Start your day by exploring the Cliff Beach, famous for its stunning sunsets, scenic beaches, and numerous water sports. Spend the morning trying out various adventure sports like surfing, paragliding, or parasailing. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, admire the panoramic views or grab a coffee from one of the coastal cafes. After lunch, head towards the magnificent 800-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple, which is located near the beach.
A morning visit to the tranquil Kappil Beach is the perfect way to spend the day. It's situated around 7km from Varkala town, and a short walk from the nearby estuary will lead you to the pristine golden sands and clear waters. After enjoying the beach, visit the nearby Anjengo Fort built-in 1695 by the British East India Company. The fort presents stunning views of the surrounding area. Stop by the Hanuman Temple, located in the fort complex and appreciate the sunset view before heading back to the city.
Explore Anchuthengu, a small coastal town located around 15km from Varkala. Visit the Anchuthengu Fort, which was previously used to trade pepper and is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. After viewing the historical site, head towards Varkala Aquarium, situated in the city. Experience the underwater world and enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by the marine creatures of the Kerala coastline.
The above itinerary covers most of the places to visit in Varkala. If you have extra time, you can plan a visit to the ponnumthuruthu island or Backwaters of Kollam. If you have a shorter trip, you can consider visiting only the beach areas, temples, and the famous Janardanaswamy Temple.