Ride the Waves: Exploring the Thrill of Surfing in Varkala
Varkala, a serene coastal town in Kerala, has become a leading destination for surf enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its iconic seaside cliffs, glittering shores, and azure sea, it offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable surfing experience in Varkala. The reliable wave patterns, the shores are pristine, and the vibe is peaceful—making it an ideal spot for both novice and seasoned surfers. Over the past decade, Varkala surfing has grown from a hobby to a lifestyle that blends adventure, wellness, and coastal living.
Beyond its natural beauty, what truly sets Varkala apart is its welcoming surf culture. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling ride across the Arabian Sea or searching for calm and mindfulness on the ocean, this beach town offers an experience that touches both the mind and spirit. With professional surf schools in Varkala offering international standard training, even complete beginners can pick up surfing with ease and safety.
How Surfing Flourished in Varkala
A few years ago, Varkala was primarily known as a peaceful beach retreat, celebrated for its panoramic cliffs and yoga culture. However, the town’s unique coastal geography—with steady surf and ideal beach conditions—soon caught the attention of surfers from around the globe. This marked the beginning of a growing surfing culture that continues to attract enthusiasts from all over the world. Today, surfing in Varkala has become synonymous with adventure tourism, offering an energetic dimension to Varkala’s charm.
The gentle beach breaks make it a perfect place for first-timers, while the stronger waves during the monsoon season challenge skilled surfers. Surfing has also created opportunities for locals, with many residents becoming instructors, lifeguards, or surfboard shapers, helping the community develop through tourism.
What Makes Surfing in Varkala Special
Varkala’s charm lies in the blend of stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere. The wide coastlines provide plenty of space to catch waves without overcrowding, and the water remains comfortable in all seasons. The dramatic cliffside views offer spectacular panoramas, adding to the town’s scenic allure. Surfers often describe the experience here as meditative—each wave is an opportunity to embrace the ocean’s rhythm.
Another highlight is the welcoming group of surfers that readily includes travellers. Whether you’re here for a short trip or long vacation, you’ll find fellow surfers who share a passion for the sport and the sea. Evenings on Varkala Cliff are filled with stories, music, and laughter, making it easy for travellers to feel at home.
Mastering Surfing with a Varkala Surf School
For those just starting out, joining a surf academy in Varkala is the ideal starting point. These schools provide step-by-step programs designed to teach wave control and balance. Qualified instructors ensure that every student gains confidence gradually, building skills through practical learning. Most sessions begin with dry-land drills followed by real surf practice.
Surf schools in Varkala also supply everything needed, including surfing in Varkala boards, safety cords, and protective gear. They cater to all abilities, whether you’re a novice or an expert. Some schools even offer wellness surf packages, combining surf training with yoga for a holistic coastal experience.
Surfing Training in Varkala for Beginners and Professionals
Comprehensive surf coaching in Varkala goes beyond surfing the surface. It involves understanding sea behaviour. Instructors teach how to read the sea, choose the right board, and maintain proper posture. Beginners start with foam boards on small, safe waves, gradually progressing to bigger waves as their confidence grows. For advanced surfers, training focuses on improving turns, timing, and technique to handle demanding wave conditions.
Most training sessions are conducted at sunrise when the sea is calm and fresh. This timing also allows surfers to enjoy the golden glow of sunrise, an experience that adds a serene beauty to training. Over time, students not only develop physical skills but also a spiritual connection to the sea.
Popular Surf Spots around Varkala Beach
The main surfing in Varkala Beach lies near the famous northern cliff area, where the waves are consistent and suitable for all levels. During the pleasant months of winter and spring, the sea remains gentle and beginner-friendly. Monsoon months, from mid-year, bring bigger and more powerful waves that attract professional riders chasing adventure.
Apart from the main beach, close-by beaches such as Edava, Odayam, and Kappil also offer great surfing conditions with fewer crowds. These locations are ideal for those who enjoy solitude on the waves.
Surf Culture and Lifestyle in Varkala
Surfing here is not just a sport—it’s a philosophy of living close to nature. The local surf culture encourages eco-friendly practices and respect for the environment. Many surfers engage in environmental activities and promote responsible travel. Cafés and guesthouses near the cliff often host community gatherings and surf sessions, fostering a creative and inclusive community spirit.
Travellers often combine surfing with yoga and meditation, embracing the peaceful rhythm that Varkala naturally supports. The mix of excitement and serenity defines life in this coastal paradise, where every day begins and ends with the sound of waves.
How to Make the Most of Surfing in Varkala
To make the most of your surfing adventure, it’s important to choose the right season and gear. Dry months provide stable weather and easy surf conditions—perfect for beginners and casual surfers. Always protect your skin, stay hydrated, and follow your coach’s advice. Respecting the environment and surf etiquette ensures that Varkala remains a pristine destination for future generations of surfers.
Those planning extended surfing holidays can hire boards easily or join community sessions to connect with other surfers. Regular practice and patience are key to mastering the sport—each day on the water brings fresh challenges and discoveries.
Conclusion: Let the Ocean Move You
Surfing in Varkala is more than just an adventure—it’s a journey that connects people with the ocean and themselves. From thrilling rides across gentle waves to the calm of sunrise mornings, every moment spent on Varkala Beach offers joy, challenge, and self-discovery. Whether you’re training at a surf school in Varkala or exploring the coast on your own, the experience will leave lasting memories. With its blend of ocean energy, culture, and serenity, Varkala truly stands as a paradise for wave riders seeking excitement and peace.