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Sun, sand, and sea, the three S words that make life worth it. Amidst lengthy coastlines, clear blue waters and palm-fringed shores, the magnificent beaches near Munnar are ideal destinations to go for a vacation where you can rewind and relax. The proximity of the beaches to Munnar makes them possible to be visited on a day trip or for the weekend. These beaches offer some of the most eye soothing sunrise and sunset views besides offering adventure activities to tourists. Reverberating tranquillity, serenity, and ataraxy, these soulful beaches are ideal for any romantic vacation or solo gateway or day picnics with family and friends or any adventure activities.

15 Top Beaches Near Munnar

If you had it all planned out with the trip and are wondering if or not you can visit any beaches on your Munnar trip then the answer is yes. These beaches near Munnar add to the experience. Take a look.

  • Varkala Beach, Varkala
  • Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
  • Cherai Beach, Kochi
  • Andhakaranazhi Beach, Kochi
  • Marari Beach, Alleppey
  • Alappuzha Beach, Alleppey
  • Thumpoly Beach, Alleppey
  • Snehatheeram Beach, Thrissur
  • Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi
  • Nattika Beach, Thrissur
  • Chowara Beach, Kovalam
  • Samudra Beach, Kovalam
  • Edava Beach, Varkala
  • Thiruvambadi Beach, Varkala
  • Vadanappally Beach, Thrissur

1. Varkala Beach, Varkala

Varkala Beach

Also known as the Papanasam beach, Varkala Beach is a beautiful setting about 10 km away from the city of Varkala and is one of the most beautiful beaches near Munnar. It is renowned for the solitude that is offered to people, unlike the other crowded beaches of Kerala. The beach, meaning ” destroyer of sins” remains unparalleled in its impeccable beauty. The water of the Varkala beach is popular for its curative and medicinal properties. A dip in the sacred waters of the Varkala beach is said to purify one’s body of all impurities and sins. The northern part of the beach is located at the foot of a cliff which is mostly famous among tourists for the natural mineral spring.

Situated in the backdrop of clear blue backwaters amidst the cliffs of Kerala, the sublime beauty of the Varkala beach is one to be experienced. These cliffs are hubs for spouts, spas, relaxing swims, and sunbathing that are popular among tourists who come to visit this place. If they are lucky, they might spot a few dolphins frolicking around. Sunsets are an ideal time to go for a romantic walk along the coastline. Also, for food lovers, this place is a paradise. Apart from relaxing and sightseeing, tourists can indulge in adventure activities like snorkeling, windsurfing, parasailing, and paragliding.

Distance from Munnar:: 258.1 km

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2. Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam

Lighthouse Beach

 

The Lighthouse Beach, located in southern Kerala at Kovalam, is famous for the 35 meters tall Vizhinjam Lighthouse, standing on the pinnacle of Kurumkal hillock. The entire lighthouse is built of stones, which are painted with red and white stripes. People who come to visit this structure, have to climb up a spiral staircase to reach the top and can shoot photos that are worth remembering. People visiting here enjoy water activities and sports, like surfing, parasailing, and paragliding which makes it one of the adventure beaches near Munnar.

Other activities like volleyball, is also a point of interest for many tourists. The luxurious palm orchards and trees scattered all around the beach are famous for their scenic beauty. Tourists generally look forward to this place because of its budget-friendly rentable rooms for residence, delicious food, and easy access. Visitors do a lot of photography at the beach and capture its beautiful scenery to make it memorable. You can take a prolonged peaceful stroll along the coast of the beach. You can also enjoy an Ayurveda massage or a yoga session since both facilities are available at the beach.

Distance from Munnar:: 305.3 km

Suggested Read: Munnar In December: A Pocket Guide For A Tour Down This Charming Kerala Town

3. Cherai Beach, Kochi

Cherai Beach In Mallapuram

Situated at a distance of 30 km from the city of Kochi, the Cherai beach is one of the most popular beaches near Munnar. Due to its perfect location at the Northern tip of the Vypin Island in Kochi, the Cherai beach has become a meeting point of the backwaters and the sea. The beauty of the beach is further enhanced by the surrounding greenery and seashells that are found in a variety of shapes and the Chinese fishing nets.

