Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Surf (31) Soul (29) surf (29) good (25) time (24) stay (23) Varkala (23) view (21) beach (21) experience (20)
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  • 2/5 Srinidhi P. 1 year ago on Google
    Undoubtedly it was the best hotel to stay in Varkala, considering it’s view. Unfortunately we had a very horrible experience. Rooms that we booked was Quiet nice room but it actually wasn’t a nice room. Rooms were bit dirty with horrible bathtub. Paid 2500₹ / night, but it was only a twin bed that was provided not a double bed. Street lights were very close by to our room, due to which our room was lit all the time, despite turning off our lights. And the worst part was, during our stay there was frequent power cuts due to rains and we had to pester them to switch on the generator in the middle of night. And there was no current from 6am until we checkout. Effort the management took to build their website, if the same had been shown on maintaining the property, it would have been great. It had the best view and no doubt about it. But that wasn’t just enough.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harikrishnan Mankada C. 2 years ago on Google
    Some experiences stick to you for a lifetime. I booked 3 nights in their base starter room to be able to experience the beginner surfing lessons they offer. I was travelling alone and was a bit apprehensive about spending 4 days all by myself. My experience here was better than anything I had imagined. Surf & Soul is run by a team that is more or less a family, and the moment you get there, they pull you in as well. The trainers are incredibly welcoming and candid. They put safety in the highest priority but also has a well structured challenging course that pays individual attention to train you the basics of surfing. They guide you on where you’re going wrong and I was eventually able to ride out 10-15 waves and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The menu is limited and some of the dishes may not be for you, but they’re all made quite well and managed beautifully. My apprehensions about travelling alone was solved on day two as I bonded with my surf lesson group so well. The experience of learning surfing is so unique that, we as a group, constantly encouraged each other to get better. And I spent the next three days, almost never on my own. You could argue that this would depend on the group that comes in, but Soul & Surf and the team here does such a wonderful job in facilitating an environment that is conducive of socialising that It’s almost impossible to not meet someone new and have a conversation here. Finally, let me thank a few people here because I feel the need to. Rakhul, Praveen, Sujit, Jithu and Vishnu - Thank you for all the guidance and training you guys diligently gave us. Let’s do this November again! Pradeep and Mahesh - Thank you for managing the entire kitchen and food so well. I felt happiest thulping on breakfast after a good surf sesh. Paru - Thanks for being incredibly warm and making everything easier for us. Also - personally, I think this place has the best view of the sea in all of Varkala. I’d also like to add that I was a bit apprehensive about Soul & Surf reading some of these other reviews on here. I’m not sure if the management changed or what, but we were a group with equal proportions of Foreigners and Indians and we were all treated equally. I cannot recommend this place enough. Took me half an hour to type this essay down 🤷‍♂️ who even does that?
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Grace E. 8 months ago on Google
    I tried to surf with this group while I was in Kerala. They told me it was intermediate but where we went was only whitewater. Noone was out on the actual waves and there were many fishing boats. I tried again to book a guide and request a different beach I have seen surfers at regularly. They said they wouldnt take me out bc on the first day I wouldnt try to paddle in the whitewater. This was not the case. I've surfed around the pacific and atlantic ocean with no issues on heavier waves, but they weren't willing to book a private guide as advertised on their site. I am very dissapointed with the surf experience. It may be great for brand new beginners but they are too protective of the equipment and are not willing to provide a good experience for more advanced surfers. I got the impression that if I were a man they would have provided the guide and board...
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M A. 5 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A very beautiful place on the cliff, at the very beginning of the South Cliff. Prices are slightly higher than in other cafes, but everything is Europeanized as much as possible. Clean, tidy, tasty, fast. At the bar, smiling Europeans. You can sit over a cup of coffee or excellent ginger tea and admire the views of the ocean from a bird's eye view. Delicious carrot cakes (balls), which they themselves make in the same place. (Original) Очень красивое место на утесе, в самом начале Южного Клифа. Цены немного выше ,чем в остальных кафе, но все максимально европеизировано. Чистенько,аккуратно,вкусно,быстро. За баром улыбчивые европейки. Можно за чашечкой кофе или отличного имбирного чая посидеть и полюбоваться видами океана с высоты птичьего полёта. Вкуснейшие морковные пироженные(шарики),которые там же сами и делают.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Sonu V. 7 months ago on Google
