The name Kovalam means a coconut grove, which justifies its backdrop which is dotted with coconut trees. Kovalam Beach is first beach is Kerala which has been discovered as a tourist place. It has been a pleasure hunt of foreigners since 1930. Blue water of Arabian Sea, white sands, coconut trees and many other beautiful things make this beach a real paradise for holidays. Beach is also famous for handicrafts, jewellery and cloth shops. Delicious sea food is also available at the beachside restaurants. This beautiful beach is divided into three parts in which southern part is very much popular because of its tall Lighthouse and spectacular view of the Vizhinzam mosque. The middle beach is called Hawah, the main base for the local fisherman. The northern most beach, Samudra, is least affected of all by the changing times. Several cultural and dance activities are held in the evening near beach which totally changes the atmosphere of the place. Kathakali, the classical dance-drama of Kerala is performed in front of tourists whom they really like very much. Kovalam is also a developing Yoga and health center.

Attractions Around Kovalam Beach

Popular for water sports, Ayurvedic therapies, Catamaran cruises and special cultural programs, Kovalam is truly worth its popularity as the most famous beach of South India. You will find a massive rock formation on the beach which helped to create a secluded bay. One can visit the famous tall and beautiful Lighthouse and Vizhinzam mosque. Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam. Trivandrum has interesting places to see like the Napier Museum, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Puthenmalike Palace, Zoo, Planetarium, Veli Lagoon, Ponmudi hill station etc.


Adventure Activities near Kovalam Beach

Kovalam beach is also known for its adventure activities among the tourists. The beach is a perfect and ideal place for kayaking, surfing, sailing, yachting, swimming, skiing, scuba diving and windsurfing. One can swim in the shallow blue water and have a sunbath. Snorkeling in such a wonderful tract of nature gives an unparalleled high. One can also hire Surfboards and boogie boards on the Kovalam beach. Marine Angling for deep-sea fishing attracts several tourists. If you are fond of speed then you can try in participating parasailing.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to enjoy this beach in its fullest it's recommended to visit it in between September to March.

Where to Eat

Sea foods are one of the major attractions of dining at Kovalam. If you want to enjoy the local dishes then best place is Department of tourisms guest house. You can also try sea foods at other reputed eateries like Santhana restaurant, Hotel Sea Face, Achuta restaurant. If you are vegetarian then lonely planet will completely satisfy your test buds.

How to Reach

Access is being simple. The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram which is about 15kms from Kovalam. Thampanur railway station in Thiruvanthapuram, which is just 15 kilometers from Kovalam, is an important rail head. Kovalam is very near from Thiruvanthapuram. From Thiruvanthapuram, taxies are easily available. KSRTC buses are also available from East Fort bus stand. It takes an hour from Thiruvanthapuram to Kovalam.

Beach Resorts/Hotels of Kovalam Beach

Accommodation is not a big issue here as Kovalam beach is dotted with many beach resorts to cater to different tourists. It offers superb lodging ranging from budget to top notch hotels. To cater various demands of tourists Kovalam has a wide range of resorts and hotels which includes:

Kovalam Beach Resort
Samudra Beach Resort
Sea Face Beach Resort
Best Western Swegath Holiday Resort
Abad Palmshore Beach Resort
Poovar Island Resort
Wilson Beach Resort
The Travancore Heritage
Somatheeram Ayurvedic Resort
Surya Samudra Beach Garden