From sun-kissed fun to adventure on the run, discover the best things to do in Kovalam! This vibrant beach town in Kerala offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Visitors will discover everything they desire between peaceful beach walks, exciting water sports and cultural exploring in Kovalam. The beach town offers relaxation by quiet beaches and seafood cuisine while visitors should experience landmarks such as Lighthouse Beach and worship at Vizhinjam Temple. Tourists can experience the coastal charm by exploring the best-rated activities and scenic viewpoints. Take in an extraordinary adventure through Kerala Tour Package which provides the perfect guide for vacation destinations for nature lovers alongside adventure seekers and culture lovers.
Top 20 Things to Do in Kovalam
Kovalam stands as one of Kerala's lovely coastal treasures which delivers bliss to all who visit. The things to do in Kovalam provide both natural seaside beauty together with historical delights along with exhilarating outdoor activities. Tourists who visit Kovalam should experience its prime attractions which combine beach zen walks with swimming adventures together with cultural sightseeing of local areas. Let’s uncover the top activities!
1. Relax at Lighthouse Beach
The red and white striped lighthouse standing prominently on a stone outcrop has made Lighthouse Beach the main attraction of Kovalam. Sunbathing swimming and beach sports thrive on the combination of soft golden sands with clear blue waters at this location. When sunset arrives the beach becomes a vibrant shopping and dining destination throughout the evening.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Address: Lighthouse Beach Road, Kovalam, Kerala
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Kerala: A Paradise Of Unique Places
2. Climb the Vizhinjam Lighthouse
From its vantage point on Kurumsal Hill, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views that extend across both the Arabian Sea and the oceanfront coastlands. A breathtaking ocean panorama meets visitors at Vizhinjam Lighthouse after their climb of 142 steps both near dawn and near dusk. The operation of the lighthouse since 1972 adds to the maritime history of Kovalam.
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings for sunset views
- Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
- Address: Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Lighthouse Beach Road, Kovalam
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays
3. Explore Hawah Beach
Visitors often name Hawah Beach Eve's Beach because fishermen regularly conduct traditional practices that draw tourists for its peaceful atmosphere. During early mornings the fishing boats depart to navigate the waters. This beach has smaller crowds compared to Lighthouse Beach which makes it ideal for peaceful moments & the best things to do in Kovalam.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
- Address: Hawah Beach Road, Kovalam
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Suggested Read: Top Things to Do in Kerala For an Unforgettable Experience
4. Visit Samudra Beach
At Kovalam's northern end, Samudra Beach exists alone as the most distant shoreline. Walkers find this place perfect for peaceful relaxation while enjoying natural surroundings without facing typical tourist crowds. Observing the rough waves striking the rocky shores intensifies its beauty factor & makes it the best thing to do in Kovalam
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings
- Address: Samudra Beach Road, Kovalam
- Timings: Open 24 hours
5. Discover Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple
The Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple maintains an eighth-century heritage through its Dover rock-carved artworks that contain a single-shrine dedication to Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. Uncompleted masterpieces of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reveal essential information about historical artistic styles.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning
- Entry Fee: ₹10
- Address: Vizhinjam, Kovalam
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Suggested Read: Best Time To Visit Kerala: The 4 Seasons Guide
6. Marvel at the Kovalam Art Gallery
Tourists should visit Kovalam Art Gallery to see traditional and contemporary artworks at Kovalam including paintings along with sculptures and artefacts that showcase Kerala's extensive cultural legacy. A nexus of historical importance and artistic excellence creates Kovalam Art Gallery into a necessary stop for both art fans and people interested in history.
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoon
- Entry Fee: ₹20
- Address: Near Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
7. Boat Ride on Vellayani Lake
Visitors seeking tranquillity will find peace at Vellayani Lake which presents itself through its freshwater lake environment protected by lush vegetation. Traditional boat rides operate in this area together with annual boat competition occasions as well as opportunities to photograph natural landscapes. Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers should place this peaceful destination on their must-see list because the combination of peaceful waters with breathtaking natural views during sunset gives ita unique appeal.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening
- Entry Fee: Charges apply for boat rides
- Address: Vellayani, Kovalam
- Timings: Open 24 hours
8. Explore Halcyon Castle
The Travancore royal family utilized this 1930s construction as their summer residence before it became famous by its later name Kovalam Palace. A design integration of Kerala conventions and colonial design elements exists within the building's framework. The place operates as an upscale hotel while visitors can walk through its buildings and visit the gardens area.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning
- Address: Halcyon Castle Road, Kovalam
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
9. Visit Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
Near Theatre Junction stands the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium known officially as Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium which showcases rare fish species including squirrelfish moon wrasse and pufferfish. A pearl production technology demonstration stands as one of the aquarium's prominent features which made it the best things to do in Kovalam.
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoon
- Entry Fee: ₹20
- Address: Vizhinjam, Kovalam
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
10. Experience Ayurvedic Wellness at a Spa
Kovalam stands out as an Ayurvedic destination with multiple wellness facilities that deliver soothing medical treatments. Ayurvedic therapies from oil massages to Panchakarma sessions lead patients toward peaceful mental calmness during times of heavy stress.