    We stayed at this property during the quiet season, during August 2023. The property has an amazing location and view of the beach, with a private access to the beach underneath the property. The private access meant that the beach was way less crowded, and very much enjoyable. The rooms are decent, without any beach view, and quite standard. The reception staff and cleaning staff were very polite and warm. We were but disappointed with the fact that there was a lot of maintenance and furniture work going on in the premises (probably owing to the quiet season, but nevertheless, there was no indication that this should have been expected). The entrance, reception area and even the lounge area near the beach view were in various stages of disarray. The lounge had a lot of sun beds and other miscellaneous stuff just heaped in a mess, with no regard to clean it up or at least put them in an orderly manner. The cafe food was very average (we did not have the lunch or dinner and stuck to the breakfast). The cafe staff also looked like they were on their vacation, and generally lacked decorum and leadership. All in all, stay at this property for the great views and beach access, but in the quiet season, there is a definitely a risk of maintenance and repair works being undertaken in the property.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Manuel 1 year ago on Google
    I would probably give it a 3.5 + the location is really nice, secluded and pretty. it's situated at the quite southern part of varkala beach + the vibe, it's really good. + surfing instructors and classes + the taste of the food is good + yoga classes + special evenings with Movie or barbecue - the prices are really high for what you get. Rooms and Food, after all it's india and not Europe, i don't mind paying much but then i expect something in return. - surfing is just once a day in the morning. Renting a Surfboard is also not possible if you are a beginner. I would not go on a surfing vacation to varkala/soul and surf. the motivation and the waves are missing most of the time. - Service at the Cafe is just bad. If you are lucky and your order isn't forgotten you have to wait ages. of about 4-5 meals we had there only one experience was good, afterwards we started dining out. You definitely notice that leadership is missing, the guys are horribly organized and unfocused. - the rooms are sub par, especially for the price. Really nice Rooms are really nice but the price ist also really high, we are talking 2-3x the price of similar accommodation elsewhere. - Food Choice is limited, even if the service experience doesn't keep you away you will have tried everything after about 3-4 days.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex C. 5 years ago on Google
    I stayed here for a week just before Christmas 2018, and can’t speak highly enough of the place. I booked the surfing package, with the expectation I may potentially stand up on the board once during the week. The instructors were so good and encouraging however that not only did I stand up on the first day (and all days after) but the instructors made a really big deal out of celebrating success, which created a real sense of camaraderie and pride amongst me and my fellow “surfers”. The actual hotel/villa and all common areas are perfect - not only “intagrammable” but also just carry a really great energy. The staff are super chilled and friendly, and the fellow travelers during the week we were there were incredibly warm and open. I can’t speak highly enough of this place and can’t wait for my next S&S experience!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cherian J. 1 year ago on Google
    Why was it excellent?(Google asks) Every detail of S&S is mindfully curated. Thank you so much for investing your mindfulness in Kerala. I've been reading about S&S since I got there...How can you be so clear in your decision to invest in south cliff 10 years ago? Thanks for rewiring myself... I had lovely b&b, surf session with Jithu, Rewired myself, what else you can ask for? I'm greatful to everything there! Thank you!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vivek M. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is my personal heaven. 🌸 In a tiny underrated town, this place should be in your Must Do list. Soul & Surf has the best view of Varkala sea. And it is made of the finest staff, rooms and food. Pros: Rooms are super clean, tidy and beautiful. 10/10 The food - made by Chef Anu and his team is so beautifully made. Each flavour hits you with sparks and love. The presentation of the food is always gorgeous. IMO none of the restaurants around this place can cook a better meal. My Indian Fish+Rice meal eaten here is currently WORLDS BEST FISH MEAL, and I doubt any other cook can make it better. The food at Soul Food Cafe says “Love” and your heart will be filled. Please ask for Monkey Jam. 10/10 The Surf Team I stayed here for ten days. Unfortunately I could only Surf for 4 of them. In 4days Praveen, Jithu and Sujith have been absolute cuties to train me and my fellow team mates. They are the pros of Surfing in entire Varkala, backed with certifications and training. The trio and special shout out to Rakhul, are the warmest, talented and humblest person to hang with. They will show you special spots for surfing if you are lucky. And also other underrated spots of the city. I am going to say this only for this stay of my entire life, I miss these guys. And I hope I get to bump into them again. Surfing here is bliss. It isn’t exorbitant as it is in Goa or Chennai. The waves are excellent for new learners and has good arenas for professional surfers. If you have core strength and dedicated mind, Soul & Surf’s Surf Team will build your prowess. Get sunscreen. Make sure you take the 7day learning package. 10/10 Service Amith, the first guy you will probably meet when you check in is a super warm human. He is kind, considerate and super attentive to all your requests. Despite his Administration title, he is joyful to talk with. He is also a good surfer so make sure you drag him towards the sea. 10/10 Cons None This is one of the most beautiful properties of India. And I am glad the founders of Soul & Surf have made it with so much love and interest. I would recommend everyone I know to stay here and breathe. Thank you for a beautiful stay. Much love🌊💙