The coastline of the Cherai beach runs for a distance of about 15 km. Also popular as the Princes of the Arabian sea, the Cherai beach is an ideal destination for relaxing and enjoying the picturesque view of both the sea and its surroundings. High mask lamps being beautifully lit keep the entire beach illuminated, thus making the walkway edges worthy of tourist visits and an absolute pleasure to be enjoyed at night. Alongside the beach, there is a park, especially for kids where they can play and jump around. To double the fun of visitors, speedboats and water scooters can be hired.

Distance from Munnar:: 129.9 km

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4. Andhakaranazhi Beach, Kochi

baech

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The Andhakaranazhi beach, located 30 km away from Kochi is considered as an extended part of the Andhakaranazhi village and is one of the offbeat beaches near Munnar. It is still unexplored and non-commercialized by the tourism sector and is a well-maintained secret of the city. This virgin beach is a shoal or azhy that is a naturally formed ridge under the water, which has risen to the surface. This beach is tranquil and mostly silent and offers a perfectly serene atmosphere away from the pell-mell of city life.

Tourists find all fishermen at work with their huge nets spread all over the shores. This place is a must-visit spot since people can experience nature here in its natural form, unexplored. This place has a lot to offer to tourists in the form of clean and clear waters, immaculate sands, and magnificent coastline.

Distance from Munnar::143.8 km

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5. Marari Beach, Alleppey

beach

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To enjoy a serene beach vacation, the Marari beach, located 11 km away from the city of Alleppey is an extreme delight of the Malabar coast and an ideal beach destination. The beach has been made even more picturesque and eye appealing with the merging of the clear backwaters with the shimmering golden sands surrounded by coconut palm trees in the backdrop, making it one of the most beautiful beaches near Munnar. Intensive fishing activities are carried on in this beach.

The beach has been named after the local fishing village called Mararikulam and offers an ideal peaceful and tranquil Ambience to the tourists who look forward to relaxing and rewind themselves by the calm sea waters. Apart from enjoying the fishing activities, tourists can indulge in a variety of adventure sports like water skiing, parasailing, deep-sea fishing, swimming, cruising the backwaters of Kerala and surfing. The best time to visit the Marari beach is the month of August since tourists can view the snake boat races held then. The tranquillity and serenity of the beach are beyond expressions.

Distance from Munnar::160.0 km

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6. Alappuzha Beach, Alleppey

sea

Also known as Alleppey beach, Alappuzha beach is one of the most popular beaches near Munnar and is well known among the locals and tourists alike for its intrinsic beauty and a 150 years old pier that extends to the sea. Tourists can either picnic beside the beach or relax under the palm groves. Thus the beach hosts many festivals like the Alappuzha beach and the sand art festival. Besides the pristine beauty that the beach offers, other adventure sports are offered here. Amusement amenities are provided by the Vijaya beach park.

Tourists who visit the beach, also visit this park that has grown into an amusement and adventure spot. The old lighthouse adds a vintage effect to the entire Ambience. Near this beach, the Nehru trophy boat race is hosted every year in August. A combination of all these features makes the Alappuzha beach a wonderland.

Distance from Munnar:: 169.7 km

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7. Thumpoly Beach, Alleppey

beach

Thumpoly Beach is a hidden wonderland in the state of Kerala. Visited mostly for its cleanliness and scenic beauty, this beach has a number canals that run into the Arabian sea which must be explored as it is the cleanest beaches near Munnar. The huge blue waves crashing on the shore are an amazing sight to behold. Several fishing villages surround this beach, exploring which will give you insight into the lives of the local people. Located 6 km away from Alappuzha, Thumpoly is a town located by the Thumpoly coast in Kerala. Amidst golden sandy beaches and lush green meadows and innumerable canals leading to the Arabian sea, the Thumpoly beach is surrounded by the magnificent Arabian sea on one side and the quaint, serene lake on the other.

