Fodor's Expert Review Niraamaya - Surya Samudra

Overlooking the sea, this rambling and simply beautiful resort, built along a hillside, has an exquisite beach, lovely views, and a great deal of peace (loud noise isn't allowed). Magnificent sculptures, hammocks, pools of flowers, and discreet stone fountains dot the meticulously maintained grounds. During monsoons, surprisingly, the property's charm multiplies as the rumble of crashing waves and perpetual sight of frothing white surf adds more magic. Most rooms are in restored wooden houses, each with an intricately carved facade, a domed wooden ceiling, open-air bathrooms, ocean-view patios, and understated but sumptuous interiors. The handful of garden view cottage rooms blend modern and folk touches. The main drag of Kovalam beach is about 15 minutes away by road, and can be reached easily by hired auto-rickshaw.