34 Best Beaches in Kerala That Every Traveller Must Visit

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a coastal treasure located in Kerala, India. Famous for its unique geological formation of cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea, it's a haven for sunbathers and swimmers alike. The beach's serene atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit spot in the region.

Things to Do: Cliffside Shopping, Paragliding, Ayurvedic Treatments, Yoga Sessions, Seafood Dining, Temple Visits, Sunset Views, Swimming and Sunbathing, Photography, Nature Walks.

Alappuzha Beach, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," is a picturesque spot in Kerala, India. Known for its vast stretches of golden sand, ancient pier, and iconic lighthouses, it's a prime destination for relaxation and cultural exploration. The intertwining backwaters and canals add to the area's scenic beauty, making it a favorite for travelers from all over the world.

Things to Do: Houseboat Rides, Visit the Lighthouse, Canoeing, Village Tours, Taste Local Cuisine, Explore Vijaya Beach Park, Attend Snake Boat Races (seasonal), Bird Watching, Photography, Experience Alappuzha Backwaters.

Muzhappilangad Beach, located in Kerala, India, is the longest drive-in beach in Asia, stretching across 5.5 km of golden sands. This unique beach allows vehicles to cruise alongside the serene shoreline, offering a distinctive experience for visitors. Its natural beauty and the thrilling adventure of driving on the sand make it a must-visit destination in the region.

Things to Do: Drive on the Beach, Jet Skiing, Paragliding, Sunbathing, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Bird Watching, Beach Volleyball, Attend Local Festivals, Explore Nearby Black Rocks.

Bekal Beach, nestled in the northern part of Kerala, India, offers a pristine and tranquil coastal experience. The beach is complemented by the historical Bekal Fort, which stands majestically on a headland overlooking the Arabian Sea. With its serene waters, swaying palm trees, and rich history, Bekal Beach promises a harmonious blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Things to Do: Visit Bekal Fort, Stroll on the Beach, Enjoy Sunset Views, Explore the Bekal Fort Walkway, Engage in Water Sports, Relish Local Cuisine, Take Boat Rides, Beach Photography, Attend Cultural Events, Explore Nearby Backwaters.

Cherai Beach, located on the northern end of Vypeen Island in Kerala, India, is often referred to as the "Princess of the Arabian Sea." With its golden sands spanning 15 kilometers, the beach is a delightful blend of sea and backwaters. It's a haven for swimmers, sunbathers, and those seeking a tranquil escape, backed by lush green coconut groves and paddy fields.

Things to Do: Swimming, Sunbathing, Dolphin Watching, Taste Local Seafood, Canoeing in Backwaters, Beach Photography, Explore Traditional Villages, Engage in Water Sports, Visit Breakwater Point, Walk along the Beach Promenade.

Marari Beach, situated in Alleppey, Kerala, epitomizes the untouched beauty of the Malabar Coast. With its sprawling golden sands, swaying coconut palms, and tranquil waves, it offers an idyllic retreat away from the bustle of urban life. Often less crowded than other beaches in the region, Marari allows visitors to experience the serenity of coastal Kerala in its purest form.

Things to Do: Swimming, Sunbathing, Village Walks, Taste Local Cuisine, Beach Photography, Engage in Water Sports, Explore Nearby Temples, Visit Local Fishermen's Villages, Relax in Beach Resorts, Attend Traditional Kerala Art Performances.

Kappad Beach, located in Kozhikode (formerly Calicut), Kerala, is historically significant as the landing spot of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498. This event marked the beginning of a new era of trade between India and Europe. Today, the beach captivates visitors with its golden sands, clear waters, and a serene ambiance, punctuated by the echo of its storied past.

Things to Do: Visit Vasco da Gama Memorial, Swimming, Sunbathing, Beach Photography, Taste Local Seafood, Explore Historical Monuments, Engage in Water Sports, Stroll along the Beach, Attend Local Cultural Events, Visit Nearby Temples.

Beypore Beach in Kozhikode, Kerala, is renowned not only for its scenic beauty but also for its historical significance as a prominent port and shipbuilding center. The centuries-old tradition of building wooden ships, known as 'Uru', is still alive here. The harmonious blend of azure waters, golden sands, and the rhythmic craftsmanship in the shipyards makes Beypore a unique coastal destination.

Things to Do: Watch Uru Shipbuilding, Stroll on the Beach, Visit Beypore Lighthouse, Explore the Old Port Area, Taste Local Seafood, Engage in Water Sports, Attend Cultural Events, Beach Photography, Shop for Maritime Souvenirs, Experience Sunset Views.

