Kerala beaches may be take a backseat because of the backwaters, but entire 600-km length of the Kerala coast is lined with sandy beaches, rocky promontories and coconut palms that definitely merit a visit in every tourist itinerary. Touring the beach sites of Kovalam can make any beach holiday a delightful one, as Kerala's beaches are renowned for the gentle surf and blue waters. Beach travel has never before been so exciting!

1. Kovalam Beach - small village along the shoreline, fabulous beaches, most popular is the Lighthouse Beach, the northern most Samudra beach, least affected.
   
   
2. Marari Beach - one of the local fishing villages, completely new to the holidaymaker, endless miles of superb sand beaches backed by swaying palms, virgin territory, local charm and traditional Kerala
   
   
3. Kumarakom Beach - cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Birds include Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian storks. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip.
   
   
4. Alappuzha Beach - a popular hangout and relaxation spot, around 140 years old pier that extends in to the sea, lagoons, vast lakes and numerous fresh water rivers, Alappuzha is a natural wonderland.
   
   
5. Beypore Beach - prominent ports and fishing harbours of ancient Kerala, also known for its ancient ship building industry.
   
   
6. Varkala Beach - the most popular beach resorts in Kerala, mineral water springs with medicinal properties, also an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.
   
   
7. Fort Kochi Beach - historic fort, leisurely walk through the lanes of the city to learn about eventful colonial history and European regimes who ruled it.
   
   
8. Kappad Beach in Kerala - Vasco da Gama landed on its shores on 27th May 1498 with 170 men in three vessels. A pillar with inscription "Vasco Da Gama landed here, Kappakkadavau in the year 1498" stands on the beach. The beach here is very calm with a stretch of rocks projecting into the sea.
   
   
9. Dharmadam Island - beautiful beach island, coconut palms, green bushes, breathtaking sight. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island.
   
   
10. Ezhimala Beach - a picturesque site with a hilly backdrop, carved Stone Pillars, an ancient Burial chamber and an ancient Cave can be seen at the foot of the hills, famous for medicinal herbs.
    
    
11. Mopila Bay - natural fishing harbour with quite a modernised fishing harbour look, built with assistance under the Indo-Norwegian pact, ruined fort and temple.
    
    
12. Muzhappilangad Beach - one of the longest beaches in Kerala, also the only drive-in beach in India.
    
    
13. Pathiramanal Beach - island beach on the Backwaters, a favourite natural hub of hundreds of rare migratory birds that reside over here from different parts of the land.
    
    
14. Payyambalam Beach - beautiful beach sites, surfing in calm and peaceful waters.
    
    
15. Sankhumugham Beach - breathtaking sunset, a favourite haunt of sunset watchers.
    
    
16. Tanur Beach - coastal fishing town believed to be visited by Francis Xavier in the year 1546 AD.
    
    
17. Thangassery Beach - a seaside village of historic importance, ruins of an old Portuguese Fort and churches built in the 18th century. 144 feet high Thangaserry Lighthouse open to visitors from 1530-1730 hours every day.
    
    
18. Thirumullavaram Beach - beautiful beach filled with coconut palms, ideal for an early morning walk.