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Destinations Head To These Stunning Beaches In South India For A Seaside Vacation
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Head To These Stunning Beaches In South India For A Seaside Vacation

If sunny skies and leisurely afternoon swims spell summer to you, there are a host of stunning beached in South India to head to.

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By: Eshita Srinivas Published: May 02, 2022 08:00 AM IST

Head To These Stunning Beaches In South India For A Seaside Vacation

If sunny skies, sandy beaches, tropical cocktails, colourful seashells, and leisurely afternoon swims spell summer, there are a host of stunning spots to head to. We’re journeying through a few beaches in South India that are the stuff of all beachside holiday dreams. By Eshita Srinivas

When it comes to summers in India, a quick Goa getaway is just as essential as a pair of sunglasses for most travellers. That said, nomads who’d like to evade the crowds and boisterous air of this popular destination need only head a bit further down south for the perfect beachside vacation.

South India, which is flanked by the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, is home to some of the most serene beaches, marked by pristine waters, billowing palm trees, colourful beach shacks, and plenty of coconut water to go around. Some are the perfect spot for an early morning jog, while others host the most romantic sunsets. We’ve rounded up a few that you should visit this holiday season.

Best beaches in South India for a fun summer getaway

Varkala Beach, Kerala

This beach is the crowning glory of the sleepy, laidback seaside town of Varkala and boasts of a sense of serenity that few other commercial beaches offer. A holiday here would involve early morning jogs or yoga sessions, leisurely dinners at a shack by the waters, and quick afternoon swims. The sunsets here are some of the best in the country, and the cliffs that overlook the beach offer a unique view of the ocean. Expect rain to provide some relief from the scorching heat every other day during this time. While here, don’t forget to sip the locally-brewed coconut beer.

Covelong Beach, Chennai

 

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Once a quaint fishing village, Kovalam in Tamil Nadu (not to be confused with its Kerala namesake) has slowly grown to be one of the best destinations for a quintessential beachside vacation. Several resorts have come up around the Covelong beach, which also happens to be the first surfing village in the country. Popular schools here include Ocean Delight and Bay of Life Surf School And Ocean Literacy, and Yellow Fin Surf School. Other adventurous activities to explore here include parasailing, boating, fishing, and diving. You could also rent a motorboat and explore the waves while here or pop by the crocodile farm close by.

Om Beach, Karnataka

Gokarna is slowly emerging as one of the most popular features on several travellers’ bucket lists. The quaint town offers a host of activities on offer for those who enjoy their time by the sea. More specifically, Om Beach in the region is the hub of all water sports. We’re talking surfing, water-skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, snorkelling, and more. Not to mention it’s also the best spot to head to watch the colours of the sunset play with the waves. There are quite a few wooden cottages, hotels, and resorts around the area to stay overnight. Many host yoga classes, host open-air music nights, and offer Ayurvedic spa treatments. Leisurely walks by the beach here are also recommended.

Rishikonda, Andhra Pradesh

 

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Believed to be one of the most picturesque, underrated beaches in the country, Rishikonda is a quick eight-kilometre drive away from Visakhapatnam. Natural rocks peer into pristine waters here, complemented by the surrounding hills. It’s no surprise then that the beach is often referred to as the Jewel of the East Coast. Once you’ve admired the picturesque surroundings you could sign up for one of the many water sports offered here, including surfing and jet skiing. Be sure to drop by the famed Submarine museum and hop on over to the Ramakrishna beach if you’ve got the time.

Kovalam Beach, Kerala

 

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Perhaps one of the most popular beaches in South India, Kovalam is a backpacker haven and has been for quite some time now. This coastal town has an iconic striped lighthouse, located right at the end of a palm-lined eponymous beach that’s fondly known as the “grove of coconut trees.” Rocky formations offset serene waters at this crescent beach and a string of cottages offer up a cosy place to retire at night. That said, there are plenty of five star resorts to stay at as well. The beach is just a 16-kilometre drive from the capital of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram.

Devbagh beach, Karnataka

This highly underrated destination boasts a throng of adventure sports and seafood restaurants. When not kayaking or snorkelling, adventurers are often found taking in the stunning sights of the golden sands against blue waters. While here, you could also hop on over to Kurumgad Island, which is known for its tortoise shape and is accessible by boat. A walk by the shoreline as you watch the sunset is also recommended.

Kappad Beach, Kerala

 

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The beach that’s most known to be the one that Vasco-da-Gama landed at with his men back in 1498, Kappad beach has a long coastline that’s complemented by rocks and hillocks. Migratory birds, curious sea creatures, coconut groves, and fellow beach-loving travellers will keep you company while you’re here. A popular attraction at the beach is a historic, 800-year-old temple. Other popular things to do here include hosting picnics, going swimming, and getting some shopping done. And all you need to do is drive 16 kilometres from Calicut to get here. That said, it’s recommended that you take the backwater route for the most breathtaking views. Don’t miss out on trying the halwa and banana chips before you head back.

Marina Beach, Tamil Nadu

 

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The journey to this tourist hub is as stunning as the destination itself. An hour-long drive from the bustle of Chennai, Marina Beach fuses crashing waves with serene environs, bustling shops, and fragrant food stalls. Pop by here early in the morning for some quiet time and a refreshing early morning jog or head there in the evening to sample street food and watch playful children scuttle about. Locals often bring their frisbees and volleyballs for some old-fashioned beach fun. Other attractions around the area include an aquarium and a Vivekananda house. This also happens to be one of the longest beaches in the country.

Thottada Beach, Kerala

 

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If secluded beaches are what you seek for your seaside getaway this summer, this beach in South India fits the bill. Litter free and with few tourist crowds, the spot is perfect for sunbathing and long, leisurely boat rides (should the weather permit). On one end of the beach, you’ll find the Thottada river flowing into the beach with a dam built across to keep the freshwater from saltwater. At this particular spot, verdant from the nutrients from the river, you can get acquainted with several species of birds and fishes. Laterite rocks, billowing palm trees, and white sands add to the charm of this place.

Malpe Beach, Karnataka

Udipi is a quaint coastal town in Karnataka and boasts several stunning beaches. The Malpe beach is known for its natural beauty, marked by its fishing culture and proximity to the breathtaking St. Mary’s Island. This beach is also known to host some of the best parasailing camps and activities, which offer a bird’s eye view of the eye-popping coastline and topography.
This spot is the perfect destination to go from lazing on a sunbed to cranking up the adrenaline with jet skis, speed boating, and surfing. You could also hop on a boat to spot playful dolphins while you’re here as well.

Related: Explore The ‘Wild’ Side Of Rajasthan At These Lesser-known Sanctuaries And Parks

Written By

Eshita Srinivas

Eshita Srinivas

Eshita is a food, alcohol, travel, and entertainment writer who spends her days zeroing in on the next big trend to write about. She’s a communication graduate with bylines in Conde Nast Traveller India, GQ India, Deccan Herald, and Girls Buzz. When not at work, you’re likely to find her hunting for a good read or charting out the perfect itinerary ..Read More

   
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