For many Londoners, Brighton is a regular weekend getaway destination.
But the city also has some of the greatest hotels in the country when a quick Airbnb isn’t enough.
There are smart addresses opening to serve weekend crowds and a growing number of digital nomads.
The seaside city is currently experiencing a thriving restaurant and hotel scene.
In addition to the typical hostels and business hotels, co-living spaces, eateries with rooms, and boutique accommodations are now available.
They have well-planned interiors and lively common areas that create a party atmosphere.
So now is the perfect time for a seaside getaway if you have not had one in a while.
Are you looking for hotels in Brighton?
Here are some of the best hotels that will ensure you get a good rest. You will also have a sneak peek of the quintessential Brighton life and culture.
What Are The Best Boutique Hotels In Brighton?
Come rain or shine, Brighton is a great place for a seaside getaway where anything goes. A visit here is now even more enticing because of the city’s growing restaurant scene. It is even attracting Londoners to relocate south. Here are the best hotels in Brighton to help you unwind:
Best Hotels In Brighton: A Quick Summary
Hotel Name
Ideal For / Vibe
Accommodation Types
Standout and Unique Features
Selina
• Digital nomads • Solo travelers • Millennial & communal vibe
• Two Suites • Private Rooms • Shared Dorms
• Co-working desks & artisan coffee • Activities: Yoga at Old Pier, beach clean-ups, craft workshops • Staffed by students and international frequent flyers
• Boutique hotel rooms • Small double rooms (featuring separate tubs)
• Acclaimed restaurant with Sussex-sourced produce and great vegetarian choices • Dog-friendly bar area with velvet chairs and brass hardware • Separate visitor entrance and pre-made cocktails in the room fridge
Artist Residence
• Art lovers & couples • Creative, stylish, and relaxed boutique stay
• Converted townhouse rooms • Room 21: King-size bed, sea views, and a massive copper tub with a TV over it
• Decor featuring curated antiques, neon art, and collage murals • Wallpapers and prints co-created with artist/activist Fox Fisher since 2008 • Permissive atmosphere (wear pajamas to breakfast or take martinis to bed)
Harbour Hotel
• Multigenerational family vacations • School break trips
• Roomy bedrooms • Room 102: Best ocean views, bathtub, and ideal privacy for solo/couple travelers
• Unrivaled seafront location steps away from the Brighton Lanes • Secret underground spa and a swimming pool • Highly walkable layout eliminating the need for a rental car
Selina
A generation of wannabe backpacking travelers has become digital nomads thanks to co-living ideas like Selina.
It offers reasonably priced lodging that crosses the boundaries between hostel and hotel.
It also has co-working desks that are utilized for purposes other than beer pong competitions.
There are three options for accommodations at the Brighton outpost.
Two Suites
Private Rooms
And Shared Dorms
Many of the staff members are also students or frequent visitors from abroad.
It is as millennial as it gets, in the best way possible.
A typical day might include yoga at the Old Pier in the morning and coffee from Brighton’s artisan roastery Pelicano.
It could also have a power hour surrounded by pink-haired entrepreneurs and potted plants, a beach clean-up in the afternoon, and a cocktail-paired craft workshop.
Whether you refer to it as hot-desking or co-working, this space has a lovely communal vibe that makes it ideal for socializing with others or traveling alone.
The Ginger Pig
Just 15 minutes by bus from Brighton’s downtown, in a more sedate and affluent neighborhood, the Ginger Pig’s restaurant is a favorite among astute locals.
They are spotting Sussex-sourced produce, spirits, and sex appeal away from the crowds.
With its glossy velvet chairs, brass hardware, and dark teal and sage color scheme, the bar exudes an air of exclusivity without being unachievable.
Your four-legged friends are welcome to join you at the bar.
Vegetarians, too, have a lot of choices despite the name and the Gingerman group’s reputation for obtaining the best cuts.
For example, baked celeriac paired with some glazed chicory and crispy wild mushroom arancini replaces the tired risotto.
The Ginger Pig is a restaurant, but it is more than that.
