1. Kuzhuppilly Beach, Kochi Kuzhuppilly Beach is best known for the spectacular path which leads to it with fish farms on either side. Remember to get a taste of fresh seafood from a local eatery for lunch.

2. Munambam Beach, Kochi The village is known for its centuries-old fishing harbour and the Chinese fishing nets that adorn the skyline. During the annual kite festival, enthusiasts from across the country meet up and fly kites of a multitude of sizes and shapes.

3. Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur One of the few drive-in beaches in the country, the shoreline is nearly 4 km long and is a hotspot for birdwatchers — nearly 30 species of migratory birds can be spotted here during the winter.

4. Varkala Beach, Thiruvananthapuram The beach is also known as Papanasam (destroyer of sins) Beach as people gather here to scatter the ashes of the dead, and to take a dip in the waters that can supposedly wash off one’s sins.

5. Thaickal Beach, Cherthala One of the attractions of this beach is the remnants of a 1,000-year-old wind-powered ship, discovered two decades back, which is now under the protection of the Archaeological Department.

6. Thikkodi Beach, Kozhikode The sands are apparently so firm that locals take driving lessons on the beach. While here, don’t miss a visit to the Nandi Lighthouse nearby and the rocky Velliyamkallu Island.

7. Kolavi Beach, Kozhikode Ideal for photoshoots or just a day out, this beach is also called ‘Mini Goa’ — owing to its route with the river and sea on either side, dotted with quaint little huts.

8. Meenkunnu Beach, Kannur Situated close to its famous cousin Payyambalam Beach, Meenkunnu (hill of fish) is more of a little secret cove, nestled amidst rocky cliffs in the village of Azhikode. If solitude is what you’re looking for, this is the beach for you.

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