After surviving the stress of 12th board exams, my three friends and I were in desperate need of a getaway. So, we decided to kickstart our post-exam freedom with a road trip to Varkala—a stunning coastal town just an hour’s ride from Trivandrum. With bikes packed and excitement high, we set off on our first solo adventure.
Day 1: The Road to Varkala
We set off on two bikes, taking the scenic coastal road to Varkala. The day was just right, and the wind made the ride all the more exciting. At our destination, we checked into Varkala Beach Resort—a quiet place that provided just the right combination of comfort and accessibility. The rooms, costing approximately ₹2,000 per night, made it perfect for a relaxed but value-for-money stay. It was within a brief walking distance of the beach and cliffs, and the scenery seen from the compound was magical at sunset.
The Famous Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach is unlike any other. The cliffs, which overlook the Arabian Sea, make it a unique spot in Kerala. With its golden sands and calm atmosphere, the beach is perfect for relaxation. What sets it apart is the natural spring water believed to have healing properties, adding an extra touch of magic to the place. Varkala’s vibe is relaxed, yet exciting. The town is buzzing with energy, yet there is a certain serenity about it. There are plenty of cafes, bars, and beachside shacks where you can hang out with friends, sip on cool drinks, and watch the sunset. The crowd here is vibrant but not overwhelming—mostly backpackers, young travelers, and beach lovers enjoying the slow pace.
Day 2: Surfing Adventure
The best part of our trip was learning to surf! We enrolled with Varkala Surf Club for a lesson, and it was a total blast. The instructors were super encouraging, and although we wiped out a couple of times, we were able to catch some tiny waves by the end of the day. The beach is very safe for beginners, with lifeguards on duty and instructors standing by. Then we spent some time relaxing by the waves, playing some beach volleyball, and just enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
After our tiring surfing session on Day 2, we were ravenous and desperate for a heavy meal. We went to The Clifftop Restaurant, Varkala’s most popular restaurant, which is renowned for its fantastic sea food. The seafood platter we had was simply phenomenal, with fresh and juicy fish and prawns that went perfectly with the breathtaking view of the sea.
Safety and Security
As four 18-year-olds, we were cautious about safety, but Varkala proved to be one of the safest destinations for young travelers. The area around the beach is well-patrolled, and we felt secure walking around at night, enjoying the cafes and the view.
Day 3: Exploring Local Culture
On our last day, we took a break from the beach and explored Sivagiri Mutt and the Janardanaswamy Temple. The peaceful surroundings and rich cultural heritage gave us a deeper appreciation of the town. We then headed back to the beach, enjoying the last hours of our trip by watching the beautiful sunset.
Final Thoughts
Varkala was a mix of adventure and relaxation. From surfing to exploring the cliffs and temples, every moment felt so very relaxing. The vibe here is chilled yet lively, making it an ideal place for young travelers like us. Our 3 days were unforgettable, and I’m sure this won’t be our last trip here.