Thoughtful touches like a separate entrance for visitors and pre-made cocktails in the refrigerator lend credibility to its status as a boutique hotel.
Size does not matter when it comes to bedrooms.
We would rather do away with the trend of bathrooms in bedrooms in favor of small double rooms with separate tubs.
Artist Residence
The boutique brand Artist Residence started in Regency Square and later expanded to Oxfordshire, Penzance, Pimlico, and Bristol.
Thoughtfully chosen antiques, clever prints, and vibrant canvases created by local artists adorn each property, but Brighton’s has an extra special touch.
Owner Justin invited the city’s creatives to contribute to the hotel’s artistic scene in exchange for lodging.
They transformed it into a true, contemporary artist’s residence that is as stylish as Brighton itself.
You could take your martini to bed and wear your pajamas to breakfast in this converted townhouse.
The bar is home to couples who spend whole weekends holed up in their rooms and remote workers.
I adore the collage murals throughout the restaurant by Maria Rivans.
I also love the neon washing line by Andy Doig, whose studio is located along the waterfront.
The main attraction is Room 21, which features a copper bathtub that is nearly as large as the king-size bed.
It offers views of the sea, champagne glasses for guests, and a widescreen TV suspended over the bathtub.
Overall, it is an unusual but delightful luxury.
There are numerous artworks of artist and activist Fox Fisher all over the city.
The two have collaborated with the hotel on screen-printed wallpaper and unique prints since 2008.
Harbour Hotel
Many of the hotels on Brighton’s seafront have remained intact since the British seaside holiday boom of the post-war era.
These hotels lean more corporate than hip.
Therefore, after the success of its first hotel of the same name in Salcombe, Harbour Hotel faced great anticipation from both locals and tourists when it announced a major refurbishment of the property back in 2015.
Its unrivaled location, right on the seafront, just steps from the renowned Brighton Lanes.
combined with its It also has a secret underground spa and roomy bedrooms that have made it a popular destination for multigenerational vacations, especially during school breaks.
Kids play in the open-plan restaurant while parents chat in the social spa.
Are you going alone or with a companion?
If you want to get your lengths in without kids jumping into the pool, book room 102 for more privacy.
It offers the best view of the ocean and a bathtub (the other rooms are more family-oriented).
You can also get to the pool early.
Don’t bother renting a car, as even small legs will have no trouble getting to all the key locations on foot.
Getting To Brighton And Timing Your Stay
Booking one of these hotels is the easy part.
You have to get down to the coast, and pick the right weekend is what actually shapes how the trip feels.
Brighton’s proximity to London is exactly what makes it such a popular short break, but that same proximity means timing matters more than you’d think.
How To Get There From London
Brighton’s biggest advantage over most seaside towns is how effortless it is to reach.
Direct trains run from London Victoria and London Bridge roughly every few minutes at peak times, with the fastest services covering the 47-mile route in under an hour.
Advance tickets can be found for as little as £8, though anytime fares run closer to £35.
So, booking ahead pays off if your dates are fixed. Driving down the A23/M23 corridor takes about the same time door-to-door once you account for parking.
Also, several of the hotels above, Selina and Artist Residence especially, sit in the pedestrian-friendly Lanes and North Laine areas.
So, a car can end up being more hassle than help once you have arrived.
Option
Journey Time
Typical Cost
Best For
Southern/Thameslink (Standard)
1 Hour from London Bridge or Victoria
Advance from £8 Off-Peak Around £20–28 Return
The default choice as it is frequent, direct, and there is no booking hassle.
Gatwick Express-Linked service
Fastest Option and Takes Less than an Hour.
From £15+ Advance
Travellers connecting via Gatwick Airport
Driving (A23/M23)
Around 1 Hour and 15 Minutes to 1 Hour and 30 Minutes from Central London
£15–20 Fuel £15–25 for City Parking
Groups, or if you want a car once you’re there
National Express Coach
About 2 Hours and 30 Minutes
From £6
The budget option if time is not tight
When To Book Your Room
Brighton runs on a weekend rhythm more than a seasonal one.