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bibhu A. 1 year ago on Google
    We stayed at Soul & Surf for a week and had an incredible experience. The surf instructors are all excellent - very friendly, patient and had us (complete beginners) standing on our boards quickly. The breakfast is fantastic and filling with a different special on offer everyday. The yoga classes were run looking out onto the sunset each day and were the perfect way to bring in the evening. All the staff are friendly and go out of their way to make sure you have a great holiday. We were very sad to leave and can’t wait to come back!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Vishal V. 4 years ago on Google
    A weird colonial out-post from when the map was pink. The atmosphere of this place was strange from the moment I entered their grounds. I only wanted a cup of chai and somewhere to sit for a few hours, perhaps some lunch. But the staff mad me feel unwelcome. Their self of entitlement is shocking. I enjoyed the small lecture on Indian street food from the white immigrant worker. It is clear that Soul and Surf caters for a particular traveller; attractive white people who don't want to mix with Indians. Best avoided. The owner has replied to me. See below. No apology about my experience. Just a list of so-called achievements. In a short, my experience is considered invalid.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Her O. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is so welcoming and calm, no sign of pretentiousness like you see in other surf locations. After a slightly rocky start we now love Soul and Surf. So yes, it is expensive for a basic room but what you get here is not about fancy rooms (which you're hardly in anyway). The location is perfect and peaceful and the views are stunning! We arrived into a building site as they were behind schedule but it's nearly finished now and the place looks incredible and we finally got to eat a meal at the cafe yesterday which was delicious and in a beautiful setting. Here, the staff make the stay, they have a way of bringing all the guests together as a team, I loved our breakfasts and dinners together. The yoga is amazing, I will never forget the sunset sessions. The surf was pretty terrible but we knew that it might be at this time of year, it was still really good fun, again mostly because of the S&S guys. We have made some good friends here and I hope to return one day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 david b. 1 year ago on Google
    They charge way too much to unsuspecting Westerners and the rooms are not very nice. The property is lovely and the staff are helpful and friendly but is not worth the price. They also did not address my complaints in a satisfactory manner. Do not stay here and waste your money
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ipek 1 year ago on Google
    I think the best place to stay in Varkala! We loved the very well designed garden, living area and rooms! Very friendly staff make your stay even better! Highly recommended especially if you’re into surf, yoga or both :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ali T. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s difficult to describe why Soul & Surf is an amazing place. It may have to do with the property being secluded and so when you’re on it, it feels like you’ve entered an alternative universe; then when you wake up early in the morning to go out to find the best surf, it feels no short of an adventure; once you find the right spot and start to surf with fellow learners and experienced surfers and instructors. It feels like you’re trying to have a conversation with mother nature and the instructors are teaching you her language, helping you learn to communicate with her, i.e., the waves. And then when you get back to the property, it’s like you’re among a select people who were witness to you trying to do something quite special and in a lot of ways, audacious i.e., ride ocean waves because no one back home will quite understand this activity, even if they see pics of you, but the people here with you do. I enjoyed my time with the Soul & Surf community very much and personally know why they are the best in Varkala. Have met some beautiful people here -- inside and out. Also, do join Nicki’s Yoga classes; I can bet you’ll think they’re among the best classes you will have ever taken. Thanks, Soul & Surf!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Frances W. 7 months ago on Google
    Really enjoyed my stay here. The room was clean and despite it being the low season they were still taking groups surfing. The food is great and the cliff garden overlooking the ocean is a great spot to relax. All the staff wee friendly and attentive. They also do a fantastic laundry service. Town is a short walk away and there are a few good places to eat and do some yoga. 4 stars only because I was a disappointed that there was maintenance work going on that hadn’t been mentioned when I made the booking.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ninon B. 10 months ago on Google
