Summer 2025 is just around the corner, and everyone is getting ready to escape the scorching sun. It’s normal to look for a cool, refreshing getaway, and almost every traveler’s go-to destinations often include Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, and Nilgiri. People who prefer to avoid the crowds of those popular hill stations of Tamil Nadu visit hidden gems like Pachaimalai, Dhimbam Hills, and Kinnakorai for a serene experience.
But here’s an honest question—how many times will you keep visiting the same hill station to escape the summer heat? Why follow the usual trend when you can try something new and unique? Instead of hiding from the sun, why not embrace it and transform it into excitement? This summer don’t shy away from the sun instead, challenge the heat with exhilarating water sports activities and boating experiences in Tamil Nadu. Because in Tamil Nadu, we don’t just escape the sun—we welcome it and transform it and transform every moment into adventure and fun. Remember the best time to experience water sports is October to May Plan now!
Here are the best water sports locations in Tamil Nadu that you must visit not just to beat the heat but for a real retreat!
Tamil Nadu, known for its ancient culture and rich traditions, has embraced modern innovations in tourism. Unlike Goa or the Andaman Islands, which are famous for water sports, Tamil Nadu offers a unique experience—here, water sports aren’t confined to a single destination. Instead, popular tourist spots themselves feature exciting water activities, allowing you to enjoy thrilling adventures while also exploring the state’s iconic attractions.
1. Rameshwaram –
Rameshwaram, situated on Pamban Island is not only a popular pilgrimage destination but also a paradise of stunning beaches. These pristine shorelines remain a hub for adventure enthusiasts. A popular adventure sports center in Rameshwaram known as the Holy Island Water Sports provides the opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters, breathtaking marine ecosystem and the beauty of the colorful coral reefs beneath the ocean’s surface through scuba diving where tourists are provided with high-quality scuba gear making sure a safe and enjoyable diving experience. In addition to scuba diving you can also enjoy other water sports activities like kayaking, jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling, and coral watching. If you aren’t a big fan of water games here are land-based recreational activities like trampolining, mini wheel rides, dora-dora, water ball, and more ensuring a fun-packed vacation for visitors. If you are concerned about Safety, remember it is a top priority. All diving activities are conducted under the supervision and guidance of certified trainers and expert instructors. Lifeguards are always available making the experience accessible to both beginners and experienced divers.
Water Sports Center in Rameshwarm - Holy Island Water Sports, Quest Adventure Sports academy
Other Popular water sports activity in Rameswaram
1. Jet Skiing
Experience the thrill of gliding across the Bay of Bengal on a dynamic jet ski. The serene waters of Rameshwaram’s beaches offer the perfect experience for both beginners and experts.
Jet Skiing location - Olaikuda Beach, Sangumal Beach
Cost: Rs.500 – 1000 per ride
2. Scuba Diving
Explore the beautiful aquatic life and coral reefs hidden under the waters of Rameshwaram.
Scuba Diving location- Pamban Bridge Area, Olaikuda Beach
Cost: Rs 3000 – 6000 per dive
3. Snorkeling
For those who want to witness the breathtaking beauty of underwater without diving deep, snorkeling is the best option. The pristine waters and variety of marine life make Rameshwaram a popular snorkeling destination.
Snorkeling Location – Palk Bay, Gulf of Mannar
Cost: Rs1000 – 2500 per session
4. Kayaking
Paddle through the serene waters of Rameshwaram while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
Kayaking Location – Agnitheertham Beach, Pamban Island, and around the iconic Pamban Bridge
Cost: Rs 250 – 1000 per person
5. Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Glide over the serene waters of Rameshwaram on a paddleboard. Stand-Up Paddleboarding is a relaxing activity for all age groups.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding location- Kathadi Beach,
Cost: Rs 400 – 800 per head
6. Windsurfing
Rameshwaram is one of the best places in India for windsurfing. Experience the rush as you ride in the waves using the mightiness of the wind.
