Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach
4
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Kovalam Beach
Are you currently on your trip?
Help us find experiences available for you.
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
114 within 5 kms
Attractions
22 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- LondonSooziequeLondon, United Kingdom150 contributionsIf you love warm sea and rolling waves, this is the place for youThis is a lovely beach. Sea is magnificent. Gently shelving and lots of rolling waves. Great fun for anyone who loves the water. Sunbeds are available at Rs.200 per person, and they are well attended by lovely Keralan men who do their best to look after you. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Aside from the locals selling scarves, which can become a little annoying, I would definitely recommend it.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 February 2024
- snmishraBengaluru, India105 contributionsGood place for Beach LoversThis is a good place for those who love beaches. One can spend hours here and enjoy the sunset. This is adjacent to the lighthouse beach. So one can plan accordingly. You can also hire a Sun lounger and relax as well. Facilities like speed boat, parasailing etc...are available here.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 1 March 2024
- jacpaulAluva, India3,506 contributionsBest beach in KeralaIt’s one of the most swimmable and safest beaches in Kerala. Kovalam comprises of Hawa Beach, Lighthouse Beach and Samudra Beach. The beach shoreline is full of greenery with palm trees. Other than swimming there are facilities for surfing, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing and other water sports. There are plenty of restaurants and hotels near to the beach. The restaurants serve sea food, local cuisine and international cuisine as well as there are plenty of foreigners visiting and staying in this area. Though this is a major tourist destination of Kerala, the beach is not well maintained. I hope authorities pay attention to the maintenance of beach and surroundings. The best time to visit Kovalam is from September to February and you should expect big crowds during this time, especially in the evenings to watch the sunset. Kovalam is about 12 kms from Trivandrum railway station and Thampannoor the main bus station in Trivandrum. Airport is about 13 kms from Kovalam. Overall, Kovalam Beach is a great place for swimming and also enjoying the natural beauty of Kerala.Visited December 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 4 March 2024
- ashuwriter18 contributionsUnique and ScenicTwo C shaped beaches with stunning scenery. Had first seen this two years ago in 2022 April when there was no tourists rush as it was post covid season. But this time it was quite crowded ( but way lesser than goa beaches ) Presence of lifeguards is admirable feature but lack of public toilets is not so great attribute. I saw many men urinating behind coconut trees after sunset. I did't see any peculiar toilet for women.Visited April 2024Travelled soloWritten 5 May 2024
- Surya KatakamHyderabad, India2,378 contributionsKnown as Paradise of the SouthKovalam beach is not only famous in India and its also famous world-wide for its cleanliness, Coconut trees and lovely beach side Cafes. Kovalam beach is also one of the most visited in place in Trivandrum which is around 15 km away from Trivandrum City Central. The Calm waves make it ideal for Surfing, Sunbathing and Beach side play. When it comes to beaches in Kerala, Kovalam beach doubtlessly seizes one of the topmost position in regard of Visuals and Clean water. Kovalam is a tranquil seaside town nestled along the Costal line of Arabian Sea. Kovalam was a sleepy fishing village pre-independence, until the hippies arrived here and transformed the village into a tourist destination. Today Kovalam is a well known and must visit tourist attraction of Kerala. Kovalam has three beaches separated by rocky outcroppings in its 17 km coastline, the three together form the crescent of the Kovalam beach. One is Light House Beach Second is Hawah Beach and third is Samudra Beach. Each of these three beaches offers amazing experience to the Visitors. Out of three beaches Light house beach is the largest one in Kovalam which is having 30 meter tall lighthouse. The clear water at the beaches with shallow bottoms up to a height of hundred meters makes Kovalam a Visitors heaven. Near By Attractions: 1. Povar Back water Ride 2. Azhimalla Shiva temple 3. Neyyar Wildlife SancturyVisited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 25 May 2024
- Venkat RamaswamyChennai (Madras), India21 contributionsKovalam Beach one of the most each in southern IndiaBeing a beach lover I love explore new beaches, I have heard a lot about the Kovalam Beach. This beach is two C shaped beaches with stunning scenery. The beach is well maintained there are lot of cafe's near by to spend quality time here with your family.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 29 May 2024
- Vishwanath SwamyCoimbatore, India23 contributionsKovalam Beach is one of the beach in KeralaThis is a good place for those who love beaches. most swimmable and safest beaches in Kerala One can spend hours here and enjoy the sunset. This is adjacent to the lighthouse beach. So one can plan accordingly. Other than swimming there are facilities for surfing, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing and other water sports.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 3 June 2024
