Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three contiguous crescent-shaped beaches. It has been a popular meeting point for tourists since the 1930s. The beach’s huge rocky outcrops create a beautiful bay of calm waters, perfect for swimming. Recreational opportunities at this beach are numerous and varied. These include sunbathing, swimming, herbal massages to strengthen the body, special cultural programs and catamaran trips. The tropical sun acts so quickly that within minutes you can see the delicate redness of a coppery tan on your skin. Beach life begins at the end of the day and continues well into the evening. The beach complex has a number of affordable cottages, an Ayurveda health resort, conference facilities, shopping areas, swimming pools, yoga and Ayurveda massage centres. Kovalam has a range of tourist accommodation, from five-star hotels to budget hotels, and dining options in restaurants and cafeterias range from continental to South Indian cuisine. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is just 16 km from Kovalam, so getting there is no problem. But if you are on vacation, I would recommend staying in Kovalam and visiting the city. The city of Thiruvananthapuram has many interesting places to visit such as Napier Museum, Shri Chitra Art Gallery and Padmanabhaswamy Temple. His SMSM Institute, a state handicraft centre, is an ideal place to purchase ethnic antiques and other items.