Some of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in the country are located in South India. These beaches are known for their sand, which is golden in color, its pure and blue water, and the calm surrounding it. From the backwaters of Kerala to the coastline of Tamil Nadu, each beach is a treasure holding its own secret.

If you are fond of the sound of waves and the sight of sunsets, South India is a dream destination for you. Imagine walking on the soft sand barefoot, getting spent in coconut water and letting the sea breeze touch your face. Whether you need tranquility or adventure, these beaches have something for everyone.

In this blog, we will talk about the top 18 beautiful beaches you should include in your South India list. You’ll learn about their special features, nearby things that are nearby and what could be the perfect holiday place for you and your family away from the beach next time.

1.Varkala Beach

Varkala in Kerala The Varkala beach is popular for its beautiful red cliffs and tranquil sea views. The combination of the tranquil waves and the golden sand makes it an ideal location for a relaxing time and a photo opportunity.

People come here to go to yoga classes, seafood cafes and sunset strolls along the edge of the cliff. The beach allows you to enjoy the tranquility away from urban life and provides you with a true coastal experience.

Best Time to visit: October to March

How To Reach: Nearest airport is Trivandrum International airport (Nearest 40 Kms)

Budget: Invalid at 4,000 – 2000 per day (excluding stay and food)

2.Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach is among the most popular beaches in Kerala with a beautiful lighthouse and tranquil waters. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing and viewing colourful sunsets.

The beach is basically divided into three parts namely Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach, each having a flavoring of its own. Ayurvedic massages, water sports and seaside cafes are also available to deliver to visitors.

Best Season to Visit: September to February

How to Access: Closest Airport Trivandrum International Airport (approx. 15km distance).

Budget:₹2,500 – 5000 in a day (including stay & meals)

3.Marina Beach

Chennai’s Marina Beach is one of the longest coastal cities beaches. It is known for its broad beach of sand, vibrant ambience and beautiful sunrise view.

This beach is a crowded place for families, joggers and travelers to ride horses, have local food and stroll in the evening by the sea. The beach also serves as a home for famous landmarks such as statues of the poets from Tamil state and also the MGR Memorial.

Best Season toVisit: November to February

How to Reach Easily less than 18 km from Chennai city centre, closest airport isChennai International Airport

Budget: 1500/-3000/day (food & transport)

4.Mahabalipuram Beach

Tamil Nadu’s Mahabalipuram Beach is known for the ancient rock cut temples and golden sands. The beach is a combination of history and natural beauty and is a favorite destination for tourists.

Visitors could visit the shore temple and parasurika and spend their time surfing or relaxing at the tranquil coastline. Would be a great place for sea and culture lovers

Best Season to Visit: November to March

Travel: Closest airport is Chennai International Airport (nearly 55km away).

Budget: Target – Rs 2000 to Rs 4000 per day (this includes stay & sight seeing)

5.Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar)

Also known as Besant Nagar Beach, Elliot Beach is a safe and peaceful beach in Chennai. It is much less crowded than Marina Beach and is a favourite place for evening walks and sunset for the locals.

The beach is peaceful with cafes, street food outlets and the famous Ashtolakshmi Temple in the vicinity. It is a nice place to unwind and have coffee by the sea or have a good time with friends.

Best Season toVisit: November to February

How to Reach: Located in Besant Nagar which is about 14 km from the Chennai Central, and easily reachable via cabs or buses

Budget: 1500/-3000/day (food & transport)

6.Rameswaram Beach

Rameswaram Beach is present in the state of Tamil Nadu, which is famous for the blue water. It is a sacred as well as a scenic location as it is a neighbor of the renowned Ramanathaswamy Temple.

Visitors shop here to munch on and relax, take holy dips, and to enjoy the view of the Pamban Bridge. The calm waves and their clean surroundings create it as a great place for walking and finding peace.

Best Travelling Season: October to April

How to Access: From Madurai Airport (laps 170 km); Rameswaram has its own railway station.

Budget:Currency Symbol INR – USD$400 – $800/day (Room and Transport included)

7.Auroville Beach

Auroville Beach will also be known as Auro Beach, as this is a serene beach close to the township of Auroville in Puducherry. It has been famous for its soft golden sand, gentle waves and relaxing environment.

