Name: Mahabalipuram
Rating: 3.5

Blue Flag Beach Kovalam, Mahabalipuram Overview

Kovalam beach, located in the Chengalpattu district in Tamil Nadu, India, is a popular tourist destination known for its safe, clean, and hygienic environment with a range of facilities and activities to enjoy. The beach was earlier known as Covelong beach and is situated in a small fishing village called Covelong in the Kanchipuram district, about 36 km away from Chennai.

The beach has recently received the prestigious Blue Flag certification, which is awarded based on certain criteria such as water quality, safety, environmental education, and management. Kovalam beach met 33 criteria to receive the certification, including having safe bathing areas under the watchful eyes of trained lifeguards, lifeguard towers and a control room, trained paramedical staff to provide first aid, and CCTV coverage of the beach area. Additionally, the beach is accessible to differently-abled individuals, with exclusive toilets and parking space for their use.

The Beach Management Committee (BMC) has been constituted to monitor and supervise the BEAMS program at Kovalam beach, and the periodical monitoring of the bathing water quality testing is conducted by NCSCM, MoEF&CC, GoI. The beach offers visitors various facilities, including a safe swimming zone, shower and change area, drinking water facility, outdoor fitness equipment, children's play area, reclining bamboo lounger chairs, hammocks, sit-out umbrellas, toilet blocks, bamboo-made litter bins, and an amphibious wheelchair for differently-abled individuals who can swim in the bathing zone safely.

Must Know Before You Visit Blue Flag Beach Kovalam

Must Know Before You Visit Kovalam Beach :

Kovalam beach may be closed during extreme weather conditions like storms or heavy rains.
Visitors should carry enough cash or cards, as there are limited ATMs and money exchange options available on the beach.
It is preferable to bring a waterproof camera to capture some beautiful shots while in the water, as it is clean.

Blue Flag Beach Kovalam Highlights

1. Old Church Ruins

The old church ruins near Kovalam Beach are a must-see for history buffs and those who appreciate architecture. These ruins belong to an old Catholic church that dates back to the colonial era. The ch (Read More)urch ruins stand tall and proud, resembling a Dutch fort in ruins. Visitors can explore the ruins, which add to the natural beauty of the beach and provide a glimpse into the region's rich history.

2. Surfing

Surfing is a popular activity at Kovalam Beach and one of the main highlights for adventurous visitors. The waves at Kovalam are ideal for windsurfing and surfing, and the beach is home to numerous su (Read More)rfing schools that cater to both beginners and advanced surfers. Experienced instructors are available to provide guidance and help visitors catch the perfect wave. During the monsoon season, which is from June to September, surf competitions are held at the beach, adding to the excitement and buzz around the area.

3. Covelong Point Festival

Covelong Point Surf, Music, and Yoga Festival, is another popular event which is held in August. The festival brings together surfers, musicians, and yoga enthusiasts from all over the world. The fest (Read More)ival includes surfing competitions, live music performances, and yoga sessions on the beach.

4. Coastal Charm

Kovalam Beach is renowned for its coastal charm, with its clean and pristine shores, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, and offers stunning views of the eastern coast of India and the surroundin (Read More)g landscape. The long stretches of pristine sand, swaying palm trees, and sparkling blue waters create a serene and calming atmosphere that can soothe even the most frazzled nerves. The picturesque beauty of Kovalam Beach, combined with the charming coastal vibe, makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a laid-back vacation.

5. Dutch Fort

The Dutch Fort is a popular historical landmark located near Kovalam Beach. This fort was built by the Dutch East India Company during the colonial era and is now in ruins. Despite being in ruins, the (Read More) fort is still an interesting attraction for tourists who want to learn more about the region's history. Visitors can explore the fort's remains and witness the blend of Dutch and Indian architecture. The fort has also been transformed into a luxury beach resort by the Taj group of hotels, making it a unique attraction for both history enthusiasts and luxury travelers.

Read More on Blue Flag Beach Kovalam

Water Activities at Covelong Beach

There is no place better than Covelong Beach to experience the adventurous water waves. What makes this beach so perfect and safe is that it was here that the First Surfing School of India was established. And, today many schools give you proper training before you step into the waters. So here are a few fun things for you to play within this coastline of Bay of Bengal.

Surfing: The waves here are not very loud, rather gentle and calm, hence making it an excellent place to surf. Explore the Bay as you learn to surf it.

