Tucked along the coast of Malabar in Kerala is Kappad Beach, a tranquil paradise with rich historical and cultural importance. This quiet beach, located 16 kilometres from the bustle of Kozhikode, witnessed the first step of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama on Indian soil in 1498, which changed the course of world history forever. Kappad Beach, with its white sands, gentle waves, and lush green surroundings, can be an ideal getaway for the tired and adventurous traveller. Kappad Beach is also popularly known as Kappakadavu. It offers a landscape view and is a calm place to be around. Contrasted with some of India’s other beaches, Kappad has retained its natural environment and tranquillity, making it one of the best places to unwind, rejuvenate, and become one with nature. Rocky outcrops flank either side of the beach, with swaying coconut groves that line them to form a beautiful setting during sunset or even for casual walking on the beach. 

Top Places To Visit Near Kappad Beach

The Kappad Beach boating and backwater exploration facilities in the nearby Korapuzha River increase its beauty and charisma. Be it the history buffs, the nature addicts, or even those in quest of peace, Kappad Beach has everything. Here are the places to visit and things to do at Kappad Beach, making it at least a good destination for your following holidays. Kappad Beach Places to Visit and Things to Do

1. Vasco da Gama Memorial

vasco da gama memorial is located close to Kappad beach

Image Credit: Don Esteban Alejandro for Wikimedia Commons

One of the significant landmarks, the Vasco da Gama Memorial at Kappad Beach, links itself back to the arrival of the great Portuguese explorer in 1498. That is what that simple but poignant stone monument speaks for—the effect of Vasco da Gama’s voyage on world trade and cultural exchange. This memorial will be an excellent vantage point for history buffs to sit back on the beach, reflect on its chequered past, and learn how events here dictated the course of Indian history. This monument has been raised in celebration of the landfall of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in India in 1498, which marked the beginning of the European Age of Discovery in Asia.

Location:  Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free

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2. Kappad Beach Shoreline

the picturesque shoreline

Image Credit: Dijaraj Nair for Wikimedia Commons

The best part of Kappad Beach is the calm and serene atmosphere, which forms a background ideal for relaxation and enjoyment. The beach boasts clean sands, gentle waves, and the soothing sound of palm leaves. Strolling along the shore, sunbathing, or dipping in the calm waters would never tire anyone on this beach. It is also a perfect picnic spot where large numbers of families and groups of friends visit.

Location: Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free

3. Kappad Beach Backwaters

Image Credit: Irvin Calicut for Wikimedia Commons

Kerala’s backwaters, close to Kappad Beach, provide an experience of the intricate network of waterways that Kerala is famous for, probably for the first time in one’s life. Boat rides through serene backwaters amidst greenery, village life, and different species of birds can be done here. The backwaters are an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking the serene beauty of the countryside in Kerala.

Location: Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: Subject to the discretion of the boat operator
Entrance Fee: Dependent on the boat operator

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4. Thikkoti Light House

thikkoti light house is an iconic place.

Image Credit: KV Gopalakrishnan for Wikimedia Commons

A little away from the Beach is another tourist destination of Kozhikode, the Thikkoti Lighthouse. The 19th-century lighthouse commands panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the coastline. This lighthouse offers a different view from that visible at the top, which is apt for photography. Constructed during the late 19th century, it offers fantastic panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the rugged coastline. One can climb up to the top of the house for a unique perspective and take some great snaps of the surroundings in a particular manner. Constructed on the site where once lay a shipwreck, the lighthouse portrays the rich nautical heritage of this region. This is an ideal destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, bringing together historical significance and natural beauty.

Location: Thikkoti, Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Nominal entrance fee

5. Beypore Port

beypore port is a must visit for cultural lovers.

Image Credit: Amruthasasikumar for Wikimedia Commons

Though relatively far from Kappad Beach, Beypore Port is a historic port town, amazingly well-known for its shipbuilding industry. So, in this place, traditional ships, more popularly known as ‘Uru,’ are still built using the techniques passed down through generations. One can walk along the shipyards, meet with these craftsmen, and even witness the construction process of such magnificent vessels. Beypore Port stands for the great and rich sea-faring traditions that made Kerala. The port has been a trading centre of relevance for several hundred years and connected Kerala to the Middle East and beyond. Beypore, in fact, still resorts to traditional methods for making wooden ships to this day. Developed and passed down through generations in wonderfully crafted wooden ships called ‘Uru,’ starting from visiting shipyards to witnessing the construction process for majestic vessels, meeting skilled craftsmen, and getting an insight into the rich maritime traditions of Kerala and its age-old cultural practices, there is a lot that Beypore Port offers to the visitors.

Location: Beypore, Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free

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6. Dolphin’s Point

dolphin’s can be seen at kappad beach

Image Credit: Bipin VK for Wikimedia Commons

At Dolphin’s Point, one can offer the experience of spotting dolphins in their habitat, which is necessary for those seeking fun and adventure. It lies close to Kappad Beach and the playful creation frolics in the sea during the early morning hours, hence it can be best spotted then. This point stands very famous among locals and visitors; it presents an unforgettable experience for a wildlife enthusiast. This is best visited early in the morning for an excellent chance to see these playful sea mammals playing and jumping across waves. In fact, it is an adventure addendum to your visit to Kappad Beach, hence definite for anybody who goes on to this area.

Location: Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: Early morning
Entry Fee: Free

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Kappad Beach is much more than just a scenic beauty that combines at its sea face; it is the place where history, nature, and serenity blend to give one unique and enriching experience. The historical importance of this beach, being the landing place of Vasco da Gama, coupled with the natural beauty and tranquil surroundings, has made it one of the ‘must-visit’ places in Kerala. It could be walking on the sandy shores, exploring the backwaters, or visiting other places of interest around Thikkoti Light House and Beypore Port. Kappad Beach guarantees a never-forgettable experience. Plan a trip to Kerala to  find out the most well-guarded secrets.

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Cover Image Credit : SidhardhRamesh for Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions About Kappad Beach

What is the best time to visit Kappad Beach?

The best time to visit Kappad Beach would be from October to March, when the climatic conditions are favourable for the enjoyment of beach activity.

How to reach Kappad Beach from Kozhikode?

Kappad Beach is 16 km from Kozhikode. You can go there by hiring a taxi or by local bus from the city.

Are there any accommodations near Kappad Beach?

There are plenty of various hotels and resorts that fit into many budgets and tastes near Kappad Beach.

Is Kappad Beach safe for swimming?

Yes, it is pretty safe to swim at Kappad Beach. However, always keep your vigil on the local weather conditions and warning flags.

What are the other attractions close by to Kappad Beach?

Other places of interest around Kappad Beach are the LightHouse at Thikkoti, Beypore Port, and serene backwaters—each a different experience for visitors.

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