Friday and Saturday nights command a premium at all four hotels year-round, since the city pulls in day-trippers and weekenders from London in roughly equal measure.
Summer (June through August) is the busiest and priciest stretch, driven by the beach, the Pier, and Brighton’s packed festival calendar.
Especially the Brighton Festival in May and Pride in early August boost the crowd.
So, the room rates go up well in advance.
For a quieter, cheaper version of the same hotels, a midweek stay in late spring or early autumn gets you the seafront views and boutique interiors without the weekend rate hike.
Also, restaurants like the Ginger Pig are far easier to book on short notice outside peak season.
Enjoy A Trip To Brighton With The Best Hotels
Of course, a trip to Brighton wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the pier and getting lost in the famed Lanes.
Independent stores, eateries, pubs, and art galleries, or climbing the 450-foot-tall i360 observation tower dot the area for incredible panoramic views.
When you combine this with the exciting nightlife, it’s obvious that a trip to this beach location offers far more than just a simple vacation.
Once you’ve seen everything Brighton has to offer, where should you stay?
See the sparkling sea? Check. A trendy bar with rooms above it? Not an issue.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about hotels in Brighton, please leave a comment below.
Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.
Planning a big trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. From deciding on a destination to booking your flights and the necessary accommodations, there are a lot of factors to consider while you are planning a successful trip.
Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help make the planning process more manageable.
In this article, we will explore some of the best resources to use when planning a big trip.
Travel guidebooks
Travel guidebooks are an excellent resource when planning a big trip. They offer valuable information about a destination, including its history, culture, and popular attractions. Guidebooks also provide practical information like maps, transportation options, and accommodation recommendations.
Guidebooks can be purchased at bookstores, online retailers, or borrowed from a library. Some popular travel guidebook series include Lonely Planet, Fodor's, and Rick Steves.
Online travel forums
Online travel forums are a great resource for getting insider tips and recommendations from other travelers. Forums like TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree forum allow you to ask questions, read reviews, and get advice from experienced travelers. You can also search for threads on specific topics like budget travel, solo travel, or adventure travel.
When using travel forums, be sure to read reviews and advice from multiple sources to get a well-rounded perspective. You can also contribute to the community by sharing your own travel experiences and tips.
Travel blogs
Travel blogs offer a more personal perspective on a destination and will usually list some of the best things to do in Lenexa, KS, as an example. These will often be written by experienced travellers or locals, or someone who is at least strongly familiar with the area. They can provide detailed information about a destination, including off-the-beaten-path attractions, restaurant recommendations, and unique experiences. Many travel bloggers also offer practical tips like how to save money or travel sustainably.
You can find travel blogs by searching online or on social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. The best travel sites will have all the honest opinions you need to plan. Additionally, some travel blogs may incorporate a QR code to provide even more comprehensive information.
Travel booking websites
Travel booking websites like Expedia, Kayak, and Booking.com offer a one-stop shop for booking flights, accommodations, and activities. These websites allow you to compare the best prices from the best vendors for the things you want.
When using travel booking websites, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully and understand any restrictions or limitations. You may also want to consider booking directly with airlines and hotels, as they may offer better deals or loyalty programs.
Travel insurance providers
Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected events like flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Many travel insurance providers offer customizable plans that can be tailored to your specific trip needs and budget.
When choosing a travel insurance provider, be sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. You may also want to consider purchasing insurance from a provider that specializes in travel insurance, as they often offer more comprehensive coverage.
Planning a big trip can be a daunting task, but with the right resources, it can also be an enjoyable and exciting experience.
Travel guidebooks, online travel forums, travel blogs, travel booking websites, and travel insurance providers are just a few of the many resources available to help you plan a successful trip. By using these resources, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your trip is both memorable and stress-free.
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Is your heart craving some natural beauty that will help you relax? Why don't you visit Fiji, situated in the middle of nowhere, not exactly nowhere! You will forget all your worries with the endless South Pacific around you. Want to know what are the things to do in Fiji?
A travel destination that is nothing short of heaven, Fiji is home to 333 tropical islands. It is in the middle of the South Pacific, with authentic flavors, enticing culture, and beautiful nature. Read the article to learn more about what to do when in Fiji!