This beach, too, is surrounded by numerous fishing villages, fishing being Carried out in this beach intensively. Besides that, the natural flora and greenery of the place house many rare species of birds. Towering palm trees line the shores and the dainty Thumpoly town has majestic mighty hills in the background. For all nature lovers, Thumpoly is like a heaven on earth, making it one of the must-visit beaches in India.

Distance from Munnar:: 167.3 km

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8. Snehatheeram Beach, Thrissur

beach

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One of the most amazingly scenic beaches near Munnar is the Snehatheeram beach where the sun, sand, and the Arabian sea all exist together in perfect Harmony and descends upon the beach right in the middle of the coastline. It is impossible for any person visiting here not to fall in love with the place, the music of the sea waves crashing against the shore during sunset. It offers an ideal setting for all who come here to spend time. This beach is safe for kids who are seen playing and building Sandcastles while couples enjoy the evening romantic refreshing walk by the shore.

The scenic beauty of the beach attracts not only national but also international ones all through the year. It is a favorite spot for photographers who get a chance to capture and cherish the surreal beauty of the place. It is a place worthy of every Penny spent visiting the place to take a break from the monotonous office work and enjoy what nature has to offer to us.

Distance from Munnar:159.7 km

9. Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi

Bench in Fort Kochi Beach

Fort Kochi is one of the most popular beaches near Munnar to visit. The most spectacular feature of the beach is the rows of giant Chinese fishing nets set neatly giving the whole place a unique charm. Apart from the picture-perfect sunsets, the walkway to the beach is adorned by trees and a serene atmosphere. Make sure to visit this place during New Year’s Eve to attend the Cochin Carnival which is a lively festival that attracts tourists and locals alike.

Vasco Da Gama square is located adjacent to the beach which has some of the best seafood restaurants in town. The beach is also famous for the lighthouse and the nearby For Immanuel which is another famous tourist attraction in Kochi.

Distance from Munnar:132 km

10. Nattika Beach, Thrissur

exotic beauty of nature

A small quaint village in the Thrissur district in Kerala, Nattika has a lovely beach and some of the most amazing accommodation options for tourists. The beach became famous back in the 70s as the famous Malayalam movie Chemmeen was shot here. The village is mostly a fisherman’s village and the beach is a great spot for fishing. You can also indulge in a lot of watersports here like snorkeling, jet skiing, and more. Other activities that you can enjoy here include elephant rides, backwater cruise, and horse rides.

Distance from Munnar:159 km

11. Chowara Beach, Kovalam

Chowara Beach in Chowara Village

Located in the Kovalam district of Kerala, Chowara Beach is perhaps one of the most popular beaches in Kovalam. Some 7 hours drive from the lush greenery you’ll reach this tropical beauty which is perfect for a day trip from Munnar. Chowara Beach is a serene and secluded beach, famous for fishing sport. The picture-perfect scenery often attracts picnickers. Home to the Chowara Ayyappa Temple located atop a hill near the beach, Chowara is frequented by devotees. You can catch the glimpse of the panoramic views of the sea from the temple.

Distance from Munnar:295 km

12. Samudra Beach, Kovalam

Samudra Beach is considered to be one of the least crowded places to visit in Kovalam

Crashing waves and gorgeous rock formations, that’s Samudra beach from you. This amazing beach located in Kovalam is located some 8 hours away from Munnar. A lesser-known beach, here you’ll find scarce crowds and spectacular views. The shoreline is clean and has plenty of great options for restaurants and eateries. You can have a great time when you spend your day at the beach and since the landscape is so much different it is a great getaway from Munnar. North to the Samudra beach is the more famous Ashok Beach that offers a great vantage point to view the sea.