Windsurfing Location - Kathadi North
Cost: Rs1500 for 2 hours
8. Banana Boat Ride
For a fun and exciting group adventure, hop on a banana boat ride and enjoy the thrill of being tossed into the water.
Banana Boat Ride Location - Sangumall Beach.
Cost: Rs 350 per head
2. Covelong
Covelong Beach, also known as Kovalam Beach, is a hidden gem and a popular Surfing location near Chennai along the East Coast Road (ECR) beautified with swaying palm trees, golden sands, and thrilling water sports, Covelong Beach, is gaining popularity among many travelers who seek to experience a meld of relaxation and adventure. The water of Covelong is home to breathtaking coral reefs, colorful marine life, and attractive underwater rock formations. Unlike other crowded tourist beaches in Tamil Nadu, Covelong is a tranquil coastal village that provides a relaxed and immersive surfing experience, suitable for both beginners and certified divers. Covelong is also very popular for its Surf Festival An annual event that occurs at Covelong Beach bringing together adventure lovers, surfing enthusiasts, and cultural performers for a thrilling meld of sports, music and more! The reception point for all the water sports activity in Covelong is located near Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Kovalam.
Top Water Sports Activities in Covelong
Surfing
Covelong is well-known for its surf-friendly waves, making it one of the best destinations in India for surfing. Covelong Beach has several surf schools that offer training for beginners and professionals.
Surfing Location - Covelong Beach
Wakeboarding
A mix of surfing and water skiing, wakeboarding involves riding a small board while being towed by a speedboat.
Wakeboarding Location - Covelong Beach
Catamaran Rides
Experience Tamil Nadu’s traditional style catamaran ride, where local fishermen take you through the sea on a handcrafted wooden boat.
Catamaran Rides Location - Covelong Beach
Cost: Rs300 – Rs1000 per head
Water Sports Centers in Covelong
Bay of Life Surf School & Ocean Academy
Location: Covelong Beach, Tamil Nadu
Activities: Surfing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), Kayaking, Windsurfing
Covelong Point Surf School
Location: Covelong Beach, Tamil Nadu
Activities: Surfing, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Windsurfing
3. Tuticorin
Tuticorin, or Thoothukudi, is a famous kite surfing destination in Tamil Nadu. Located in the Gulf of Mannar, this area is one of the most biologically diverse marine ecosystems in India. This historic port city offers an exhilarating Kitesurfing experience, uncovering the Gulf of Mannar’s richness. Kitesurfing is a wind-powered surface water sport where the rider will be pulled by a kite as he stands on a board. Kitesurfing is the best water sport with the right wind conditions, as you can jump, flip, and enjoy high-speed rides over the waves. When you glide on the crystal-clear waters, you will experience the freedom to ride the waves while flying high through the air. The perfect blend of speed, jumps and thrill makes kite surfing one of the most exciting water sports.
Top Water Sports Activities in Tuticorin
Jet skiing, bump rides, speed biking, kite surfing, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, boat rides, banana rides, and scuba diving
Location – Muthu Nagar beach
Kayaking
Location - Eco Park CreekTuticorin
Water sports center in Tuticorin
Pearl City Water Sports
Aqua Outback
4. Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram
Puducherry popularly known as Pondicherry is a charming coastal town in Tamil Nadu. Popular for its French colonial charm, tranquil lively cafés, and spiritual ambiance, it has proved that it is also a top destination near Tamil Nadu for Water sports. The tranquil waters of the Bay of Bengal offer an incredible chance to explore the artificial reefs and natural underwater landscapes that are filled with mesmerizing marine life, fascinating coral reefs, and even historic shipwrecks. With perfect visibility, medium water currents, and well-equipped dive centers, this place remains a fantastic destination for both beginners and seasoned divers. If you are seeking a budget-friendly diving package Pondicherry is the best option.
Mahabalipuram- a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tamil Nadu, is not only popular for its astounding rock-cut temples but also its intriguing scuba diving adventures. On the other hand, Mahabalipuram is also very popular for sailboarding also known as windsurfing. Using a board with a sail attached to it the windsurfers harness the power of the wind and glide across the water, performing thrilling stunts and arriving at impressive speeds. Located along the Bay of Bengal, this charming town provides divers and surfers a wonderful opportunity to explore the beauty of the ocean filled with colorful coral reefs, diverse fish species, and other beautiful marine creatures.