There are a variety of activities that travelers can experience with the abundant collection of flora and fauna. There is also the tribal culture for you to experience unique and thrilling events.
You Won't Believe When I Say About The Best Things To Do In Fiji!
Fiji is more than just a travel destination. Instead, you will experience an authentic culture when you visit Fiji. If you are traveling from the US, you do not need a visa; your stay can be as long as four months.
You can book tickets on the 10 hours long direct flight from Los Angeles to Fiji. The destination in Fiji is Nadi International Airport; hence, if you live closer to Los Angeles, you are in luck. However, if you live elsewhere, you must travel to Los Angeles and then fly.
Fiji Airways and Air New Zealand are two airlines that operate in Fiji, and they both offer regular flights daily if you travel from the USA, Europe, or the UK. You could visit Fiji between May and September to experience clear blue skies.
You can go between October to April if you want to experience the rain. However, you do stand at the risk of experiencing a storm or cyclone. Some of the best resorts in Fiji are Sheraton Resort & Spa, situated on Tokoriki Island, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, and others.
1. Go For A Safari To The Sigatoka River!
The Sigatoka River Safari is very entertaining. It takes you around the Sigatoka River Valley, where you can visit villages, eat Fijian delicacies, drink Kava or Yaqona, a sedative and narcotic Figian drink, and dance. The drink is made with the crushed root of Yaqona and further strained with water.
The safari also includes coastal Inland Tours, including a river cruise, The Cannibals Cave Tour, or visiting a waterfall. The river safari lasts 4 hours, including the Kava ceremony in the local villages, where people drink from a big communal bowl.
A busy market is situated at the banks of the Sigatoka River across 4 km inland! You can visit this hub which gives glimpses of urban life in the provinces of Fiji. The market has small-scale shops creating a strong and bustling network of sellers and curry restaurants.
There is also the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park to visit if you want something exciting. The dunes are spread across 650 hectares while stretching across 3 km at the mouth of the river. You can have some fantastic views, especially when the dunes rise to 80m in some places.
2. Visit Kula Wild Adventure Park
One of the largest collections of native wildlife is boasted by Kula Eco Park, situated in a temperate forest. Tourists can use boardwalks to walk around and explore the wilderness. The collection of water birds, doves, patrons, and reptiles is to look for!
There are reptile enclosures, a reef fish aquarium, and aviary cages where the huge crested iguanas are the highlight considering they are only found in limited islands in Fiji such as Yasawa and Vanua Levu. Marine displays such as soft and hard corals, tropical fish, and ocean turtles exist.
3. Stroll Around The Garden Of The Sleeping Giant!
The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is 35 acres of rainforest that acts as an adventure park. There are zip wires which are used by travelers, mostly adventure junkies, who can fly across the jungle through these at a speed of 60 km per hour.
Also, there are ropes for swinging, pools for swimming, and you can also spot parrots. There are waterfalls to which you can walk around, or you can also get a 1 hour guided walk, a part of the package when you buy the entrance tickets.
The adventure park was founded by the actor Raymond Burr, also known as Perry Mason! A collection of flowering plants, orchids, and trees spread across the gentle trails across the landscape.
The park is situated just north of Nadi, so you can also take a guided tour to Nadi to experience the culture there. You can also take a dip in the thermal pools, which are pretty restorative!
4. Explore Nadi
One of the most authentic places to visit in Fiji is Nadi, a multicultural town with the perfect feel of the vibrant culture. You can enjoy the place, explore the shops, relish some authentic and native drinks, and eat delicious cuisine. So to answer, things to do in Nadi Fiji, read along!
A live tourism spot, Nadi creates opportunities for some of the most exciting things to do in Fiji. You can try the zip lining experience with Zip Fiji's newest ziplining expertise, which only lasts 35 minutes and creates a beautiful and exciting adventure.
There are 5 km of zip lines across the canyons, mountain tops, and caves. If you like speed, you will love this experience as they create a jaw-dropping experience where you can take in the breathtaking ocean views and the limestone cave exploration. What can be more exciting than experiencing 3 diverse ecosystems?
