Top 5 surf towns in India

India is famous for its long coastlines and tropical beaches, but in the past decade, it has also become a great place for surfing. Warm water, gentle waves, and more surf schools mean several coastal towns are now perfect for anyone wanting to try surfing for the first time. Whether you want a quick weekend trip or a longer surf holiday, here are five of the best Indian surf towns for beginners.
Kovalam, Kerala
Kovalam beach (Photo: Wikipedia)
Kovalam has long been famous for its beaches, Ayurvedic retreats, and palm-lined coastline—but it’s also one of the earliest surf hubs in the country. Lighthouse Beach and Hawah Beach offer gentle, rolling waves that are ideal for beginners.
Surf schools like Kovalam Surf Club offer lessons from certified instructors and rent out boards for all skill levels. The water is warm year-round, and mornings typically offer the cleanest waves. After your surf session, Kovalam’s cafes, yoga centres, and scenic cliff walks give the town its chilled-out coastal vibe.
Best time to surf: September to March
Varkala, Kerala
Varkala Beach (Photo: Wikipedia)
Just a few hours north of Kovalam, Varkala stands out with its cliffside beaches and bohemian vibe. What makes Varkala perfect for beginners is its long sandy stretch at Varkala Beach and Odayam Beach.
Several surf schools, including Soul & Surf, combine surfing with yoga, breathwork, and holic wellness—ideal for those seeking a calmer, more mindful surf experience.
Best time to surf: November to March
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mahabs, is one of India’s most consent surf spots and home to some of the country’s earliest surf communities. Just an hour from Chennai, it offers multiple breaks that work well for beginners—especially Covelong Beach and the stretch near Shore Temple.
The town’s cultural backdrop—ancient temples, stone carvings, and UNESCO World Heritage sites—makes it a perfect mix of hory and surf. For beginners wanting reliable waves and easy access from a major city, Mahabalipuram is hard to beat.Story continues below this ad
Best time to surf: June to September for monsoon swells; December to February for calmer waves

Auroville & Puducherry, Tamil Nadu
Auro Beach (Photo: Wikipedia)
The beaches near Auroville and Pondicherry are perfect for first-time surfers looking for calm conditions and a supportive surf culture. Serenity Beach is the heart of the surf scene.
Surf schools like Kallialay Surf School specialise in teaching beginners, offering safe, guided lessons, soft-top boards, and ample time in the water. The laid-back cafes, art studios, and quiet roads of Auroville add to the relaxed charm.
Best time to surf: October to March
Mulki, Karnataka
Mulki near Mangalore is often regarded as the spiritual heart of Indian surf culture. It’s where the country’s first surf ashram—the Mantra Surf Club—was established, and today the area buzzes with surf camps, hostels, and eco-friendly homestays.Story continues below this ad
Mulki’s river-mouth breaks and beach stretches are perfect for beginners. Most surf schools offer multi-day programs that include ocean safety, paddling techniques, board control, and basic manoeuvres. The backwater scenery makes it a wholesome surf retreat.
Best time to surf: October to April