Kerala beaches have something for everyone, regardless of their preferences. The seashores are a fantastic place to take your family for a fun day out. You will get enamored with their natural beauty and will be reluctant to go. Visits to beaches like Bekal beach and fort, as well as the Kappad beach, provide insight into the country’s past. Kerala’s beaches have a high beauty quotient and rarely if ever, fail to please. Once you arrive at these magnificent seasides, sit back and watch the magic develop as you take in the Arabian Sea in all of its glory.
Here is the list of some of the best beaches in Kerala
1. Kovalam Beach, Thiruvananthapuram
The Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach are part of the Kovalam Beach, which is one of Kerala’s major beaches. In the heart of the palm-lined beaches, you’ll find a striped lighthouse with an observation platform. This beach, which rose to prominence in the 1970s, is the most important in the state.
Location: Kovalam town, South Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Activities: Sunbathing, enjoying the sunrise and the sunset, participating in adventure sports, visiting an Ayurveda health and wellness center, and trying your hand in shopping at the numerous beachfront stores.
Distance from city bus stand/railway station: 4.3 km from Kovalam bus stand.
2. Varkala Beach, Varkala
Varkala Beach is one of the best seasonal beaches in the world, with the gorgeous sea, sand, and surroundings. This is one of the best Kerala beaches for relaxing and unwinding. It has a lengthy, winding cliff stretch that progressively spreads towards the Arabian Sea. It’s also known as Papanasam Beach since the locals think that washing here cleanses you of all your sins.
Location: Trivandrum District, Varkala, Kerala
Activities: Big honeymoon spot, sightseeing, sunbathing, parasailing, windsurfing, relaxation center with Ayurvedic massages and treatment, snorkeling and Yoga, art and creative workshops, shopping.
Distance from city bus stand/railway station: 3 km from the Varkala bus stand.
3. Marari Beach, Alappuzha
This beach, located in the Alappuzha district, is one of Kerala’s best. As soon as you step onto the beach, you will get greeted by coconut palm palms and beautiful sands. The coastline is calm and beautiful, and it feels as if you’ve stepped back in time, especially with the laid-back locals. If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday, this is the place to be, so relax once you arrive.
Location: Alappuzha district, Kerala.
Activities: Being a peaceful place to chill out, you have long walks, enticing views of the sunrise and sunset, lots of sightseeing places nearby, Snake boat races during the month of August, sea surfing, water skiing, parasailing, and deep-sea fishing.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 16 km from Alappuzha(Alleppey) bus stand.
4. Bekal Beach, Kasaragod
The backwaters, picturesque splendor, and old forts of Bekal Beach are well-known. If you want to get away from it all, Bekal Beach, one of Kerala’s beaches, is the place to go. The native drink “Payasam,” which gets provided by the locals, it’s not to get missed. Between January and March is the greatest time to visit. The Theyyam performance, which is popular in Kerala’s north, it’s not to get missed.
Location: Kasaragod district, Kerala.
Activities: Bekal beach gets lighted, enjoy the beach at all hours. Enjoy panoramic and scenic views of the Bekal Fort. Savor the sea breeze at the multi shelters or erumadams, take a ride in a Kettuvalam, the traditional houseboat of Kerala.
Distance from city bus stand/railway station: The nearest bus stand to Bekal it’s located at Kasaragod, which is at a distance of 12 km.
5. Cherai Beach, Kochi
Cherai Beach is one of Kerala’s most beautiful beaches, with a calm and serene ambiance. Cherai Beach is the place to go if you want seclusion, tranquility, and quiet. It’s located far from the hustle and bustle of Kochi and is ideal for rest and rejuvenation in the natural setting.
Location: Cherai, Kochi city, Kerala.
Activities: capture the picturesque beauty of Cherai Beach, swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, surfing, safe for children, evening walks, morning walks, sunset watching, exotic seafood lunches, and dinners.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 2.4 km from Cherai bus stand and 27.6 km from Kochi bus stand.
6. Alappuzha Beach, Alappuzha
This is one of Kerala’s most prominent beaches and a favorite picnic place for locals and visitors alike. It boasts a historic pier that dates back at least 140 years. Near Alappuzha Beach, there is an excellent antique lighthouse worth seeing. Hundreds of tourists flock to see it because it is so intriguing. You may also see the thrilling Nehru Trophy boat race, which attracts big spectators who shout and scream to encourage the competitors. Camel safaris were once popular at this location, but they are now prohibited.
