Cafe del Mar - Varkala's Iconic Cliff-Top Seafood Restaurant

Varkala, KeralaRESTAURANT

A multi-level cliff-top cafe on Varkala's North Cliff, known for its stunning sea views, fresh seafood display, and relaxed evening atmosphere.

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Info

RESTAURANT

Info

2-3 hours

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

No Parking

Photography

No Photography

About the Destination

Overview

Situated on the edge of Varkala's North Cliff, Cafe del Mar is a well-known spot famous for its direct views of the Arabian Sea. The cafe has a two-level structure made mostly of bamboo and wood, creating a relaxed, beach-shack feel. The lower level offers cozy seating, while the upper deck provides a more open, panoramic perspective of the coastline, making it a prime location for watching the sunset. Visitors can expect a laid-back atmosphere during the day, which transitions to a more energetic vibe in the evening with chill-out and electronic music.

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Location & Address

North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala 695141, North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is dry and pleasant, perfect for the open-air seating. This period is the peak tourist season, so the atmosphere is lively. Avoid the monsoon season from June to September, as heavy rain can disrupt the cliff-side experience. The months of April and May are very hot and humid, making afternoons less comfortable.
Peak Crowd: December to January, especially during Christmas and New Year. Evenings from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM are always the busiest.
Moderate Crowd: October-November and February-March. Weekday afternoons have fewer people.
Low Crowd: April to September, which is the off-season and monsoon period.

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), located about 45 km away. A taxi from the airport to Varkala Cliff takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Train

Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station (VAK) is the closest station, just 3 km from the North Cliff. It is well-connected to major cities. Auto-rickshaws are available at the station for transfer to the cliff.

Road

Varkala is easily accessible by road from major cities in Kerala like Thiruvananthapuram (45 km) and Kollam (35 km). KSRTC and private buses operate regular services. If driving, follow the routes towards Varkala town and then head to the North Cliff Helipad.

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws are the most common way to get around Varkala. Renting a scooter or motorcycle for around ₹300-₹500 per day is also a very popular option for exploring the area independently.