Top 10 Beaches In Kannur For Your Next Summer Vacation In Kerala

An iconic view of blue water and golden sand coming together on the beach

Tucked on the tranquil Malabar Coast, Kannur is a coastal city in Kerala known for its unspoiled stretches of sand and soothing waters. The beaches of Kannur are true examples of the unspoiled beauty of nature. From the lesser-known secluded beaches in Kannur to busy activity hubs for sports. Whether you want to spend your days bustling with joy or peaceful seclusion, Kannur beaches have something for everybody. Here is our take on the best beaches in Kannur, and the top 10 beaches in Kannur that every traveller should visit. Join us while we discover the alluring coastal beauty of Kannur.

10 Most Popular Beaches In Kannur

Whether you’re a sun-seeker or an adventure enthusiast, beaches in Kannur offer something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 most popular beaches in Kannur.

1. Payyambalam Beach

Witnessing the beautiful sunset and the cold breezes from the ocean at Payyambalam beach

Photo: Ajeeshcphilip / Wikimedia Commons

About 2 km from Kannur is Payyambalam Beach, one of the major beaches in Kannur. The beach is noted for its long stretch of golden sands extending as far as the eye can see. This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Kannur. This beach offers much scope for sunbathing, swimming, and evening walks along the seashore. One of the striking features of the beach is the small lighthouse that stands beside it.

Things To Do: Enjoy stunning sunsets.
Location: Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can take local buses from Kannur city centre (2 km away) to Payyambalam Beach.

Suggested Read: Muniyara Caves

2. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach

Beachgoers driving their cars along the iconic Muzhappilagad drive-in Beach in Kannur

Photo: Shagil Kannur / Wikimedia Commons

One of the outstanding features of Kannur is the Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, which is the longest drive-in beach in Asia. This extraordinary beach allows direct vehicle driving onto the sand, a rare and adventurous experience. Besides driving, it is also ideal for swimming. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy the place because it accommodates many species of birds, including some migratory ones that visit at times during the year. The black rocks that border the beach add dramatic flair to the landscape and act as natural barriers that save the beach from strong currents.

Things To Do: Drive along the beach.
Location: Muzhappilangad, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can drive their vehicles or take local buses from Kannur (15 km away) to reach Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach.

3. Meenkunnu Beach

Ocean waves colling with a small hill near the Meenkunnu beach in Kannur, Kerala

Photo: Sreejithk2000 / Wikimedia Commons

Situated near Azhikode, Meenkunnu Beach is a secluded retreat into serenity and natural beauty. The framework for this lesser-known beach is set by swaying coconut palms and expansive golden sands that provide a picture-perfect setting to relax and meditate on easy thoughts. There is hardly any crowd on the beach, which makes it perfect for getting away from everyday hustle and bustle. Sunset viewing is one of the most famous activities on Meenkunnu Beach.

Things To Do: Relax amidst coconut palms.
Location: Azhikode, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can hire auto-rickshaws or take local buses from Kannur city centre (10 km away) to reach Meenkunnu Beach.

Suggested Read: Meesapulimala Trekking

4. Thottada Beach

Thottada Beach, surrounded by the lush green trees and Arabian ocean on the other side

Photo: Arjunmangol / Wikimedia Commons

Thottada Beach is one such place that provides a calm retreat from the crowds. It is secluded, surrounded by greenery, and has clean and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place for a refreshing swim and rejuvenating sunbathing. Adding to this natural beauty, the nearby Thottada River and its merging with the sea provide a beautiful view from which many bird species thrive. The serenity of the beach is just the thing for those in quest of solitude and quiet reflection.

Things To Do: Swim and bird-watch.
Location: Thottada, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can hire auto-rickshaws or take local buses from Kannur city centre (8 km away) to reach Thottada Beach.

5. Dharmadam Island Beach

People walking at the Dharmadam Island Beach during the evening along the soothing shores

Photo: Dynamoland / Shutterstock

Dharmadam Island Beach is close to Dharmadam Island—a small, privately owned island lower than the mainland and a short distance from the shoreline. The place allows one to walk in shallow waters to the island during low tide, which is unique and full of adventure. It is covered with coconut palms and dense bushes, offering a green environment to its visitors. Picnics and exploration from within the serene surroundings are considered to be two of the best tasks that one can do on Dharmadam Island Beach.

Things To Do: Explore Dharmadam Island.
Location: Dharmadam, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can hire auto-rickshaws or take local buses from Kannur (17 km away) to reach Dharmadam Island Beach.

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6. Ezhara Beach

Explore the Beautiful sunset under the horizon at Ezhara Beach in Kannur, Kerala

Photo: Shagil Kannur / Wikimedia Commons

This Ezhara Beach is an undisturbed area with a serene environment, apt for a hassle-free day by the sea. Being one of the least explored places, this beach perfectly suits anyone seeking isolation from the crowd to enjoy the serene atmosphere. The clear waters, together with the soft sand, provide great swimming and sunbathing opportunities. Certainly, one of the most conspicuous features of Ezhara Beach is its rocky outcrops. The place gets a dramatic look and becomes a favourite spot for photographers.

