Kovalam – an almost forgotten place by the sea

A place that not too many heard about. A crescent-shaped seaside that is often overlooked by winter beachgoers. A little oasis where tourism forms a perfect blend with age-old traditions. An exotic escape alive and laid back at the same time. Somewhere by the Arabian sea, towards the Southern tip of India, Kerala’s little beach town is something called love at first sight I guess.

From breathtaking beaches to towering rocks, from tourists with cameras to chanting fishermen there is something about this place hard to describe, yet the memories are as colorful as an HD camera footage. Swaying coconut trees, the smell of fried fish in the air, colorful ‘mundus’ and happy people. Put on your flip-flops and see Kovalam yourself.

EVERYTHING IS ABOUT THE SEA

• Do not miss:

Can’t get any more fresh – Samudra beach, Kovalam

Kovalam’s real charm is in its traditional fishing and trading. Head to Samudra beach to see fishermen lining up and singing while pulling a giant net towards the shore from far inside the sea. Never getting interrupted by nosy tourists they motivate each other with local tunes while trying to beat some strong currents to finally put their hands on the daily catch. Once the net is out of the water the business is on the floor in a wide variety of fish all over. The trade happens right at the spot with a quick auction where the loudest and cheekiest ones take it all.

• Breath in the views:

Out of the blue filming spot – Samudra beach, Kovalam

Take a walk from Samudra beach through Hawa beach to Lighthouse beach and check out the diverse features of nature, sea, rock and sand. There is always something unexpected happening at the coast, you might even run into a movie shooting or such.

• Swim along the shores:

Stress-free and quiet – Hawa beach, Kovalam

For a piece of mind put down your towel at quieter Hawa beach. If you like to mix with the crowd you are better off with the always-active Lighthouse beach.

• Feel the speed:

Honeymoon in style – Hawa beach, Kovalam

Lots of local individuals offer speedboat trips to explore the shores from the water. A 45-min private boating will cost you around 1200 Rs.

• Surf the waves:

For the daily adrenaline rush watersport lovers can hire surfboards and body boards at Lighthouse beach.

• Check-out the landmark:

Fishermen’s guide grants scenic backdrop for sunbathers – Lighthouse beach, Kovalam 

Peeking up high in the sky, the picture perfect lighthouse of Kerala is the major landmark of Kovalam. Visit between 3pm and 5pm any day.

DINE (& WINE)

You don’t get this everyday – Tandoori fish in Kovalam

There are just an abundant amount of fish restaurants along the shores where you can get a taste of some fresh catch. The tandoori fish with tandoori naan is a must try. EvenTheMemoryIsMouthwatering.

Tips:

• Always order fresh onion with lemon along your fish. Very pleasant combination.
• Due to the strict regulation on alcohol sale and consumption in Kerala you’re better off asking the restaurant in advance in case you are after some booze (why wouldn’t you be) to avoid any disappointment.

A PLEASANT STAY

Infinity – Hotel Puja Samudra, Kovalam

Hotel Puja Samudra is a new gem near Samudra beach. Neat and spacious rooms overlooking the pool, excellent service and very affordable prices make this an ideal choice to spend the night. Stay in for lunch or dinner at least once. Their kitchen is delicious.

GET THERE

Kovalam is about 30-min drive from Trivandrum International Airport. A taxi ride to Kovalam will cost you around 500 Rs.

Trivandrum Central Railway station is a mere 12 km away where you can get a number of connections to Cochin.