There is also the Tifajek Mud Pool & Hotspring and Sabeto Hot Spring Mud Pool and Tours for you to dip and relax! Further, you can explore the souvenir market, which is open-air, where you will find cannibal forks, hand-painted clothes, wooden kava bowls, and others.
5. Try Sea-Kayaking!
Sea-Kayaking is one of the best things to do in Fiji! Sea-Kayaks are available in every resort for the guests to experience the beautiful sea and are usually addressed as a complimentary activity.
It is important to inform someone of your attempting the activity and wear a life jacket because it is important that you are safe. A sudden squall storm or dangerous current might be a risk. Hence, informing your resort regarding your activities would be best.
One of the best experiences you can get for Kayaking is visiting the Lavena Coastline, situated on Taveuni within the Bouma National Heritage Park. You will need to make a half-day trip to the coastline.
You can also access packages inclusive of camping on the beaches, snorkeling at the lagoons, overnight visits at villages, and Kayaking offered by two companies Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions and South Sea Ventures. The packages will give you a wholesome experience, along with helping you save some money.
6. Enjoy A Stunning View After Hiking The Waya Island
If you are in Fiji for stunning views of nature, worry not! We have got you covered. Waya Island is one of the most beautiful locales to offer spectacular views with its photogenic views and amazing hiking trails. Hiking is one of the things to do in Fiji island.
You will find rock protrusions, fantastic collections of flora and fauna, and ridges with knife edges, creating a beautiful view of the island. These elements create a picture where it seems as if a giant is peering from the island, floating in the sea, and slanting back!
There is the Octopus Resort situated on the northwest coast, where you can start your walking trails along the hills with or without a guide exploring the interiors of the island.
There is also a beautiful, unguided coastal walk you can enjoy with your partner or family. It is completely safe and offers a wonderful experience.
7. Walk Through The Fijian Markets
Wondering what to do in Fiji? If you are a people person, you must visit the Fijians Market as it is a mesmerizing place with exotic seafood, vegetables, and fruit collection. Due to heavy import duties, you might not find fashion and expensive lifestyle products.
Isolation is another factor that might make you feel that there is a lack of fashion and design, yet you must visit the urban municipal markets. Filled up to the brim with local produce, designs, and native culture, you will experience a mix of character, authenticity, and exoticism.
If you are one of those travelers who love connecting with the place when you visit, the handicrafts and local produce will steal your heart and money! (wink)
8. Live At Savusavu
The significant tourist center in Vanua Levu, Suvasavu, is the place to be if you want to experience rolling hills, sunsets, and a chilling beer.
There is a perfect place for scuba diving in the Namena Lagoon while Yachts anchor around Savusavu, creating the ideal locale for experiencing a social hub.
Many bars and restaurants on the waterfront create a perfect place for a romantic dinner or family outing. so, it is one of the best places to visit in Fiji! You can also take a peaceful walk around the Savusavu hills. Good options for fishing in the bay can also be attempted.
9. Attempt Snorkeling!
Have you ever tried snorkeling? It is one of the best experiences to have if you are an adventure lover. With vibrant coral reefs across most of Fiji islands, you should try snorkeling and scuba diving to explore diverse fish species.
Diving is available the whole year. However, it is the best experience, especially during October and November. The corals across Fiji are world known, especially due to their nutrient-rich channels spread between the larger islands such as Beqa Lagoon, Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and the rainbow reef.
10. Turn Up At The Fijian Meke Dance Night!
If you visit Fiji, you must attend the classic Figian night out, where the feast is complete with the underground oven-roasted pig. There is a song and traditional dance involved, which is called make. The tradition has been passed down through generations, thus, creating specific artistic expressions for Fijians.
The music that people enjoy on the dance night includes rhythmic clapping and chanting and the addition of Lali drum hits and bamboo sticks. Lali is a hollowed wood that is used in creating the rhythm. Recently, ukulele and guitar have also been introduced at dance nights.