Location: Alappuzha, Kerala.
Activities: backwater cruise, water sports, surfing, swimming, parasailing, boat races, houseboat holidays, local cuisine, and dining.
Distance from the city bus stand/Station: 3.8 km from Alappuzha bus stand.
7. Chavakkad Beach, Thrissur
Chavakkad Beach is a beautiful coastal site in Thrissur, and it’s a perfect place to go for a picnic, wedding honeymoon, or get-together. The most notable feature of this location is its location at the confluence of the river and the sea, which gets known locally as Azhimukam. Between the months of March and September, you can have more fun. You can see stunning dawn and sunset from this location.
Location: Chavakkad Municipality, Thrissur District, Kerala.
Activities: fishing, volleyball, visiting Ramachapadam, snacks and local cuisine, bird watching, shopping, swimming and sunbathing, water sports.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 2.3 km from km Chavakkad bus stand and 27.1 km from Thrissur bus stand.
8. Nattika Beach, Thrissur
Nattika Beach in Thrissur is a very peaceful beach. You will feel at ease in the idyllic surroundings, which are home to the archetypal fisherman and his family. It’s a traditional and basic place that served as the setting for the cult Malayali film Chemeen. There is so much to do here that you will never get bored or jaded. Both film buffs and tourists will find this location intriguing and evocative of a special occasion.
Location: Thrissur district, Kerala.
Activities: Backwater cruises, country boat rides, cultural performances, elephant rides, swimming, sunbathing, water sports, local sea cuisine, long walks, excellent sunsets to get a view, shopping, and a taste of idyllic village life.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 22.5 km from Thrissur bus stand.
9. Neendakara Beach, Kollam
Neendakara beach is a vital fishing location in the region, and it is well-known for its seafood cuisine. You made a wise choice in choosing this seaside for your vacation. Neendakar Beach is a great place to spend time with friends and family. The beauty of this location that’s found in its nature, and you will recognize it once you start breathing in the sea air. The area is well-known for its fishing and wholesale fish markets, so you know where to look for a good deal.
Location: Near Neendakara village, Kollam district, Kerala.
Activities: swimming, sunbathing, water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and more, visit nearby attractions like Varkala Beach, Kappil lake, Janardhana Swami temple, and Kollam beach, local cuisine awaits with hauls from the sea.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 9.9 km from the Kollam bus stand.
10. Kappad Beach, Kozhikode
Kappad beach is one of the best beaches in Kerala, and it is set in a picturesque setting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you choose Kappad beach as a stop on your travels, you’ve made a wise decision. The area gets dotted with fascinating rock formations and is a treasured spot for rest and relaxation. When you arrive at Kappad beach, you will feel at one with nature. The landscape is lush with coconut groves and long stretches of silver sand.
Location: Kozhikode, Kerala.
Activities: Beach games, boat rides, swimming, houseboat cruises, fresh seafood cuisine at beachside shacks, sunbathing, shopping and sightseeing.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 19.1 km from Kozhikode bus stand.
11. Payyambalam Beach, Kannur
Payyambalam Beach is one of Kerala’s best beaches. It is a picturesque location in Kannur that is completely idyllic. If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, this beach is for you. Payyambalam beach, famed for its tranquillity, will make an impression on you as soon as you set foot on it. Combine that with a plethora of beach activities and you have the makings of a perfect family vacation away from the stress and noise of the city.
Location: West of Kannur city, Kerala.
Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, surfing, watersports, snorkeling, snacking at the beachfront shacks, long walks.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 3.1 km from the Kannur bus stand.
12. Kozhikode Beach, Kozhikode
Kozhikode has a historic charm that extends to the Kozhikode beach as well. Kozhikode Beach is one of Kerala’s most well-known beaches, and it’s a great place to go if you want to see beautiful sunrises and sunsets. A short walk to Dolphin Point will get you up close and personal with some playful dolphins. There is a magnificent lighthouse with two piers leading out into the sea. The Lions Park and the nearby Marine Aquarium also help to increase foot traffic.
Location: West of Kozhikode at Malabar Coast of India.
Activities: local sightseeing, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, snorkeling, snacking on various delicacies, local institutions like the Lions Park and the Marine Aquarium.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 3 km from Kozhikode bus stand.
