{"id":5719,"date":"2026-10-04T09:49:38","date_gmt":"2026-10-04T04:19:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/?p=5719"},"modified":"2026-10-04T10:23:28","modified_gmt":"2026-10-04T04:53:28","slug":"beaches-near-munnar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/beaches-near-munnar\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Beaches Near Munnar: Distance, Travel Time & Things to Do"},"content":{"rendered":"

Being a hill town in South India, travellers can expect more from Munnar than tea plantations if you plan properly. Most of the closest beaches near Munnar require around 3.5 to 4.5 hours of driving, while farther destinations such as Varkala and Kovalam are better suited to an overnight stay or a longer Kerala itinerary.<\/p>\n

Fort Kochi and Cherai are among the closest popular coastal options from Munnar, around 130\u2013132 km away. Cherai is usually the better choice if your priority is a conventional sandy beach, while Fort Kochi is better for heritage, Chinese fishing nets and sightseeing.<\/p>\n

We have compiled a list of beaches near Munnar that you can combine with your trip, especially if you have a few days left in your holiday.<\/p>\n

7 Best Beaches Near Munnar-Quick Info<\/h1>\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Beach<\/th>\nDistance from Munnar<\/th>\nApprox. Drive<\/th>\nBest For<\/th>\nDay Trip?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Cherai Beach<\/td>\n~132 km<\/td>\n~4 hrs<\/td>\nFamilies, swimming, backwaters<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Fort Kochi Beach<\/td>\n~130\u2013133 km<\/td>\n~4 hrs<\/td>\nHeritage, sunsets<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Marari Beach<\/td>\n~158\u2013163 km<\/td>\n~4.5 hrs<\/td>\nCouples, quiet stays<\/td>\nBetter overnight<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Snehatheeram<\/td>\n~160 km<\/td>\n~4.5 hrs<\/td>\nFamilies, sunsets<\/td>\nPossible<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Alappuzha Beach<\/td>\n~162\u2013166 km<\/td>\n~4.5 hrs<\/td>\nBeach + backwaters<\/td>\nBetter overnight<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Varkala<\/td>\n~250 km<\/td>\n~6.5 hrs<\/td>\nCliffs, caf\u00e9s, surfing<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kovalam<\/td>\n~290 km<\/td>\n~7+ hrs<\/td>\nWater sports, resort stay<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n

Closest beaches to Munnar:<\/strong> Fort Kochi Beach and Cherai Beach are among the closest options, at roughly 130\u2013132 km from Munnar.<\/p>\n

Which Is the Nearest Beach to Munnar?<\/h2>\n

Fort Kochi Beach is one of the closest popular beaches to Munnar, at around 130 km, while Cherai Beach is approximately 132 km away. Both normally require around four hours of driving, depending on the route and traffic. Choose Cherai for a traditional sandy beach experience and Fort Kochi for heritage, Chinese fishing nets and sightseeing.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE – Munnar Distance Chart-A Traveler\u2019s Guide to Other places from Munnar<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Munnar is well connected by road, but no direct train and plane connectivity. One needs to reach the nearest train station or airport and thereafter he\/she can take a bus service\/cab to Munnar.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Exploring the beaches means you have to travel a few hours outside the city. So, make sure you have enough time on your hands to explore some of the most popular beaches near Munnar. Although Munnar is a hill station without a coastline, several beautiful beaches can be reached on a day trip or an extended holiday.<\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0ALSO SEE-Top 17 best things to do in Munnar<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Here is a list of a few beaches that will give you a memorable experience:<\/p>\n

1. Cherai Beach<\/h2>\n

Cherai Beach is a popular sandy beach near Vypin Island where the Arabian Sea meets Kerala\u2019s backwaters. Its relatively calm atmosphere, palm-lined shore and family-friendly setting make it one of the most practical beach options to combine with a Munnar trip.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE- 10 Best Beaches In Kerala To Visit this year (Updated)<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

If you are coming with children, make sure you visit the park behind the beach where the little ones can have fun. In fact, you can also witness fishermen going about their regular activity and catching\u00a0 fishes for early morning trade.<\/p>\n

The whole expanse of the long beach is ideal for leisurely wandering and around any time of year, it’s a perfect spot where people can spend a day or two taking in nature’s unique beauty. There is a park beside the beach where children can play and amuse themselves. And for the adventurous people, speedboats and water scooters can also be hired.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 4 hours, 132 km from Munnar<\/p>\n

