Best Surf Towns in India for Beginners to Learn Surfing

Explore India’s top beginner-friendly surf towns—Kovalam, Varkala, Mulki, Mahabalipuram, and Auroville. Ideal destinations for B2B travel agents promoting surf tourism, wellness travel, and coastal adventure packages in India.

India’s extensive coastline offers a compelling opportunity for travel businesses catering to adventure-focused and wellness-driven clients. Among the country’s many coastal gems, Kovalam, Varkala, Mulki, Mahabalipuram, and Auroville in Puducherry have emerged as the most beginner-friendly surf towns—known for warm waters, easy breaks, and a nurturing surf culture.

For B2B travel agents, these destinations provide immense potential to curate surf camps, experiential itineraries, youth travel programs, FIT adventures, group departures, and more. Below is a comprehensive look at what makes each town ideal for first-time surfers.

1. Kovalam, Kerala: A Calm and Welcoming Surf Haven

Image Alt Text: beginner surfing in Kovalam Kerala lighthouse beach

Located at the southern edge of Kerala, Kovalam blends serene beaches with its long-standing reputation for wellness tourism. The soft, consistent breaks at Lighthouse Beach and Hawah Beach offer ideal conditions for first-time riders.

Local surf schools provide beginner coaching, surfboard rentals, and safe-water training, making it easy for travel planners to bundle surf lessons into FIT and group packages.

Beyond surfing, Kovalam’s palm-fringed coastline, Ayurveda resorts, and cliffside cafés provide a relaxed environment—perfect for clients seeking a surf + wellness escape.

2. Varkala, Kerala: Gentle Waves Beneath Dramatic Cliffs

Image Alt Text: beginner surfing in Varkala Kerala cliff beach

Just a few hours north, Varkala is known for its postcard-perfect cliffs and wide sandy stretches. Varkala Beach and Odayam Beach are popular among beginners due to their long rolling waves and open waters.

What differentiates Varkala is its surf + yoga culture. Many surf schools incorporate yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness into their training. For B2B professionals, this makes Varkala ideal for crafting wellness retreats, digital nomad packages, and transformational travel programs.

Its easy-going atmosphere ensures a comfortable first-surf experience for all age groups.

3. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu: The Perfect Blend of Surf & Heritage

Image Alt Text: beginner surfing in Mahabalipuram Tamil Nadu near shore temple

Just an hour from Chennai International Airport, Mahabalipuram offers a rare combination of ancient history and beginner-friendly surf breaks.

Sites like Covelong Beach and the area near the iconic Shore Temple offer predictable, mellow wave conditions—ideal for training new surfers. Surf cafés, resorts, and community-run surf schools add to its appeal.

For B2B operators, Mahabalipuram works well for weekend corporate retreats, student groups, and cultural-surf combo itineraries, offering clients both heritage exploration and ocean adventure.

4. Auroville & Puducherry: Mindful Surfing in Tranquil Surroundings

Image Alt Text: surf classes for beginners in Auroville Puducherry serenity beach

For travelers seeking peace and quiet along with their surf lessons, Auroville and Puducherry stand out as excellent options. The beaches near Serenity Beach offer manageable waves, minimal crowds, and a calm environment ideal for slow-paced learning.

Surf schools here emphasize safe instruction, ocean awareness, sustainability, and a mindful approach to surfing—qualities that resonate strongly with wellness tourists and slow travelers.

Auroville’s eco-stays, organic cafés, and creative workshops complement surf programs, making it a great destination for immersive, holistic travel products.

5. Mulki, Karnataka: India's Spiritual Surf Capital

Image Alt Text: beginner surfing lessons in Mulki Karnataka mantra surf club river mouth

Near Mangalore, Mulki has cemented itself as the heart of India’s surf culture. Home to the Mantra Surf Club, India’s first surf ashram, Mulki offers a deeply community-driven surf experience.

Its river-mouth breaks are gentle and consistent, making them perfect for new surfers. Surf camps here often include multi-day packages covering safety, paddling, balance, and basic maneuvers.

The backwaters, calm beaches, and eco-friendly accommodations position Mulki as a prime destination for school groups, adventure travelers, wellness seekers, and long-stay programs.

Why These Surf Towns Are Ideal for Beginners (and Great for B2B Packaging)

Image Alt Text: best surf towns in India for beginner surfers

Across these five destinations, beginners can expect:

• Warm waters year-round

• Beginner-friendly waves and surf schools

• Safe, welcoming surf communities

• Affordable surf packages and rentals

• Access to wellness, culture, and nature experiences

For B2B travel partners, these towns offer flexibility to design custom surfing itineraries, group activities, FIT add-ons, and experiential upgrades that meet the growing demand for adventure and wellness tourism in India.

Conclusion: A Growing Opportunity for India’s Adventure Travel Market

With surfing gaining popularity across India, these destinations present valuable opportunities for travel agents to diversify offerings. Whether your clients prefer the laid-back charm of Kovalam, the spiritual energy of Varkala, the cultural richness of Mahabalipuram, the mindful vibe of Auroville, or the surf-focused community in Mulki—each town offers excellent learning conditions and memorable coastal experiences.

As adventure tourism rises, positioning these surf towns in your itineraries can help you deliver high-value, experience-driven travel products your clients will love.

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