13. Meenkunnu Beach, Kannur
Kannur’s beaches have always captivated visitors, and Meenkunnu beach is no exception. Its golden sands and the lazy Arabian sea stretch out to greet you as you prepare for a relaxing vacation by the sea. You can spend time watching the local fishermen at work, and there are spicy treats beckoning at every shack along the seashore. If you want to take a refreshing dip at one of Kerala’s beaches, Meenkunnu Beach is the place to go. A wonderful beach of Kerala.
Location: Near Azhikode, Kannur, Kerala
Activities: long leisurely walks, sunbathing, watching the sunrise and set, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, mouth-watering snacks on the beachfront.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 11 km from the Kannur bus stand.
14. Kappil Beach, Varkala
Kappil beach is a well-kept secret and one of Kerala’s best beaches. If you want to go on an adventurous vacation, you should go to Kappil Beach. Sun-kissed beaches with golden sand, the glistening waters of the Arabian Sea, and the nearby Kodi cliff make this a must-see destination for those looking for an exotic getaway. The natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere make this a popular destination for those seeking peace and quiet.
Location: Varkala, Kerala.
Activities: backwater rides on boats, leisurely walks, trekking and camping, shopping at the numerous stalls, snacking on savories, swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 6.6 km from the Varkala bus stand.
15. Shankumugham Beach, Thiruvananthapuram
This is a charming seashore that entices you with its gleaming sands, coconut groves, and a scenic atmosphere that is, to say the least, delectable. The beach that’s located miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and it is here that you can truly disconnect from the outside world and connect to the soothing sights and sounds of nature. You will not get disappointed if you plan a weekend getaway or enjoy a beautiful sunset with family and friends. A wonderful Kerala beach.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala.
Activities: sunbathing, swimming, watersports, badminton, table tennis, cooking fish on your own, boating, long walks, incredible views of sunrise and sunset.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 7.0 km from Thiruvananthapuram bus stand.
16. Chowara Beach, Kovalam
Chowara beach it’s located near the Arabian Sea in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district. You’ll fall in love with this “working beach,” which gets frequented by the local fishermen. There is so much to do at Chowara Beach that you will never get bored. If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the place to be. When you choose Chowara Beach as your vacation destination, you will not get disappointed.
Location: Kovalam, Kerala
Activities: You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, water sports like surfing, there are the backwaters to explore and you also have an Ayurveda resort to soothe those frazzled nerves.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 10 km from Kovalam railway station.
17. Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur
This beach is well-known in Kerala as a drive-in beach. The beach is a 4 km stretch of sand along the Malabar Coast, and you can let it all hang out on these sands. There are several shacks that serve authentic Malabar cuisine. This is also a swimmer’s paradise because the rocks form a buffer zone that protects you from the current. The is immaculately kept and a pleasure to visit.
Location: Thalassery in Kannur, Kerala
Activities: Swimming, water sports like surfing, paragliding, parasailing, microlight flights, catamaran rides, and powerboating. You can also enjoy tasty delicacies rustled up in the shacks, long walks on the beach look inviting.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 13.8 km from the Kannur bus stand and 12.4 km from the Thalassery bus stand.
18. Beypore Beach, Kadavu
Beypore beach it’s located in the Chaliyar river’s mouth. This is a charming and picturesque location with long stretches of golden sand, coconut groves, and plenty of fishing boats. This is ideal for a private outing with close friends and family. Take a short break from your hectic schedule to pamper yourself with Ayurvedic massages, adventure sports, and long walks on the beach. One of the most beautiful beach of Kerala.
Location: Kadavu, Kerala.
Activities: swimming, sunbathing, surfing, parasailing, skiing, angling, kayaking, ayurvedic massages, shopping, sampling local delicacies like Kozhikodan Halwa and banana chips, long walks, incredible photo-worthy shots of nature.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: The nearest railway station is at Kozhikode 11.5 km away.
19. Kanwatheertha Beach, Kasaragod
Kanwatheertha Beach in Manjeswaram is notable for its large circular swimming pool-like inlet in the middle of the sea, which draws a large number of tourists to this magnificent and picture-perfect location. The beach is popular with visitors who come to take advantage of the improved swimming facilities. You will find the location to be ideal for a delightful picnic; there are many seaside shacks that serve the party food, which is primarily seafood, and you will enjoy the local twist on the cooking.