Other Water sports activities in Mahabalipuram
Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, Windsurfing, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Banana Boat Rides
Location – Mahabalipuram Beach
Water sports center (to learn surfing and for rental equipment) - Mumu Surf School
Kayaking & Canoeing in Tamil Nadu
Muttukadu Lake and Pichavaram mangrove forest
Muttukadu Lake also known as the Muttukadu Backwaters is a hidden gem located near Mahabalipuram, along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) is a freshwater lake that meets the sea. This beautiful location creates and scenic view suitable for exciting outdoor activities. If you're someone seeking both fun and tranquility, Muttukadu Lake is a perfect option. Kayaking is one the most popular activities in Muttukadu Backwaters as the still waters make it suitable for both beginners and experienced individuals.
Other water sports activities in Muttukadu
Speeding boat and banana boat rides
Location – Muttukadu Boat House
Similarly, Pichavaram Lake - a breathtaking destination that’s part of the largest mangrove ecosystems, Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is also a top destination in Tamil Nadu for Kayaking & Canoeing. One can rent single or double-seater kayaks and paddle through the serene waters while soaking in the beautiful lush green scenery in the surroundings. Unlike kayaks, canoes are open boats where you use a single-bladed paddle while either kneeling or sitting. As you glide through the emerald-green waters, you will witness a variety of birds, aquatic creatures, and stunning encounters of wildlife in this rich ecosystem. Both Muttukadu and Pichavaram are perfect for destinations in Tamil Nadu families who seek safe and exciting water sport activity.
Kanyakumari –
The southernmost tip of India- Kanyakumari is a magnificent coastal town located in Tamil Nadu. Well known for the confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian, mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views this destination is also becoming popular for water sports. Unlike Covelong’s scuba diving and Tuticorin’s kite surfing, Kanyakumari is very popular for towable tube rides.
A towable tube ride is a thrilling water sport where a large, inflatable tube is pulled by a speedboat or Jet Ski across the surface of the water. Riders are supposed to sit or lie on the tube holding onto handles. It would be a gripping experience to bounce, glide and splash over the ocean waves.
There are multiple towable tube rides such as
1. Towable Disco Tube Ride
A flat circular tube resembling a disco platform. With seating around the edges, As the boat pulls the tube, it bounces and spins on the water, offering a thrilling experience
2. Towable Flying Tube Ride
Design: An aerodynamic lightweight tube designed to slightly lift above the water while being pulled at high speeds. This activity is similar to
Parasailing as the riders experience brief flying moments over the waves.
3. Towable Sliding Tube Ride
Design: A tube that is specially designed which enable controlled side-to-side sliding across the water so that the rider can experience smooth yet unpredictable sliding, drifting, and swerving movements
Other water sports activity in Kanyakumari –
Boating, banana and boat rides,
Water Sports Center – Ras Water Sports
Location - Manakudy
FAQ
Districts like Chennai, Kanyakumari, and Thoothukudi are popular water sports destinations in Tamil Nadu
The best time to experience water sports in Tamil Nadu is between October and May
Popular water sports in Tamil Nadu includes scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, surfing, windsurfing, parasailing, banana boat kitesurfing, rides, and catamaran sailing.
Rameshwaram is the best place in Tamil Nadu for scuba diving, followed by covelong.
Sangumal Beach and Olaikuda Beach in Rameshwaram are popular for thrilling jet skiing sites.
Scuba diving is completely a safe if conducted with proper training and adhering to safety protocols.
Pamban Island and Agnitheertham Beach near Rameshwaram are popular locations for kayaking
Kathadi Beach in Rameshwaram is a famous windsurfing.
Covelong Beach (Kovalam) near Chennai is the best surfing destination in Tamil Nadu.
Yes you can rent surfing and other water sports equipments from the water sports center
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