The former fishing village of Kovalam is now one of Kerala’s most popular beach resorts. Swim, surf and sunbathe on attractive beaches where traditional fishing methods can still be seen.
Kovalam’s shoreline stretches for approximately 10 miles (16 kilometres) along the Arabian Sea and comprises three adjacent crescent-shaped beaches that are fringed by palm trees. With clear waters and clean sands, the beaches host a variety of leisure activities for all the family including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, massages and catamaran cruises.
Lighthouse Beach is the largest of the three beaches and is situated at the southernmost tip of the town. This part of the coastline is popular with surfers. If you want to ride the waves, but haven’t done so before, go to the nearby surf school for tuition and board rentals. When you come off the beach, walk along promenades lined with souvenir shops, restaurants and ayurvedic centres.
Pay a visit to the Vizhinjam Lighthouse that gives the beach its name. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the 115-feet (35-metre) structure for superb views of the area.
Go for an early morning stroll on Hawah Beach and watch the fishermen heading out to sea. Locals will sometimes refer to the beach as Eve’s Beach because it was one of the first topless beaches in India, a practice that is now banned. Samudra Beach is separated from the other two beaches by a large promontory. Along with sunbathing and swimming, you can see fisherman hauling in their nets and the day’s catch. Some of the local restaurants and hotels buy their fish from here.
Kovalam is served by an international airport and railway station that are located in Trivandrum, approximately 9 miles (14.5 kilometres) away. With good roads and frequent bus services, the town’s attractive stretches of beach are easy to get to.
