiance.
- Bring your binoculars and cameras if you love looking at exotic birds.
10. Thottada Beach
If you are rummaging through this list to find a place to sunbathe well, Thottada has you covered. It is an ideal place to unwind and relax, with some sunbathing and swimming if you are up for it.
Even though the beach is relatively less crowded and doesn’t have any water sports to offer, it is a paradise. If you are looking for a place to just sit back and relax while the waves crash at your feet, and you wish to taste the salty wind, Thottada will hardly disappoint you.
Keep in Mind:
- Carry food if you are planning to spend the entire day being out in the beach bathing.
- There are no stalls or vendors near Thottada, which makes it a pristine place to drop by.
Conclusion
Well, that was my list of some of the best beaches to visit in Kerala. The thing about a beach is it will replenish you to the moment the sand touches your feet. So, picking on any of the names from the above list will ensure that you make the most out of your trip.
All you have to do is to ensure you have an itinerary planned, your hotels or Airbnb booked in advance, and there is no budget cut on your sunscreen!
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which beach in Kerala is known for its lighthouse?
Kovalam Beach in Kerala is also known as the Lighthouse Beach.
2. What makes Varkala Beach in Kerala unique?
Varkala is the only beach that has formations or cliffs that meet the Arabian Sea.
3. Can you drive on any beaches in Kerala?
You can drive in the Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach in your four or two-wheelers.
4. Which beach in Kerala is famous for its historical significance?
Kappad Beach has a huge historical significance since Vasco De Gama had landed there in 1498.
5. What water activities can be done at Kovalam Beach?
You can opt for various adventurous sports in Kovalam that include surfing, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, backwater cruising, etc.
6. What is the best time to visit Kerala’s beaches?
The ideal time to visit the beaches in Kerala would be September to March. You will have low humidity, along with sunny skies and clear weather, for any water sports or evening stroll you wish to enjoy.
7. Are Kerala beaches safe for swimming?
Not all beaches in Kerala are safe for swimming, and you have to check before jumping into the water.
