Muzhappilangad Beach

Muzhappilangad · Thalassery · Kerala · India

No image available

No one has shared a view of Muzhappilangad Beach yet.

No image available

About Muzhappilangad Beach

Muzhappilangad Beach is a unique coastal attraction in the Kannur district of Kerala, renowned as Asia's longest drive-in beach. Stretching approximately 4 kilometers along the Malabar Coast, it features firm sand that allows visitors to legally drive vehicles directly on the shoreline. The beach is bordered by black rocks that protect it from strong ocean currents, making it a safe spot for swimming and water sports. It also serves as a significant birdwatching hotspot during the winter season.

Visitors guide

Visitors can expect a distinctive experience of driving cars or motorcycles along a 4-kilometer stretch of hard-packed sand parallel to the sea. The beach offers a scenic environment with black rock formations at either end, providing protection from deep currents and creating ideal conditions for swimming. During low tide, visitors can walk to the nearby Dharmadam Island. The area features local food shacks serving authentic Malabar cuisine and offers various adventure activities such as parasailing and paragliding.

Key highlights

01
Asia's longest drive-in beach allowing vehicles on the sand
02
Safe swimming conditions protected by natural black rocks
03
Walkable access to Dharmadam Island during low tide
04
Winter birdwatching hotspot with over 30 migratory species
05
Adventure sports including parasailing, paragliding, and power boating
06
Authentic Malabar cuisine available at local beach shacks

Culture & Context

The beach is culturally significant for its authentic Malabar cuisine served at local shacks and its role as a traditional fishing and community gathering spot. It has gained modern cultural recognition as one of the few legal drive-in beaches in the world.

Route

By train
By air	Kannur International Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 25-27 km from the beach.

Keep exploring nearby

Discover more nearby attractions and build a fuller day around this stop.

No image available

Dharmadam Island

Dharmadam Island is a small, uninhabited 2-hectare island located approximately 100 meters off the coast of Dharmadam Beach near Thalassery in Kannur district. Also known as Green Island or Dharmadam Thuruth, it is covered with coconut palms and laterite outcrops. The island was historically known as Dharmapattanam, a prominent Buddhist stronghold, and offers serene views of the confluence of rivers and the Arabian Sea.

Thalassery, KeralaIsland

No image available

St. Angelo Fort

St. Angelo Fort is a historic triangular laterite fort built in 1505 by the Portuguese Viceroy Dom Francisco de Almeida. Located on the Arabian Sea coast in Kannur, Kerala, it changed hands between the Dutch, Arakkal dynasty, and British before becoming an ASI-protected monument. The fort offers panoramic views of Mopilla Bay and Dharmadam Island, featuring well-preserved bastions, cannons, and colonial-era structures.

Kannur, KeralaFort

No image available

Payyambalam Beach

Payyambalam Beach is a scenic urban beach located approximately 2 kilometers from Kannur town in Kerala. Known for its long stretch of golden sands and tranquil Arabian Sea waters, the beach features a landscaped garden with notable sculptures including Kanayi Kunhiraman's Mother and Child monument. The site also houses memorials of prominent Kerala leaders such as A.K. Gopalan and E.K. Nayanar, making it both a natural attraction and a place of historical significance.

Kannur, KeralaBeach

No image available

Arakkal Museum

The Arakkal Museum is a heritage museum housed in the durbar hall of the former Arakkal Royal Palace (Arakkalkettu) in Ayikkara, near Kannur city. Dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal dynasty in Kerala, it showcases artifacts reflecting their maritime legacy, colonial connections, and cultural heritage. The museum opened in July 2005 after government renovation and displays royal heirlooms including furniture, weapons, manuscripts, and antique items from the palace.

Kannur, KeralaMuseum

By road	Located parallel to National Highway 66 between Kannur and Thalassery. Accessible via five village connection roads from the highway.

By public transport	Local buses and taxis are available from Kannur and Thalassery towns to reach the beach entrance.

Nearest airport	Kannur International Airport

Nearest railway station	Edakkad Railway Station

Need to know

01Things to know before you go	Driving is best experienced during low tide when the sand is firmest. Vehicles should maintain a safe speed and avoid wet or deep sand areas to prevent getting stuck. Dharmadam Island can be reached on foot from the beach only during low tide. The beach is a prime location for spotting migratory birds during the winter months.
02Rules & restrictions	Speed limit applies for vehicles driving on the beach. Visitors should avoid driving too close to the waterline. Parking for extended periods may be restricted.
03Safety information	While the black rocks protect against strong currents, visitors should still exercise caution while swimming. Drivers must be mindful of pedestrians and other vehicles on the beach. Avoid venturing into wet or deep sand areas to prevent vehicles from getting stuck.

Facilities listed

Reported facilities to help you plan your visit.

Changing Rooms
Food Stalls
Parking
Restrooms