    I had a very lovely stayed in Soul and Surf. I needed a quiet place, and this was the perfect place for it. The view is just stunning, the garden very beautiful and cozy. The staff is friendly and speak much better english than most of other places in Varkala. The decoration is the room is very nice. The food is tasty, in a normal price range for a "fancy" place in Varkala. One thing I would change : add a mosquitoes net at the doors, in order to be able to keep the doors opened at night. Specially right for non AC room.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rebin N. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome view, secluded in privacy and a dreamy night with the boys, all that compensates for the 'okay enough' coffee.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 PRANAV A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to chill with friends. The cliff view of the sea and the hot coffee makes the perfect ambience to vibe with friends.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vaisakh V. 6 years ago on Google
    One of the places to visit in your life time. Great host and people around. Peaceful and warm
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ryan H. 7 years ago on Google
    A treasure deep in southern Kerala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Nathanial F. 6 years ago on Google
    We only went to the cafe which has a lolely view and atmosphere. Only thing is there are ants crawling all over their cakes in the showcase and they still serve it! DISCUSSTING!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rohan M. 6 years ago on Google
    Helpful people.. Nice environment.. Place to hangout
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arjun T. 6 years ago on Google
    Lovely place. Lovely people. Lovely food.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alice S. 5 months ago on Google
    We didn’t come to India for the surfing but Soul & Surfs lessons have been the highlight so far. The teachers are all incredible and clearly passionate about what they do. The retreat is perched on a cliff top with incredible views and a lovely outdoor area to relax in. Staff are all super friendly. The soul cafe food is a bit hit and miss but a welcome alternative to local food (curry three meals a day is a lot). I’d definitely come back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 aprajita g. 2 years ago on Google
    Good place to spend the afternoon , food is awful , tasteless and costing more than it is worth(may be catering to different set of people). Staff ,the guys are cool but rude , lacking basic human courtesy, won't let you play the music even after having the facility You may feel not very much welcomed I don't know if this is specific to Indians. They let you spend time there for free but above mentioned things come along :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 suhail 5 years ago on Google
    Poor service, negligence towards indians.food is overpriced.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lily M. 5 years ago on Google
    My sister and I stayed at Soul & Surf Kerala just last week and couldn't recommend it enough. After travelling around India for a couple of weeks, we found a real haven in this place. Everything about the retreat is so special and unique...from the cliff top location, to the incredibly caring team, early morning surfing lessons and feel-good communal breakfasts, we loved it all. Having several severe food allergies, the kitchen team went above and beyond to cater for me for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We definitely hope to come back sometime soon! Thank you!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Stephan G. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place. Great location. Nice crew. Good food at tourist prices but very tasty. Be VERY careful when hiring a board. Glassed boards look like they may have been made in the eastern block during the soviet era and had a fight with a shark, coming out second best. If anything happens to the already bashed up board they will come down on you like a tonne of bricks and make you pay VERY dearly for it. This is in addition to the expensive rental prices. Be warned and be prepared to pay double the quoted price.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 deepak a. 5 years ago on Google
    Best place in India for Surf enthusiasts and one of the best beach resort in India as well. Best staffs and management. Good Vibes Only Home away Home Must experience in your life.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Venky T. 4 years ago on Google
    Let me caution you that we did not stay there and the rating is based on limited experience.We have been to Soul&Surf for their Cafe multiple times and liked the whole place. Superbly located and offering surfing classes having private access to the beach.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Abhay b. 4 years ago on Google
    How I will explain this place! It's so beautiful and peaceful place to stay and enjoy. Every corner is so beautiful and the staff working there are really friendly. This place has to be one of my favourite places ever. The people that work there are so welcoming and friendly and they really make the place that extra bit special. They have their own private beach and they teach surfing.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashwinkumar G. 1 year ago on Google
    I did checked out this sea view cafe in the south cliff during my Varkala trip. This place is mostly full of foreigners and they did had the best view and it’s very quite and dinning was super comfy. The only con is that the waiting time is very long and they take half an hour to get your dish ready. Apart from that, the service , location and everything was top notch .