- ASWATHYKochi (Cochin), India10 contributionsA Romantic Retreat for CouplesKovalam is often hailed as a paradise for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Its pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and laid-back atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for lovebirds. The gentle lapping of waves and the soothing sound of the sea create a serene ambiance ideal for unwinding and bonding. Take leisurely walks along the beach, holding hands and enjoying each other's company. Savor delicious seafood delicacies together and explore the local flavors. Create lasting memories by taking pictures and videos of your romantic escape.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 July 2024
- Afroze Anis NawazAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates608 contributionsKovalam Beach - Popular Beach to visit in ThiruvananthapuramIf you ask anyone in Thiruvananthapuram to suggest places to visit, inevitably, everyone will mention Kovalam Beach as one of the places to visit. After spending a few days here, I finally decided to make a visit. I took the local bus (mini bus to be precise) from the East Fort Bus Terminus at around 6.40 pm. The bus conductor was a friendly guy who told me to sit down in one of the seats at the back of the bus. He came over after a few minutes and gave me the ticket. We reached around 7.30 at the last stop, Kovalam Beach. After getting down from the bus, I walked down a narrow lane with lots of touristy shops selling t-shirts, a couple of scuba diving shops, and a few hotels. Walking a little further, I came across the beach sand and safety warning boards with ropes barricating a long stretch, saying, " Do not swim here." Since the last bus from the beach was at 8.30 pm. I had to make the most in that one hour I was there. I got to the water as quickly as possible. Spend a few minutes wetting my feet and legs and quickly made a dash to see what else was available to see in the beach. Kovalam beach is really colourful at night. They have a lot of novelty and gift shops, cafés , sea food restaurants, hotels,guest houses, and other accommodations to suit different budgets. Most hotel rooms start in the range of 2000 rupees and above for non ac and 3000 rupees and above for air conditioning rooms. (From the places I casually enquired). They have a lot of sea food restaurants, a couple of juice shops, and a few vegetarian eatouts. You will find some garment stores selling kashmiri style clothes, shawls and carpet materials and furnishings, and others selling fancy jewellery, rings, pendants, etc. I spotted a lighthouse far away. I was told it was open to the public in the mornings till 5.30 pm, except on Mondays. As I left the beach, I felt it would have been better to visit the beach during the mornings or early in the evenings, to enjoy the mesmerising landscape and water.Visited November 2024Travelled soloWritten 7 November 2024
- Raja Soni68 contributionsClean beach for perfect family timeWe stayed at The gokulam and this beach was at a proximity distance. We went to the the beach at around 7 and it was not crowded at all. We were asked by a policeman to wait for the lifeguard to come before we go into the water. We enjoyed as it was clean and the water 💦 waves were serene to watch and enjoy with my family. On the way back to the hotel there was a market where we bought magnets as souvenir for kovallam.Visited November 2024Travelled with familyWritten 17 November 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
1,565 reviews
Excellent
640
Very good
601
Average
255
Poor
51
Terrible
19
Big Indian Tours
Asia641 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
Kovalam Beach is a cluster of three pristine beaches, ideal for an evening stroll, each offering a unique experience. The scorching sun during the day contrasts with the warm and enchanting sunset, creating an unparalleled ambience. Located within a 15 km radius of Trivandrum, Kovalam Beach caters to diverse preferences, providing options from budget accommodations to luxurious 5-star properties.
The clean and safe beaches are perfect for family and friends, offering opportunities to witness fishermen at sea. Kovalam's natural beauty, characterised by low tides and shallow waters, makes it a popular destination for local and international tourists. The circular shape of the beach enhances its allure. Additionally, the presence of fast food outlets and pubs adds to the beach's appeal, making it an ideal location for a memorable holiday.
Kovalam Lighthouse, situated amidst the picturesque Kovalam Beach, offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and its adjacent areas. Accessible through a flight of steps or an elevator, the lighthouse requires visitors to remove footwear before entering. A cafeteria below the lighthouse and parking facilities are available, with a nominal entry fee of 20/- per person and 10/- for cameras. However, it's advisable to plan visits outside the lunch break from 12:30 pm to 2 pm.
The clean and safe beaches are perfect for family and friends, offering opportunities to witness fishermen at sea. Kovalam's natural beauty, characterised by low tides and shallow waters, makes it a popular destination for local and international tourists. The circular shape of the beach enhances its allure. Additionally, the presence of fast food outlets and pubs adds to the beach's appeal, making it an ideal location for a memorable holiday.
