Fodor's Expert Review Marari Beach Resort

With a private and unspoiled palm-fringed beach, an excellent ayurvedic center, and easy access to both Kochi and the backwaters, Marari packs a lot of Kerala into one bundle. Located between two fishing villages 17 km (10 miles) north of Alleppey, the 25-acre coconut palms resort, run by the local Casino Group, combines a warm, rustic feel with modern comforts and eco-friendly details. It is built to resemble a fishing village. Brick paths lead through rows of deceptively modest thatched-roof cottages that are both extremely spacious and comfortable—they have traditional red oxide floors, coir matting, bamboo roll blinds, cane furniture, and hand-loomed furnishings, with open-air bathrooms sporting banana trees. Private gardens and side entrances add an air of seclusion. The main restaurant has great food and features live music. An on-site naturalist leads tours of the grounds and its butterfly garden.