Beaches Near Wayanad: Where Hills Meet the Sea

Imagine a holiday amidst misty hills, cool weather, aesthetic waterfalls and exotic wildlife. That’s not a dream, that’s Wayanad for you. 

Very few people know about this serene side of Kerala, which means you get to enjoy fewer crowds and more peace on the beaches near Wayanad. But why coastal experience, you may ask. That’s because travellers who love variety enjoy a combined trip to the hills as well as the coastal regions, bringing the best of both worlds. 

In this blog, we will dive into the hidden gems of Wayanad, including the nearest beaches, weekend getaways, road connectivity, and so much more. Basically, we’re planning your itinerary on your behalf so that you can take the trip of your dreams. 

Why Explore Beaches Near Wayanad?

1. A Unique Blend 

For travellers who have a hard time picking between mountains and beaches, this blend is bliss. Now, you can visit the best beaches near Wayanad without compromising on the serenity of the misty mountains. The best part is that all of this can be covered in 3–5 hours.

2. Fewer Crowds, More Peace

Beaches are for relaxation, recreation and unwinding. No one likes to have too many people around during this time. This is exceptionally accurate for solo travellers who visit beaches for self-reflection and solitude. Thankfully, Wayanad is an exception. Wayanad beaches have fewer crowds compared to Goa or Kovalam.

3. Perfect For Everyone 

Wayanad welcomes all types of travellers. From couples who are on their honeymoon to families who want to bond better, the beaches near Wayanad are the best place for everyone’s next trip. In fact, bikers and offbeat explorers also love arriving here after a long, exhausting journey to simply unwind and recharge. 

How Far Are Beaches from Wayanad?

1. Nearby Beaches 

Most of the beaches near Wayanad are within 90 to 150 km. This means each place will take a maximum of 2.5 to 4 hours drive, making for a fun road trip with families and friends. 

2. Short Road Trip 

For travellers who love a short road trip, we highly recommend visiting Kalpetta, Mananthavady and Sulthan Bathery. From trekking to Chembra Peak to boating at Banasura Sagar dam, this road trip can be full of excitement and rejuvenation. 

Here’s the distance of each of them by road: 

Kalpetta to Mananthavady: 30.4 km (28-35 minutes)
Kalpetta to Sulthan Bathery: 24.4km (20-40 minutes)

3. Coastal Districts 

Wayanad’s neighbouring coastal districts, like Kozhikode, Kasaragod, and Kannur, are known for their Malabar cuisine and spice plantations. Kasaragod is particularly famous for its bell-metalware crafts and is the nearest beach to Wayanad. 

Here’s the distance of each of them:

Wayanad to Kannur: 150km (3 hours)
Wayanad to Kasaragod: 197-220km (5-6 hours)
Kannur to Kasaragod: 85-96km (1.5-2 hours)

Best Beaches Near Wayanad You Shouldn’t Miss

There is no single best beach near Wayanad, as all of them are equally remarkable in their own way. While Kozhikode offers historic charm and lighthouse views, Kappad beach is less commercial and provides the most peaceful vibes. Let us learn about them and more beaches like them in detail. 

1. Kozhikode Beach (Approx. 90 km)

Also known as Calicut beach, Kozhikode beach is famous for its swaying palm trees, golden sands and family-friendly vibes. The beach is particularly renowned for being close to where Vasco Da Gama landed in 1498. That’s where it became the first sea route from Europe to India. 

This beach near Wayanad is also popular for a variety of street food stalls. People also love to come here for relaxing evening strolls and to witness the captivating sunset. 

2. Kappad Beach (Approx. 105 km)

Kappad Beach is popular for being the exact spot where Vasco Da Gama landed in 1498. Travellers who love beaches with fewer people enjoy the peaceful vibes that this beach has to offer. It is clean, scenic and also ideal for history lovers. 

The natural rock formations and golden sand make this beach a captivating tourist attraction. Amidst other Wayanad beaches, travellers often choose to come here for the amazing small shops that sell everything from local handicrafts to snacks and fresh seafood dishes. 

3. Beypore Beach (Approx. 100 km)

Beypore beach is famous for its ancient shipbuilding yard that attracts tourists from all around the world. Travellers who love long walks can take a 2-km-long walk on the stone pier into the sea, which is surreal. We also recommend the scrumptious range of local fish here that are very popular. 

