The Surf Window

Varkala

Kerala, India

Beach breakBeginner

A clifftop surf town perched above a dramatic stretch of Kerala coast, Varkala combines a consistent beach break with one of India's most striking natural settings, the surf beach backed by 15-metre red laterite cliffs.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

mid-rising tide

LowMidHigh

Season

November

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Moderate beach break, more exposed than Kovalam and with slightly more punch

Length

30–70m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: Warm water, forgiving waves, and a beautiful cliff-backed beach make this an ideal beginner destination.

Hazards

  • •Strong rip currents near the rocky headlands
  • •Rip currents are responsible for annual drownings, always surf near flagged zones
  • •Jellyfish seasonally

Local Tips

  • •The clifftop path above the beach has restaurants and shops with spectacular views, the sunset from here is extraordinary.
  • •Varkala is more backpacker-oriented than Kovalam, with a more youthful atmosphere.

Location

Map showing the location of Varkala in Kerala, India

8.7340, 76.7253