Kayaking in Varkala Complete Travel Guide

Varkala, a coastal gem in Kerala, is not just about its famous cliffside beaches and spiritual vibes, it has also become a hotspot for kayaking enthusiasts. With calm backwaters, scenic mangrove forests, and golden sunsets reflecting on the waters, kayaking in Varkala is an experience that blends adventure with tranquility. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, this guide will give you all the details you need, from prices, timings, best kayaking centers, and safety tips to hidden travel hacks.

🌅 Why Kayaking in Varkala is Special

Unlike other water sports, kayaking here offers a peaceful way to explore Kerala’s natural beauty. You can glide past coconut groves, spot rare birds, paddle into serene mangrove channels, and enjoy golden sunsets over the Arabian Sea. It’s a perfect activity for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for an offbeat adventure in Varkala.

⏰ Varkala Kayaking Entry Timings & Duration

• Morning Kayaking: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM (best for calm waters and birdwatching)

• Sunset Kayaking: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM (magical golden hour experience)

• Night Kayaking (rare, seasonal): 7:00 PM onwards (with LED-lit kayaks offered by select centers)

👉 Duration: 1–2 hours (depending on package)

💰 Kayaking Price in Varkala

• Single Kayak: ₹500 – ₹800 per person (1 hour)

• Double Kayak: ₹800 – ₹1,200 for two (1–1.5 hours)

• Guided Kayak Tours (with instructor): ₹1,000 – ₹1,500

• Night Kayaking (limited): ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per person

🛶 Top 5 Kayaking Centers in Varkala (Full Details & Facilities)

1. Varkala Kayaking Tours (Mangrove Routes)

This is one of the most trusted kayaking centers in Varkala, known for its scenic mangrove tours and calm backwater experiences. Perfect for beginners and families, it offers professional guides who make sure you’re safe and comfortable throughout the trip.

Facilities & Services:

✔️ Certified kayaking guides (English & Malayalam speaking)

✔️ Life jackets (mandatory)

✔️ Safety briefing before the ride

✔️ Basic toilet and changing facility at the start point

✔️ Drinking water provided

✔️ Photography support (optional, extra cost)

👉 Best For: Families and first-time kayakers who want an easy and scenic route.
👉 Hidden Tip: Book the 6 AM slot to catch bird activity in the mangroves.

2. Cliffside Adventures – Varkala

Known for its sunset and night kayaking tours, this center is a hit among couples and photographers. The LED-lit kayaks during night tours create a magical atmosphere.

Facilities & Services:

✔️ Trained guides with first aid knowledge

✔️ Life jackets with night reflectors

✔️ LED-lit kayaks for night sessions

✔️ Toilet and shower facilities at base point

✔️ Lockers available for valuables

✔️ Small café serving snacks & drinks near the booking office

👉 Best For: Couples and those looking for Instagram-worthy night kayaking.
👉 Hidden Tip: Carry a GoPro or phone waterproof case, the LED reflections make for stunning videos.

3. Mangrove Escape Kayaking Club

This eco-friendly club is set around Varkala’s mangrove routes and specializes in birdwatching tours. They focus on conservation while providing guided tours through quiet channels.

Facilities & Services:

✔️ Local nature guides (with bird identification knowledge)

✔️ Life jackets and basic paddling lessons for beginners

✔️ Changing huts available (basic setup)

✔️ Binocular rentals for birdwatching (extra ₹100)

✔️ First aid kit on site

✔️ Small resting hut for tea/coffee

👉 Best For: Nature lovers and photographers.
👉 Hidden Tip: Join a late afternoon trip (around 4 PM) for the best birdwatching light.

4. Kappil Lake Adventure Kayaking

Located near the famous Kappil Lake, this center offers both kayaking and canoeing experiences. The calm lake waters make it beginner-friendly and family-oriented.

Facilities & Services:

✔️ Licensed instructors with safety demo

✔️ Life jackets of different sizes (kids & adults)

✔️ Toilets and changing rooms maintained at the lake entry point

✔️ Parking available for cars and scooters

✔️ Onsite snack stalls (coconut water, tea, banana chips)

✔️ Rescue boat standby during weekends/peak hours

👉 Best For: Families with kids and beginners.
👉 Hidden Tip: Try combining your kayaking trip here with a short beach visit, as Kappil Beach is just across the bridge.

5. Backwater Bliss Kayaking Tours – Varkala

A relatively new but well-rated kayaking operator, this one focuses on guided village backwater tours that include cultural experiences (seeing fishermen, toddy tapping, and local life).

Facilities & Services:

✔️ Experienced local guides with storytelling

✔️ Life jackets, paddles, and dry bags provided

✔️ Clean toilets and handwashing facility at the base point

✔️ Bottled water and light snacks included in the package

✔️ Free parking space for two-wheelers

✔️ Option to add canoe ride or fishing experience

👉 Best For: Travelers who want a mix of kayaking and cultural immersion.
👉 Hidden Tip: Book the half-day package if you want to combine kayaking with a local seafood lunch experience.

🛶 Quick Comparison of Varkala Kayaking Centers

🛟 Safety Measures & Facilities

• Life jackets are mandatory (provided by centers).

• Trained guides for beginners.

• Waterproof bags for gadgets (extra ₹100).

• First aid kits available at most centers.

• Changing rooms and restrooms available at popular spots.

👉 Hidden Tip: Carry a light towel and extra clothes, you may get wet while paddling.

📍 Distance from Varkala Town

• Kayaking points are usually 3–7 km from Varkala Cliff.

• Easily accessible by auto rickshaw (₹100–₹200) or rented scooters (₹400/day).

🌤️ Best Season for Kayaking in Varkala

• October to March: Best season (pleasant weather & calm waters).

• April to May: Hot but doable (early morning kayaking recommended).

• June to September: Monsoon season, kayaking is not recommended due to rough waters.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Kayaking

• Double kayaks available for parents with kids (above 5 years).

• Shorter 30–40 minute sessions offered for families.

• Birdwatching tours in backwaters are highly recommended for kids.

✨ Hidden Tips for First-Time Kayakers in Varkala

✔️ Wear quick-dry clothes instead of cotton.
✔️ Avoid carrying valuables, use waterproof bags.
✔️ Morning slots are less crowded and more peaceful.
✔️ If you’re not confident, book a guided kayak tour.
✔️ Carry sunscreen, hat, and a water bottle.

Varkala Kayaking Centers Traveller Reviews

🌟 The Good – What Travelers Loved

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Peaceful backwater experience.”
Early morning kayaking through the mangroves was magical. The calm waters and birdwatching made it unforgettable. Guides were friendly and ensured safety at all times.

⭐⭐⭐⭐“Sunset kayaking was breathtaking.”
Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the kayak was a highlight of our trip. The LED-lit kayaks added a special glow, perfect for photography and couples.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Safe and beginner-friendly.”
Life jackets and instructions made us feel secure even as first-timers. Kids enjoyed the shorter paddling sessions too. Facilities like restrooms and lockers were available at most centers.

⚠️ The Bad – What Travelers Struggled With

⭐⭐⭐“Limited facilities on-site.”
While kayaking was excellent, restroom and food stall facilities were very basic. Carry water and snacks if you plan longer tours.

⭐⭐“Expensive during peak season.”
Prices almost doubled during Christmas and New Year. Booking early online is recommended to avoid last-minute charges.

⭐⭐⭐“Weather-dependent activity.”
Strong winds made paddling tough in the afternoon. Tours sometimes get cancelled due to tides or rain without much notice.

📌 Overall Experience Summary