Things To Do: Photograph rocky outcrops.
Location: Ezhara, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can hire auto-rickshaws or take local buses from Kannur city centre (13 km away) to reach Ezhara Beach.

7. Kizhunna Beach

 Man cycling on the iconic Kizhunna beach during the sunset on the beach of Kannur

Photo: Ks.mini / Wikimedia Commons

Kizhunna Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach offering a quiet getaway to leverage peace and tranquillity. Its soft sands and gentle waves make it the best place for swimmers to just relax or laze around. The beach lies amidst lush green surroundings with coconut palms, offering a picturesque setting to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty at Kannur. Kizhunna Beach also provides insight into the hardworking local fishermen, giving a glimpse of the traditional coastal way of life.

Things To Do: Enjoy solitude.
Location: Kizhunna, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can hire auto-rickshaws or take local buses from Kannur (11 km away) to reach Kizhunna Beach.

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8. Baby Beach

Ocean and the sky coming together at the beautiful Baby beach under the sunny sky

Photo: EgorovaSvetlana / Wikimedia Commons / Image For representation only

Situated quite close to the famous Payyambalam Beach, Baby Beach is a small but beautiful beach with non-turbulent and shallow waters. Therefore, without strong currents or deep waters, it is a safe place for a family with children to play near the beach. The view of the Arabian Sea from the beach is also nice, accompanied by soft waves dashed against the seashore. Nearby, The historical St. Angelo Fort immediately supplements it. Constructed by the Portuguese this fort is one of the more popular tourist attractions in the area, with excellent views of the surroundings from within its precincts.

Things To Do: Safe swimming.
Location: Near Payyambalam, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can take a leisurely walk or hire auto-rickshaws from Kannur city centre (2 km away) to reach Baby Beach.

9. Chootad Beach

The beautiful sunset view from the sandy shores of Choottad beach in Kannur, Kerala

Photo: Naseeshafi / Wikimedia Commons

Chootad Beach is a less famous beach situated near the town of Cherupuzha. The beach promises peace and an uncontaminated environment. Lined by lush green mango groves and other vegetation types, this beach faces the least infiltration and offers a perfect setting for nature-loving and crowd-hating people. The pristine beauty that remains unfaded makes this beach a paradise for lonely and calm environments. Moreover, the beach does not get too crowded; thus, you will easily find your calm amidst the pristine natural beauty.

Things To Do: Experience a peaceful retreatR
Location: Cherupuzha, Kannur, Kerala, India.
How To Reach: Tourists can hire auto-rickshaws or take local buses from Kannur (20 km away) to reach Chootad Beach.

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10. Kannur Beach

 Aerie view of one of the most beautiful beaches in Kannur along the ocean of Trees

Photo: Nisheedh / Wikimedia Commons

One of the beaches that are most easily accessible is Kannur Beach, which is also the only city beach. This active beach occupies a wide area with activities like beach volleyball, cricket, and various evening walks. This lively beach is where many vendors and performing artists enhance their virtual activities. The nearby restaurants and eateries offer good food with a taste of the locals, thus allowing one’s taste buds to relish the authentic Kerala food amidst all the fun at the beach.

Things To Do: Engage in beach sports.
Location: Kannur
How To Reach: Tourists can take a leisurely walk or hire auto-rickshaws from Kannur city centre (3 km away) to reach Kannur Beach.

Kannur’s beaches are a testament to Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural richness. From the bustling Payyambalam Beach to the serene Kannur Beach, each offers a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a scenic escape, the beaches of Kannur will surely leave you mesmerised. Plan a visit to these beautiful beaches in Kannur and let yourself fall under the timeless charm of the serenity with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Shagil Kannur / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The top 5 beaches in Kannur include Payyambalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Meenkunnu Beach, Thottada Beach, and Dharmadam Island Beach. Each offers unique attractions, from drive-in facilities to serene, secluded spots ideal for relaxation.
Baby Beach near Payyambalam Beach is particularly suited for families due to its calm, shallow waters, making it safe for children to enjoy. The nearby St. Angelo Fort adds historical interest and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach is renowned as Asia's longest drive-in beach, allowing visitors to drive along its firm sands right by the shoreline. It’s a unique experience and offers opportunities for swimming and bird-watching.
Ezhara Beach is highly recommended for those seeking solitude and relaxation. Its unspoiled beauty, soft sands, and tranquil environment, dotted with dramatic rocky outcrops, make it perfect for peaceful contemplation and photography.
Yes, Thottada Beach is often considered a hidden gem. It is located in the main tourist areas and offers a secluded retreat amidst lush greenery and clean, clear waters ideal for swimming and bird-watching.

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