A slim and fruitful strip of land, 900 km long, along the southwest coast of India forms the Kerala coast, which offers you sun-soaked sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and swaying canopies of coconut palms. Entitled as “God’s Own Country,” the natural presence of beaches, backwaters, delicious varied cuisine, comfortable accommodation, historical places, and religious spots make you feel as if you are living in the lap of Mother Nature.
‘Keralam,’ which is the state’s name, means ‘Land Added On’ in Sanskrit. Today, the meaning most commonly accepted by the inhabitants is ‘Land of the Coconut.’ An interesting legend is associated with its former meaning, which states that the current land of Kerala is an endowment from the legendary Parasurama. Parasurama, one of the ten incarnations (avatars) of Lord Vishnu – the perpetuator of life – is believed to have flung his axe used in battle into the sea, which then reclaimed the present land of Kerala. The state now comprises 14 districts, with Thiruvananthapuram as its capital.
The beaches in Kerala are well-known for their calm waves and azure waters. Despite the presence of backwaters, beach holidays in Kerala remain thrilling, attracting thousands of tourists from across the globe.
Let’s now take a look at some of the beaches in Kerala.
Kovalam Beach
Located on the Malabar Coast, the small village of Kovalam stretches along the shoreline of Kerala. This cool and calm town gained attention from visitors worldwide when its splendid and isolated beaches were discovered. Kovalam has now become one of the most renowned beach destinations, not only in Kerala but also in India. The name “Kovalam” refers to a copse of coconut trees, which line the beaches, justifying the name and look.
The memorable scene at Kovalam is the sight of coconut palms lining the rocky outcrop, seemingly embracing the calm stretch of azure waters. The palm-canopied bays in isolated coconut copses offer a peaceful vacation. Listed below are some attractions here:
The Three Beaches
The beaches of Kovalam village are categorized into three parts. The most well-known among these is the southernmost Lighthouse Beach. Toward the south, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Vizhinjam mosque (without the permission to photograph it). Next is the central beach, called Hawah, which serves as the center for native fishermen. The northernmost beach is Samudra Beach, relatively undisturbed due to varying tourist flux and scattered with simple wooden fishing boats.
Sports:
These include kayaking, swimming in shallow waters, sunbathing, surfing, and skiing. The coast also boasts beautiful coral reefs, allowing you to crest the surf on logs.
Shopping:
The shopping items along the seafront include handicrafts, jewelry, and clothes.
Events on the Beach:
Evenings are made livelier by Kathakali performances, the traditional dance-drama of the state, at the beachside. You can also take the opportunity to indulge in Ayurvedic massages, oil baths, and Yoga and meditation taught by experts at the Yoga and Health Center.
Boating:
Do not forget to take a backwater cruise to the countryside to enjoy its rich greenery. Some hotels offer houseboats, country boats, and catamarans at reasonable rates.
Marari Beach
The name “Marari” is derived from ‘Mararikulam,’ one of the native fishing villages. Life here is still as it was 120 years ago. The men still go out to sea daily in search of a living. One of India’s best-preserved hidden gems, Marari is now a new and worth-while destination for holidaymakers, leaving you with a relaxing and inspiring experience.
The beach features endless miles of glorious sands, canopied by swaying palms, making it a pristine region of classical Kerala. At sunset, be sure to return to Marari to witness the stunning sight of the sun setting over the horizon and enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the resorts. After dinner, it’s worth relaxing with a soothing drink or enjoying the quiet night on the resort’s veranda, overlooking the murmuring sea waves.
Attractions:
- The Resort: Surrounded by 25 acres of coconut palm groves, the Marari Beach Resort offers a splendid view of the vast beach. It features thatched villas designed in the traditional fishing village style. The 400 sq. ft. airy villas are air-conditioned and come with a mini bar, private garden, swimming pool, coffee-making utilities, and spacious bathrooms with open courtyards featuring banana or papaya trees. The resort also hosts an amphitheater for cultural programs, and comfortable beds are set up in the grove for outdoor relaxation. Additionally, there’s a beach volleyball court for friendly matches, and bicycles are available at the reception for exploring the neighborhood.