Group dancing includes males or females; however, in recent times, the pakalolo dance has been introduced, where both males and females can dance together.
11. Take A Dive In Beqa Lagoon With The Sharks!
Do you want to check out tiger and bull sharks? Visit Beqa Island, situated south of Pacific Harbour, some 12 km away, and experience the shark-feeding dive-off. You will see some mean-looking sharks, such as Silvertips, sickle-fin lemon sharks, bull sharks, reef sharks, and tawny nurse sharks.
If you want one of the safest experiences, go with the Beqa Adventure Divers and Aqua Trek Beqa, as they claim the highest safety records. Apart from the sharks, you can also have a peaceful diving experience in the lagoons when Shark-feedoff is closed.
12. Try Skydiving!
Want to experience an adrenaline rush? Go and try skydiving in Fiji! Jump off the planes to ride the waves of the clouds and experience the beautiful view of Fiji from up above! Free fall and experience Fiji's sandy beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise waters, creating a grandiose visual experience.
It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you must not miss at any cost. You will be charged somewhere around $300, which can go up to $650. The Skydive Fiji was established in 2004, and its safety record is among the highest.
Have an exhilarating experience with supporting staff on the ground and in the air. There are licensed pilots and instructors who ensure that people have an understanding of a lifetime of collecting priceless memories.
13. Have A Go At Birdwatching!
Carry your binoculars and travel feet! Fiji has a collection of exotic bird species, including the red-throated lorikeet and rare collared lory. Some endangered bird species can also be found; hence, lovers of aviaries or bird enthusiasts, plan that trip and explore the thick Kula WILD Adventure Park!
Conclusion
Fiji is never disappointing! Do you think you can be bored with such a variety of things to do in Fiji? It is a haven for travelers, especially the ones who are easily inspired by nature, attracted to the sea, and in love with mountains.
I have often realized that places with diverse ecosystems are perfect for people who are wanderers by nature. Fiji embraces travelers with all its beauty and diverse culture, so do not miss out on it!
Start planning and comment below to let us know about your choice of thing to do in Fiji!
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South India has been my go-to place whenever I lacked clarity about “What is Next?” After exploring the beaches in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, I wanted to continue my journey, and my destination was the Western Coast of India.
The quiet Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach with dramatic cliffs won me over.
With golden sands, blue waters, and gentle waves, Varkala Beach is therapeutic. No wonder that it is such a popular place for outdoor Yoga practices.
Furthermore, being a west-facing beach, it offers dramatic sunset views.
Here is more about the
Location of Varkala Beach
How to reach Varkala Beach
Best beaches in Varkala
Where to stay in Varkala Beach
When is the best time to visit Varkala Beach
Best things to do in Varkala Beach
Places to eat and drink
Is Varkala Beach worth it?
About Varakala Beach
Let me introduce the Varkala Beach to you with some quick answers.
⁍ Where is Varkala Beach? Varka Beach is in Varkala. It is a coastal town on the southwestern coast of India.
⁍ In which state is Varkala Beach situated? Varkala Beach is situated in the southern state of Kerala in India.
⁍ Varkala Beach, in which district? The Varkala Beach is in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.
⁍ Varkala Beach distance: It is located at a distance of 40 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.
Varkala Beach is the place where spirituality, wellness, religious fervor, and coastal recreation meet. It is also known as the Papanasam because people believe that taking a dip here washes away all your sins.
In fact, the mineral-rich water of the Arabian Sea here has healing properties.
Furthermore, the beach stretch is long, a little over 6 kms and it is the middle ground between the red cliffs and the blue waters.
However, there are two things I did not like about the Varkala Beach. Firstly, all the eateries and shops lining the red cliffs obstruct the views.
The more alarming thing is the amount of trash and plastic on the beach. There were food wraps and food wraps everywhere. Now, this shows a lack of maintenance and the absence of civic sense.
Does The Varkala Beach Have A Shade?
No, the Varaka Beach does not have any designated or constructed shade. Also, naturally, there is rarely any shaded spot with very few trees around.
Furthermore, there are some lizards in the sand here. They don’t bother anyone, but it was a big issue for me.
