12 Best Places to Visit in Kovalam, Kerala

Kovalam is one of those coastal places in Kerala that feels familiar yet refreshing every time you visit. Known for its crescent-shaped beaches, laid-back lifestyle and long tradition of wellness tourism, Kovalam is not just a beach town destination. It now offers a perfect blend of seaside charm, cultural experiences, nearby heritage and easy access to Kerala’s backwater and temple towns.

Located just about 16 kilometres south of Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam is easy to reach and simple to explore. While many travellers get here to unwind by the sea, those who look a little deeper will find viewpoints, quiet villages, spiritual centres and scenic excursions giving depth to the trip. The area suits different styles of travel equally well, whether it is about a solo traveller looking for a restful place, couples looking for a scenic setting, families looking for a safe beach, or senior travellers looking for an Ayurveda experience and a gentle sightseeing experience.

This blog covers the 12 best places to visit in Kovalam, Kerala, that not only focus on the beaches there, but also some experiences and places in the vicinity that attract people to make a complete Kovalam holiday. If you are planning a laid-back yet meaningful coastal getaway, these places would together give you a good picture of what Kovalam has to offer. Read ahead to know more:

1. Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse Beach is the most recognisable and visited spot in Kovalam. The beach derives its name from the tall Vizhinjam Lighthouse that is located near the beach and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The beach is clean, lively, and is filled with cafes, small shops and resorts facing the beach.

Climbing the lighthouse is a popular activity and the best time to do this is in the late afternoon hours when the sunlight is soft and the coastline looks spectacular. The beach itself is good for swimming in calm sea conditions and is well supervised. Lighthouse Beach is perfect for travellers who want the traditional Kovalam experience but with easy access to food, views and accommodation.

2. Hawa Beach (Eve’s Beach)

Located just north of Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach has a more local and traditional atmosphere. Early mornings here are particularly interesting because you can watch fishermen hauling in their nets and sorting the day’s catch on the shore.

The beach is quieter in comparison to Lighthouse Beach and is well-suited for walks, photography and lazy evenings by the sea. Hawa Beach is usually favored by travellers who want to observe daily life and want a less commercial beach experience.

3. Samudra Beach

Samudra Beach is slightly away from the main stretch of tourists which makes it a peaceful and uncrowded feel. It is fringed with rocky formations and palm trees giving a scenic setting that is more private.

Swimming is usually restricted because of the rocks, but the beach is great for sitting down on the beach by the shore and watching the waves and enjoying unobstructed views of the sea. Samudra Beach is ideal for those travellers who prefer to work during their tranquil time and enjoy the scenery.

4. Vizhinjam Fishing Harbour

Vizhinjam Fishing Harbour provides a close glimpse of the life of the coastal community at Kovalam. The harbour is busy, colourful and full of activity, especially at early hours of the day.

Watching boats come in with fresh fish, seeing auctions go on and observing daily routines give visitors a grounded understanding of the livelihood of the region. It is a simple but insightful stop that imbues a Kovalam visit with some culture.

5. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple

Located near the harbour is the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple which is a small but historically significant site. Carved in the 8th century, the temple has a relief of Lord Shiva in the cave carved from rock.

The site is quiet and usually uncrowded making it a calm stop for travellers with an interest in history and ancient architecture. It does not take long to explore but it adds an important cultural layer to the trip.

6. Vellayani Lake

Vellayani Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in South Kerala and is a short drive away from Kovalam. Surrounded by greenery and small villages, the lake is a peaceful change from the coastal landscape.

The area is good for short walks, photography and observing rural life. During specific periods of the year, the local festivals around the lake provide colour and cultural interest. Vellayani Lake is a good option for travellers who wish to explore beyond the beaches without traveling too far.

7. Halcyon Castle ( Kovalam Palace)

Halcyon Castle, also known as Kovalam Palace, was a royal residence that was built in the early 20th century. Today, it is a hotel, a heritage hotel, but the exterior and its grounds can still be appreciated by visitors.

The building is an aspect of traditional Kerala architecture fused with colonialism. Even if you are not staying here, the site does give a glimpse into the history and the royal past of the region and its coastal heritage.

8. Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple

Situated near the backwaters near Kovalam, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple is an important spiritual place in the area. Dedicated to Lord Parasurama, the temple is closely linked to the ancestral rituals and traditional ceremonies.

The position of the temple by the river and greenery gives it a more serene vibe. Visiting this site gives us an insight into the spiritual culture and temple culture of Kerala.

9. Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary

Being located about an hour’s drive from Kovalam, Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary is a good day trip. The dam is surrounded by forested hills creating scenic views and a cooler environment.

The sanctuary is home to a variety of plant and animal life and boating options are available on the reservoir to allow visitors to explore the natural surroundings at their own relaxed pace. This destination is ideal for people passionate about nature and those who seek a change from the coast for the family.

10. Karamana River Backwaters

The Karamana River flows in proximity to Kovalam and links the place to the backwater network of Kerala which is very famous. Short boat rides along the river show coconut groves, village homes and quiet stretches of water contrasting beautifully with the open sea.

Many travellers prefer to include their beach stay with a Kerala backwater tour and this is a convenient option nearby without much travelling. The experience brings out the slower and more traditional side of Kerala life.

11. Poovar Island

About 12 kilometres from Kovalam, Poovar Island is known for its unique location where the river joins the sea. Reaching Poovar usually requires a boat ride through narrow backwaters fringed with mangroves.

The area is peaceful and scenic making it ideal for couples and travelers who are looking for a calm day trip. Floating cottages, tranquil waterways and virgin beaches are the Poovar experience.

12. Thiruvanthapuram City Attractions

With its proximity, a visit to Thiruvananthapuram city is often a part of a Kovalam itinerary. Some of the important attractions are the Napier Museum, Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and Kerala State Science and Technology Museum.

Exploring the city creates a historical, cultural and architectural context for a beach-focused holiday. It also provides shop options and access to the local cuisine beyond the coastal area.

Planning Your Kovalam Trip

Kovalam is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, giving time to enjoy beach walks, short excursions and wellness. Getting around is easy with taxis, auto-rickshaws and short drives connecting most attractions. Many travellers choose to go for curated Kovalam tour packages which can include accommodation, sightseeing, and any day-trips in the nearby area and find it especially helpful when travelling with family or seniors.

The best time to visit Kovalam is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and is perfect for both beach activities and sightseeing. Monsoon months are for those travellers who are interested in Ayurveda and those who want to escape from the noise and enjoy some quiet time.

Conclusion

Kovalam may be known for its beaches, but it is so much more than that. From historic temples to picturesque lakes, fishing harbours to backwaters, the region has a well-rounded travel experience. Each of the places mentioned here adds different dimensions to it – relaxation, culture, nature, or local life make Kovalam suitable for a wide variety of travellers.

By visiting these twelve destinations, visitors can have a deeper and more significant connection with this coastal portion of Kerala. Whether you are intending a short escape or a longer stay, Kovalam rewards those who take the time to look beyond the obvious and experience its quieter, richer side.