Para-Sailing: How cool is it to sail over a ravishing beach and make some adventurous memories? Indeed very! So on your visit to the beach make sure you parasail.

Boating: Rent a motorboat and ride as if you rule the waters! But be safe and make sure that it is entirely under your control. Do not over speed.

Fishing: The most famous activity you can take onto is fishing. Catch up with some localites of the Covelong village and learn from them great tricks of catching fishes. Treat yourself to the tasty fish you caught during the lunch or the dinner time.

It's time for you to indulge yourself in a great rejoicing period at this beach.

Best time to visit Kovalam Beach?

The best time to visit Kovalam Beach is between the months of October and March, which is the winter season in India. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with cool breezes and lower humidity levels. This makes it perfect for enjoying the beach and other outdoor activities. Additionally, this is also the time when many festivals and cultural events take place in Chennai, which can add to the overall experience of visiting Kovalam Beach. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, and therefore, the beach may be crowded during this time.

Surfing enthusiast can plan their visit during monsoon season (June through September) as various surf competitions are head at Kovalam Beach during this period when waves are wild with high tides.

Tips For Visiting Covelong Beach

1. Apply sunscreen before you step onto the beach.
2. Do not litter.
3. There are no restaurants near this beach so pack ample of snacks that would keep you full.
4. Take with yourself an umbrella, hat, and sunglasses to provide complete protection to your skin.

How To Reach Covelong Beach

The beach has easy access to (OMR) Old Mahabalipuram Road and (ECR) East Coast Road from Chennai. (CMTC) Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation and TNSTC Villupuram have active bus services connecting almost all areas in Covelong and Chennai city. Apart from this, the Covelong Beach can also be reached by boat, along with the seashore of Chengalpattu.

Why is Kovalam Beach famous?

Kovalam Beach is also famous for its serene and picturesque surroundings, including coconut trees, pristine blue waters, and golden sands. It is a popular tourist destination in Chennai, India, known for its calm and tranquil atmosphere. Moreover, Kovalam Beach is well-known for its water activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and swimming. Additionally, Kovalam Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag certification, which is an internationally recognized symbol of clean and sustainable beaches. The beach is well-maintained and offers various facilities such as showers, changing rooms, toilets, and parking, making it an ideal spot for families and individuals to spend a day by the sea.

What is the significance of this Blue Flag Certified beach?

The Blue Flag certification is an internationally recognized eco-label that is awarded to beaches that meet certain criteria related to water quality, environmental management, safety, and services. It indicates that the beach is clean, safe, and well-managed, and meets high environmental and sustainability standards. The certification is given by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and is a symbol of high-quality beaches around the world. Kovalam Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag certification, making it one of the few beaches in India to have received this prestigious recognition.

Can we visit Kovalam Beach during the monsoon season?

Yes, you can visit Kovalam Beach during the monsoon season, which usually lasts from June to September. However, it is important to note that the beach and water activities may be restricted during heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a visit during the monsoon season to avoid disappointment.

Are there any facilities available for people with disabilities at Kovalam Beach?

Yes, there are facilities available for people with disabilities at Kovalam Beach. There are ramps for wheelchair access, and some of the hotels and restaurants also have accessible facilities. Moreover, the beach offers an amphibious wheelchair facility. There are also separate restrooms and changing room facilities for differently abled people. Additionally, there are lifeguards on duty to assist visitors with disabilities in case of any emergencies.

Is Kovalam Beach safe for swimming?

Kovalam Beach can be safe for swimming, and there are lifeguards and watchtowers. Although, it is important to take precautions and be aware of the conditions. During the monsoon season, the waves can be rough and it may not be safe to swim. It is also important to be aware of any warning signs or flags indicating dangerous conditions. Also, it is recommended to swim only in designated areas and to not swim alone.

Are there any restrictions for swimming at Kovalam Beach?

Yes, there are some restrictions for swimming at Kovalam Beach. Visitors are advised to swim only in the designated areas and to avoid swimming during high tide or when the sea is rough. Additionally, visitors should pay attention to the flag system at the beach, which indicates the safety of the water. There will be lifeguards and watchtowers to keep an eye on to avoid any accidents. If a red flag is raised, swimming is strictly prohibited. It is also recommended to swim under the supervision of lifeguards and to avoid swimming alone.