- Ayurveda Centre: Administered by the resident Ayurveda doctor and a team of trained masseurs and therapists, this center focuses on achieving a balance of body, mind, and soul through natural methods. Ayurveda is known for its therapeutic effectiveness and lack of painful side effects.
- Backwaters: If you are alone here, you are in the perfect position to explore the beautiful backwaters. The serenity, stunning views, and timely boat rides will make you feel like the luckiest traveler.
- Cochin: A must-visit place, Cochin is an important trade center and a lovely spot for shopping, particularly in Jew Town on the ‘Spice Coast’ of Kerala.
Kumarakom Beach
A cluster of small islets on the Vembanad Lake forms the village of Kumarakom, part of the Kuttanad region. This destination can be imagined as an incredible heaven, with mangrove jungles, emerald green rice fields, coconut groves, and canals lined with white lilies. It is the perfect gateway to explore the scenic world of backwaters, houseboats, cormorants, Chinese fishing nets, and swaying palms.
Kumarakom enjoys a tropical climate, and nature has worked its magic here. The lush coconut palms along the rivers bend to reflect on the crystal-clear waters, while the atmosphere is filled with the fragrances of flowers and the colors of multihued birds. Adding to this perfection is the cool, fresh breeze that is a relief even during the warmer weather.
Attractions:
- Beach Activities: The beach offers a unique combination of leisure activities, including boating, houseboat packages, traditional Kettuvalloms, and captivating backwater rides.
- Bird Sanctuary: The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary covers nearly 14 acres and is a frequent destination for migratory birds, making it an ideal place for birdwatchers. The sanctuary is home to egrets, herons, teal, darters, waterfowl, cuckoos, wild ducks, and migratory birds such as the Siberian stork. The best way to observe these birds is on a boat ride around the small islets.
Reaching Kumarakom
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 92 km away. Alternatively, you can reach Trivandrum International Airport and then travel to Muhamma Boat Jetty (171 km, about 3 hours by road).
- By Rail: The nearest station is Kottayam, located 16 km away by road. Cochin is also well-connected by rail.
- By Boat: From Trivandrum International Airport, you can travel to Quilon via road or rail (just 1 hour away). Regular ferries run from Quilon to Alleppey, which offers a must-ride journey through Kerala’s backwaters.
Alappuzha (Alleppey) Beach
A renowned hangout, recreational spot, and naturally beautiful seashore of Kerala, this beach is situated in the district of Alappuzha. The jetty here is very famous, stretching out into the seashore and is as old as 140 years. A ride on this jetty should not be missed due to its scenic backwaters. This is the place where you will truly encounter nature’s green assets, such as lagoons, huge lakes, and bountiful freshwater rivers.
Housing a children’s park and boating facilities, the beach is a great spot for entertainment for all picnickers, irrespective of age. There is an old lighthouse here, which adds to the list of attractions at this beach.
Dolphin’s Point
This spot is famous for watching dolphins play in the sea early in the morning. The beach is located 2 km from Kozhikode town and is famous due to the Lions Club Park, lighthouse, two jetties, and long evening walks with cool breezes.
Beypore Beach
Once a leading port, boat-building industry, and fishing harbor in ancient times, Beypore is situated at the mouth of the River Chaliyar. This ancient port was very popular among merchants from West Asia and is still famous among Arabs who purchase large boats here. One of the main attractions is the boat-building yard, where the boat builders, known as Khalasis, create country crafts called Uru.
Bekal Beach
Bekal Beach is famous for the 300-year-old Bekal Fort, located 16 km from Kasargod on the national highway.
Pallikere Beach
Just 1 km from Bekal Fort, this beautiful beach is famous for its stunning view of the fort.