Location: Malleswaram, Kasaragod, Kerala.
Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, surfing, watersports, snorkeling, snacking at the beachfront shacks, long walks.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 33.3 km from Kasaragod bus stand.
20. Kizhunna Beach, Kannur
Kizhunna beach that’s known as Kerala’s “hidden pearl.” The water view is breathtaking, and the soft sand and rock formations are comfortable to sit on. This is possibly Kerala’s most secluded beach, and you should choose it if you don’t want to get disturbed in your solitude. As you settle in for a relaxing session at Kizhunna beach, the gentle wind blows away all your worries. There is some amazing Kerala beach resort nearby.
Location: Kannur, Kerala.
Activities: swimming, sunbathing, long walks, water sports, local snacks to be had.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 10.1 km from Kannur bus stand.
21. Kolavipalam Beach, Calicut
Kolavipalam beach is also known as “turtle beach” due to the presence of turtles on the beach. In September, you can see endangered Olive Ridley turtles looking for a place to lay their eggs. Local children began caring for the hatchlings in the 1990s, and this has inspired all locals to contribute to turtle conservation. To see baby turtles, you must go to the Olive Ridley conservation center. Overall, this is ideal for nature lovers.
Location: North of Calicut, south of the Muradriver, Kerala.
Activities: swimming, long walks, sunbathing, water sports, brilliant views of sunrise and sunset, local seafood, shopping.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 44.1 km from Calicut bus stand.
22. Kuzhupilly Beach, Kochi
The Kuzhupilly beach that’s located on Kerala’s Vypeen Islands. You will get captivated by the beauty of the route to the seaside. As you approach the seaside, the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters comes to life right in front of your eyes. Tea and coffee, as well as some delectable snacks, are available at the beach’s small shacks. You should bring your camera with you to capture the spectacular sunsets. One of the best beaches in Kerala.
Location: Vypin Islands, Kochi, Kerala
Activities: you will find this to be a calm place, so you may get advice to sit back and relax. There is not a lot to do here. You might want to take long walks and witness truly beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Check out the prawn farmers too.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 23.7 km from Kochi bus stand.
23. Andhakaranazhi beach, Alappuzha
This beach is an excellent choice if you want to relax while also having fun. It is a popular filming location, and you may come across a film in the process after you arrive. The backwaters merge into the sea here, and the geography is fascinating. From your vantage point on the beach, you can expect to see spectacular views of the sun and the sea. This location is a good choice for those who enjoy traveling. One of the wonderful beaches of Kerala.
Location: West of Pattanakkad Panchayat in Cherthala Taluk, Alappuzha, Kerala.
Activities: sunbathing, swimming, waterboarding, surfboarding, backwater boat rides, shopping, snacking on exotic seafood at the beach shacks, long walks, and enjoyable views of the sunset.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 4km from Pattanakad bus stand and 33.7 km from Alappuzha bus stand.
24. Padinjarekkara Beach, Malappuram
Located at the confluence of the Bharathapuzha, TirurPuzha, and the Arabian Sea, Padinjarekkara beach provides a stunning location. It is famous for its holiday atmosphere and has a plethora of boating options, which is the driving force behind the large crowds that flock here. There are many different species of migratory birds that make the beach their home, so nature lovers should come here. The beach has its own amenity center, amphitheater, and eco shops. One of the most amazing beaches at Kerala.
Location: Ponnani, Malappuram district, Kerala.
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, watching migratory birds, a huge choice of boat rides along the coast, shopping, snacking on local fare, long walks, amazing views of the sunrise and the sunset.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 43.4 km from Malappuram bus stand and 25.2 km from Ponnani bus stand.
25. Vizhinjam Beach, Thiruvananthapuram
Vizhinjam beach, which is historically significant, was once a major seaport. Nowadays, it’s thronged by local fishermen eager to offer you a good deal on their catch. The beach got dotted with several significant landmarks and is a good getaway for those seeking rest and tranquillity. It is ideal for boat and catamaran rides due to its pristine beauty. On Vizhinjam beach, you’ll feel at one with nature.
Location: South of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Activities: swimming, sunbathing, long walks, perfect sunrises and sunsets, shopping, savoring snacks, and visiting places of interest like the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium.
Distance from the city bus stand/station: 15.7 km from Thiruvananthapuram bus stand.