Kovalam Beach, located near Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, is a world-renowned beach destination known for its three crescent-shaped beaches: Lighthouse, Hawah, and Samudra. These beaches, with their golden sands and swaying coconut groves, are separated by rocky outcroppings and together offer a haven for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming. The backdrop of the iconic lighthouse on the Lighthouse Beach adds to the scenic charm of this coastal paradise.

Things to Do: Visit Lighthouse, Surfing, Sunbathing, Ayurvedic Massages, Beach Volleyball, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Sunset Viewing, Explore Cliffside Shops, Take a Catamaran Ride.

Situated in Kannur, Kerala, Payyambalam Beach is a sprawling expanse of golden sand and clear blue waters. Famous for its serene ambiance and picturesque beauty, it has long been a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The beach is also adorned with a beautiful garden and sculptures, adding to its allure.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beach Photography, Visit Nearby Gardens, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Volleyball, Attend Cultural Events, Explore Coastal Walkways, Enjoy Sunset Views, Visit Martyrs' Square.

Kozhikode Beach, located in the historical city of Kozhikode (formerly Calicut) in Kerala, is a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. With its expansive sands, old-world charm, and the resonance of its storied past, the beach attracts both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. The iconic two piers and the lighthouse offer visitors picturesque sunset views, encapsulating the beach's timeless allure.

Things to Do: Watch Sunset, Taste Local Seafood, Visit Lighthouse, Explore Old Piers, Beach Photography, Attend Cultural Events, Stroll on Beach Walkways, Engage in Water Sports, Visit Nearby Parks, Explore Seafood Markets.

Kappil Beach, located near Bekal in Kerala, is a pristine coastal haven where the backwaters merge with the Arabian Sea. This secluded beach offers panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. With its serene surroundings and the nearby Kodi Cliff offering a vantage point, Kappil stands out as a tranquil escape.

Things to Do: Backwater Boating, Climb Kodi Cliff, Sunbathing, Photography, Taste Local Seafood, Explore Coastal Paths, Engage in Water Sports, Beach Volleyball, Sunset Viewing, Visit Nearby Bekal Fort.

Thottada Beach, nestled in Kannur, Kerala, is a serene stretch of sandy coastline that promises a tranquil beach experience. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery and tranquil backwaters, this beach is a perfect getaway for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its pristine waters and secluded ambiance, Thottada Beach offers visitors a rejuvenating experience.

Things to Do: Swimming, Sunbathing, Backwater Cruises, Taste Local Seafood, Beachside Camping, Photography, Bird Watching, Explore Nearby Villages, Beach Volleyball, Sunset Viewing.

Hawah Beach in Kovalam, Kerala, is the second-largest among the three crescent-shaped beaches that Kovalam boasts of. Named for its status as the first topless beach in India (with this trend started by European tourists), it's now more conservative but still retains its tranquil beauty. Flanked by palm groves and caressed by azure waters, Hawah Beach provides a perfect ambiance for relaxation and sunbathing.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Surfing, Beachside Yoga, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Explore Traditional Shops, Engage in Water Sports, Attend Cultural Performances, Sunset Viewing.

Samudra Beach in Kovalam, Kerala, is the northernmost beach among Kovalam's trio of crescent-shaped beaches. Characterized by its seclusion and tranquility, it's separated from the other beaches by rocky terrains and formations. With its serene surroundings, gentle waves, and a more local crowd, Samudra offers an authentic Kovalam experience away from the usual tourist hustle.

Things to Do: Swimming, Sunbathing, Visit Local Fishermen’s Harbor, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Explore Nearby Coconut Groves, Engage in Water Sports, Yoga by the Beach, Stroll along Coastal Paths, Enjoy Panoramic Views.

Thiruvambadi Beach, situated in Varkala, Kerala, is a secluded stretch of golden sand, often overshadowed by the more popular Varkala Beach. Surrounded by lofty cliffs and lush greenery, it provides an intimate setting, making it a perfect spot for those in search of peace and tranquility. The serene ambiance and the rhythm of the waves make Thiruvambadi a hidden gem in Varkala's crown.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Cliff-top Views, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Relax in Nearby Resorts, Explore Rocky Formations, Sunset Watching, Horse Riding, Take a Beachside Walk.

Edava Beach, nestled near Varkala in Kerala, is an unspoiled coastal retreat that has retained its natural beauty and serene ambiance. Away from the commercial trappings, this beach offers visitors a genuine experience of Kerala's coastal charm. The tranquil blue waters, dotted with traditional fishing boats, and the golden sands make Edava Beach an idyllic escape for peace seekers.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Traditional Fishing Watching, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Explore Nearby Villages, Attend Local Cultural Events, Stroll along the Coast, Sunset Viewing, Visit Adjacent Lagoons.

