Best beaches in South India

As a country, India has it all, from huge metropolises to vast swathes of desert, jungles, mountains and idyllic beaches. The south of the country is home to some of the finest beaches, not only in India, but across the whole of Asia. Here is our guide to the best beaches in South India.

Om Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka – one of the best beaches in South India. Photo: Rafal Cichawa/Shutterstock

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Bangaram, Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep, located around 350 miles off the coast of Kerala, is a chain of coral atolls each ringed by arcs of blinding white sand that are lapped by crystal-clear waters. Unspoilt and virtually unpopulated sandy beaches, verdant coconut groves and calm lagoons that are safe to swim in are the main attractions, as well as diving on the surrounding reefs that abound with spectacular tropical fish, turtles, harmless sharks and rays.

Scheduled flights leave from Kochi to Bangaram, a formerly uninhabited island that has been developed as a resort. Ferries also run from the mainland and between the various islands of the archipelago. Access to Lakshadweep is controlled by the Indian Government, and foreign travellers must book through officially designated tour operators. The Society for Promotion of Nature, Tourism and Sports is the primary booking agency.

Varkala, Kerala

Backed by craggy red cliffs crowned by tall palm trees, Varkala Beach offers a broad sweep of golden sands that are known for their laid-back vibe. Swimming in the sea is possible but the currents can sometimes be strong so it is advisable to enter the waters carefully. The majority of accommodation is perched at the top of the cliffs from where you can take in magnificent ocean views.

The town is also one of Kerala’s major Hindu pilgrimage centers – the Janardana Temple is believed to be more than 2,000 years old, and the mineral springs here are much sought after for their curative properties.

Varkala Beach in Kerala. Photo: Dmitry Rukhlenko/Shutterstock

Palolem, Goa

Fringed by palm trees and lined with a range of relaxed bars, hotels and seafood restaurants, Palolem Beach is a beautiful one-mile-long stretch of golden sand in the south os Goa. The sheer size of the beach has allowed it to retain much of its natural beauty whilst also accommodating a thriving traveler scene. At its northern end, Monkey Island, is accessible by foot at low tide, while the beach itself is well sheltered and its calm waters are ideal for swimming.

Kovalam, Kerala

Set in a sheltered natural bay edged with golden sands and palm trees, Kovalam is Kerala’s biggest resort, but still a fine beach at which to enjoy some downtime. The southernmost beach, known as Lighthouse Beach, is the busiest, backed by hotels and restaurants. Well-policed by lifeguards, swimming is relatively safe, while the swell can sometimes produce big waves that are great for bodysurfing. Hawa Beach is the next stretch to the north, separated from Lighthouse Beach by a small promontory.

Fishing boats in the morning at Kovalam Beach, Kerala. Photo: Pikoso.kz/Shutterstock

Gokarna, Karnataka

Originally a hideaway for backpackers looking to escape the crowds in Goa, Gokarna is now a renowned beach destination in its own right, comprising a chain of laid-back resorts with crescent-shaped beaches, backed by the craggy coastal hills of Karnataka. The main and most popular beach at Gorkana is Om Beach, so called because of its likeness to the Hindu symbol when viewed from above. Often described as 'the sound of the universe' the Om is a sacred symbol in Hindu culture, and this feeling has transferred itself to the beach, which is still largely undeveloped and home to just a handful of bamboo bungalow guesthouses and restaurants.

Patnem, Goa

Although in close proximity to Palolem Beach, Patnem feels very different in terms of atmosphere and ambience. A more relaxing alternative to the lively Palolem, Patnem is a clean and well maintained stretch of golden sands that offers a good choice of relaxed restaurants, beach bars and accommodation just behind the beach, as well as several yoga retreats. Although the waters are not as calm as at neighboring Palolem, they are still more than safe enough to swim in, which helps make Patnem a favorite destination for families.

Patnem Beach, Goa, India. Photo: Saurav022/Shutterstock

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Written August, 2019

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