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In the search for a relaxing getaway, nothing beats a beach vacation. Fortunately, India's extensive coastline is dotted with stunning beach destinations that offer a perfect escape. Whether you prefer leisurely lounging, scenic strolls, capturing aesthetic pictures, or engaging in thrilling water sports, these coastal havens have it all. To help you plan your ideal beach retreat, here are some suggestions to consider.
On the Konkan coastline in Maharashtra, Kondura is a small fishing village. Its stunning beach has rocky shores and white sand with a small cave in a hillock named Kond. It is a fantastic place for bird-watching. You might even spot a Brahminy Kite in the sky. You can indulge in activities such as surfing, snorkelling and parasailing here.
Getting There: You can take an auto-rickshaw ride to Kondura from Vengurla.
Place to stay: Samant Beach Resort and Villa (Ph: 094212 61819). Tariff: INR 4,000 plus taxes; tariff for the Villa INR 7,000.
This beach in Kerala is fenced with coconut and palm trees and gets its name from a local village called Mararikulam. There is nothing to do here except spend blissful days taking long walks on the sands beach and rejuvenating yourself.
Getting There The nearest railway station is around 30 minutes from Marari, called Alleppey.
Place to stay: Marari Blue Waves (Ph: 079076 21537). Tariff: INR 3,400 plus taxes
Located in the Udupi district in Karnataka, Kaup is known for its stunning lighthouse that reaches 27 metres above the ground. It closes after sunset, so get there early to take in the panoramic views. The water is rough near the shore, so swimming is not advisable. Also, check out the small fort (built by Tipu Sultan) and the Mariamma temples.
Getting There: Kaup is a one-hour drive from Mangalore.
Place to stay: Hotel Udupi Residency (Ph: 0820 253 0005). Tariff: INR 2,700 plus taxes
This beach in Karnataka is all about the endless and clean waters of the Arabian Sea. St. Mary's is the most well-known among the four rock islands present near this beach. They have water sports activities available here too. This beach is supposed to be the first one in India with a 24/7 WiFi service. But would you be keen to stay connected to work emails?
Getting There: The beach is only 9 km from Udupi railway station.
Place to stay: Panchavati Homestay (Ph: 099645 83595) Tariff: INR 3,300 plus taxes
Located between seven hills in the Kannur district of Kerala, Ezhimala has carved stone pillars scattered around the area. An old mosque at the top of a mountain is a must-visit. You can spot dolphins at the nearby Ettikulam Bay.
Getting There: It's almost an hour's drive from Kannur to Ezhimala.
Place to stay: Vrindavan Resort & Spa (Ph: 090486 37070). Tariff: INR 2,000 plus taxes
Ranpar is completely cut off, taking peace to a whole new level. No infrastructure, no signs of civilization, only the odd fisherman trying to earn his living is what you'll find here. Ranpar Beach is where you will find peace to meditate, isolate and take some time off from everything. Several restaurants and hotels are located in Ratnagiri, the closest town to Ranpar. But Ratnagiri's populated beaches and attractions cannot match the peace that Ranpar's isolation can provide.
Getting There: Pune to Ratnagiri is a 9-hour journey by train. You can hire local transport to Ranpar Beach.
Place to stay: Ratnagiri is located 30 minutes away from Ranpar and has several hotels
The Sumana River merges with the Arabian Sea at this beach in Karnataka. Lush green forests line the shore, and you can see the coconut trees bending backwards due to high wind speeds. A beautiful Shiva temple called Sri Someshwara Temple is located near the beach.
Getting There: Ottinene is well connected by roads and is about 80 km from Udupi.
Place to stay: Hotel Ambika International (Ph: 072597 64567). Tariff: INR 2,500 plus taxes
