After eating my heart out in Part 1 of this series 
(thank you, Parotta & Beef Curry), it’s time to talk about something equally important:
Where to stay in Varkala — and why picking the right place makes all the difference.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with your fur baby 
— Varkala has something for everyone.
Stay Scene in Varkala: Something for Every Soul
The best part? Varkala’s not just beautiful — it’s welcoming, diverse, and thoughtful.
Budget hostels for backpackers
Cozy homestays for quiet travelers
Cliffside resorts with ocean views
Pet-friendly stays (yes, bring your pup along!)
Accessible properties with ramps, wide entrances & friendly hosts
Wellness stays with yoga, Ayurveda, and organic meals
Bonus: Many places offer in-house cafes, early check-ins, and work-friendly spaces too.
Where I Stayed: Cozy Nest
Google Maps Review – Cozy Nest
I chose Cozy Nest — a charming, quiet stay tucked close to the North Cliff. Clean rooms, breezy balconies, and warm-hearted hosts made my stay effortless.
Why I’d recommend it:
Walkable to cliff & beach
Great for solo/couple stays
Calm atmosphere
Simple comfort with good Wi-Fi
Best Mornings: Sipping chai on the terrace while the sun rises over swaying coconut trees 
Online Photos vs Real Feel: Always Check in Person
Pro Tip: While many stays look great online, Varkala is one of those rare places where you actually benefit from walking in and checking the place out before booking.
Why?
- You get better rates directly
- You can see real room size & cleanliness
- You’ll often find friendlier hosts ready to help
I found that this works especially well off-season or if you’re flexible with dates.
Top Areas to Stay in Varkala
North Cliff – Where the energy is
- Popular cafés, sea views, shops
- Perfect for sunset lovers and café-hoppers
South Cliff – Peaceful & green
- Less touristy, more retreats & boutique stays
- Great for digital nomads, long stays, couples
Varkala Town – Local flavor
- Close to temples and local markets
- Budget-friendly options with authentic charm
Pet-Friendly & Accessible — Yes, Please!
It warmed my heart to see how inclusive Varkala is becoming:
- Most homestays and cafés welcome pets — some even have in-house dogs
- A growing number of stays now have ramp access, ground-floor rooms, and helpful staff for guests with mobility needs
If you or someone you travel with needs accessibility features, a quick call to the host usually sorts it out easily. Friendly people here. 
Booking Tips
- Peak Season (Nov–Feb): Book in advance, especially for cliff-view rooms
- Monsoon (June–Sept): Beautiful, green, and usually discounted
- Walk-ins: Best for flexible travelers — often cheaper & better choices
I loved walking around, checking stays on the spot, and choosing what felt right — rather than filtered photos.
Final Thought
Varkala isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place you stay, feel, and live slowly.
So pick a stay that matches your vibe — not just your budget.
Whether you’re staying high on the cliff or tucked away in a quiet garden stay, you’ll find that every morning in Varkala begins with calm and ends in golden light.
Coming up next in Part 3:
Things to Do, Beach Walks, Local Activities & Hidden Spots in and around Varkala!
Been to Varkala? Got a favorite place to stay or a pet-friendly find? Drop it in the comments! Let’s make it easier for other Local Guides to feel at home here. 
#StayInVarkala #VarkalaViews #CliffsideStays #PetFriendlyIndia #AccessibleStays #KeralaTravel #LocalGuidesIndia #TravelSeries