Distance from Munnar:291 km

13. Edava Beach, Varkala

Edava Vettakkada Beach Varkala

A pristine stretch in Varkala, Edava Beach is one of the most popular beaches to visit near Munnar. The beach has only been discovered recently in the beach town of Varkala because of which the place is clean and is usually less touristy. The virgin beauty of the location, engulfed by a blue lagoon sandwiched between the sea and backwaters is absolutely stunning. The best time to visit the beach is during monsoons when the rain fills up the lakes and the water gushes out of the lagoon to meet the sea. The phenomenon is quite a sight to catch and people from the nearby villages as well as tourists come to see it. The beach also provides perfect waves for surfers which makes it ideal for adventurers as well.

Distance from Munnar:245 km

14. Thiruvambadi Beach, Varkala

Thiruvambadi Beach

Another beautiful beach in the beach town of Kerala, Varkala is the Thiruvambadi Beach. Located some 7 hours drive from Munnar, the place is ideal for picnics and day trips. It lies towards the North Cliff or right next to the Black Sand Beach and offers a great escape from the bustling city. Watching sunsets on this beach is almost ritualistic for tourists coming to Varkala and the reason why it mustn’t be missed is that it is a sight to behold and capture on your cameras. Take long walks on the shoreline with your special people and collect memories to live by.

Distance from Munnar:247 km

15. Vadanappally Beach, Thrissur

Vadanappally Beach

Vatanappally Beach is perhaps the most beautiful beach near Munnar that you can visit in just 5 hours drive. Located in the city of Thrissur, the beach is a great option for a day trip from Munnar. The beach is an enchanting strip of golden sand surrounded by the rich greenery of coconut groves. Visit this beach if you want to spend a laid back day and relax with amazing views. Great for water sports, this beach will also make sure your adrenaline is pumping with sports such as parasailing, jet skiing and more.

Distance from Munnar:164 km

Further Read: 17 Luxury Hotels In Munnar: Perfect And Ideal Stays For A Lavish Holiday

Munnar is a small town located in the western ghats in the Indian state of Kerala. Presently a hill station, Munnar is situated amidst rolling hills abounding in tea plantations and there are some really beautiful beaches near Munnar. At Munnar, the three south Indian rivers, namely Nallathanni, Mattupetti, and Periavaru meet, rendering it with pristine scenic beauty. It is one of the most visited hill stations and resorts in south India. The Salim Ali bird sanctuary, Eravikulam national park(a place where the endangered mountain goat Nilgiri tahr is sheltered), the Lakkam waterfalls, and the Anamudi peak are its prime attractions. So plan a trip to Kerala and say ‘beach please’.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Near Munnar

What is Munnar famous for?

Munnar is well known not for one, but many reasons. Especially is visited for its tea plantations and lush green fields and a great climate all through the year. Also, the Eravikulam national park houses an endangered species of goat, the Nilgiri Tahr.

What is the best time to visit Munnar?

Months between September and March are ideal for Munnar to be visited. The weather during these months remains great accompanied by clear blue skies, making it convenient for tourists to explore the city.

What are the famous places to visit near Munnar?

The most popular places near Munnar include Coimbatore, Alleppey, Athirapally waterfalls, Kozhikode and Cochin.

Which is the longest beach near Munnar?

The Muzhappilangad drive is a beach extending for 4 km in the state of the Indian state of Kerala in the south. The coastline runs parallel to the national highway 66 between Thalassery and Kannur.

How many days should I spend in Munnar?

A person needs a minimum of 3 days to complete exploring Munnar. Doing everything and visiting every place is not possible on a single day. Keep places like the Pothamedu area, hydel park, forest flower garden and the viewpoint for your last day. Visit and enjoy the beaches near Munnar initially.

Which is the most popular beach near Munnar?

The Vizhinjam beach is one of the most popular and most visited beaches near Munnar. It has a lighthouse and a marine aquarium that are its prime attractions. The beach is also one of the biggest ports in South India.

Are there any beaches in Munnar?

No, there are no beaches in Munnar, but plenty around Munnar.


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