  • 4/5 Anand S. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved the food :)

  • 5/5 vijayanand s. 3 years ago on Google
    Great view in evening to watch sun set from cliff. Excellent service tooo

  • 4/5 Sonam H. 3 years ago on Google
    Place is nice .. view is amazing but no much food options

  • 5/5 Vasco P. 1 year ago on Google
    Very good vibe, tables in the shadow with a great view, away from the noise of Varkala. The menu is simple (6-10 alternatives) but the food is really very good (try the fish tacos).

  • 5/5 Rohana G. 1 year ago on Google
    Came for pizza night - delicious! Staff friendly, drinks inventive and tasty. Pizza the best in India I’ve tasted. My sister had surf lessons here in the past and had a great time - there’s no better place to learn. A safe sea with no scaries and talented/professional instructors. The building is absolutely stunning with unrivalled views and a cared for environment. Will return next time I’m in Varkala.

  • 1/5 Srinath W. 1 year ago on Google
    EXTREMELY slow service. 1 taco took literally 1.5hours. And they didn't seem very keen on delivering it fast either :( Good view though, just needs to work on serve time :/ Most of the people seemed stoned or high for sure. :(

  • 2/5 Eva P. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice quiet place (apart from the guy mowing the lawn the entite time), but the lunch for 2 was very little and cost way too much.

  • 5/5 Rachel C. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a fabulous time at Soul and Surf! Never been anywhere near a surf board before - but thanks to the help of our lovely instructors, we were able to ride the waves and have so much fun in the 2 sessions that we had. The rooftop yoga was a delight as well, and the garden/cafe is a beautiful spot to relax with delicious breakfast or evening meal. It is perched on top of the cliff with steps down to the gorgeous beach (slightly away from the main beach area - so perfect for a quieter dip). A stay here is definitely on the pricier side, but we felt it was worth it!

  • 5/5 Ernesto s. 4 years ago on Google
    It was my first time surfing. My trainer made me comfortable and then explained the steps to surf. They understand you and train accordingly. Never been so comfortable in water. Its amazing where they are located. You can venture to the beach through the stairs and enjoy your time in the cliff. One of the happening area in Varkala. Don't ever miss that.

  • 5/5 Mamtha N. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent! Just excellent! Good vibes, polite and friendly instructors. I’ll definitely come back here and recommend others to go here. Thank you guys for the wonderful hospitality!

  • 5/5 Al S. 1 year ago on Google
    Cannot rate this place highly enough. Everything was brilliant, the Soul and Surf team create such a welcoming, fun and caring environment which makes it feel like a home away from home. You enjoy great surf coaching, being able to meet a down to earth fun group of people (both guests and staff!) to make your stay memorable, it is also a beautiful place to stay and is really well positioned to allow you to enjoy the Varkala area, getting to know the local sights and people.

  • 4/5 Jithu P. 2 years ago on Google
    We went for an evening outings there.. Cafe don't have much choices before 6pm though.. However by late evening we had some nice juices and snacks.. Ambience is good.. Especially the view of the sea and beach is awesome.. U have a way to go down to the beach from the resort.. View from resort towards beach and way downwards to beach I have kept here

  • 5/5 Anto VJ R. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to chill out