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime
- Entry Fee: Varies based on treatment
- Address: Multiple locations in Kovalam
- Timings: Varies by spa
11. Enjoy Water Sports at Kovalam Beach
People seeking adventure will find their thrill at Kovalam Beach through its thrilling selection of water sports activities that include parasailing jet skiing and surfing. Both steady gold shores and transparent ocean waters have created a dream destination which attracts guests through peaceful activities and active experiences. People from both novice to expert levels can experience unforgettable excitement through these activities during their visit. Do not pass up the chance to live in the dynamic beach environment of Kovalam.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Entry Fee: Charges apply per activity
- Address: Kovalam Beach
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
12. Visit Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple
The temple exists to honour the powerful deity Lord Parasurama at this ancient place. Religious sources state this temple stands as one of only a few Indian shrines where believers worship this deity. Beyond its peaceful environment, Vizhuteesommmari Temple welcomes religious devotees as a place of spiritual tranquillity.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
- Address: Thiruvallam, Kovalam
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
13. Explore Karamana River and Backwater Cruises
The natural environment of Karamana River in Kovalam presents a tranquil experience among its coconut trees alongside flying birds. Houseboats and canoes take guests through Kerala's backwaters where they can witness unparalleled scenery along with local rural communities. Guests can have an unforgettable time between adventure and relaxation through this remarkable experience.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
- Entry Fee: Charges apply for boat rides
- Address: Karamana, Kovalam
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
14. Discover Aruvikkara Dam
Aruvikkara Dam, a picturesque dam on the Karamana River, offers a serene atmosphere perfect for picnics. Different fish species inhabit the fresh waters which create a peaceful resting spot. Vacationers can provide food to fish in addition to taking peaceful walks and enjoying nature. The location provides the ideal setting for people who want space and solitude as an escape from the rush of tourists.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon
- Address: Aruvikkara, Kovalam
- Timings: Open 24 hours
15. Taste Local Delicacies at Kovalam’s Seafood Restaurants
For those who love seafood Kovalam serves as your definitive eating destination. The beachfront restaurateurs of Kovalam dedicate their kitchen efforts to capturing daily fish discoveries and preparing grilled catches and prawns along with traditional Kerala dishes.
- Best Time to Visit: Lunch or dinner
- Entry Fee: Pay per meal
- Address: Multiple locations in Kovalam
- Timings: Varies by restaurant
16. Witness the Sunset at Edakallu Viewpoint
Travellers can enjoy breathtaking sunset vistas that bridge Samudra Beach with Lighthouse Beach from this stone viewpoint. Photographers will love taking advantage of the extensive views of coastal water extending across this location.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening
- Address: Edakallu, Kovalam
- Timings: Open 24 hours
17. Visit Padmanabhapuram Palace
Visitors access this historic wooden palace from Kovalam through an easy distance because it served previously as the royal seat of the Travancore rulers. Along with antique furnishings and historical wall paintings, this historical site exhibits splendid wood-crafted details.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning
- Entry Fee: ₹30 for adults, ₹10 for children
- Address: Padmanabhapuram, near Kovalam
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
18. Shop for Handicrafts at Kovalam’s Markets
Visitors at Kovalam can find artisan crafts alongside authentic local spices alongside an assortment of souvenir merchandise throughout the town markets. Shoppers exploring the market will discover homemade jewellery pieces alongside coir products which they can purchase.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening
- Address: Various markets in Kovalam
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
19. Participate in Kovalam Surf Club Activities
Guests at Kovalam Surf Club receive surf instruction and equipment rental access at every level through their platform in Kovalam. As a surf destination, Kovalam provides an ideal surfing experience to both new surfers and advanced wavesuiters.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Entry Fee: Charges apply for lessons and rentals
- Address: Kovalam Surf Club, Lighthouse Beach
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
20. Take a Day Trip to Poovar Island
Tourists visiting Poovar Island can enter from Kovalam by boat and discover its unspoiled mangrove forests and pristine beaches which create peaceful surroundings to protect guests from tourist masses. Nationalist visitors will discover this site offers perfect amenities which suit their needs.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning
- Entry Fee: Charges apply for boat rides
- Address: Poovar, near Kovalam
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Conclusion
Visitors appreciate Kovalam as the best destination that unites entertainment and exploration as well as restful experiences for all tastes. Everyone who visits the destination creates lasting memories no matter if their pursuit is laying on the beach researching historic sites or receiving traditional treatments from Ayurvedic practitioners, there are many exciting things to do in Kovalam for every traveler.. If you are planning to visit, prepare according to the best time to visit Kovalam that helps you spend a better time along with experiencing the coastal destinations which have beautiful natural scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the top things to do in Kovalam?
Some of the best things to do in Kovalam include visiting Lighthouse Beach, enjoying water sports at Hawa Beach, exploring Vellayani Lake, and experiencing Ayurvedic spas.
2. What is the best time to visit Kovalam?
The best time to explore things to do in Kovalam is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and beach activities.
3. Are there any adventure activities in Kovalam?
Yes, adventure lovers can enjoy surfing, parasailing, scuba diving, and snorkelling at Kovalam’s beaches, making it a great spot for thrill-seekers.
4. What are the famous attractions in Kovalam with entry fees?
Some popular attractions include Lighthouse Beach (Free), Vellayani Lake (Free), and Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium (₹30 per person).
