Emerging spots: Kolavi beach in Kozhikode is Kerala’s ‘mini Goa’

Kolavi beach in Kozhikode quickly became a popular tourism spot recently. It’s after reels shot here were shared and liked by many on social media. Thanks to its serene beach and blue waters, social media also gave it the moniker ‘mini Goa of Kerala.’ Located at Payyoli in Kozhikode, Kolavi is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

What to see?
Those who wish to enjoy a calm evening in Kozhikode can head straight to Kolavi beach. The rhythmic sounds of the waves are probably the only sound you will hear at the beach, which isn’t too crowded. Kolavi, once a hidden spot, has now become viral on social media through countless reels and videos. The sandy beach here uncannily resembles the splendid Goan coast. Kolavi beach is around 45 kilometres away from Kozhikode Town.

Meanwhile, it is 13 and 8 kilometres from Vadakara and Payyoli, respectively. Two paths lead to the Kolavi beach. The one covered in thick forest is on the banks of the Kodapuzha River. The mangrove forest and the giant trees grant a dreamy ambience to this place. The residents say the mangroves were planted manually and grew into thick woods. This is also an estuary where the tide meets the stream. The waves beating against the land takes a turn at a specific spot. Those unfamiliar with the terrain might lose their balance and fall. So, it is safer not to get into the water at this spot. You could glimpse the Vadakara sand banks beach on the other side. Mornings and evenings are the perfect times to visit the beach as the sandy beach reflects a golden hue then. The soothing winds blowing from the ocean and the calm atmosphere will transport you to a world of tranquillity.

Activity possibilities
The spot is perfect for photoshoots, especially during sunset, as the sandy beach and the blue waters offer mind-blowing frames. You will pass the historic Kottapuram beach on the way to Kolavi. Visitors could see the iconic Velliyamkallu, a rocky island off the coast and a strategic vantage point for the heroic Kunjali Marakkar during the historic naval battles against the Portuguese. Velliyamkallu has also acquired immortality in the hearts of readers as it has been mentioned in M Mukundan’s best-selling Malayalam novel ‘Mayyazhi Puzhayude Theerangal’.

Kolavi beach is also home to hundreds of Olive Ridley turtles that are on the verge of extinction. The turtles come in huge numbers to the beach during November – December to lay eggs and nestle. A turtle conservation group called Theeran functions here to protect the Olive Ridley turtles and if interested, you too can offer your services.

Here’s how to reach Kolavi
Reach Payyoli from Kozhikode. The second railway gate at Payyoli leads to a narrow road, which leads to the coastal road lined by giant coconut trees on both sides. This road leads to the Kolavi bridge and then the parking area. The visitors could park their vehicles here and head to the mangrove forest path and to Mini Goa.
Some people might enjoy the places that become viral on the reels, but some may be disappointed when they see them in reality.
Disclaimer: The soothing waters might look tempting, but do not get into the water as it could be treacherous.