Kovalam Lighthouse, situated amidst the picturesque Kovalam Beach, offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and its adjacent areas. Accessible through a flight of steps or an elevator, the lighthouse requires visitors to remove footwear before entering. A cafeteria below the lighthouse and parking facilities are available, with a nominal entry fee of 20/- per person and 10/- for cameras. However, it's advisable to plan visits outside the lunch break from 12:30 pm to 2 pm.
Written 16 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Milena R
4 contributions
Feb 2024 • Solo
It is a very nice place and really worth going.
Sometimes the waves are strong and it is hard or even impossible to get in and swim.
When on the beach it is disturbing that every few minutes someone wants to sell something. Some of them don't know the meaning of "no".
But the rest is nice!
(Sorry for my english)
Sometimes the waves are strong and it is hard or even impossible to get in and swim.
When on the beach it is disturbing that every few minutes someone wants to sell something. Some of them don't know the meaning of "no".
But the rest is nice!
(Sorry for my english)
Written 5 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul R
Leighton Buzzard, UK42 contributions
Feb 2020
During many visits to Kovalam over the years Kovalam beach is a must to visit during your stay. The beach itself is safe & clean with many sun beds for hire. The main time to visit is at sunset when both the locals & tourists watch the sun go down.
On the beach edge are situated many excellent fresh seafood restaurants whose prices are far less than in the hotels. Also there are many local shops selling everything from clothing to jewellery.
On the beach edge are situated many excellent fresh seafood restaurants whose prices are far less than in the hotels. Also there are many local shops selling everything from clothing to jewellery.
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kissey24
Oxford, UK56 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
I have been travelling to kovalam beach for over 20 years and have always loved everything about it. The tourist there have always been made up of a wide ranching age group who all seem to accept the indian way of life. This was my first visit since covid and I'm afraid to say things have changed dramatically. There has been and influx of young russians. I suppose because they have been given free visas. They are very loud in their actions and words. Such things as drinking spirit on beach in morning and stereos playing out eastern Europe pop music doesn't go well with me. They the young russian men feel its acceptable to eat In Restaurant at night with no top on. I. Sure young English men are same in places like ibiza but I don't go to kerala to see such things as this. I'm sure kerala has suffered during covid and are keen to encourage tourist but I'm sorry to say its not what I want. I feel its not the place it was and I would like to see the old mix of young and old who were layed back and not loud.
Written 7 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Abhitheexplorer
New Delhi, India110 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Out of so many beaches I visited in India, i found tbis one the cleanest one. No sea-weed, no plastic bags, no food garbage nothing at all just clear water as far as you can see. Such an inviting water it can attract even "non water loving" people to itself. As the sunsets all the sea food restaurants get alive with variety of sea food. Very lively and vibrant place. Its the best attraction of Kovalam.
Written 1 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ratnesh M
New Delhi, India586 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
When I got an opportunity to visit Thiruvananthapuram, i made it a point to visit Kovalam beach, so i hired one auto for Rs. 500/- to and fro and reachd there. I was a bit disappointed as the main approach to the beach is through narrow lanes. The beach itself is not gorgeous - it is a cluster of 3 beaches side by side. Sand to is not soothing in comparison to other beaches of the country. The much hyped sun set was also a disappointment. Came back to hotel
Written 3 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jay M
Kolkata (Calcutta), India30 contributions
Dec 2021 • Couples
Appropriate sea side destination for calm, quiet and marvellous holiday. Mainly crowded by local people who are visiting for day trip and weekends. And the foreigners. Beautiful sea and beaches. Light house beach is the best among three other beaches.
Beach side shacks are well equipped with the liquors and local Cuisines at very reasonable prices.
Good place to spend holidays with families, couples.
Beach side shacks are well equipped with the liquors and local Cuisines at very reasonable prices.
Good place to spend holidays with families, couples.
Written 5 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Indus Holidays - Kerala Specialist
Kochi (Cochin), India53 contributions
Aug 2019
Kovalam is a must visit if you have more than 5 days in Kerala. The beach is visited by locals and tourists alike. Located around 30 kms from Trivandrum, you can stay at Kovalam itself or visit the beach from Trivandrum. Staying in Kovalam will give you a chance to choose a beach front resort with excellent view. Some premium resorts / hotels have a private beach too. View from the top of light house is amazing.