This beach is suitable for swimming, taking morning walks, and watching surfers catch waves. It’s also a favorite weekend tourist destination due to its calmness and beauty.

Best Season to Visit: November to March

How to Approach: Closest airport is Puducherry Airport (approx. 10 km); very easy to approach by auto or taxi.

Budget: Rs. 1500 – Rs. 3000 per day (Accommodation and Food Included)

8.Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach in Puducherry is exactly what it says with crystal clear waters and golden sand. Located among lush surroundings, she’s one of the cleanest beaches in South India surrounded by coconut trees.

To reach this beach, visitors ride a little boat ride from the Chunnambar Boat House which makes the ride even more exciting. The calm atmosphere and peaceful environment makes it a perfect place for swimming and picnicking.

Best Season to Visit: November to March

Addition: Accessible by boat from Chunnambar Boat House (7 km from Puducherry city)

Budget: INR2000 – INR4000 per day (including boat ride & food)

9.Gokarna Beach

Gokarna Beach, Karnataka is a serene and spiritual place amidst the environment of green hills and blue water. It is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, yoga retreats and stunning sun sets.

Unlike one of the busy tourist beaches, Gokarna is the quiet getaway place for all the nature and meditation lovers. There are also other beaches that you can visit in the vicinity such as Om Beach and Kudle Beach for added adventure.

Best Season to Visit: October to March

How to reach- Nearest airport Investment city Dabolim Airport, Goa(About 140 km) and Gokarna has a railway station

Budget: Rpy 2000 – Rpy 4000 daily (holiday and food included).

10.Om Beach

Om Beach: Gokarna Karnataka- Om Beach is a natural beach in Gokarna that is shaped like the sacred symbol Om, hence the name. Anandarkoil beach is one of the most popular beaches of South India, which is famous for its beauty and peaceful waters.

The beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and lazing in beachfront cafes. Many tourists also head out for short treks to neighbouring beaches like Half Moon and Paradise Beach.

Best Season to Visit: October to March

How to Arrive: Closest airport is Dabolim Airport, Goa (approx 145km away); autos and taxis available from Gokarna town (nothing else)

Budget: Rs. 2000 – Rs. 4500 per day (including accommodation, meal and local transport)

11.Kapu Beach

Kaup Beach: The former name of Kapu Beach, also known as Kaup Beach, in Karnataka is a beautiful shoreline destination which boasts of a high-lignum lighthouse and appreciateable clean sand even on the beaches. The beach is a perfect place to watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

It is a peaceful spot where one can climb up the lighthouse for a panoramic view or just unwind by the water. The restful atmosphere makes it ideal for families and nature indeed.

Best Season to Visit: October to February

How to Reach: Nearest railway station is at Udupi (about 12 km away) Taxi/bus Local+/MT

Budget: 1500 Robles to 3000 Robles per day including food and travels around the Island

12.Malpe Beach

Malpe Beach, Karnataka, is one of the most vibrant as well as beautiful beaches on the western coast. It’s notorious for its golden sand, clear waters and exciting water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.

From here visitors can take a short boat rise into St. Mary’s Island that is known for its unique rock formations. The beach is clean and well-maintained and is perfect for adventure enthusiasts and families.

Best Season to Visit: October to February

How to Access: Closest railway station Udupi (about 6 km from us); easy accessible by taxi/auto.

Budget: Rs 2000 – Rs 4000 per day (it includes stay, food and activities)

13.Maravanthe Beach

Maravanthe Beach, Karnataka is among the most scenic beaches in India, flanked by Arabian Sea on one side and Suparnika River on the other side. The sight of the sea and river flowing side by side is a truly impressive view.

It is an excellent place for driving, swimming and taking photos. A peaceful and uncrowded beach suit for travelers who prefer tranquility and natural beauty.

Best time to visit: September till March

How to Reach: Kundapura (18 km., train station); 1 hour by car or 2 hours by bus from Udupi

Budget: 15000 – 30000/day (including your stay and travel around the region)

14.Bekal Beach

Bekal Beach in Kerala is very famous for its ancient Bekal Fort and never-ending sea views. The beach is a blend of history, culture and natural beauty and hence it is a must visit place in South India.

