If you're tempted to visit Varkala in Kerala I really recommend staying in the Villa Jacaranda.

Villa Jacaranda is a bijou guesthouse in the serene South Cliff area of Varkala overlooking the Arabian Sea. There are just four individual rooms full of character, a fragrant garden, lily pond & roof terrace. Ayurvedic massage and treatments are on offer and the guesthouse is skipping distance away from the stunning beach. Villa Jacaranda's owner, Ajay, has thought hard about the small details that make a stay really special. At sunset garlands of fresh, fragrant jasmine are drapped on your private verandah; sheets are embroidered with pretty designs; and breakfast is served in privacy either in your room or on the private terrace. This place is a delight and somewhere you'll want to visit again and again. Don't miss out if you're heading to Kerala on your travels.

Moving on from Varkala you can travel north to Alleppey and go overnight on a houseboat along Kerala's backwaters. Stunning!