Kovalam

Kovalam is a set of three crescent bays separated by rocky headlands, of which Lighthouse Beach is the main one, named for the red and white banded Vizhinjam lighthouse standing on the promontory above it, which can be climbed for a view along the coast. It was the first part of the Kerala coast to become a travel destination, from the 1970s, and it is correspondingly developed, with hotels stacked up the slope behind. Ayurvedic treatment centres are a major part of what it sells. Fishing boats still work off Vizhinjam village at the southern end, and a large port has been built there.

What you actually see

• The three crescents - Lighthouse, Hawa and Samudra beaches.
• The lighthouse - the banded tower climbed for a coastal view.
• The ayurveda centres - treatment clinics along the beach road.
• Vizhinjam - the working fishing village and port at the south end.

When to go

October to March for calm seas; the monsoon from June to September brings rough water and closes much of the beach trade, though ayurveda centres treat through it by tradition.

Honest expectations

The beach is heavily developed and can feel crowded and commercial. Currents are strong and lifeguard coverage partial. Ayurveda centres vary enormously in qualification and some are simply spas.

Nearby

Thiruvananthapuram lies north; Varkala is further north.