The place gets very crowded during Christmas - New year season and it could be difficult to get a stay option if you don't book well in advance.
The place gets very crowded during Christmas - New year season and it could be difficult to get a stay option if you don't book well in advance.
Written 19 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sonal
31 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
Stayed at Indeevaram service apartment on Kovalam beach road. The walk down Kovalam village and the beach is just a kilometre away. Every morning, had mouth watering breakfast at Coral Reef cafe at the beginning of Kovalam beach road. The beach is clean, not crowded and is dotted with restaurants.
Written 24 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Navinpat
New Delhi, India127 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
is one of the most neat and clean beaches that I have visited it is nicely maintained.
lifeguards are available, water is a little rough, occasional high waves keeps you on alert. There is a Masjid right on the beach, Food stalls also there are shops selling beachwear n similar stuff. Boating is very cheap 1000 rupees for half an hour taking 4 people, best time to visit is 10 a.m. in the morning or 5:00 in the evening.
lifeguards are available, water is a little rough, occasional high waves keeps you on alert. There is a Masjid right on the beach, Food stalls also there are shops selling beachwear n similar stuff. Boating is very cheap 1000 rupees for half an hour taking 4 people, best time to visit is 10 a.m. in the morning or 5:00 in the evening.
Written 3 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Riyas
Nagercoil, India
i am planning to visit with my wife .our things car keys etc .where should i keep that for a safety while bathing ?
Written 2 October 2019
keep car keys in your hotel or keep in plastic pouch
Written 10 October 2019
I am planning to visit Kovalam with my wife in December. Please confirm this time is good. And confirm the beach is fully enjoyable compare as Goa.
Written 16 September 2019
Cannot compare with the beaches in Goa. December is a good time if you want to get into the sea, it's calmer.
Written 17 September 2019
i am planning to go to Kovalam beach with my wife for full enjoy like as Gova, can its really fully enjoyable compare as Goa
Written 16 September 2019
Yes very nice place to travel with family and spend time like in Goa. A lot of good and affordable accommodation with International cuisines is available. Your family and kids will enjoy holidays.
Written 6 March 2020
I have a vacation planned at kovalam from 11th aug to 15th aug.
Is it safe to travel with kids now ?
Written 10 August 2019
Hi, it's safe to visit Kovalam, but monsoon is at peak in Kerala, especially in northern districts. It also depends from where you are planning to visit. By air to Trivandrum and then road to Kovalam is most appropriate. Train route via Alleppy was disrupted for a while. Road journey is fine in coastal route and by MC Road.
Shall give more suggestion if you share the itinerary.
Tks
Moncy Issac
Written 10 August 2019
I have flights booked to go to Kovalam in November. Has this area been impacted badly by the recent floods as I see people have posted positive reviews on here even last week. I really don't know whether to carry on or perhaps head somewhere else.
Written 9 September 2018
Honestly its a waste of time to go there in kovalam beach i have been there in MAY the beach very very unhygienic i recommend to you go VARKALA BEACH instead of kovalam beach
Written 10 September 2018
I want to visit Kovalam beach in may. Is it the right time to visit. What about weather there in may
Written 19 April 2018
Think it should be okay. The rainy months, I understand, are June, July, August.. enjoy!!
Written 19 April 2018
What is the best way to get to the beach from the Trivandrum airport ?
Written 9 March 2018
Take a taxi / three wheeler- within thirty/ forty minutes you can reach the beach from airport.
Written 9 March 2018
Hoi, Ik was in Kovalam ongeveer 35 jaar geleden. Aan de foto's te zien is er het een en ander veranderd. Er waren toen wat rieten hutjes en een paar guesthouses voor backpackers. Ook liep er een man rond die zonnebrillen verkocht. Echt een fenomeen. Weet iemand nog of die nog leeft? Hij had zijn hele lichaam bedekt met brillen.
Groet M
Written 13 January 2018
For tour Packages, You may get in touch with us i.e. Gautam and Gautam Group. I cannot share the no.s here due to the policy of Tripadvisor. Go to Google, Search Gautam and Gautam Group and Get in touch with us for more information and Tour Packages. Thanks
Written 13 January 2018
How is the situation in kovalam after the cyclone.. Is it worth visiting are shops open??? I'm planning for a day trip tomorrow..
Written 8 December 2017
Kovalam to be visited to enjoy the scenic beauty around and shopping there, even if available, not advisable. I have not visited there recently, but informed that the situation is normal.
Written 9 December 2017
Showing results 1-10 of 17
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing