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Kerala, which people fondly refer to as God’s Own Country, is a state with a captivating coastline along the Arabian Sea. The beaches of this paradise come in great variety, each with its exciting charm and appeal. This blog will take you through the famous beaches of Kerala, singling them out as the best beach in Kerala to relax, enjoy adventure, and experience the culture. Be it Kovalam’s throbbing beaches or Varkala’s serene sands, come to know about these coastal jewels that crown Kerala as a paradise destination on earth for every beach lover.
Top 10 Beaches In Kerala
Let’s delve deeper into the top 10 beaches in Kerala that bring out this coastal paradise’s diverse and captivating essence.
1. Kovalam Beach
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
Kovalam Beach is one of Kerala’s most iconic beach destinations. It is divided into three different crescent-shaped beaches, each with its own charisma – Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. Lighthouse Beach is the busiest and most happening among the three. Here, you get numerous cafes and shops that sell handicrafts and souvenirs. Situated somewhat further to the south is Hawah Beach, which is generally more tranquil and less crowded. Samudra Beach is located at the northern end and offers serenity with scope for long walks along the seashore.
Location: Kovalam, 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram
How To Reach: 16 km from Trivandrum and accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from the city centre.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Sulthan Bathery
2. Varkala Beach
Photo: Vivekobey / Wikimedia Commons
Varkala Beach is known for its picturesque setting along cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. It is said that, according to Hindu mythology, a bath in the waters at Papanasam Beach redeems one’s sins. The Cliffs here are lined with shops, cafes, and guest houses with beautiful views down the coast. One of the highlights of Varkala Beach is the natural spring with supposed medicinal properties, which is located right out of the face of the cliffs. Visitors can walk along the cliffside path, sit on the sands below.
Location: Varkala, 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram
How To Reach: 50 km north of Trivandrum, you can take a train or drive along NH66
3. Bekal Beach
Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons
What sets Bekal apart from the other beaches is the historic Bekal Fort, one of the biggest forts in Kerala from the 17th century. The fort stands right on the headland, rising above the Arabian Sea, and commands a panorama of views along the coastline and surrounding countryside. The beach is quiet and not so crowded, so one can have peaceful walks or picnics. With fringes of coconut palms, this beach provides ample scope for relaxation and enjoyment.
Location: Bekal, 16 km from Kasaragod
How To Reach: Travellers can take a train or drive along NH66 to reach Varkala Beach.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Attapadi
4. Marari Beach
Photo: Mahendra M / Wikimedia Commons
Marari Beach is famous for its pristine sands, swaying coconut palms, and tranquil ambience. Marari has a laid-back atmosphere and offers visitors a taste of what village life is all about in traditional Kerala. It’s the ideal beach for simple relaxation, yoga sessions, and long walks by the shore. Waves are perfect for swimming, and local fishermen are more than eager to take one on boat rides and further fishing activities. Other major features of Marari Beach include eco-friendliness and community-based tourism projects.
Location: Mararikulam, 11 km from Alleppey
How To Reach: 60 km from Trivandrum, you can reach Marari by car or bus via NH66.
5. Cherai Beach
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Situated right in the middle of the city, Cherai Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sands and shallow waters—a favourite among water sports enthusiasts. Facing west toward the Arabian Sea and east toward the backwaters of Kochi, the beautiful views of sunrise and sunset over the sea make the atmosphere magical. Cherai Beach is one of the cleanest and safest beaches and is apt for swimming and sunbathing. Seashells can be gathered on this beach. It is also surrounded by many resorts, homestays, and several cafes serving fresh seafood.
Location: Cherai, 25 km from Kochi
How To Reach: Travellers can drive or take a local bus from Kochi to reach Cherai Beach.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kumily
6. Poovar Beach
Photo: Midhu Subhas / Wikimedia Commons
Poovar Beach is one of the isolated treasures, tucked away at the intersection of the Neyyar River and the Arabian Sea, detached from other beaches in Kerala. It is accessible only by boat through serene backwaters. It provides a secluded beach environment surrounded by lush green and coconut palms. One can explore the nearby mangrove forests, boat rides along the river estuary, or simply lie on the golden sands here. It offers traditional wellness treatments against the backdrop of dazzling natural surroundings.
Location: Poovar, 27 km from Thiruvananthapuram
How To Reach: Drive or take a local bus/taxi from the city to reach Poovar Beach.
7. Payyambalam Beach
Photo: Nisheedh / Wikimedia Commons
The beach at Payyambalam is known for its secluded nature, with a well-maintained garden that can be utilised for picnics or other recreation. Right along the beachfront is a beautiful statue of a mother and child, enriching its beauty and cultural importance. The view of the setting sun across the Arabian Sea from Payyambalam Beach is a lifetime experience. People with a passion for photography and nature find this destination lovely. The general atmosphere at the beach is way less crowded than other touristy spots, thus setting the scene for enjoying solitude and reflection along the coast.
Location: Kannur, 2 km from Kannur town
How To Reach: Take a train to Kannur followed by a taxi or local bus to reach Payyambalam Beach.
Suggested Read: Kerala Festivals
8. Muzhappilangad Beach
Photo: Shagil Kannur / Wikimedia Commons
Muzhappilangad Beach is the longest drive-in beach in Asia. This feature allows this beach to drive along the sandy shore and command a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. Shallow waters and gentle waves make it an excellent location to swim and sunbathe, with parasailing and jet-skiing as stunning adventure activities. Yet another source of pride for the beach is its annual beach festival, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala through music, dance forms, and food.
Location: Kappil, 6 km from Bekal Fort
How To Reach: Drive or take a bus from Kannur to reach Muzhappilangad Beach.
9. Kappil Beach
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
Kappil Beach is a place that offers seclusion and peace, where the calm backwaters merge with the Arabian Sea, giving way to a picture-postcard landscape. It has an isolated nature, making the beach ideal for solitude and relaxation. Activities range from boat rides along the backwaters and visits to local fishing villages to simply relaxing on golden sands. Kappil Beach is also famous for birdwatching. Migratory birds visit here in certain seasons. The natural beauty and serenity make Kappil Beach a perfect secret spot for lovers of nature and peace.
Location: Kappil, 6 km from Bekal Fort
How To Reach: Travellers can drive or take a local bus/taxi from the city to reach Kappil Beach.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala In August
10. Alleppey Beach
Photo: Mohanrangaphotography / Wikimedia Commons
This beach is situated on the Arabian Coast and is considered the doorway to the famous Backwaters of Kerala. The port on the beach is historic and faces east into the sea. Several events, such as Alappuzha Beach Festival and Nehru Trophy Boat Race, are very spectacular activities hosted on this beach, reflecting Kerala’s rich cosmopolitan culture and customs. Visitors can walk on the sandy beach or take a cruise in a facility boat through the breathtaking backwaters. From the coastline to the cultural festivities, Alleppey Beach provides unforgettable experiences exploring Kerala’s combined coastal heritage and natural beauty.
Location: Alleppey, within the town
How To Reach: 150 km from Trivandrum, you can drive or take a bus along NH66
Each beach in Kerala has its uniqueness, from the crowd-lined shores of Kovalam to the secluded beauty of Poovar to Marari. Whether one comes for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, the coastal gems of Kerala always make for an unforgettable journey. Plan a visit to these beautiful beaches in Kerala with TripXL and make unforgettable memories with your friends and family.
Cover Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