Kanwatheertha Beach
Situated 3 km from Manjeswaram, this beach is famous for its swimming pool-like structure.
Padinharekara Beach
This beach is popular for its stunning view of the confluence of the River Bharatha, River Tirur, and the Arabian Sea.
Varkala Beach
One of the most famous beach resorts, Varkala Beach is home to mineral water springs emerging from the high cliffs at the edge, known for their curative properties. This place is also a prominent pilgrimage center for Hindus.
Kappad Beach
Historically significant as the sea route to India discovered by Vasco da Gama, who landed here on 27th May 1498 with 170 men in three ships. The major attraction at the beach is a pillar with the inscription, “Vasco da Gama landed here, Kappakadavu (the local name of the pillar rock) in the year 1498,” commemorating the landing. With calm azure waters, this beach is also a center for Ayurvedic health holidays. Another interesting feature is the extensive rock that projects into the sea. Additionally, an ancient temple on the rock, which is about 800 years old, is worth visiting.
Dharmadam Island
An attractive beach island spread over an area of 5 acres, Dharmadam Island requires permission for entry. The coconut palms and green bushes offer a magnificent sight from the beach. Located 17 km from Kannur, Dharmadam is also accessible via a bus ride from Thalassery, covering a distance of just 3 km. This place was once called Dharmattanam, due to a famous belief that it was once a Buddhist monastery, as Buddha’s images were excavated here.
Ezhimala Beach
A scenic site with a seven-peaked hill range in the background, Ezhimala is famous for its rare medicinal herbs. Located 55 km from Kannur, the beach offers carved stone pillars, an old burial site, and an ancient cave at the foothill. The sand’s texture is unique, and the water here is bluer in color compared to other beaches. Other attractions include watching dolphins at Ettikulam Bay and the Mt. Deli Lighthouse, located 50 km away, which is an ancient tower.
Moppila Bay
An indigenous fishing harbor near St. Angelo’s Fort, Moppila Bay’s harbor is quite modern, having been built under the Indo-Norwegian pact. A huge seawall extends from the fort, dividing the sea and the island’s waters. The main attractions here include the ruined fort and temple.
- Must Read: Must-See Forts and Palaces in Kerala
Muzhappilangad Beach
The only drive-in beach in Kerala and in India, Muzhappilangad is also among the longest beaches in the state, located 15 km south of Kannur.
Pathiramanal Beach
This beach is a small island on the backwaters, which is the favorite residence of hundreds of rare migratory birds.
Payyambalam Beach
An attractive beach located 2 km from Kannur, this long beach is ideal for those who love surfing in calm seawater. A perfect picnic spot in the evenings, this scenic beach is within walking distance of St. Angelo Fort. At one end, where flat laterite cliffs project into the sea, is an important scene worth visiting.
Sankhumugham Beach
Located near the Thiruvananthapuram airport and Veli Tourist Village, Sankhumugham Beach is popular for its splendid sunset view and the “Matsya Kanyaka,” a 35-meter-long carved mermaid statue.
Tanur Beach
One of the earliest Portuguese settlements, Tanur is a small fishing town famous for the belief that St. Francis Xavier visited it in 1546 A.D. Another attraction here is the Keraladityapuram Temple, devoted to Lord Vishnu.
Thangassery Beach
A seaside historic town, the attractions here include an old Portuguese fort, 18th-century churches, and the 144-feet-high Tangasseri Lighthouse, which is open daily from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The beach is situated 5 km from Kollam.
Thirumullavaram Beach
Located 6 km from Kollam, this beautiful beach is perfect for morning walks and swimming.
Veli Lagoon
This beautiful shore is located near Thiruvananthapuram, beside the Veli Lake. It has been developed as a major tourist destination, with various entertainment options such as pedal boating, row boating, swimming, and parties. Approachable by road, this place is ideal for those seeking an exciting hangout.
- Also Read: Historical Monuments of Kerala