  • 5/5 Kiran A. 10 months ago on Google
    Well, the place is true to its name. It's got soul and you get to do a lot of surfing. I am 46 and was really skeptical about surfing. The moment I stepped into this place, I felt at home. The place - It's a quaint 10-15 room place on the southern cliff of Varkala. This is not a 5 star property, but it's got character. And a great view from the cliff. The rooms are spacious with balconies. I stayed in a budget non AC room during off season. The place was not at all crowded and I really enjoyed it. If you want to be in the middle of touristy action, stroll down the cliff and you can smell armpits of tourists brushing against you. The people - Everyone I met at the property was extremely caring and soft spoken. Ram and Anu at the reception, the instructors, the photographer and the chef, everyone knew what they were supposed to do and did their job awesomely well. I felt most of them took pride in working here and was passionate about their roles. The food - This is no Michelin restaurant, but the food was good. While I had breakfast on all three days, I skipped lunch and dinner. The egg hopper for breakfast was outstanding. So was the fruit platter. The menu was minimal as it was off season and most of it was skewed towards western tastebuds as most of their guests are foreigners. If you want mutton biriyani and butter chicken with naan, this is not your place. The surf - Even though I was a newbie, I think I managed pretty well. The instructors were outstanding and I am definitely coming back for more. Overall it was a great short memorable trip for me.

  • 5/5 surfonasup s. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 5/5 Emily J. 11 months ago on Google
    I love Soul & Surf and everything that this company is about. I visited their Sri Lanka retreat last year and decided to try Kerela this year. I am already in the throws of booking Portugal for this summer and I only returned from Kerela yesterday! The staff are absolutely amazing and the location is so peaceful. I went completely burnt out and arrived back in Kuwait completely refreshed and stress free. I can't recommend Soul & Surf enough to anybody!

  • 5/5 Isabella A. 5 months ago on Google
    I loved my time at Soul and Surf and was very sad to leave. The place is beautiful with stunning views and lovely rooms. The surf instructors are brilliant, it was my first time surfing and I was hooked after day 1 so extended my stay for a week. The rooftop for yoga is amazing and I learnt so much from the wonderful teacher. The volunteers and staff are all lovely and the food is delicious. The vibe is perfect - there’s always someone interesting to chat to or a nice group thing going on, or you can keep yourself to yourself, whatever you feel like. I also had the best massage ever, tailored to me. This a dreamy place to stay, it’s so relaxing and fun and I can’t wait to go back.

  • 5/5 CHESIN R. 3 years ago on Google
    A perfect place to relax😇

  • 5/5 Scott S. 4 months ago on Google
    Really great 6 nights with Soul and Surf Varkala! Highly recommended. Thank you. I was a beginner surfer, and chose here for the warm water, sandy beach, fairly easy waves, all true. Even better was the whole SnS experience, incl - instructors helping in the water ( Vishnu, Surjit, AJ to name only 3 ) - daily, manageable yoga at dusk with Pooja, in big beautiful space on covered roof - smooth, efficient organisation and daily schedule ( Judith and team ) - comfortable room with private covered balcony ( great to sit and read in the cool ). The SnS crew, including some volunteers from all over the globe, really did go out of their way to be friendly and helpful. Enjoyed also the food, surf theory, Tuk Tuk local tour and Ed's entertaining writing in all the info. It was a top, top week, one I will long remember, all without breaking the bank. And I even got some flattering photos from Isla of me standing on the board for the short time I managed to do so! :))

  • 5/5 Aashiq A. 3 years ago on Google
    More vibe than hyped cliffst*****

  • 5/5 Sayujya S. 2 years ago on Google
    Ambience, food, staff all of it together makes the place worth it.

  • 5/5 Nick W. 6 years ago on Google
    Exceptional.

  • 5/5 Aby P. 7 years ago on Google
    A wonderful place to relax.. curated experiences..

  • 5/5 rula k. 4 years ago on Google
    Incredible place, location, services and most importantly people ! Staff were like family - made me feel like home from day 1 . Attention to detail was exceptional , and vibes were incredible . I was meant to go for a few days , ended up extending thrice ! Highly highly recommended xoxo

  • 5/5 Akhil V. 7 years ago on Google
    One of the great place for holidays in south India.

  • 4/5 Angitha M. 7 years ago on Google
    Surfing classes are good.. Loved the place and their food

  • 5/5 Zoe O. 8 years ago on Google
    the best surf lessons, yoga and people!

