Are you tired of overcrowded tourist beaches and looking for serene coastal escapes in South India?
Then it’s time to explore the best beaches in Kerala — a perfect blend of golden sand, swaying palms, and tranquil waters, with some secret gems still off the tourist radar.
Whether you want a sun-kissed tan, a romantic walk along the Arabian Sea, or a place to dive into local culture, Kerala beaches offer something for every kind of traveler.
In this Kerala beach travel guide, we’ve listed top-rated and lesser-known beaches, with local tips, ideal times to visit, and things to do — so your next vacation feels like a dream come true.So whether you want a sun-kissed tan, a romantic walk along the Arabian Sea, or a place to dive into local culture, the best beaches in Kerala are calling.
🌴 1. Varkala Beach – Where Cliffs Meet the Sea
Keyword: Varkala beach Kerala cliff sunset
Varkala is unlike any other beach in Kerala. What makes it stunning is the dramatic red cliffs that line the coastline, offering an elevated view of the endless blue horizon. It’s one of the few places in India where cliffs meet the sea.No wonder it’s featured on every list of the best beaches in Kerala.
Why Visit:
- Ayurvedic spas and yoga retreats
- Golden sunsets from the cliff cafés
- Fresh seafood and beachside homestays
Insider Tip:
Visit during the golden hour and walk down the steps to the Papanasam beach — locals believe the waters here wash away sins.
🌴 2. Marari Beach – The Slow Life Paradise
Keyword: Marari beach peaceful hidden gem
Looking for secluded beaches in Kerala? Welcome to Marari, a laid-back fishing village located 11 km from Alleppey. No crowds. No chaos. Just silence and sea.
Why Visit:
- Ideal for honeymooners and solo travelers
- Eco-resorts and luxury villas near the shore
- Perfect blend of nature and heritage
Best Time to Go:
October to March, when the skies are clear and the sea is calm.
🌴 3. Kovalam Beach – Kerala’s Iconic Beachfront
Keyword: Kovalam beach Kerala water sports
Once a hippy haven, Kovalam is now the most popular beach in Kerala — and for good reason. With its iconic lighthouse, crescent-shaped shoreline, and adventure activities, it’s perfect for families and thrill-seekers.
Why Visit:
- Water sports like surfing, parasailing, and kayaking
- Ayurvedic massage centers and beachside cafes
- Great connectivity from Trivandrum Airport
Don’t Miss:
Climb the lighthouse for a 360° view of the coastline.
🌴 4. Beypore Beach – Where History Meets the Sea
Keyword: Beypore beach Kerala boat building
Located near Kozhikode (Calicut), Beypore is not just about waves. It’s about centuries-old maritime history and the legendary Uru boat-building yards.
If you’re exploring this region, don’t miss the iconic Kozhikode Beach — just a short drive from Beypore. It’s a popular sunset spot and a great place to taste street food like ‘Kallummakaya’ (mussels) and banana chips.
Why Visit:
- Witness traditional wooden shipbuilding
- Long beach walkways and rustic charm
- Less crowded and deeply local
Travel Hack:
Hire a local guide to hear stories about Arab traders and Kerala’s maritime past.
🌴 5. Kappad Beach – Where Vasco da Gama Landed
Keyword: Kappad beach Vasco da Gama history
History buffs, this one’s for you. Kappad Beach is where Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498. A small stone monument marks the spot, making it a coastal landmark with global significance.
Why Visit:
- Historical site with educational value
- Serene sunsets and clean sands
- Ideal for peaceful evening strolls
Photography Tip:
Capture silhouettes of fishing boats against the orange sky for the perfect Insta reel.
🌴 6. Thottada Beach – Kerala’s Best Kept Secret
Keyword: hidden beaches in North Kerala
Skip the crowds and head to Thottada, a peaceful beach in Kannur. It’s perfect for travelers seeking solitude, writers looking for inspiration, or couples craving privacy.
Why Visit:
- Zero commercial activity = pure nature
- Homestays that serve authentic Kerala cuisine
- Occasional dolphin sightings
Local Experience:
Join fishermen during their early morning catch and learn about traditional net fishing.
🌴 7. Muzhappilangad – India’s Only Drive-In Beach
Keyword: drive-in beach Kerala car beach
Yes, you read that right. Muzhappilangad Beach is India’s longest drive-in beach, where you can ride your car or bike right next to the waves.
Why Visit:
- 4 km stretch of hard-packed sand
- Sunset car rides & beachside food stalls
- Close to Kannur town
Pro Tip:
Visit during the annual beach festival for local dance, food, and cultural shows.
🌴 8. Kuzhupilly Beach – The Quiet Cousin of Cherai
Keyword: hidden beach near Kochi Kerala
Just 7 km north of the more touristy Cherai Beach lies Kuzhupilly Beach, a quiet, unspoiled stretch of sand where locals go for peace and solitude. With fewer crowds and cleaner shores, it’s a hidden gem near Kochi that even many Keralites haven’t discovered yet.If you’re searching for hidden gems, this is one of the best beaches in Kerala without the tourist buzz.
Why Visit:
- Calm and crowd-free, even on weekends
- Swaying coconut groves and local fishing life
- Ideal for drone shots and couple photoshoots
Local Tip:
Sunsets here are unreal. Visit after 5 PM, carry a mat, and just let time slow down.
Book a beach + backwater combo stay for a full Kerala experience.
🧭 How to Plan a Kerala Beach Trip
Keyword: Kerala beach travel itinerary
- 🗓️ Best Time to Visit: October to March
- ✈️ Nearest Airports: Trivandrum (South), Kochi (Central), Calicut (North)
- 🚗 Transport: Rent a car or use local trains for the scenic route
- 🏡 Stay: Mix beach huts, eco-resorts, and boutique homestays
- For official tourism info and safety updates, check the Kerala Tourism Website before your trip.
Budget Tip:
Off-season stays (May–September) are 40–50% cheaper and offer a unique monsoon vibe.
🔥 Top 5 Things to Do at Kerala Beaches
Keyword: things to do in Kerala beaches
- 🌊 Try surfing at Varkala or Kovalam
- 🌅 Watch the sunset from a cliffside café
- 🍲 Savor fish curry meals in beachside shacks
- 🧘 Join a yoga or ayurveda retreat by the sea
- 📸 Shoot drone footage or time-lapse at sunrise
Kerala isn’t about flashy resorts or crowded parties. It’s about slow living, soul-searching, and silent sunsets. The beaches here invite you not just to relax, but to breathe deeply, live mindfully, and feel free.
So whether you’re planning your honeymoon, a family getaway, or a solo escape — pack your bags. Because the best beaches in Kerala aren’t just destinations. They are experiences that stay with you
