Miracle by the Bay Varkala — Hotel in Kerala

Spent a few nights at this charming and well situated boutique hotel. A little confusing to access but after a couple of phone calls realised that the car park advised to arrive at is actually the one behind Blue Waters restaurant. On arrival, another phone call set into action the arrival of staff - on a scooter/ bike. They miraculously transfer the luggage to the hotel via a brief walk along a lane way leading to the hotel entrance. We later learned of a short cut from hotel to car park where our driver picked us up for tours. Check-in was leisurely with a welcome tea while we waited. The two rooms - 2 of 3 that are sea facing on ground level, faced the sea - other than a narrow public footpath - it was direct views. There are rooms on the top level and also accommodation in separate cottages in another area. A low picket-fence keeps passing walkers and bike riders off the property. The passing traffic is constant as the hotel is located nearby to other accommodation, fishing spots and two restaurants. Plus the walk in either direction is a photographers dream. Our rooms were comfortable, well appointed and with a few minor changes could elevate the boutique hotel. The owner was happy to take on board suggestions - such as blockout curtains and fly screens. The room has a comfortable bed with some storage space and a separate basic bathroom - hot water. Tea making facilities are available and also a fridge on request. Airconditioner and fan were welcome as open windows attracted a few insects. It wasn't a major problem. No TV or phone, minibar - this place is a retreat from the typical tourist places. No pool - but owner is considering it. We didn't miss it - there is too much to see and do - visiting North Cliffs and the beaches or Jatuyu Sculpture. We loved this hotel because it was away from the tourist haunts, was surrounded by coconut palms, and a genuine retreat. It has become a popular place for pre and post wedding shoots - there is a seat with heart shaped arch over it. It is a romantic location given the endless sea views. Breakfast on-site comprised masala omelette, toast, fruit and chai - that was our choice. There were a few more - not extensive as there is no hotel restaurant. Guests could opt to go to Blue Waters next door if they preferred. That is the only food service other than tea or fresh lime soda refreshments. We had a very early departure and staff came in early to make us takeaway fried egg sandwiches. Thank you. The garden area has several table settings on a paved surface, a large pond with ornamental fish and of course those great views out to sea - where we spotted dolphins. The coastal walk is great and goes past a mosque/ cemetery, residences and fishing boats - great sunset locations. A bit far to walk to North Cliffs and the beaches, cafes, restaurants, shops there - definitely need transport. It is a perfect location if you want to 'get away from it all' and explore the coastal area and a more simple way of life - relaxing and uncomplicated. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and appreciated the staff who each day made our stay comfortable. With only a few changes this boutique hotel would go from almost to absolutely perfect. The owner should be proud of his property and for his efforts to create something special. The dogs were fun to be around - the owner has two of them - one a rescue dog. We chose this hotel because it wasn't a tourist place that chased the trends - it is special - please...

Owned by Mr. Sunil, a Navy veteran, Miracle by the Bay offers you an experience you're likely to remember for a very long time. When you do remember this place, you'll associate it with the tranquility you felt while listening to the constant, steady crashing of the waves of the light blue sea.

Present at a stone throw distance from the sea, this stay offers the best of views. The shoreline in front of the resort isn't crowded at all.

Parking and accessibility: We drove our sedan here and there is safe parking space at an empty field opposite to a stay called 'Petit Ana' and Miracle by the Bay is an approximate 200 metre walk from there. The owner will send a helping hand to fetch all your luggage if you can't walk with it. Larger cars (sedans and SUVs) cannot be driven through the last 200m stretch.

Availability of food and water: The rate is also inclusive of breakfast in the morning. We were fortunate to enjoy some of the best breakfast here- Utthapam, bread toast and jam, omelette, cut fruits, corn flakes, lime juice and many more. There is also availability of free packaged drinking water bottles.

For other meals, you can walk down to another stay called "Blue Water". This is a short 200m walk and you'll get great quality food at good prices in this place, but only until 10 pm. You can dine under the moonlight as well as in candlelight. You may either settle the bill there or settle it Mr. Sunil while you settle the total bill at the stay.

Rooms: We took room 2, the AC family room on the first floor and we wish it was better. While the view of the endless sea from the balcony is surreal, minor things like broken latches or fixing the smell due to an open drain system, having a better AC could improve the experience by miles but nothing too serious to complain about here. You'll be given basic toiletries like toothpaste, brushes, soap, bodywash and a small moisturizer bottle and shampoo sachets. You have a hot water kettle, hangars, big cupboard, glasses to drink water and tea bags. The beds were clean, towels were freshly washed and so were the sheets. Wifi is available.

Note: There are a lot of power fluctuations in this area (not limited to the stay) so when the power turns to single phase, the AC and fans might not function well.

Service: Mr Sunil is the most hospitable host. He has contacts of various activities you can do at Varkala, tells you about the locations of happening parties you can attend and much more. The helpers at the stay are kind and equally hospitable too. From fetching luggage to giving us unlimited extra water bottles to bringing loads and loads of breakfast to our table and tea in the evening, they were the 2nd best part of the experience here!

The first best part of the experience? It's the memories you'll have here with your loved ones in the form of an unforgettable sight and sound.

At the price being offered here, despite having a few hundred options to stay at Varkala, Miracle at the Bay is where you should be staying at. Thanks...

A fantastic location one can find off Varkala. The view and the wind is a song that will keep u amused and amazed whole through the stay. This place was a spontaneous discovery. And it was beyond our expectation to find something so incredible when it comes to location , view and ambience.

The was on the first floor which has the view almost on the beach and good on the lawn. Greenish garden and bluish Sea that mixes so well.

The time we decided was peak as we had a one night to blast and go back. But then we discovered Varkala is not just a beach . It’s more kind of a peaceful home that stretches from cliff to cliff.

Sunil as a host was the best part of the stay. Miracle by the Bay is literally one. He made a point clear that no guest are unhappy for even the smallest of things. You name it and he will assure it. One stop persona for all your activities you have planned for. His stories are more fascinating than real life scenarios. And that more interesting to how he turned from a Mariner to an Entrepreneur.

The rooms displayed great hygiene and quality in build and paint scheme. We feel I love with the ambience in the room. Big bathrooms and beds of King and Queen size respectively made 4 plus two kids with sheer comfort.

Rates at the peak of a season is justified. But then Sunil does made us happy. The morning break fast was inclusive of the Stay and it had enough choices that includes Continental and Indian blends.

Nearby a stone throw away it’s a Waves Restaurant that serves you authentic sea food and much more so we dined there as Our resort did not offer a running kitchen. But that said room service is available from this Restaurant till 9:30pm as the last order call.

Over all , a place will love to come back and stay again and again. U will find beach , shack and so many things around nearby with rent a car or bike as well. The access road to the Miracle by the Bay is quiet a challenge but Sunil takes care of it effortlessly.

Highly...