Kovalam beach
Kovalam, a quaint resort village nestled on the southern coast of Kerala, India, beckons with its expansive, sun-kissed beaches. Stretching along the shoreline, you'll find a vibrant tapestry of fishing hamlets, eclectic restaurants, bustling shops, traditional Ayurvedic clinics, and hotels boasting private beachfronts, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery. Accessible via bus, rickshaw, or rented car from Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam offers an idyllic escape for those seeking the quintessential beach vacation.
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Beach description
Discover the enchanting beaches nestled along the coast of the Kovalam resort:
- Ashoka Beach, also known as Main Beach, and Lila Beach – these are the prime beaches of Kovalam. The shores are adorned with fine sand, and the descent into the sea is gentle, revealing a sandy bottom. The waters here are usually tranquil. Facilities include paid sunbeds, umbrellas, and a public toilet. Ashoka Beach is a favorite among locals and tends to be particularly bustling on weekends. However, it may not be the ideal spot for families with children due to the presence of litter on the beach and in the water. For those seeking adventure, Ashoka Beach is well-suited for surfing, parasailing, and snorkeling. Conveniently, a bus stop is located nearby.
- Samudra Beach – this small sandy haven lies on the northern stretch of the Kovalam beachfront, adjacent to Ashoka Beach. The sea here is known for its rough temperament, and as a result, swimming is discouraged. The coastline is framed by cliffs and large boulders, creating a dramatic seascape.
- Lighthouse Beach – situated at the southern tip of the coastline, this beach is a stone's throw away from both a lighthouse and the quaint Krishna Temple. Set in a scenic locale amidst hotels and resorts, Lighthouse Beach boasts an observation deck at the lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the coast and sea. While the sandy beach and shallow waters are inviting, the strong waves make it less suitable for swimming. Nevertheless, it is a popular spot for surfers. Amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas are available, and lifeguards are on duty. The hotel areas nearby offer excellent infrastructure, though they tend to be exclusive. Lighthouse Beach is often bustling with a mix of locals and tourists, predominantly middle-aged Europeans. The beach may not be the most comfortable for families with children due to the crowds and potentially hazardous sea conditions.
- Hawa Beach – nestled within a lagoon, this small sandy beach is lined with a picturesque palm grove. The fine volcanic sand is a delight to walk on, and the flat descent into the sea leads to a sandy bottom. Although the sea can be restless, the long shallows and coastal cliffs tame the waves, making them low and safe for swimming with children. While there are no sun loungers or deck chairs, reed canopies provide shelter from the sun. The beach is dotted with vendors selling food, drinks, and fruit, and there are several retail stores. Visitors can also rent boats or join local fishermen for a fishing excursion.
- Palm Shore Beach, also known as Palm Beach – this small, secluded beach is located near Lighthouse Beach, in the vicinity of the Soma Palmshore Hotel with its well-maintained beach area. The sandy coastline is pristine, and the sea's gentle entrance leads to a sandy bottom. However, the high waves make swimming quite perilous, making it an unsuitable choice for families with children.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Kerala for a beach vacation is during the winter months, from December to February. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm and perfect for enjoying the sun-kissed beaches.
- December to February: This is the peak tourist season in Kerala when the climate is dry and cool, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in various beach activities. The water is also at a comfortable temperature for swimming.
- March to May: These months constitute the hot season, with higher humidity levels and temperatures. While still possible to enjoy the beaches, the heat can be intense for some travelers.
- June to November: This is the monsoon season in Kerala. While the landscape is lush and beautiful, frequent rains and strong waves may limit beach activities. However, it's a great time for those who prefer a quiet, off-season experience.
Overall, for the quintessential beach vacation with clear skies and calm seas, winter is the recommended time to visit Kerala's beautiful coastline.
Video: Beach Kovalam
Infrastructure
Where to Stay
The Kovalam resort offers a variety of accommodation options catering to tourists with diverse budgets. Nestled in the village and just a stone's throw from the sea, visitors can choose from ultramodern resorts, hotels, apartments, and guest houses. These establishments provide amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, gyms, entertainment programs, spa salons, and Ayurvedic centers.
Where to Dine
Despite its developed tourist infrastructure, Kovalam retains its charm as a fishing village, boasting restaurants at nearly every turn that serve an array of fish and seafood dishes. The cuisine is not only delectable but also reasonably priced in many eateries. Patrons can enjoy European and international fare as well. A wide selection of beverages is available, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, juices, and both carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks. The local tea varieties warrant special attention.
Supermarkets in the area offer meat, fish, greens, vegetables, ready-to-eat meals, and confectionery. While a rich assortment of local fruits can be found at markets near the beaches, supermarkets often provide lower prices for the same products.
Activities and Attractions
Kovalam's beaches are a haven for surfers, with board rentals and other equipment readily available at numerous shoreline outlets. Visitors can also rent catamarans for scenic coastal voyages. Snorkeling and diving are best enjoyed from catamarans, as access to the water can be challenging at many points along the coast.
Set in a stunning locale that melds lush jungles, mountain peaks, and the sea, Kovalam and its vicinity are home to several Hindu and Buddhist temples worth visiting. Seasoned travelers recommend venturing into the mountains to witness the majestic Kallar Falls. En route to Mount Ponmudi, the ancient tea factory is a notable stop where visitors can purchase loose tea. Ponmudi itself features an observation deck offering breathtaking views of the encompassing jungle and the sea.
Weather in Kovalam
Best hotels of Kovalam
All hotels of KovalamUseful information
An elephant nursery is located 70 km from Kovalam in the village of Mutanam, visitors of which are invited to ride elephants, play with elephants, and take part in feeding and bathing babies. The "pupils" of the nursery are distinguished by a good-natured flexible disposition.