With nearly 600 km of coastline, Kerala is among the must-see destinations in South India. Renowned for its long stretches of white sand beaches lined with coconut palms as far as the eye can see, the region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in India. Join us as we discover the most stunning beaches of Kerala for an unforgettable coastal retreat in a relaxed atmosphere...

The 6 most beautiful beaches in Kerala

1. The beaches of Kovalam

Located about fifteen kilometres south of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, the town of Kovalam was once a fishing port before becoming a popular destination for hippies in the 1970s. Since then, it has become one of the region's most sought-after beach resorts. As for beaches, there are not one but three that line the 17 km coastline, separated by rocky outcrops:

• Hawah Beach (also called Eve's Beach);
• Lighthouse Beach;
• Samudra Beach.

Lighthouse Beach is the largest. Its red and white lighthouse perched on the hillside lends it a distinctive charm, especially at sunset. Lined with numerous restaurants and shops, it is one of the most frequented and lively beaches. If you seek a bit more tranquility, head to Samudra and Hawah beaches instead. Note that swimming is more pleasant at Hawah Beach than at Samudra.

Beyond sunbathing, Kovalam's beaches are excellent destinations for an Ayurvedic retreat, as many wellness centres dot the shoreline. Finally, know that Kovalam is one of the best places for surfing in the region.

2. Marari Beach

Located about fifteen kilometres north of the town of Alleppey (formerly known as Alappuzha), Marari Beach takes its name from the small fishing village where it is located. Free from major infrastructure, the beach has managed to preserve its charm and authenticity.

Stretching for 4.5 km, the beach is characterized by a long ribbon of white sand where coconut palms line the shore and azure waters create an idyllic setting perfect for relaxation. It is the ideal destination for travellers seeking an untamed and peaceful beach.

Beyond enjoying a picturesque setting, visitors can venture to Alleppey, the "Venice of India", and explore one of Kerala's must-see attractions: the backwaters.

These vast networks of canals stretching over 900 km, connecting the state's lakes, rivers and lagoons, can be explored during a houseboat cruise or canoe journey. An opportunity to meet the inhabitants who live along the water and witness extraordinary biodiversity. There's no doubt that exploring the backwaters is among the most remarkable experiences to have in India.

3. Varkala Beach

Varkala is a small beach resort located on the northern coast of Kerala, 40 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Many travellers compare it to the town of Goa from a decade ago due to its relaxed atmosphere. It features a magnificent beach nestled at the foot of spectacular ochre-coloured cliffs. These cliffs are unique in the region since the Kerala coast is flat everywhere else.

A paved pathway runs along the cliff edge, offering beautiful ocean views and access to shops and restaurants. At the base of the cliff lies Varkala Beach (also known as Papanasam Beach), accessible via a staircase. The beach is divided into two sections: North Cliff and South Cliff.

North Cliff is the more lively area, with restaurants, shops, beach huts, surf schools, Ayurvedic centres, yoga schools and more. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a drink at sunset.

South Cliff, meanwhile, is the most authentic section. You can witness purification ceremonies and ritual baths of locals every morning. Indeed, as its name suggests (Papanasam Beach), the location is known to devotees for scattering the ashes of the deceased and purifying themselves of sins due to the presence of a sacred natural spring with healing and medicinal properties.

4. Cherai Beach

Cherai Beach is located in the northern part of Vypin Island, near the city of Kochi (Cochin). Access is by ferry from Kochi, then by bus or auto-rickshaw through rice paddies and villages. Bordered by palm groves, this long 10 km stretch of golden sand is one of the rare places where you can see the sea and the still waters of the backwaters in a single frame.

At low tide, the waves are gentle and the water shallow, allowing for peaceful swimming. There are a few facilities available (restaurants, snack bars, sun loungers and parasol rentals). For this reason, the beach is popular with families. Note that the ends of the beach offer the best swimming conditions for children.

Beyond swimming, Cherai Beach is known for its fishermen using traditional Chinese fishing nets and for the presence of dolphins. There is no doubt that Cherai Beach ranks among the region's most beautiful. It is the perfect place to take a break and escape the urban bustle of Cochin.

5. Bekal Beach

Head to the far north of Kerala to discover one of the region's most stunning beaches: Bekal Beach. It is renowned for the presence of a medieval fortress: Bekal Fort. Built in 1650, the fort stands majestically on the heights of the beach and seems to emerge from the sea. It has the distinctive feature of a giant keyhole shape. As a fun fact, the song "Uyire Uyire" from the Bollywood film Bombay (1995) was filmed at Bekal Fort.

Despite the presence of this historic site, the beach has maintained its authenticity: infrastructure is minimal. With the fort as a backdrop and numerous palm trees lining the shore, Bekal Beach offers a peaceful setting conducive to relaxation. Be cautious: swimming can be dangerous due to waves and currents.

Note that the beach is lit in the evening. Moreover, it makes an excellent spot to admire the sunset and extend the evening with a picnic overlooking the Arabian Sea...

6. Kozhikode Beach (Calicut)

The city of Kozhikode (or Calicut) holds an important place in India's history, as it is here that the legendary Spice Route was born. The city was once the most important port in the Malabar coastal region, where regular trade exchanges took place with Arabs and Chinese merchants.

It was on the beaches of Kozhikode (or Calicut) that line the city's 28 km coastline, specifically at Kappad Beach, that the legendary Portuguese navigator and explorer Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498. His arrival paved the way for opening the spice trade route between India and Europe.

Today, Kozhikode Beach is one of South India's most beautiful beaches. Though popular due to its history, the beach has maintained a charming atmosphere. Many travellers and locals gather here to watch the sunset. Numerous beach huts offer the opportunity to savour seafood and kallumekaya, a local specialty made with mussels.

At dawn, a walk to Dolphin Point may hold a pleasant surprise for animal lovers: groups of dolphins are often spotted here!

Other Kerala beaches worth exploring...

Beyond the beaches mentioned above, several others merit a visit for enjoying the pleasures of relaxation. Among them, we recommend:

• Muzhappilangad Beach: In accordance with local regulations, this is one of the rare beaches in the world where driving is permitted. It is possible to spend the night in a tent or in your vehicle. The beach is also known for the presence of several endemic and migratory bird species;
• Payyambalam Beach: Located near the town of Kannur, this 4 km long beach offers excellent walking opportunities. It is a popular picnic spot among locals, though rarely visited by tourists. The sea here is relatively calm, making it a good swimming spot;
• Veli Beach: Nestled in the charming fishing village of the same name, just 12 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this beach is a family destination due to the numerous facilities available: children's park, pedalo rentals, boat rides, floating café...
• Vallikunnu Beach: It is considered one of Kerala's calmest beaches. Not far away, the Kadalundi bird sanctuary promises beautiful natural discoveries during an excursion...

Need help planning your stay in Kerala? Don't hesitate to contact us! In the meantime, find inspiration through our itineraries:

• Adventure and trekking circuit in Kerala
• Family trip circuit to Kerala
• Cycling circuit through Kerala's trails