Surfing in Kovalam

Kovalam has seen it all. The hippies, the sunbathers, the sand loving pre-teens as well as the leisure seeking patrons of authentic Kerala Ayurveda. But over the past ten years, a slow movement has been building up in this beach town. A movement which today promises to change the way domestic and inbound travellers view the undisputed king among Kerala’s beaches. It’s the age of adventure travellers globally. And Kovalam’s tryst with surfing couldn’t have peaked at a better time.

Kovalam is among the two prominent beaches in Kerala where surfing can be practiced as a sport (the other being Varkala). The presence of fairly good waves makes it an ideal spot for beginners and semi-pros. And this is something tourists can look forward to during their stay here. The surfing movement which began as an academy for underprivileged children ten years ago has today become the country’s first surfing club and goes by the name Kovalam Surf Club. 

A compulsory training class is provided for those looking to learn the sport and it costs just INR 1000 (USD 18) for 90 minutes. All equipments, boards etc are provided by the club which is manned by Shah and Varghese, local lads who began the club as part of a larger NGO. Much of the funds received as part of their efforts at promoting the sport, go towards the education of underprivileged kids, many of whom are students of the club.

The post-monsoon period, according to Shah, is ideal for beginners to be initiated into the sport. The instructors possess international certification and the presence of lifeguards on the beach ensures additional safety. For refreshment during break in learning, there are the several shacks and restaurants lining the beach. While the club provides boards on rent for half a day at INR 500 (USD 8), there are also private individuals who provide the above said services for the same rate.

For domestic and inbound tour organisers looking to make the most of Kovalam’s adventurous streak, the club organises classes for tour groups on demand.

For more information contact the Kovalam Surf Club.

PC: Shan A Najum