Guarded by the Western Ghats in the interiors of the state and sharing a 550 km long coastline overlooking the splendid Arabian Sea is the magnificent state of Kerala. Known for its backwaters, lofty beaches, undulating palms, array of coconut trees and tea and coffee plantations the state has an undiluted charm. Being on the coastal front of the country, Kerala is an abode to some beautiful beaches. If you want to lose yourself in the arms of nature, Kerala is a true paradise. Whether it is admiring the horizons, the love of waters, indulging in the natural treatments or lazing around, Kerala is the place to be in. Being blessed by splendid beaches, Kerala makes it difficult leave any beach unexplored. Here is a list of top 10 beaches in Kerala.
1. Kovalam Beach
Being the most famous beach of the state this beach has three beaches that are often referred to as one. The main action-packed beaches attracting all the tourists are the Hawa Beach (or the Eve’s Beach) and the Light House beach. The third beach, Samudra beach is quiet from the tourism. Kovalam beach is one of the most developed beaches of Kerala. Sunbathing, snorkelling, catamaran rides, sunset viewing, cycling on the beach, swimming are the major activities on this beach.
2. Bekal Beach
Comparatively quiet and relaxed to the Kovalam beach, Bekal beach is near the border of Karnataka. The Beach is famous for offering the exuberant views of the Bekal Fort which is the largest and a well preserved fort in Kerala. On the northern side of the beach is an estuary that imparts the place with a magnificent view. One can easily see the backwaters connecting the Arabian Sea. Being on the beach is a delight for every nature lover.
3. Varkala Beach
Amongst the top picks of beaches in Kerala is this beautiful beach of Varkala. The main beach is known as the Papanasam Beach. The beaches here are divided into the two parts, Northern area and the southern area. The southern area leads of a sacred Hindu temple whereas the Northern area is the main tourist spot. The beach is famous for being located at the bottom of a cliff. There is another small beach, affectionately called as the Black Beach due to the presence of black sand on the beach. This beach is a heaven for enjoying the Arabian Sea from a cliff.
4. Kozhikode Beach
If you want to witness some of the best sunsets of Kerala, Kozhikode beach is the place that beckons. With two piers standing in the middle of the sea, a lighthouse erected on the shore and the beautiful hues that the setting sun is providing to the horizon is beyond explanation. The beach is a secluded beach and is paradise for the lovers.
5. Alappuzha Beach
Called as ‘The Venice of the East’ by tourists all over the world this beach is famous for its boat races, backwater and beach holidays. Being one of the popular picnic spots the beach has a 137 years old pier that extends into the sea. At Alappuzha one can also enjoy a houseboat cruise which makes it all the more special. Alappuzha beach also has a lighthouse which makes it fascinating for the visitors. One can also see the ruins of the Alappuzha Sea Bridge, an important port of Kerala in the bygone days.
6. Meenkunnu Beach
A little away from the small town of Kannur, Meenkunnu Beach is a delight to the solace seekers. The unexplored beach is famous for its golden sand and surf. This beach is a perfect getaway from the frenzy and hectic week days. If you want to laze around and admire nature this is the beach that beckons you.
7. Kappil Beach
An isolated beach is now drawing tourists from the maddening rush of the cities. Kappil beach is somewhere between unexplored and to-be commercialized soon. The place is ideal for couples, thinkers, poets and anyone who is seeking for solitude. The scenic beauty of the beach is such that any number of words written about it might not be enough to describe the essence of the place.
8. Payyambalam Beach
This beach is an ideal beach for perfect sunsets and spell-binding sunrises. The commercialization hasn’t touched the beach yet but for some reason, Payyambalam beach is a favorite picnic spot amongst the locals. If you are looking for long stretches of stranded coastline with golden sand, yes, the search has come to an end.
9. Chavakkad Beach
The swaying palms, the tranquil waters, the long coastline and relatively less crowded, is what defines the Chavakkad Beach in the Thrissur district. Though the place is famous amongst the locals and the people in the neighbouring towns it is still secluded from large number of tourists. The beach is famous for the estuary that could be seen merging with the rivers making it an absolute delight to see the creations of the nature.
10. Cherai Beach
Popular amongst the travelers and being occupied round the year, Cherai beach is famous for the backwaters merging with the sea. The beach is a quaint and is known for its multi-hued shells that can easily be found on the beach. Since the water at beach mostly has low tides it is also easy to swim. The beach is one of the favorites in the state and that too for the right reasons.
The state has a long list of beaches, some explored, some unexplored, some famous and the others secluded. But each and every beach has its own beauty unmatched to the other. These places are a must visit to know and experience why Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country”!