  • 5/5 joanna h. 8 years ago on Google
    Perfect place to learn to surf, gentle waves and outstanding coaching.

  • 5/5 Jeremy M. 9 years ago on Google
    Haven't been to their Varkala place but went on a trip they organized and they all are first class professional people! Awesome experience.

  • 5/5 saurabh n. 4 years ago on Google
    Its a paradise for surfers. Trainers are amazing and help you learn fast. Occasionally, they host celeb surfers to teach which is awesome! Best time to go is December and January.

  • 5/5 77catje 3 years ago on Google
    2013 was the first time I together with my partner visited Soul&Surf and stayed for 3 weeks. At that time there was only 1 type of surf guide which meant the line-up was instantly packed. With only 3 good waves in a set that was not the best set-up: Beds and rooms were good! Food yum! Yoga was given by Rachel on the rooftop which was physically very welcome exercise. The airport transfer in the pink ambassador is the best! I returned by myself for a week in March 2017 and another week in December 2017. Beds became better! Now there were 3 groups for surfing; 1 beginners group, 1 intermediate and a guide. The food is just as yum. The movie& pizza nights are more frequent. The price did increase a bit but not much. Even though Varkala became a lot more touristy over the last years Soul & Surf is still a beautiful little getaway where you don’t need to do anything but relax on the cliff top! I’m sure I’ll return again!

  • 5/5 Naomi Anna G. 2 years ago on Google
    First surf experience and LOVED IT. The people are welcoming and friendly. Cafe and rooms are really good too.

  • 5/5 Anita S. 4 years ago on Google
    Soul & Surf is the best location if you want to see the most amazing sunsets over the Indian Ocean from a wonderful garden with people from all over the world. The staff is really helpful and they feel like friends after some days, the surf instructors are great and really patient with beginners. If you ever visit this area in India, even if you have other accomodation just pop in, they are really welcoming for non-guest as well. Café has a wide selection, but definately recommend to try the Thai Fish Cakes!!!

  • 5/5 Sameera S. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing views for sunset and really friendly service! Probably my favorite café experience! Loved it. Thank you!!

  • 5/5 n i k i t a. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing place to stay... beach facing view... great surf school.

  • 5/5 prithvi b. 3 years ago on Google
    You imagined Varkala to be a nice alternative to Goa. You thought it will be quiet, easy going and would offer great coffee, food and surfing equipment when you wanted it. Other times you were convinced that Varkala would be a nice relaxing Cliff resort with stunning views. Everything you ever wanted from Varkala is at soul and surf.

  • 5/5 David K. 4 years ago on Google
    Great spot to experience. Our kids were signing up for surfing lesson repeatedly every single day. Good and friendly instructors, nice atmosphere. Book in advance not to miss a chance to stay here.

  • 5/5 Saskia H. 4 years ago on Google
    The staff and team really make this place. 10/5 for the instructors, local staff and volunteers. Everybody was always so friendly and helpful and really made the holiday for me. I stayed five nights and would come back. The food was lovely but at times limiting for vegan alternatives and you had to pay more for milk etc which was a bit frustrating when it was already a higher price point. Also menu was pretty much the same lunch and dinner so would have loved some more variety. Beautiful scenery and right on the beach. Recommend it to anyone wanting decent food, learning to surf or looking for a super enjoyable accessible holiday in Kerala.

  • 5/5 Vishnu R. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place good vibes Friendly atmosphere delicious food moreover beautiful sun set you can ever imagine

  • 5/5 Alex N. 1 year ago on Google
    This was an absolutely incredible place to stay for four days that flew by. My girlfriend and I were taught how to surf by the amazing team and were catching our own waves by the third day. The people who run the place are an incredible group. We made friends with them and have promised them and ourselves that we will surely be back. Thanks a ton to the whole team at Varkala Beach’s Soul & Surf! Special thanks to Sujit, Rakhul, Praveen, and Paru for the unforgettable memories.

