Pallipuram Beach: Discover A Hidden Gem Near Cherai, Kerala

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and looking for a peaceful and adventurous place? If you are not enjoying the polluted city life, then this article is for you, because today we are going to tell you about a hidden beach whose name you might not have heard. The name of this beach is Pallipuram Beach, which is very close to Cherai Beach and Munambam Harbour in Kerala. Here you can relax, explore history, and enjoy the real Kerala village life.
📍 Location: Pallipuram Beach is located in Pallipuram village, which is on Vypin Island, Ernakulam district, Kerala. This place is about 25 km from Kochi and 20–25 km away from Cochin International Airport. Cherai Beach and the historic Pallipuram Fort are nearby, so it is a great spot for a beach holiday.
🕒 Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Pallipuram Beach is from October to March. During this time, the weather is a little cold and less humid, and this time is perfect for beach walks, fort viewing, and backwater rides. Everywhere is green during the monsoon (June–September), but swimming in the sea here can be a little risky.
🏖️ Facilities:
- Clean and peaceful beach: Perfect for walks & relaxing.
- Basic seating and shaded spots.
- Limited restroom access: Better options near Cherai.
- Here is a Small parking area for park cars and bikes.
- Local stalls for snacks, coconut water, and refreshments.
- No regular lifeguards: Swim with caution.
- Limited lighting: Best to visit during the day.
- Nearby resorts & homestays within 2–3 km.
- Ferry & boat access nearby for backwater rides.
💧 Activities:
Relax on the beach: Pallipuram Beach is quieter than Cherai Beach, ideal for sunbathing, reading, or a peaceful nap under the coconut trees.
Visit Pallipuram Fort: This hexagonal fort is the oldest surviving European fort in India. It was built by the Portuguese in 1503.
Explore Manjumatha Basilica: You can explore here historic church known for its unique legends and peaceful surroundings.
Backwater cruise: Take a ferry or boat ride through the Vembanad backwaters for scenic village views.
Watch local fishing: Head to Munambam Fishing Harbour nearby to see fishing boats and local fish markets in action.
🚗 Accessibility:
How to reach Pallipuram Beach:
- By road: Drive from Ernakulam or Kochi city (about 1 hour). Local taxis, autos, and buses are easily available here.
- By air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 20 km away.
- By ferry: Regular ferries connect Vypin Island to Kochi mainland, Vaikom, and Cherthala.
🍴 Food Options:
Pallipuram village itself has a few small cafés and local eateries serving Kerala-style meals. For more variety, head towards Cherai Beach, where you’ll find:
- Chilliout Café: Fresh seafood and continental snacks.
- Clam Restaurant: Known for its seafood curries.
- Raanthal Café & Viji’s Tiffin: Local places for authentic dosa and tea. Beach shacks often serve fresh catch-of-the-day and coconut drinks, don’t miss it!
🏨 Nearby Stays:
Seaflare Beach Resort & Spa: A peaceful resort near the backwaters.
Les 3 Elephants: Eco-friendly retreat near Cherai Beach.
36 Palms Boutique Retreat: Beachfront boutique stay.
Sapphire Club Cherai Beach Villa: Budget-friendly, close to the shore.
Most stays offer free Wi-Fi, local tours, and seafood meals on request.
⚠️ Safety:
- Pallipuram Beach is family-friendly and less crowded than other beaches.
- Swim only in safe, shallow areas, and avoid rough tides during monsoon.
- The fort area has uneven stones; wear good footwear.
- Respect local customs near churches and fishing villages.
📸 Photography Spots:
Sunrise & Sunset: The best natural lighting for stunning beach photos.
Pallipuram Fort: Great for wide-angle shots and unique architecture.
Manjumatha Basilica: Beautiful white façade and peaceful churchyard.
Fishing Harbour: Capture rustic boats, nets, and local fishermen in action.
🌍 Nearby Attractions:
Cherai Beach: 2–3 km away, famous for dolphin sightings and water sports.
Muziris Golden Beach: A Quiet sandy stretch linked to Kerala’s ancient trade history.
Munambam Harbour: Vibrant fishing scene and seafood market.
Vypin Backwaters: Go boating or try kayaking through narrow canals.
Historic spots: Visit ancient churches and explore the heritage of the old Muziris port region.
🏝️ About Pallipuram Beach
Pallipuram Beach is Kerala’s calm coastal secret, where golden sands meet history.
This charming village is a great base to explore Cherai Beach, Munambam Harbour, and the legendary Muziris heritage zone. With its old Portuguese fort, backwaters, peaceful churches, and fresh seafood, Pallipuram invites you to slow down and savor Kerala’s coastal life away from tourist crowds.
Also read: Kallooppara Beach: A Hidden Gem of Kerala’s Coastline