Tourists can stroll over the walls of the forts, experience the sea breeze and watch the waves break on the rocks. It is a tranquil spot suitable for sightseeing and rest.

Best Season to Visit: October to March

How to Arrive: Closest Railway station is Bekal Fort Station (ca. 1 km). Closest Airport is Mangalore Airport (ca. 65 km)

Budget: Rs 2000 – Rs 4000 per day (absolutely inclusive of stay, food – and transport).

15.Alappuzha (Alleppey) Beach

Alappuzha Beach or Alleppey Beach is one of the popular beaches of Kerala. It is famous for its long pier which extends into the sea and the gorgeous view of golden sunsets.

The beach is near the world-renowned backwaters of Alleppey and hence the beach is an ideal place to go for both houseboat cruise and a stroll on the beach. It is clean, quiet and perfect for families and couples.

Appropriate Season: November through February

How To Reach: Nearest railway station is Alleppey ( approximate 2 Kms away); Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport ( approximate 83Kms away)

Budget: Rs. 2000 – Rs. 4500 per day (Accommodation, meals, Houseboat Experienced included).

16.Cherai Beach

Cherai Beach: Kerala witness is seeing the beach Cherai beach located close to Kochi which is a beautiful stretch of sand near Kerala – backwaters of Arabian Sea are located here. It is famous for its clean and clear environment, gentle waves, and a calm atmosphere.

The beach is ideal for swimming, encountering dolphins and dining on fresh seafood at adjoining beach shacks. It’s a wonderful combination of a village with a coast color and a relaxing holiday.

Best Season to Visit: October to March

The following shows how to reach this place by taxi, bus, monitors, railways, etc. Highest Taxi Fare: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (approx. 26 km away); reachable by taxi or by bus – easily.

Budget: 2,000 – 4,000 rupees per day(minimum), this includes stay, food& local transport

17.Kaup Beach

Kaup Beach is situated near Udupi in Karnataka and is renowned for a large lighthouse, golden sands and clean transparent water. The panorama of the top of the lighthouse is stunning, particularly at sunset.

It is a quiet and beautiful beach, ideal for photos, picnics and quiet walks at night. The natural charm along with the relaxing waves makes it ideal for the family and solo travelers as well.

Best Season to Visit: October to February

How to Come: WTR nearby railway station Udupi (around 13 km) can be reached by taxi or crowded public bus.

Budget: Indians: 3000 – 5000 per day (including food and local transport)

18.Tarkarli Beach

Tarkarli Beach, located near the southern border of Maharashtra, is often included in South India beach trips for its clear blue water and coral views. It’s famous for snorkeling, scuba diving, and its long stretch of white sand.

The beach offers a perfect mix of adventure and peace, with charming homestays and local seafood spots nearby. It’s a great destination for those who love water sports and natural beauty.

Best Season to Visit: October to March

Starting Point: Kudal railway station is the closest station (45 km away) and Dabolim Airport, Goa is the closest airport (130 km away).

Idea of what the price for the trip may be: Rs. 2,500 – 5,000/day (accommodation, food, activities).

Some Tips For Better Journey

Traveling to the beaches of South India can be more fun and comfortable with a little planning. Always carry light clothes, sunscreen, and enough water to stay fresh under the tropical sun.

Try to book your stay and transport in advance, especially during peak tourist months. Keep your valuables safe, respect local culture, and enjoy the beauty of nature with a calm and happy mind.

Conclusion

Beaches in South India are full of beauty, peace, and adventure. Each beach has its own charm, from calm sunsets to exciting water sports.

Whether you love relaxing by the sea or exploring new places, South India’s beaches have something special for everyone. So pack your bags, feel the sea breeze, and make memories that will last forever.

FAQs

1. Which is the most popular beach in South India?
Kovalam Beach in Kerala is one of the most popular beaches, known for its lighthouse and calm waves.

2. What is the best time to visit beaches in South India?
The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

3. Are South Indian beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, most beaches are safe, but always check local safety signs and avoid swimming during rough tides.

4. Which beach is best for water sports in South India?
Malpe Beach in Karnataka and Kovalam Beach in Kerala are great for activities like jet skiing and parasailing.

5. Can I find budget stays near South Indian beaches?
Yes, many beaches offer budget-friendly hotels, homestays, and beach huts close to the shore.