Outdoors

Kovalam's crescent of sand, early before the crowd. Lighthouse Beach is the busiest stretch; walk south for quieter water.

The red-and-white Kovalam lighthouse. Climb to the top for the view over the whole bay.

Shanghumugham, the city beach next to the airport. The sea has been eating into the old beach road, but it is still the favourite sunset spot.

Where Veli Lake meets the sea. The floating bridge and the giant shell sculptures are the classic photo stops.