Around 15 kms from the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram is the one of the most famous beaches of India, for local as well as international tourists, the Kovalam Beach. The small village of Kovalam came into limelight due to its beautiful beaches; those were thronged by tourists from all over the world. The uniqueness of the beaches was what attracted the tourists to this tiny village.
Kovalam in the local language means, place fringed with coconut palms, and indeed it is. Kovalam is full of coconut trees and soothing seashore, one of the best in India for swimming and other water sports.
The beaches of Kovalam are in a crescent like shape and can be divided in three parts. To the south is the most popular beach known as the lighthouse beach. One can have a spectacular view of the Vizhinzam Mosque from here. The northern most beach is known as the Samudra Beach and in between lies the beach called Hawah. While the other two beaches are mostly used for fishing purposes, it is only the Lighthouse beach that is full of tourists day in and out.
The soothing sand, the cool breeze and the beautiful sea, is the best place to relax. Kovalam beach offers many other options for relaxation such as the Ayurvedic massage parlours and Yoga classes. To top all the wonderful sea cuisine to cheer one's palate is always there.
The nights on the beaches are enlivened with the traditional Kathakali dance performances and various other folk forms of art performed by the local artists.