  • 5/5 Aravind P S. 5 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) "Soul & Surf" Varkala This place is seen for the first time in the movie Monkey Pen. At first it was thought to be Goa or Pondicherry but then we realized that it was our own place in Varkala in Ananthapuri. Eating is something that everyone loves and if it comes with good looks it will double the feel .. Janka Jaka Jaka when it comes to beautiful ladies. This is done by the madams themselves. When I woke up in the morning, I was looking for doshas and sambars and got the party-cut fruit-shaped bulb-like omelette and bread toast. Then there was nothing more to say because of the beautiful Madame. But the event has a good puck English style taste. While eating, you can enjoy watching the waves of the sea and the ladies swaying in the waves. Got a good day out of here with everything. We have to go to Goa to get a good feeling like this. NB: Be careful while sitting outside. If the crow crows, it has a chance to sit like a single omelette: P (Original) "Soul&Surf" വർക്കല മങ്കി പെൻ എന്ന ചിത്രത്തിലാണ് ആദ്യമായി ഇ സ്ഥലം കാണുന്നത്. ആദ്യം ഗോവയോ പോണ്ടിയോ എന്നോകെ ആണെന്നാണ് കരുതിയത് പിന്നെയാണ് മനസിലായത് നമ്മുടെ സ്വന്തം അനന്തപുരിയിലെ വർക്കലയിലെ സ്ഥലമാണെന്ന്. ആഹാരം കഴികുന്നത് ഏവർക്കും ഇഷ്ടമുള്ള ഒന്നാണ് അതിനോടൊപ്പം നല്ല ഭംഗിയുള്ള കാഴ്ചകൾ കൂടെ ഉണ്ടെങ്കിൽ അതിന്റെ ഫീൽ ഇരട്ടിക്കും.. സുന്ദരിയായ മദാമ്മമാർ കൂടെ ആകുമ്പോഴോ ജങ്ക ജക ജക. ഇത് നടത്തുന്നത് മദാമക്കാർ തന്നെയാണ്. രാവിലെ എണീറ്റപോൾ ദോശയും സാമ്പാറും തേടിയെത്തിയ എനിക്ക് കിട്ടിയത് പാർട്ടിക്കാരുടെ വെട്ട് കൊണ്ടുള്ള രീതിയിലുള്ള പഴവും ബൾബ്‌ പോലെ നിൽക്കുന്ന ഓംലെറ്റും ബ്രഡ് ടോസ്റ്റും. പിന്നെ സുന്ദരിയായ മദാമ ഉണ്ടാകി തന്നത് കൊണ്ട് മറിച്ചൊന്നും പറയാൻ നിന്നില്ല. പക്ഷെ സംഭവം കൊള്ളാം പക്കാ ഇംഗ്ലീഷ് സ്റ്റൈൽ രുചിയുണ്ട്. കഴികുമ്പോൾ കടലിലെ തിരകളും തിരകളിൽ ആടിയുലയുന്ന മദാമ്മമാരെയും ഓക്കേ കണ്ട്‌ ആസ്വദിച്ചു കഴിക്കാം. എല്ലാംകൊണ്ടും നല്ലൊരു ദിവസം ആണ് ഇവിടെ നിന്നും ലഭിച്ചത്. ഇതുപോലെ നല്ലൊരു ഫീൽ കിട്ടാൻ നമുക്ക് ഗോവ ഒന്നും പോകണ്ട നമ്മുടെ അനന്തപുരിയിൽ തന്നെ ഉണ്ട് മക്കളെ.. NB: വെളിയിൽ ഇരുന്നു കഴികുമ്പോൾ ശ്രദ്ധിക്കുക കാക്ക അപ്പിയിട്ടാൽ സിംഗിൾ ഓംലെറ്റ് പോലെ ഇരിക്കാൻ ചാൻസുണ്ട് :P

  • 5/5 Aashim J. 2 years ago on Google
    We didn’t get to stay here (next time!!) but went for evening drinks and dinner. It was pizza night, we had mixed opinions about the pizza, I personally thought they were great, good cheese and base and done up in a wood oven. There was a rather big group having a baller of a time, one of their friends was playing music on his mini console and it was a very happy disco vibe! It did initially feel like we are at a house party but don’t know anyone. The servers were nice but probably intimidated with the massive crowd and party. I loved the overall vibes and want to definitely stay here the next time and do a beginners surf lesson!


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