This beach, with its rustic charm and sun-kissed sands, is the perfect place to unwind after an exhausting trip. It is also the oldest port in Kerala, where you can arrive by bus, cab, or local transport. 

4. Payyoli Beach (Approx. 110 km)

Known for its golden sands, calm waters, and palm trees, Payyoli beach is perfect for swimmers. It is also home to Olive Ridley turtle nesting, which offers an excellent experience for those who want to try something different. 

If you’re a nature lover, make sure you visit Payyoli beach and experience the sunset views. You are bound to love it. 

5. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach (Approx. 130–140 km)

India’s longest drive-in beach, this one offers a variety of adventure sports, including parasailing, kayaking, and more. From honeymooners to family travellers, everyone loves to relax and unwind at this beach near Wayanad. 

You can also drive your car along the shoreline for kilometres with the stunning views of the water. Don’t forget to spot beautiful birds from here, too. 

6. Thikkodi Beach (Approx. 110 km)

For travellers looking for an offbeat, peaceful, and perfect spot to spend time in solitude, Thikkodi Beach is a heavenly bliss. Tourists can come here to journal, do some self-reflection, or even read a book under the popular Coconut groves. 

The old lighthouse is famous here, giving an aesthetic appeal to the beach. November to February is the best time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Wayanad

• October to March: Pleasant weather and calm seas
• April to June: Hot but manageable; fewer crowds
• July to September (Monsoon): Rough seas, but lush surroundings and dramatic skies for photographers.

How to Reach These Beaches From Wayanad

1. By Road 

If you’re already in Wayanad, you can easily cover all of these beaches via road. Book a private car in advance to travel seamlessly between beaches. You can also book a rental cab for a day. If you are on your honeymoon, you can book a bike, which will be cheaper than any other transport. 

Private car – ₹800–₹1,200 (fuel)
Bike ride – ₹400–₹700 (fuel)
Taxi (Hatchback/Sedan) – ₹2,500–₹4,000

2. Public Transport

If you want to visit the Kozhikode beach, you can easily find public transport. From here, many local options are available, as most beaches are pretty close (15 mins tops). 

Local Options – ₹50–₹300 (auto/taxi/local bus)

3. Self-driving 

If you know how to drive and you are either alone or with a partner, you can easily opt for self-driving. This isn’t just the most nominal way out; it is also a lot more convenient and comfortable. You can leave at your leisure, take your time to explore the beaches and drive back to your hotel safely without worrying about finding the next transport.

Self-driving – ₹800–₹1,200 (fuel)
Bike – ₹400–₹700 (fuel)

Things to Do at Beaches Near Wayanad

1. Photography

Kozhikode Beach is ideal for photography and local evening life. You can visit between 5:30 and 6:30 PM for the most lively vibes and lighthouse views. Thikkodi and Kappad beaches are equally famous for this. 

2. Water Activities 

Kozhikode Beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach and Payyoli are the most famous beaches for a variety of water activities. From a short swim and boating to light water sports and paragliding, you can enjoy water sports to your preference here. 

3. Food trails

Kozhikode Beach serves amazing Banana chips and ice fruit. Meanwhile, Beypore Beach is famous for its freshly fried fish and local Malabari Biryani. You can also visit the Kappad Beach for tea, fried prawns and Coconut water.

4. Cultural touchpoints

Beypore Beach features great artisan works from 9 AM to 5 PM. You can also visit the Kappad Beach to explore the memorial stone of Vasco Da Gama’s landing. 

Where to Stay: Beachfront Stays & Nearby Hotels

Booking Tip: Make sure you book your preferred hotel in advance (either early winters or weekends)

Suggested 2-3 Day Itinerary: Wayanad + Beach Combo

Day 1: Explore Wayanad (Edakkal Caves, waterfalls)
Day 2: Drive to Kappad Beach via Kozhikode, sunset by the sea
Day 3: Morning walk at the beach, return to Wayanad or head to the next Kerala destination

Tips For Travellers

• Don’t travel to the coast during the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall can make your experience inconvenient, especially if you are planning to try water activities.
• Make sure you always have a water bottle for hydration and sun protection handy to keep your skin safe from the scorching sun. 
• Kerala is known for its clean beaches. Make sure you do not litter at all and go plastic-free at all times. 
• It is best to dress up modestly and respect local customers to stay safe.

FAQs About Beaches Near Wayanad

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.