Kovalam Beach
Posted on Monday, July 8th, 2024 by shipra
Chennai’s Coastal Gem: The Beauty of Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach Chennai, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is renowned for its stunning crescent-shaped coastline and pristine waters. This popular tourist destination is famous for its three adjacent beaches—Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach—each offering unique charm and picturesque views. Kovalam’s significance lies in its vibrant culture, bustling local markets, and array of water sports, making it a hub for both relaxation and adventure. An intriguing fact about Kovalam Beach is that it was once a favorite getaway for European royalty in the 1930s, adding a touch of historical allure to its natural beauty.
| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Kovalam Beach |
| Location | Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, India |
| Type | Beach resort destination |
| Length | Approximately 17 kilometers |
| Activities | Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, parasailing, catamaran rides, beach volleyball, and Ayurvedic massages |
| Notable Features | Three adjacent crescent-shaped beaches – Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach |
| Attractions | Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Vellayani Lake, Halcyon Castle, and nearby Ayurvedic spas |
| Facilities | Beachside resorts, hotels, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and water sports facilities |
| Accessibility | Accessible by road from Thiruvananthapuram city; nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport |
| Timings | Open year-round; preferred time for visiting is during daylight hours |
| Entry Fee | Free |
History of Tourism at Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has a rich history intertwined with the region’s cultural and colonial past. Located about 40 kilometers south of Chennai along the East Coast Road, this beach, also known as Covelong Beach, has been a significant site since the 17th century.
The village of Kovalam originally gained prominence when the Dutch built a fort there in the late 1600s. This fort, which eventually fell to the French and then the British, marked Kovalam as an important point of contention among European colonial powers. The remnants of this fort still stand today, adding a historical element to the scenic beauty of the beach.
How to Reach Kovalam Beach
- By Bus: Frequent buses connect Chennai city to Kovalam Beach. From Chennai International Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the beach conveniently.
- By Flight: Fly to Chennai International Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Kovalam Beach.
- By Train: Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore are the nearest major railway stations. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to the beach.
Best Time To Visit Kovalam Beach Chennai
November to February:
- Pleasantly cool weather
- Ideal for beach activities
- Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
- Peak tourist season with fully operational facilities and attractions
June to September:
- Monsoon season
- Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel and outdoor activities
March to May:
- Extremely hot and humid
- Less comfortable for beachgoers
Kovalam Beach Chennai Activities and Attractions:
Kovalam Beach Chennai offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to various interests:
Water Sports:
- Surfing: Kovalam Beach Chennai surfing is a popular tourist spot attracting beginners and experienced surfers. The beach has surf schools offering lessons and equipment rentals.
- Swimming: The calm waters make it an ideal location for swimming. Lifeguards are often on duty, ensuring a safe environment for visitors.
- Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world and discover the vibrant marine life. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent at various spots along the beach.
Exploring the Local Culture:
- Visiting Temples: The area around Kovalam Beach is dotted with ancient temples that offer a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. Notable temples include the Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple.
- Local Markets: Wander through nearby markets where you can find traditional handicrafts, local produce, and souvenirs
- Fishing Villages: A visit to the nearby fishing villages offers insight into the daily lives of the local fishermen. You can see traditional fishing methods and even join a fishing expedition.
Dining and Cuisine
Local Delicacies and Seafood:
- Fresh catches like fish, prawns, and crabs.
- Traditional Tamil spices and coconut-based gravies.
- Must-try dishes: meen kuzhambu (fish curry) and prawn masala.
Recommended Restaurants and Eateries:
- Surf Turf: Beachside ambiance, seafood platters.
- Bay View: Fine dining with stunning ocean views.
Unique Culinary Experiences:
- Enjoying a meal at a coastal shack.
- Participating in a seafood barbecue on the beach.
Insider Tips and Recommendations:
- Budget: Surf Turf, Nirvana Boutique Hotel.
- Mid-Range: Vivanta by Taj – Fisherman’s Cove, Green Coconut Resort.
- Luxury: InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, The Leela Palace Chennai.
- From Chennai: Taxi, public buses.
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, rental bicycles/scooters.
- Covelong Point: Quiet surfing spot.
- Muttukadu Backwaters: Kayaking and boat rides.
- DakshinaChitra Museum: Showcases South Indian culture.
- Offshore Fishing Trips: Experience local fishing.
Nearby Attractions in the Kovalam Beach Chennai
- Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Offers panoramic views of the coastline.
- Hawa Beach: Known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.
- Samudra Beach: Less crowded, ideal for peaceful walks and relaxation.
- Karamana River: Perfect for boat rides and exploring natural beauty.
- Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to diverse flora and fauna, great for nature walks and safaris.
- Kovalam Art Gallery: Showcases local art and cultural exhibits.
Visitor Guidelines and Pro Tips
- Keep the beach clean and avoid littering.
- Obey lifeguard instructions and be cautious of strong currents.
- Bring water and stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
- Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to prevent sunburn.
- Negotiate prices when shopping but be respectful to local vendors.
Other Popular Places in Chennai
Other popular beaches in Chennai include Marina Beach, famous for its vast expanse and lively atmosphere; Elliot’s Beach, known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic views; and Besant Nagar Beach, appreciated for its clean shores and recreational activities. These beautiful destinations are ideal for locals and tourists, offering perfect spots for walks and beachside relaxation.
- Brihadeeswarar Temple
- Ekambareswarar Temple
- Golden Beach
- Jambukeswarar Temple
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple
- Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Places To Visit In Chennai
- Ramanathaswamy Temple
- Silver Beach
- Marina Beach
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Fort St George
- Gulf Of Mannar Marine National Park
- Places To Visit In Coimbatore
Other Popular Beaches in India
Kovalam Beach isn’t the only spectacular beach in India. Many other beaches across the country are well worth a visit. Want to explore them? Check out the details below.
- Maravanthe Beach
- Juhu Beach
- Versova Beach
- Golden Beach
- Silver Beach
- Marina Beach
Other Popular Attractions in India
India offers a rich and diverse array of tourist attractions that draw visitors globally. Highlights include the famous Taj Mahal in Agra, the bustling streets of Delhi, and a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural sites. Tourists can explore the grand forts and palaces of Rajasthan, the peaceful backwaters of Kerala, and the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi, showcasing the breadth of India’s tourism offerings.
Visit Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park With Cheap Packages At MyTicketsToIndia
Longing for an extraordinary beach escape? MyTicketsToIndia offers an array of holiday packages tailored to explore the allure of Kovalam Beach. Whether you’re in search of economical flights from Australia to India or expert travel advice, we’re your one-stop destination. Act fast—secure your tickets today and gear up for an unforgettable coastal retreat with fantastic savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are Kovalam Beach Chennai timings?
A: The timings for Kovalam Beach Chennai typically follow natural daylight hours. However, it’s generally open to visitors throughout the day, from early morning until evening.
Q: Is there a beach house in Kovalam Chennai?
A: Yes, there are beach houses and resorts located near Kovalam Beach in Chennai. These accommodations offer beachfront views and convenient access to the shoreline, providing guests with a relaxing and great beach experience.
Q: Are there resorts near Kovalam Beach Chennai?
A: Yes, there are resorts near Kovalam Beach in Chennai. These include Vivanta by Taj – Fisherman’s Cove, Green Coconut Resort, and InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, offering various amenities and accommodations for a comfortable stay close to the beach.