Hosdurg Beach, located near Bekal in Kerala, is a serene coastal stretch known for its soft sands and calm waters. Often less crowded than its more famous counterparts, it provides a quiet retreat for those looking to escape the bustle of tourist hubs. Backed by swaying palm trees and kissed by gentle waves, Hosdurg Beach offers an authentic and peaceful beach experience.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beachside Strolls, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Engage in Water Sports, Visit Nearby Forts, Explore Coastal Villages, Attend Local Festivals, Enjoy Sunset Views.

The Island of Pathiramanal, situated in Kottayam, Kerala, is a scenic island on the Vembanad Lake. Its name translates to "sands of the night", and it's a haven for birdwatchers with several rare and migratory bird species making it their habitat. Offering a picturesque setting amidst the backwaters, Pathiramanal combines natural beauty with rich biodiversity.

Things to Do: Birdwatching, Nature Walks, Backwater Cruises, Photography, Flora and Fauna Exploration, Visit Nearby Villages, Experience Traditional Kerala Cuisine, Relax and Unwind, Engage in Local Fishing Techniques, Enjoy Panoramic Lake Views.

Meenkunnu Beach, located in Kannur, Kerala, is a tranquil coastal retreat characterized by its golden sands and swaying palm trees. The name 'Meenkunnu' translates to 'hill of fish', reflecting the area's fishing heritage. Less crowded than many other beaches, it provides a serene environment for visitors to relax, unwind, and immerse in nature's beauty.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beachside Strolls, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Visit Nearby Temples, Engage in Water Sports, Attend Local Festivals, Explore Coastal Villages, Enjoy Sunset Views.

Shanghumukham Beach, located in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), Kerala, is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Known for its massive sculpture of a mermaid, 'Matsya Kanyaka,' and its proximity to the airport, the beach offers a delightful ambiance to relax and enjoy the sea's views. With its vast stretch of white sands and clear waters, it's a popular destination for evening outings and family gatherings.

Things to Do: Visit 'Matsya Kanyaka' Sculpture, Sunbathing, Swimming, Taste Local Delicacies, Beach Photography, Attend Cultural Events, Stroll on the Beachside Walkway, Visit the Starfish Restaurant, Engage in Beach Games, Experience Sunset Views.

Chavakad Beach, situated in Thrissur, Kerala, is a coastal haven known for its pristine beauty and the estuary where the river meets the sea. Often less crowded, this beach offers a serene ambiance for visitors, making it an ideal spot for peaceful contemplation and relaxation. Its scenic surroundings, combined with the nearby fishing village, offer a slice of Kerala's coastal life.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Watch Traditional Fishing, Beach Photography, Explore Nearby Villages, Taste Local Seafood, Attend Local Festivals, Stroll Along the Shore, Birdwatching, Enjoy Sunset Views.

Situated in Kollam, Kerala, the Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Park is a tranquil spot offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational spaces. With a stretch of sandy coastline backed by a well-maintained park, it's a popular destination for both relaxation by the sea and leisurely activities amidst greenery. The beach and park, named after the father of the nation, also serves as a locale for various public events and gatherings.

Things to Do: Beachside Strolls, Visit the Park, Attend Cultural Events, Playground Activities, Taste Local Cuisine, Beach Photography, Engage in Water Sports, Relax in Seaside Gazebos, Attend Yoga Sessions, Experience Sunset Views.

Thirumullavaram Beach, located in Kollam, Kerala, is a serene getaway known for its azure waters and golden sands. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, this beach offers an ambiance of tranquillity and is an ideal spot for morning walks, given its relatively calm nature. Its unique feature includes the Nyarazhcha Para, a submerged rocky formation visible during low tides.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Explore Nyarazhcha Para, Beach Photography, Taste Local Seafood, Attend Morning Yoga Sessions, Beachside Walks, Engage in Water Sports, Visit Nearby Temples, Experience Sunrise and Sunset Views.

Padinharekara Beach, located near Ponnani in Kerala, offers a stunning view where the Bharathapuzha River and the Tirurpuzha River converge into the Arabian Sea. The beach is known for its captivating sunset views and the unique sight of the confluence of rivers against the vast ocean backdrop. With its palm-fringed shores and serene ambiance, it stands as a perfect spot for nature lovers and peace seekers.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Watch Confluence Views, Beach Photography, Taste Local Delicacies, Stroll Along the Shore, Engage in Water Sports, Birdwatching, Attend Local Festivals, Experience Sunset Views.

Kollam Beach, also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is situated in the heart of Kollam, Kerala. As one of the oldest ports on the Malabar Coast, the beach has a rich historical significance. The serene ambiance, coupled with its majestic lighthouse and the inviting Arabian Sea, makes it a favorite spot for relaxation, gatherings, and cultural events.

