Kovalam Beach Kerala – Best Time to Visit, Things to Do & Nearby Attractions

Introduction

Kerala, known as the beautiful shores of Kovalam Beach have been a destination of visitors since ages. This globally popular beach resort is an unquestionable must visit destination in the god own country. It is an ultimate combination of the sun, sand, and peaceful waters to have a memorable tropical retreat.

Kovalam is only a short distance road journey to Kerala capital city, Thiruvananthapuram. The very name itself signifies coconut grove, of which you will find in the coast. It is your definitive roadmap to having the best holidays at this seaside beauty.

What is So Special about Kovalam Beach?

The coastline of Kovalam Beach is unique in form with its crescent shape which is the main attraction. The main beach area is cut by massive rocky promontories to form three different yet beautiful beaches. Natural protection by these rocks is also a good aspect that forms a bay of smoothly flowing water that is ideal to swim in.

It is really picturesque with its combination of golden sands, and sparkling water and groves of coconuts. It is a destination where you will be able to unwind, rejuvenate and experience the Kerala colorful culture.

The Three Popular Kovalam Beaches

Kovalam is actually three gorgeous crescent shape beaches in Kerala which are situated nearby. All the beaches are different and have their activities.

Lighthouse Beach: The Most common Kovalam Location

The Lighthouse Beach is the biggest and most popular among the three Kovalam Beaches. It is named after the high Vizhinjam Lighthouse which is situated on the hillock inside the Kurumkal. The red and white bands of the lighthouse are a legendary structure.

The Vizhinjam Lighthouse offers an amazing panoramic view of the whole coastline and one can climb it. All the water sports activities and water sports take place there.

Hawa Beach (Eve Beach): Relaxing Sunsets

Hawa Beach is also referred to as Eve beach and is placed on the opposite end of the Lighthouse Beach shore. It is known to be quite serene in its beauty, as well as, it is among the best places to see sunset.

It offers a beautiful location and is a preferred destination of photographers and people who need to have a more peaceful experience. This bay is used by local fishermen which gives this bay a local touch.

Samudra Beach The December Dive of Kovalam

The Samudra Beach is found on the north side of Kovalam. The beach is isolated with some piece of rocky outcrop. It has been able to maintain a serene ambience of a usual fishing village.

It is the ideal location when you feel like being away of the mass crowd and calmly and casually strolling in the beach. In this place you will always encounter fishing boats that are parked off.

Things to Do in Kovalam Beach: Adventure and Relaxation.

Kovalam Beach provides an extensive range of activities, both to the thrill-seeker and to the peace lover. You will never want to spare a moment here!

Water Sports Activities

The beach is a remedy to those who love adventure. There is a wide range of exciting activities that can be enjoyed at the Lighthouse Beach.

Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness

Kerala, the home of Ayurveda. There are quite a few Ayurvedic massage and wellness centres and resorts around Kovalam. It is an excellent method of having a full body and mind revitalization.

Catamaran and Boat Rides

Ride in a conventional wooden catamarin on the sea, in particular, the Hawa Beach. Another activity that can be taken in the backwaters is on a boat such as the Karamana River.

Sightseeing and Shopping

Go around Kerala looking at the local markets of Kerala handicrafts, special shell jewellery, and spices. Spiel on seafood in the many beach shacks and cafes.

Kovalam Beach, Best Time to Visit:

When you visit Kovalam Beach the right time will make it the best time to visit Kovalam and its experiences. Kerala has three seasons, the weather of which differs.

The winter season extends between November and February and is most probably the best time to visit Kovalam. The favourable climate is conducive to sunbathing and having all the outdoor activities.

Significance and History of Kovalam

The development history of Kovalam which started as a fishing village and turned into a significant touristic center is rather intriguing.

The Royal Connection

Kovalam was initially introduced into the limelight in the 1920s. It is to this place that Regent Queen Sethu Lakshmi Bai of Travancore constructed her royal resort the Halcyon Castle. The location was then introduced to his European guests by her nephew, Maharaja of Travancore.

The Hippie Trail Influence

Its actual metamorphosis took place in the early 70s when hippies visited the so-called Hippie Trail. They found out the isolated beauty of Kovalam and soon it became a beach resort that was known all over the world. This tradition makes the beach have a distinct friendly atmosphere.

Good Sightseeing Attractions around Kovalam Beach

The beach does not have to be the end of your trip to Kovalam. Interesting sites around Kovalam include a few places that are worth a visit to provide an insight into the culture of Kerala and the natural beauties.

Vizhinjam Lighthouse

As it has been said above, Vizhinjam Lighthouse Beach climbing is an absolute activity. It also offers the most favorable point of view of the sea and points of photography.

Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium

The Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium (Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium) is only a relatively short distance away. It has a wide array of aquatic animals and plants. You have not seen the special production method of Image Pearl exhibited here.

Vellayani Lake

Vellayani Lake is the biggest fresh water lake in Thiruvananthapuram district and this is situated approximately 7 km away of Kovalam. This is where you can have a peaceful vacation with the boat. Onam festival is the event of the popular annual boat race that takes place at the lake.

Rock Cut Cave Temple

See the old Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple which is dated back to the 18th century. It boasts of gorgeous half-hewn rock-cut figures of Hindu gods. It is a significant archeological location adjacent to the beach.

Neyyar Dam

Neyyar Dam is a good destination especially among those who love nature. It is a good picnic place with a beautiful lake, wildlife preserve and lion safari park.

How to Reach Kovalam Beach

In the case of the Indian tourists, there is unhindered access to Kovalam.

• Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) is the closest airport which is approximately 15-20km. At the airport, it is easily possible to hire a taxi or take up a bus.
• Railway: The nearest major railway station will be Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station located somewhere about 15 km away. It has easy access to taxis and auto rickshaws.
• Road transport: Kovalam is well meaning road access to key cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There are regular state and such buses.

Kovalam Beach Conclusion

The Kovalam Beach is indeed one of the best beaches in Kerala. It presents the ideal combination of natural beauty, entertainment, cultural heritage and Ayurvedic remedies of massages. Kovalam has it all be it a family holiday, a romantic two or three-day trip or a one-day adventure you would want to take on your own.

Welcome to a trip to Kovalam the tropical soul of Kerala! Pack your bags and be ready to witness the bewitching beauty.

Kovalam Beach: Kerala's Coastal Paradise FAQs