Top 10 Best Tourist Places in Kovalam You Must Visit

Kovalam, a small coastal town located in the southern part of Kerala, is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil atmosphere, Kovalam has become a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for sunbathing on golden sands or exploring the hidden gems of the region, Kovalam has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best tourist places in Kovalam that you must visit during your vacation.

1. Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse Beach is undoubtedly the most famous and iconic beach in Kovalam, making it the perfect starting point for any trip to this coastal town. Named after the tall and majestic Vizhinjam Lighthouse that overlooks the beach, this location offers picturesque views of the Arabian Sea. The lighthouse is open to visitors and provides a panoramic view of the coastline, which is simply breathtaking. The calm waters of the beach are ideal for swimming, and the beach is lined with a variety of cafes and restaurants offering delicious Kerala seafood. Whether you’re strolling along the shore or watching the sunset from the lighthouse, Lighthouse Beach is a must-see destination in Kovalam.

2. Samudra Beach

If you’re looking for a quieter and less crowded beach, Samudra Beach is the place to be. Located a little further north from Lighthouse Beach, this beautiful stretch of sand offers a more serene and peaceful atmosphere. The shallow waters make it perfect for a leisurely swim, and the tranquil surroundings make it an excellent spot for a peaceful retreat. Samudra Beach is ideal for those who prefer solitude and wish to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular beaches.

3. Hawah Beach

Located between Lighthouse Beach and Samudra Beach, Hawah Beach is another gem that is known for its scenic beauty. With its soft golden sands and calm waters, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Hawah Beach is also a fantastic spot for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like parasailing, surfing, and windsurfing. The beach is less commercialized than Lighthouse Beach, which gives it a more authentic and unspoiled charm. It’s a great location to spend the day unwinding by the water.

4. Vellayani Lake

Vellayani Lake, located about 7 kilometers from Kovalam, offers a refreshing change from the beaches and is an excellent spot for nature lovers. The freshwater lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful environment perfect for a boat ride. The serene atmosphere makes it ideal for relaxation, and you can enjoy a calm and scenic walk along the lake’s banks. For those interested in birdwatching, Vellayani Lake is also home to several species of migratory birds during the monsoon season. This hidden gem is one of the best tourist places in Kovalam for those seeking tranquility.

5. Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium

For a closer look at marine life, the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium is a fascinating place to visit. Located near the Vizhinjam Harbor, this aquarium showcases a variety of aquatic species native to the region, including colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. The aquarium is an excellent place for families and kids to learn about the diverse marine ecosystem while enjoying the educational displays. It also provides a peaceful and refreshing escape from the busy beach areas.

6. Kovalam Art Gallery

Art lovers visiting Kovalam will appreciate a visit to the Kovalam Art Gallery. Located near the Lighthouse Beach, this gallery is dedicated to showcasing Kerala’s rich cultural heritage through traditional artworks. The gallery features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts from local artists. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about Kerala’s artistic traditions, the Kovalam Art Gallery is a great place to explore and appreciate the local craftsmanship.

7. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

While it’s not located directly in Kovalam, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, around 15 kilometers from Kovalam, is an important spiritual and historical site. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this ancient temple is one of the richest and most revered in India. The temple's architectural grandeur, with its intricately carved stone structures and towering gopurams (entrance towers), is truly a sight to behold. Visitors can explore the temple’s majestic design and immerse themselves in its serene and sacred atmosphere. A visit to this temple offers an enriching cultural experience in addition to the natural beauty of Kovalam.

8. Ayurvedic Spas and Wellness Centers

Kovalam is known for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness centers that offer rejuvenating therapies. Many resorts and hotels in the area feature specialized Ayurvedic spas where you can indulge in traditional Kerala massages, detoxification treatments, and other wellness therapies. The calming atmosphere and therapeutic treatments make it the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and take care of your body and mind. Visiting an Ayurvedic spa in Kovalam is an essential part of the experience, especially for those seeking health and wellness during their vacation.

9. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach itself is a charming destination that has something to offer to everyone. Whether you’re looking to engage in water sports, swim in the gentle waves, or simply relax under the sun, Kovalam Beach provides the perfect setting. The beach is also dotted with small stalls selling local handicrafts, beachwear, and souvenirs. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely day by the water, with the added convenience of nearby cafes and restaurants serving delicious snacks and seafood.

10. Poovar Island

Though a bit further from Kovalam (approximately 30 minutes by boat), Poovar Island is worth the visit. This picturesque island is known for its serene backwaters, golden sand beaches, and lush vegetation. The island is a haven for nature lovers, and you can enjoy boat rides through the backwaters or explore the nearby estuaries. Poovar Island is an idyllic escape, offering an opportunity to relax in the lap of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas.

Conclusion

Kovalam, with its stunning beaches, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage, is one of the best tourist places in Kovalam for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration. From the iconic Lighthouse Beach to the peaceful Samudra Beach, and from the scenic Vellayani Lake to the spiritual Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking to unwind, indulge in water sports, or explore Kerala’s rich history and culture, Kovalam is sure to offer you an unforgettable vacation.