Group Kayaking Cost: \u20b9750\/person for 2.5 hours of guided adventure.<\/p>\n

\"cherai-beach\"<\/p>\n

2. Fort Kochi Beach<\/h2>\n

The Fort Kochi Beach has a long stretch of the Arabian Sea and a harbour to walk along. Located at a walking distance from the Fort Kochi<\/a> Ferry Terminal, you will find plenty of an opportunity to sit around and watch the sun take a bow for the day. Some of the other activities to do here are enjoying the seafood in one of the shacks or watching the fishermen using Chinese fishing nets for their trade.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE – Top 5 Tourist Places In Kerala-Pictures, Tips and Attractions<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Fort Kochi Beach offers a beach, harbor, port as well as a colonial heritage experience which is unique to beaches near Munnar. Fort Kochi beach also has the unique attraction of Chinese fishing nets which is a symbol of Kerala Tourism. It’s great to take a seat and watch the fisherfolk using the Chinese Fishing nets to catch fish every day. You can also sit back and watch the sun slowly disappear over the horizon and your eyes feel refreshed.<\/p>\n

Remember that swimming is not recommended here due to the strong currents, but you can book a modern Kochi water metro across the Marine Drive for \u20b910 to \u20b950.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 4 hours, 132 km from Munnar<\/p>\n

2-Hour Sunset Cruise: \u20b9250 to \u20b9750<\/p>\n

\"fortkochi-beach\"<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE-Kochi To Munnar- Taxi Fare, Distance, Travel Time<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

3. Marari Beach<\/h2>\n

Marari Beach is around 11 km from Alleppey and is a palm-rich coastline with golden sand everywhere. What makes it one of the unique travel choices is its genuine fishing village vibe, where you will get a glimpse of South Indian trade.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE – Munnar Backwaters and Beach Holiday ( 5 Nights & 6 Days )<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Ideal for long walks along the beach, this place is for travellers who want to escape crowds and dwell in nature\u2019s experience. You will also find several ayurvedic centres here to enjoy a deep massage.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 4.5 hours, 163 km from Munnar<\/p>\n

Bike Renting: \u20b9299 to \u20b9900 per day, depending on the model<\/p>\n

\"beaches-near-munnar\"<\/p>\n

4. Alleppey Beach<\/h2>\n

Alleppey, or Alappuzha Beach, is where sand meets the sea in the most beautiful way. Known for memorable sunsets, this beach is ideal to stretch yourself and just relax. It has a famous ancient lighthouse and a pier that interests history lovers and is an enjoyable sight.<\/p>\n

Situated at a comfortable distance of 162 km from Munnar, Alleppey is an ancient town and beach has a long pier and a weather-beaten lighthouse. The Pier is 150 years old.\u00a0 There is a beach park named Vijaya, where several amusement facilities are available. You can engage in many adventurous water sports such as swimming, parasailing & much more.\u00a0 Among many tourist festivals in Alleppey are the Sand Art Festival and Nehru Trophy Boat Race.<\/p>\n

Please note that the currents of the beach can be strong, so it is better to proceed with caution if you want to swim. But you can also enjoy backwater cruising and kayaking.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 4.5 hours, 162 km from Munnar<\/p>\n

Kayaking: \u20b9499 to \u20b91,500 per person (Depends on the route, group size, and duration).<\/p>\n

\"alleppey-beach\"<\/p>\n

5. Varkala Beach<\/h2>\n

Varkala is one of the secluded spots near Munnar but is perfect for beach lovers. It is known for the gorgeous red cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea, giving you a feeling like you are on an international beach. This place is also called Papanasam Beach, as locals believe that its water washes away their sins.<\/p>\n

Varkala essentially means “destroyer of sins” The place is well-named; it boasts not only of beautiful sea water and greenery, but also gives a varied cliff terrain with excellent views in all directions.<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE –Varkala North Cliff vs South Cliff-Which is better?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

You can always spend your evening watching the sunset and trying the wood-fired pizza. But do check out the yoga and Ayurveda centres along the cliff, which will also relax your muscles. You can take a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the atmosphere\u2019s charm to your bones and brain. If you are very lucky, sometimes you can see a few dolphins in the sea.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 6.5 hours, 248 km<\/p>\n

Surfing Lessons: \u20b91,500 to \u20b93,000 per person for 1 to 1.5 hours of session.<\/p>\n

\"varkala-beach\"<\/p>\n

ALSO SEE-Varkala to Munnar by Bus, Train, Taxi\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

6. Kovalam Beach<\/h2>\n

Although the Kovalam Beach is close to the crowded Trivandrum town, it offers a peaceful experience like none other. The beach is known for a range of water sports activities, like swimming, paragliding, parasailing, and surfing. So, if you are an enthusiast, then it is the perfect vacation spot for you. Book a room nearby and spend at least two days here!<\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0ALSO SEE-Gap Road Munnar- Photos of Scenic Drive in Kerala<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Whenever there is talk of Kerala, this iconic lighthouse in Kovalam is mentioned. Kovalam is\u00a0 so close to the crowded city life of Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Kovalam Beach is famous for its\u00a0 iconic lighthouse . Entry\u00a0 ticket to lighthouse is for \u20b920, \u20b910 is spent extra for the camera.<\/p>\n

Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam is a classic place in the south of Kerala where the beach is especially grand and famous for the Vizhinjam Lighthouse. Surrounded by palm trees, it looks just like those lighthouses in story books. Made of strong stone, this lighthouse has also been painted in clever stripes of red and white. There is a spiral staircase that helps the traveler up to the top so as not only to overlook but indeed be drawn into views of this marvel of nature. The beach palms and groves add considerably to its great beauty.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 7.5 hours, 292 km from Munnar<\/p>\n

Entry Ticket to Lighthouse: \u20b920 per person (\u20b910 extra for a camera).<\/p>\n

\"kovalam-beach\"<\/p>\n

7. Snehatheeram Beach<\/h2>\n

The beach is located just 24 km from Thrissur City and is managed and operated by Kerala Tourism. It has a gorgeous walkway from where you can witness the sunset and spend hours just chatting with your partner. There is even a marine aquarium and a children\u2019s park for kids to enjoy.<\/p>\n

The beach could be just described as elegant and amazing.\u00a0 Walking along its coastline, you can fully feel the essence of the place.<\/p>\n

If you are a swimmer, then it is going to be an amazing experience for you, dipping in the Arabian Sea while the sun rays are falling on your back. You can also find an open space to play volleyball with your friends or just enjoy fresh seafood from nearby shacks.<\/p>\n

Travel Time: 4.5 hours, 159.7 km<\/p>\n

Conolly Cruise Sunset Ride: \u20b94,500 with a tour guide.<\/p>\n

\"snehatheeram-beach\"<\/p>\n

Best Beaches for Every Traveller<\/h2>\n

Although every beach is beautiful, they have something unique to offer and can be a great option for different types of tourists.<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Best for families: Cherai Beach<\/li>\n
  • Best for couples: Marari Beach<\/li>\n
  • Best for water sports: Kovalam Beach<\/li>\n
  • Best for cafes and sunsets: Varkala Beach<\/li>\n
  • Best for heritage lovers: Fort Kochi Beach<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \n

    Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Near Munnar<\/h2>\n
    \n

    Is there a beach in Munnar?<\/h3>\n

    No. Munnar is an inland hill station in Kerala and does not have a coastline. The nearest popular beaches are around Kochi, including Fort Kochi Beach and Cherai Beach.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    Which is the closest beach to Munnar?<\/h3>\n

    Fort Kochi Beach and Cherai Beach are among the closest popular beaches to Munnar. They are roughly 130\u2013132 km away and usually take about 4 hours to reach by road, depending on traffic.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    Is Cherai Beach worth visiting from Munnar?<\/h3>\n

    Yes. Cherai Beach is a good choice if you want to combine Munnar’s hills with a coastal experience. It is known for its sandy shore, relaxed atmosphere and proximity to Kerala’s backwaters.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    Can I visit a beach from Munnar in one day?<\/h3>\n

    Yes. Cherai Beach or Fort Kochi Beach can be visited on a long day trip from Munnar. However, an overnight stay is more comfortable if you want enough time to enjoy the beach without spending most of the day driving.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    Which beach near Munnar is best for swimming?<\/h3>\n

    Cherai Beach is one of the better-known options near Munnar for swimming when sea conditions are suitable. Always check local warnings, currents and lifeguard advice before entering the water.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    Which is better after Munnar: Cherai, Marari or Varkala?<\/h3>\n

    Cherai is best for a shorter trip from Munnar, Marari is better for a quiet and relaxing beach stay, and Varkala is ideal for travellers looking for dramatic cliffs, caf\u00e9s and a longer coastal holiday.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    How far is Munnar from the Arabian Sea?<\/h3>\n

    Munnar is roughly 130 km by road from the nearest popular Arabian Sea beaches around Kochi. Actual distance and travel time vary depending on the beach and route you choose.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n

    <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Being a hill town in South India, travellers can expect more from Munnar than tea plantations if you plan properly. Most of the closest beaches near Munnar require around 3.5 to 4.5 hours of driving, while farther destinations such as Varkala and Kovalam are better suited to an overnight stay or a longer Kerala itinerary. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5723,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[9,88,7],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-5719","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-munnar-travel-guide","8":"category-kerala-travel-tips","9":"category-munnar-tourism","10":"entry"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5719","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5719"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5719\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5736,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5719\/revisions\/5736"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5723"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5719"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5719"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/munnarkerala.com\/munnartourism\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5719"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}