Beaches & Islands
Meenkunnu Beach
Golden sand and shallow water at Azhikode, one of Kannur's calmer swimming beaches.
- 36.3 km from Nesma Palace
- 40 min drive
- Best: October to March
- Ideal for families and swimmers wanting a calmer beach
- Distance from Nesma Palace
- 36.3 km
- Drive time
- 40 min
- Best time
- October to March
- Time to allow
- 1 to 2 hours
- Category
- Beaches & Islands
- Ideal for
- Families and swimmers wanting a calmer beach
About Meenkunnu Beach
Meenkunnu sits at Azhikode, a short way north of Kannur town, near where the Valapattanam river meets the sea. The sand here has a golden tone and the water stays shallow for a good distance, which makes it one of the friendlier beaches for a dip.
It is usually quieter than Payyambalam and keeps a simple, local feel.
Things to see and do
Shallow, calm water
The gentle slope and shallow water make it more swim-friendly than most beaches around Kannur.
Golden sand
The wide, gold-tinted beach is good for a long walk.
Local and unhurried
Facilities are basic and crowds are light, which is part of the appeal.
Best time and tips
October to March, morning or evening.
- Still check conditions before you swim.
- Facilities are basic, so bring what you need.
- Combine it with the wider Azhikode area on the same trip.
- Evenings are pleasant and cool.
Local tip
Combine it with the Azhikode ferry point for river views on the way back.
Getting there
The drive from Nesma Palace
Road route and geography © OpenStreetMap contributors
By road from the hotel
36.3 km · about 40 min
- Time to allow there
- 1 to 2 hours
- Starting point
- Nesma Palace, Mattannur
- Flying in
- Kannur International Airport is 7.8 km from the hotel, about 10 minutes by road
Plan your stay
Stay 40 min away at Nesma Palace
Meenkunnu is about 40 minutes from Nesma Palace, an easy half-day out from Mattannur.
Nesma Palace is a 4-star hotel in Mattannur, 7.8 km from Kannur International Airport, and an easy base for exploring Kannur.
Frequently asked questions
Is Meenkunnu Beach good for swimming?
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It is one of the calmer beaches near Kannur, with shallow water and a gentle slope. Still check the sea before going in, as with any beach.
Where is Meenkunnu Beach?
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At Azhikode, a little north of Kannur town, near where the Valapattanam river meets the sea.
Where to stay near Meenkunnu Beach?
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Nesma Palace in Mattannur is about 40 minutes away and suits a base for the northern beaches around Azhikode.