Introduction

An erstwhile fishing village known for its fresh fish, fruits and toddy (coconut beer), Kovalam in Kerala is often referred to as the ‘Paradise of the South’. Idyllic and flamboyant, the crescent-shaped beaches of Kovalam have a character of their own. Kovalam opens up a vista of soft sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters and a rocky promontory crowded by coconut groves. The beach gets gentle waves making swimming refreshing and exhilarating. You can even wade into the sea for about 100 meters without losing ground! Look-out for some brilliant patches of coral reefs. Kayaking, surfing and skiing are other popular water activities in Kovalam. After a refreshing swim, stretch back on the sand and soak up some tropical sun.

This beach town on the Arabian Sea is about 13 kilometers (8.12 miles) from downtown Trivandrum. In the 1930s the European guests of the Maharaja of Travancore saw in a different light the beauty of the beach and the dramatic scenery it affords. But its true potential as a beach destination was realized only in the early seventies with the arrival of throngs of hippies. The crescent-shaped Kovalam beach is divided into three parts; the southern most being the Lighthouse Beach, the beach in the centre called Hawah, and the northernmost Samudra beach. The sands on the Kovalam beaches are partially grey in color owing to the presence of ilmenite and thorazite.

Lighthouse beach is the most popular of them all with a 35-meter-high (117 feet) lighthouse – from here one can get a spectacular view of the Vizhinzam mosque standing sentinel over the bay. Hawah beach is the second largest and named thus after a topless European woman who used to frequent it. Kovalam was India’s first topless beach. Though bathing topless is now prohibited, except in private coves of resorts. Samudra beach on the other hand has an old-world aura and is dotted with a few rudimentary wooden fishing vessels. This beach is cut out from the other two by a rocky promontory jutting out into the sea. Morning hours of this beach receive a great rush of fishermen who ply there trade from here. Tourists are, however, few in number in this part. Occasionally the quiet atmosphere of the beach is charged up by a colorful Kathakali dance drama staged on its dark sands.

If you wish to pick up a few souvenirs, stroll to the shops lining the waterfront. Here you can find an interesting assortment of local handicraft, jewelry and textiles/fabrics. There are a couple of beachside restaurants doing a smattering of seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine. A sprinkling of Ayurvedic spas offers rejuvenating therapies, oil massages and yogic treatments to relax your body and soul. Accommodation in Kovalam is available in the form of luxury 5-star hotels and resorts, and mid-range and budget options for those traveling on a shoestring.

At Kovalam you are just 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) away from Vizhinjam village renowned for its old Hindu temples, churches, a mosque and a great variety of fish.

Special Attributes

The turquoise waters, soft sands, the lighthouse standing on a rocky headland adjacent to the beach make Kovalam pretty as a picture postcard.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can hire a taxi from Trivandrum city centre to Kovalam beach. There is a direct and regular bus service from Trivandrum to Kovalam. In addition to this buses link Kovalam with Ernakulam, Kanyakumari and Periyar.

Enjoyed by

Sunbathers, water sports enthusiasts, beach lovers

Exposure

You will be under the open sky. The weather remains pleasant In the morning and evening. But noon gets quite warm. You are advised to wear a lot of sunscreen lotion, carry along sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August

Facilities

The area has many hotels, resorts, restaurants and souvenir shops. You can also enjoy a range of water activities such as kayaking, surfing and skiing.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

The place looks particularly beautiful at sundown. From the rocky headland on which the lighthouse stands suck in a grand sweeping view of the bay.

Type of site

Beach, Sun and Sand