The 6 Best Beaches in Varkala for the Ultimate Relaxation

The beautiful beaches of Varkala, tucked away in the district of Thiruvananthapuram and surrounded by lush greenery, need no introduction. Varkala serves as the only region in southern Kerala where the majestic Arabian Sea meets the rocky red cliffs. As a result, the Discovery Channel named the town one of the top 10 beach destinations in the world. While there are a number of famous beaches in Kerala, beaches in Varkala hits different! The pleasant environment, lush vegetation, high cliffs, and magnificent beaches make Varkala an excellent vacation destination for both domestic and international visitors. Furthermore, the variety of water-based activities available in the area, such as paragliding and parasailing, make Varkala a destination for adventure seekers. This blog post lists some of the best beaches in Varkala that are worth visiting.

Papanasam Beach/Varkala Beach

Papanasham Beach, also known as Varkala Beach, is a cliff beach on the Arabian Sea coast. After Kovalam, Varkala is the perfect Kerala beach resort. This is the only location in southern Kerala where cliffs are observed connected to the Arabian Sea, and it is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Arabian Sea." Surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and adorned with golden sand, it is a relatively clean beach that is less popular than Kovalam and Goa Beaches. The beach is well-known for its natural spring, which has medicinal and healing properties.

A dip in the sacred waters of the beach is believed to cure illnesses and misdeeds, hence the term 'Papanasam Beach.' People prefer this beach for their VAVUBALI offerings in honour of ancestors and family members whose souls have passed on.

In the crystal-clear water of the beach, one can swim and fish. Aside from that, the beach offers a variety of activities such as boating, horseback riding, parasailing, and jet skiing that will undoubtedly provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Varkala's serene, clean beach is also known for its spas and ayurvedic centres which provide the best therapeutic treatments.

Varkala Cliff

The red and brown cliff is what distinguishes Varkala beaches from other beaches in Kerala. When visiting Varkala Beach, you can observe Varkala cliff relatively close to the Arabian Sea. Of course, you would've planned a trip to Varkala Beach, the town's main attraction. When visiting this beach, don't forget to visit the Varkala Cliff. The reason for this is that a view from the cliff will allow you to see far beyond the regular beach shore.

You will be surprised to notice that the North Cliff of Varkala is a hub of a plethora of cafes. People from various parts of India, including Rajasthan and Kashmir, have set up shop on the cliffs. Many things are available to be purchased here. However, you do not need to be worried about crowding. The area is rarely explored by tourists.

Odayam Beach

Odayam Beach is an isolated beach on the coastline of the Arabian Sea in Varkala, located 4 kilometres from Varkala Railway Station. It is one of Kerala's lesser-known beaches and one of the best Varkala tourist attractions. Odayam Beach is located a few kilometres ahead of Cliff Beach and Thiruvambadi Beach. Odayam Beach is a small and tight stretch of beach with mostly blackish sand.

This is a small region of splendour on the outskirts of Varkala's beaches. This is the ideal location for those seeking serenity away from the usual sun-worshipping crowd. As you go north right from the North Cliff, you will travel through the fishing villages. At Odayam, you'll share the beach with commercial fishermen who spend their days at sea. It's a pleasant alternative to the main beach, with stunning views and fewer people.

Chilakoor Beach

Chilakoor Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is lined with beautiful casuarina groves. Sunsets are spectacular at the beach. The golden colour of the horizon and the peaceful atmosphere at sunset will stay with you for a long time. Furthermore, the drive to the beach gets you through authentic coastal villages, giving you a feel of rural Kerala life. You can observe the local fishermen go about their everyday lives at sea from Chilakoor Beach. With breathtaking views and fewer visitors, it is a serene alternative to Varkala's main beach. The beach is studded with good resorts that will make your stay more comfortable.

Edava Beach

Edava Beach is a serene beach in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram District, tucked away in Edava Village. The beautiful backwaters and beaches attract thousands of tourists to this place. Coastal waters connect the Edava-Nadayara Lake to the Arabian Sea here. Water raved out of the lake and into the sea during the rainy season, attracting visitors from neighbouring towns.

In the middle, a 1-kilometre-long blue lagoon runs parallel to the road, with the backwaters and sea flowing parallel to it. The spectacle of water colliding into the Arabian Sea is breathtaking. Because of its location, the beach and nearby area are never humid. This results in pleasant weather, allowing tourists to spend more time at the beach. There are not that many individuals who wouldn't appreciate some time on this serene beach. The beach is ideal for surfing because the waves are not too sharp.

Kappil Beach

Kappil Beach is a stunning beach tucked away about 15 km away from Kasaragod in God's own country, Kerala, in South India. This enchanting beach is one of the few in India that still has an enormous area of shimmering sand and pristine blue waters that has been explored but not targeted by many travel enthusiasts.

Kappil Beach has a beautiful sandy stretch that is ideal for taking a walk along the coast. It is approximately 5 km from the Bekal Fort. A section of the beach is reserved for guests of the Resort and Spa in Kerala. Visitors spend days relaxing in the sand and basking in the sun. Because the sea frequently has strong currents, you may avoid swimming in it.

Thiruvambadi Beach/ Black Sand Beach

The Black Sand Beach, also known as Thiruvambadi Beach, is tucked away 1 km from Thiruvambadi Road, right close to the North Cliff. The beach stretch is small, but it is rarely visited. The beach's striking feature is, as the name implies, its black sand. Swimming and sunbathing are ideal activities on the beach. The soothing surroundings of the tranquil location make it a perfect picnic spot and one of the most popular picturesque getaways for most Thiruvananthapuram residents.

Varkala's Black Sand Beach is located away from the hustle and bustle of the leading Varkala Beach and the cliff. The beach is accessible by either descending the North Cliff or taking the Thiruvambadi road. The gentle curving tides, lust coconut grooves swinging across, and charming, friendly locals help tourists rejuvenate in the absence of disturbances. This beach is ideal for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Varkala is a tranquil coastal city that perfectly combines nature and spirituality. So, if you're the peace-loving type, we recommend you to visit at least one of the above-mentioned beaches in Varkala and immerse yourself in the serenity. For a hassle-free vacation, explore our best Varkala tour packages to book in advance.