Finally, I rented a shade and a chair from a clifftop cafe.
However, be ready get heavily tanned as the Sun here is so strong that no amount of sunscreen can protect you.
How Safe Is Varkala Beach?
Varkala Beach is a safe place, and it is one of the best destinations for a solo trip in India. It has a laid-back vibe, typical of the coastal areas of South India.
However, I could not find any lifeguards for the longer stretch of the beach. So, swimming here is something you need to do at your own risk.
Also, the current here is very strong. So, if you have plans to swim with kids, you have to be very careful.
How To Get To Varkala?
The Varkala Beach is closest to the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). The distance is around 45 kilometers. Furthermore, the nearest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, is a little over 4 km away.
However, the Trivandrum Central (TVC) is at a distance of 1 hour, and the Kollam Junction (QLN) Railway Station is around 40 minutes away. Both these stations have frequent train options from different parts of India.
1. How To Get To Varkala Beach From Trivandrum Airport
I booked an Uber to reach the Varkala Beach from the Trivandrum Airport, and the charge was INR 1160. This is the safest option if you are new to the place.
Local cabs and other online car rentals are also available. However, if you cannot negotiate, they will charge you between INR 1500 and INR 1600.
Furthermore, the cheapest option to travel from Trivandrum to Varkala is to take a bus run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Buses are available every 15 minutes.
However, the KSRTC bus stop is around 15 km away from the beach. So, from there, you will again have to take a local bus or taxi.
2. How To Travel From The Varkala Railway Station To Varkala Beach?
You can take a local taxi to reach the beach from the Varkala Railway Station. Local buses are also available.
What Are The Best Beaches In Varkala?
The Varkala Beach is the main attraction in the town of Varkala. However, it has many other beaches, such as the Black Sand Beach, Odayam Beach, Kappil Beach and Beach Park, Edava Beach, and Thiruvambadi Beach.
1. Black Sand Beach
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The Black Sand Cliff is close to the north cliff. If the Varkala Beach is overcrowded, you can consider this one as an alternative.
2. Odayam Beach
Odayam Beach is perfect if you want to enjoy a long stroll along the waters early morning or late in the evening.
It is located at the north of the main cliff.
3. Kappil Beach And Beach Park
The Kappil Beach and Beach Park are further north of the Varkala town. It is the place where you will have a bit of the famous Kerala backwater experience.
Also, it is the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil River.
4. Edava Beach
The Edava Beach is cleaner. Also, this quaint beach offers a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can meet the fishermen.
Though language was a barrier sometimes, a few of them knew English. Also, I must say, after the rich cultural experience in Jaffna, this was another culturally enriching moment for me.
5. Thiruvambadi Beach
It is the most secluded beach in Varkala. It has black and dark sand. Also, it has a calm environment, allowing you to just relax and introspect.
Where To Stay In Varkala?
You can visit the Kerala Tourism website to find out where to stay in Varkala. It has Varkala beach resort options such as the Coconut Cove Beach Resort, the Pulari Gardens Tourist Resorts, and the nearest Karthika Plaza Resort Pvt. Ltd.
Furthermore, there are hotels near Varkala Beach, such as InDa Hotel, the Lost Hostels, and Maison Sangham.
I stayed at the Bougainvillea Homestay, which is very close to the Varkala beach cliffs.
When To Visit Varkala?
October to March, or the winter and spring seasons, are ideal for visiting Varkala.The rainfall is minimal in these months, and the temperature hovers around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Furthermore, less rain and moderate weather conditions are ideal for watersports such as jet skiing and paragliding.
However, during my visit in February, I found the water current to be quite strong for swimming. So, check with the locals and the fishermen around before getting into the water.
What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach?
The Varkala Beach is a welcome relief if you are exploring South India. It is not a place if you are planning an action-packed holiday.
However, try these watersports.
Surfing At Varkala Beach
You will find places such as Soul and Surf here to camp and learn surfing. Furthermore, the ideal surfing condition for a visitor depends on their expertise level.