Things to Do: Visit the Lighthouse, Sunbathing, Swimming, Beach Photography, Taste Local Cuisine, Attend Cultural Events, Explore Nearby Parks, Stroll on the Beachside Promenade, Engage in Water Sports, Experience Sunset Views.

Ezhara Beach, situated in Kannur, Kerala, is a lesser-known gem offering twin beach delights as it is flanked by seven beautiful stretches of sand. The beach is quiet, serene, and is often less crowded than its popular counterparts, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solace by the sea. With its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, Ezhara paints a picturesque coastal scene.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beach Photography, Explore Coastal Paths, Taste Local Seafood, Attend Traditional Performances, Engage in Water Sports, Visit Nearby Temples, Beachside Walks, Experience Sunset Views.

Baby Beach in Kannur, Kerala, is a smaller, more secluded extension of its larger neighbor, the Payyambalam Beach. As the name suggests, it's a compact beach area, offering a more intimate beach experience. Away from the throngs of the main beach, Baby Beach is a quiet haven, perfect for serene beachside moments, sunsets, and relaxation.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beachside Picnics, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Stroll on the Shore, Engage in Light Water Sports, Visit Nearby Attractions, Attend Local Cultural Events, Experience Sunset Views.

Snehatheeram Beach, located in Thrissur, Kerala, is a tranquil shoreline that translates to the 'Shore of Love'. It's a well-maintained beach, popular among families and couples for its pristine beauty and park nearby. Every year, the beach attracts many tourists and local visitors who come to enjoy the serene environment, cultural events, and the authentic taste of Kerala's coastal cuisine.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Visit the Nearby Park, Attend Cultural Events, Taste Local Delicacies, Beach Photography, Beachside Walks, Play in Children’s Park, Engage in Water Sports, Experience Sunset Views.

Thumpoly Beach, nestled in Alleppey, Kerala, is a serene coastal retreat known for its fine sandy shores and lush coastal vegetation. With its tranquil ambiance and the charm of local fishing hamlets, the beach offers a glimpse into the laid-back coastal life. Surrounded by azure lagoons and frequented by a variety of migratory birds, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking peace by the sea.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Bird Watching, Taste Local Seafood, Beach Photography, Stroll Along the Coast, Engage in Local Fishing Activities, Explore Nearby Lagoons, Attend Local Festivals, Experience Sunset Views.

Punnapra Beach, situated in Alleppey, Kerala, is a quiet stretch of sandy coastline, offering a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots. Beyond its scenic beauty, Punnapra carries historical significance, particularly for its role in the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising against the British. Today, the beach serves as a tranquil spot for relaxation, where the whispers of the past meet the gentle lull of the present.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beach Photography, Explore Historical Monuments, Taste Local Delicacies, Attend Cultural Events, Stroll Along the Shore, Visit Nearby Fishing Villages, Engage in Water Sports, Experience Sunset Views.

Thottapally Beach in Alleppey, Kerala, is a serene coastal spot marked by its unique blend of river and sea. Nestled near the Thottapally Spillway, where the freshwater meets the Arabian Sea, the beach is characterized by its tranquil surroundings and black sand. Apart from its natural beauty, the beach offers visitors an opportunity to experience the local life of fishermen and witness the beauty of traditional Kerala houseboats.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Beach Photography, Experience Houseboat Rides, Taste Local Seafood, Stroll Along the Black Sand Shore, Engage in Fishing Activities, Visit the Thottapally Spillway, Attend Local Festivals, Watch Sunset Views.

Andhakaranazhi Beach, located near Kochi in Kerala, is a picturesque coastal retreat renowned for its natural beauty and lighthouse. The name 'Andhakaranazhi' translates to 'The Lagoon of Darkness,' adding an aura of mystery to the place. The beach, with its coconut palm-fringed shores and soothing waves, offers a peaceful respite from the city's hustle and is a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Things to Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Visit the Lighthouse, Beach Photography, Taste Local Delicacies, Stroll Along the Shore, Engage in Water Sports, Attend Local Cultural Events, Explore Nearby Fishing Villages, Experience Sunset Views.

Vizhinjam Beach, located near Kovalam in Kerala, is a scenic stretch renowned for its natural beauty and the nearby fishing harbor. With its proximity to an ancient rock-cut temple and a maritime port, Vizhinjam offers a unique blend of culture, commerce, and coastal charm. The sight of colorful fishing boats dotting the blue waters adds a vibrant touch to the serene surroundings of the beach.

Things to Do: Watch Fishing Activities, Sunbathing, Swimming, Beach Photography, Visit the Rock-Cut Temple, Explore the Maritime Port, Taste Local Seafood, Attend Cultural Events, Stroll Along the Coast, Enjoy Sunset Views.