The Malabar Coast of India houses the state of Kerala, quite deservingly called ‘God’s own Country’. The state justifies its name with beautiful beaches, backwaters, canals, rocks and mountains, Kannur in Kerala can be explored to find some of the most wonderful beaches in India.
Some of the beaches are full of exuberance with a lot of tourists and a number of activities, while some other are far from the crowd, staying in an eternal quietness. We discuss the top five beaches in Kannur.
1. Muzhappilangad Beach
This is excitingly the only “drive-in beach” in India, having a stretch of about four kilometers of sand. It is 15 km distant from Kannur. So, if you are a driving enthusiast, here you can earn one of the most special experiences of your life—that is, driving on a vast stretch of sand without skidding. It makes Muzhappilangad distinct from all other beaches of India. It is the only Asian beach which has made its place in the list of world’s top beaches. During low tides, you can walk to the beautiful Dharmadam Island, which is just a few meters distant from this beach.
The eateries close to the Muzhappilangad beach offer mouthwatering Malabar dishes. Black rocks build up a fence from the deep current, thus creating a shallow pool for swimming enthusiasts. If you like a bit of adventure, then the excitements like paragliding or parasailing are waiting for you. You can also find shows of local folk culture.
2. Payyambalam Beach
The serene Payyambalam beach which is 2 km away from the Kannur town is all ready to embrace the visitors with its loving arms. The beach is well maintained by the authorities and so, nature’s originality is retained here and it gives a feeling of being in heaven.
Besides being a tourist spot, the beach is also a favorite picnic spot for the locals and a highly preferred shooting spot for the South Indian movies. The silver bed of sand and the surf set the perfect background for a holiday. The verdant surroundings and the magnificence of the vast blue stretch of the sea, gives a spa treatment to the soul.
The cluster of Ezhimala Hills, the fishing harbor of Mopilla Bay, Sri Muthappan Temple, St Angelo Fort etc, are the important places you can visit from Payyambalam. There is also a beautiful beach garden.
3. Meenkunnu Beach
At a distance of 12 km from the Kannur town, you can find the Meenkunnu beach in the village of Azhikode. The stretch of golden sand is guarded by the line of palms. As the name of the beach suggests, here you will be thrilled to see different types of fishing. The name Meenkunnu, meaning the ‘hill of fish’ comes from the local tradition of fishing. The beach is on the same stretch of Payyambalam, but not so frequented by tourists; so one can find some seclusion here.
4. Thottada Beach
Tottada Beach will treat you with its backwaters and serene coconut groves on the stretch of fine sands. Close to the beach, Thottada River falls into the sea creating an amazing view. Here you can find some home stays on the backwater corridor. Its distance from Kannur is 8 km.
5. Kizhunna Ezhara Beach
The two beaches are very close to each other, so they are often referred to as twin beaches. The crimson sand of the beach has been bordered by black rocks and cliffs, creating shallow pools. The gentle surf keeps hitting the rocks as if dancing in a playful mood. The shallow pools are good for swimming, except during the peak monsoon.
The southern side is called Ezhara, where the shore is rocky. The enchanting coconut groves put a soothing balm on the eyes of the travelers. Overall, the twin beach is a place of rustic beauty and calm; you cannot find a lot of beach activities here, but if you are charmed by the rustic essence of nature, you can explore this spot.
So, once you are in Kerala, don’t forget to explore these five beaches in Kannur during the trip!