For Beginners: November to February
For Sufers of Intermediate or Advanced Levels: October to March
Advanced Surfers: The Monsoon Season or June to August
Paragliding Varkala
Paragliding is the most adventurous thing you can try at Varkala Beach. You can have a hawk-eye view of the water and the golden sand by flying from one end of the cliff to another.
Also, paragliding feels magical during sunset.
Varkala Beach Nightlife
The bars, restaurants, and rooftop cafes of the North Cliff are the epicenters of a happening nightlife in Varkala.
These places are ideal for candlelit dinners and enjoying a lively vibe with DJs and live acoustic music performances.
What Are The Places To Visit Near The Varkala Beach?
Varkala is an ideal place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, many religious and spiritual travelers combine a Varkala beach trip with a visit to Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt.
The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old Vishnu shrine. It is associated with the legends of Lord Brahma and Narada Muni.
On the other hand, the Sivagiri Mutt is home to the saints and sanyasins of the order started by Sree Narayana Gurudev. His primary teaching was “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Established in 1904, this Mutt practices inclusiveness.
What Are The Places For Eating And Drinking In Varkala?
There are many cafes and restaurants in Varkala. I chose a humble, local place for lunch and dinner.
However, to experience the cafe culture here, I chose a few upscale places.
1. Lunch At Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant
I ordered a veg Keralan thali at the Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant. The rice grains were thick, and they were filling.
Furthermore, they served the rice with five types of sides, pickle, and papad. It only cost me INR 90.
2. Dinner At Chimney Restaurant
At the Chimney Restaurant, it was a continuation of my great seafood experience in Jaffna. The staff here suggested that I try a Kerala fish curry.
The fish was fresh, and the curry was sharp and spicy (a little less than Jaffna). It was a perfect balance to the acidic element of rice.
You must also try the village-style chicken curry here. It is a family-friendly restaurant.
3. Cafés
I was at Cafe Trip is Life during sunset. The view was amazing, and I loved the grilled prawns and mojitos there. A bit pricey, but worth it!
Another café I loved here was Café Sarwaa. I was impressed with the Bohemian decor the moment I entered the place. I tried some samosas and banana pancakes there.
However, you can eat here the whole day. Their paratha and Kerala beef curry are the most famous.
Is Varkala Worth It? Should I Just Go To Goa?
The only similarity between Varkala and Goa beaches is the bohemian vibe. However, both beaches offer different experiences.
Varkala is more nature-focused with the landscape of the Varkala Beach and a view of the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, it is more about relaxation and wellness thanks to the Yoga centers frequently found here.
However, despite watersports and adventure facilities such as paragliding and surfing, Varkala is not as happening as Goa. Goa offers a wider range of watersports.
Moreover, the nightlife of Goa is more vibrant.
So, if you want a spiritual and wellness retreat and some quiet beach time, Varkala is the best. The 2000-year-old Vishnu temple is an added attraction here.
For a vibe and a high-energy experience, choose Goa.
Varkala Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Varkala Beach.
1. Varkala Beach Or Kovalam Beach, Which Is Best? I cannot pick a favorite between the Varkala Beach and the Kovalam Beach. The Varkala Beach, with a bohemian vibe, is more laid-back and nature-focused. On the other hand, the Kovalam Beach has the iconic crescent beaches, and it offers a diverse range of watersports and a vibrant nightlife. 2. Which Beach In Varkala Has Bioluminescence? The Varkala Beach has bioluminescence. You can especially notice the bioluminescence near the cliff and along the northern stretch of the beach. Here, tiny marine organisms emit blue and green light due to a chemical reaction. When the wave is disturbed, these organisms get scattered, and it looks like the water is glowing. Furthermore, from September to November is the best time to see the bioluminescence of the beach. 3. What Is The Varkala Beach From Bangalore Distance? The distance between Varkala Beach and Bangalore is around 670 km. You can travel by road, which takes around 14 hours. So, the easiest way to travel is to take a train from Bangalore Cantonment to Varkala. The travel time is around 13-15 hours. Furthermore, if you want to take the fastest way to travel, you must take a flight from the Bangalore Airport to the Trivandrum Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kovalam.
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