Kovalam is a super cool beach town in Kerala that lots of tourists love to visit. It has pretty beaches with soft golden sand and blue waters. Many people say it is one of the best beach spots in all of India!
Kovalam is very popular for good reasons. Besides having awesome beaches, it also has old temples, tasty seafood, and fun water activities. There are so many best places to visit in Kovalam – from scenic viewpoints to cool museums. It’s a top pick for both Indian and foreign travellers wanting a beachy getaway.
Lighthouse Beach
(best places to visit in Kovalam)
One of the best places to visit in Kovalam is Lighthouse Beach. It gets its name from the big tower with a bright light. As you walk on the soft yellow sand, you see the tall tower standing up high. It looks so pretty when the sun goes down and the light glows bright. Many people come here to take a swim or just lay on towels. Playing games like throwing a circle disc on the big beach is fun too.
This is one of the best places in Kovalam for fun water activities. You can try easy things like building sand castles or picking up pretty shells. Or go for a cool dip in the calm, blue-green ocean water. More exciting options include riding a banana boat, jet-skiing fast, and flying up high while parasailing. You can get yummy snacks and drinks from the many food stands along the shore.
Hawa Beach
Just down the coast is another great place – the peaceful Hawa Beach. This quieter beach does not have as many people and has a very relaxing feeling. Tall trees that grow coconuts line the shoreline, swaying softly in the cool breeze. The name “Hawa” means “wind” in another language, and you will feel that fresh breeze. Many visitors come to simply unwind in the calm atmosphere. You can read a book or stretch your body on the soft sands.
For people who want activities, Hawa Beach is perfect for exciting water sports too. Surfing has become very popular thanks to the great wave conditions. Certified teachers offer surf lessons for new learners to join safely. More daring options include parasailing way up high or riding fast jet skis. Sitting in a kayak or standing on a paddleboard are calmer ways to enjoy
Samudra Beach
If you want a quiet, peaceful beach, Samudra is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam. This long stretch of yellow sand feels very calm and relaxing. Gently swaying trees that grow coconuts line the shoreline, adding to the chill vibe. Many locals and visitors come here just to unwind and get away from busyness.
As you walk along Samudra Beach, you’ll notice the tranquil feeling. The soothing sound of waves lapping the shore is so calming. You can find your own private spot to read a book, clear your mind, or simply enjoy the fresh ocean air. Families like having picnics and flying colourful kites too.
After working up an appetite, there are lots of fun beachside food places. You’ll find casual cafes and restaurants right along Samudra serving up tasty seafood and other yummy local food. Many places also have little stores selling beachwear, jewellery, and handmade souvenirs to bring home.
Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
For a different kind of ocean fun, the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium is another of the best places to visit in Kovalam. This huge building showcases an awesome array of colourful sea life found in the local waters.
After exploring the dazzling underwater world, you can relax in the lush green gardens outside. The tranquil green spaces have winding paths perfect for a refreshing walk surrounded by nature. Learning stations also teach about the local plants and animals.
Between the pretty beaches and incredible aquarium, Kovalam truly has some world-class attractions. These are two of the best places to see and appreciate both the beauty and educational value this coastal town offers.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is super rich and looks pretty from the outside. It’s only 10 kilometres from Kovalam beach. Lots of tourists go to see it when visiting Kovalam. The temple has a mixed building style with tall walls and a big gate made in the 1500s.
The main god inside is Lord Vishnu, shown sleeping in a yoga pose. He’s the guardian deity of Travancore’s royal family too. The best time to visit Kovalam and see sights like this temple is from December through March. During those months, the weather is nice and cool – perfect for checking out the beautiful beaches and temples without getting too hot.
Halcyon Castle
Halcyon Castle is a cool old place to see in Kovalam. A long time ago, in the 1830s, an English family built it as their house. The castle looks so pretty! It mixes English and Indian building styles. It has fancy carvings, big arches, and a nice courtyard in the middle.
When you go there, the huge front of the castle looks so grand! It has tall towers and loads of decorations. Inside, the big rooms make you feel like a royal prince or princess from olden times.
As you walk around, you’ll find surprises – small cosy nooks and beautifully carved lattices. It’s like exploring a fairy tale castle! History lovers and people who like old buildings will love Halcyon Castle. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kovalam for sure.