Kovalam Beach, located about 16 kilometers away from Thiruvananthapuram in the southern part of Kerala, India, is well-known for its curved sandy shores, gentle sea waves, and rows of tall palm trees that line the coast. The area is made up of three main beaches, Lighthouse, Hawah, and Samudra, which together stretch for about 4 kilometers along the Arabian Sea. The Kerala Tourism board takes care of the beach, keeping it quite tidy and safe for people. Kovalam has also become quite famous for its Ayurvedic healing centers and peaceful settings, attracting both local visitors and tourists from many countries who come to relax by the sea.
Fun Fact About Kovalam Beach
A small detail about Kovalam is that one of the beach got its name as the Lighthouse Beach from the tall lighthouse built there around 1972 standing about 35 meters high. From the top, visitors can see wide views of the blue Arabian Sea and the coast around. Back in the 1970s, this beach became popular among hippie travelers from different parts of the world, which slowly helped Kerala become well-known as a travel spot.
History of Kovalam Beach
Kovalam was once just a quiet fishing village, surrounded by rows of coconut trees that gave the place its name “Kovalam,” meaning “a grove of coconuts” in Malayalam. For many generations, local families lived by fishing and using coconuts for food, oil, and trade. The beach was used by local fishermen to land their boats, and being close to Thiruvananthapuram, the old Travancore capital, it was part of a culturally rich area.
In the early 1900s, the calm and serene beaches of Kovalam caught the attention of the Travancore royals. The Travancore royals built summer homes along the coast, like Halcyon Castle in the 1930s, which later turned into a heritage hotel. In the 1960s and 70s, foreign travelers, especially European hippies, began visiting. They enjoyed the calm beaches, golden sand, and gentle waters and over time the small village became known as a travel spot.
In 1980s, Kovalam become known for yoga, Ayurveda and wellness. Many small resorts and centers started offering traditional Kerala-style treatments and healing. During 1990s, the Kerala government worked on roads, hotels and food places, but also tried to keep the beach clean and natural. Even now, Kovalam shows both its old fishing village feel and new tourist activities.
Things to Do at Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach has many things to do, from relaxing to small adventures and exploring culture.
Relax at the Beach: Lighthouse Beach is the busiest one, with soft sand good for lying down or sunbathing. Hawah Beach is quieter for those who want peace, and Samudra Beach is small and secluded, nice for being alone or just sitting by the water.
Water Fun: The waves are mostly calm, safe for swimming at certain spots. People also try kayaking, surfing lessons or small catamaran rides. Dolphin-watching trips can be taken from Samudra Beach, and some fishermen let visitors join for fishing.
Lighthouse Visit: Kovalam Lighthouse lets you see the sea and sunset from the top. Close by there is also a small cliff walkway with a few cafes and little shops where people can walk and relax.
Ayurveda and Yoga: Kovalam is well-known for wellness. Some resorts do traditional Ayurvedic massages and treatments, and it’s common to see yoga classes held outside on the beach or under shady trees.
Food: Along the beach, small huts serve Kerala-style food, seafood, coconut curries, and some dishes from other countries. Cafes like Bait and Fusion are liked for fresh fish and nice views of the sea.
Cultural Spots: A short distance away is the Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Temple with old Pallava-era sculptures. Kovalam Art Gallery shows beautiful local paintings and handicrafts.
Nearby Places: Poovar Island, a bit south, is good for backwater rides through mangroves. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, further away, has forest paths for trekking and boating.
This mix of quiet beaches, water activities, wellness, food, and nearby sights makes Kovalam interesting for many types of travelers.
Best Time to Visit Kovalam Beach
November to February: The weather is quite dry with temperature ranging from 22 to 32°C. Skies are clear and the sea is calm, good for swimming, surfing, or joining Ayurveda programs. December is busy with Christmas and New Year visitors, so it’s better to book places early.
March to May: It gets warmer, about 28–36°C. Mornings are good for beach walks and wellness activities. Fewer people visit, and places to stay are cheaper, though humidity goes up by May.
June to October: Monsoon brings heavy rain and rough seas, so swimming and water sports are limited. But the backwaters and greenery look actually beautiful. It’s during off-season, so fewer tourists, lower rates, and cafes and wellness spots still stay open.
Travel Tips
Swim Safely: Most of the water is calm, but sometimes there are currents. Try to swim near lifeguard areas at Lighthouse Beach and avoid going too deep, especially during monsoon.
Sun Protection: Sun here can be quite strong so better to put on sunscreen, wear a hat and also drink water often. It is better to do your activities in morning or late afternoon when sun is not too hot.
Respect Local Rules: Don’t throw trash around; use bins because fines can happen. When going to temples or villages, wear proper clothes. Staying at eco-friendly resorts also helps keep the beach and area clean.
