Understand the Varkala Landscape
First, get to know the two main areas: North Cliff and South Cliff. The North Cliff is the bustling heart of Varkala's tourist activity, packed with cafes, shops, and a vibrant energy. It's ideal if you want to be in the middle of everything. The South Cliff,
by contrast, is quieter, more serene, and generally considered more peaceful, though still home to some excellent cafes. Accommodation just a short walk inland from either cliff will almost always be cheaper than properties with a direct sea view. For a workation, a quieter spot slightly away from the main hustle might be more productive.
Time Your Visit for Better Deals
Varkala’s peak tourist season runs from October to February, when the weather is pleasant, and the town is buzzing. Naturally, this is when accommodation prices are at their highest. For a budget-friendly long stay, consider the shoulder months like March, or the off-season from June to September. While summer months can be hot and humid, and monsoons can bring heavy rain, these periods see far fewer tourists. This not only means quieter beaches but also gives you significant bargaining power, with homestays often offering much lower rates to secure a month-long booking.
Go Offline and Pound the Pavement
While online portals like Airbnb, Agoda, and Booking.com are great for initial research, the best long-stay deals in Varkala are often found on the ground. Many family-run homestays don't list their properties online or only post daily rates. The most effective strategy is to book a hotel for a few nights and then spend a day or two walking around your preferred area—be it North Cliff, South Cliff, or quieter spots like Odayam Beach. Look for “To-Let” or “Rooms Available” signs and talk to owners directly. This approach allows you to inspect the room, check the Wi-Fi, and negotiate a much better monthly rate in person.
Leverage Local and Online Communities
Before you even arrive, tap into the digital nomad and expat community. Search for Facebook groups dedicated to Varkala or Kerala travel. These forums are goldmines of information where members often post about available rooms or homestays looking for long-term tenants. You can also ask for recommendations for reliable hosts. Once in Varkala, talk to the staff at your favourite workation cafes. They are often well-connected and can point you toward homestays that are popular with remote workers and known for having the facilities you need.
Define Your Workation Must-Haves
An affordable room is great, but for a workation, it needs to be functional. Before agreeing to a stay, be specific about your needs. The key requirement is reliable Wi-Fi, and it's wise to ask if you can run a speed test. Power cuts can happen, so ask about power backup or an inverter. Other essentials include a comfortable desk and chair, access to a kitchen if you plan to cook, and a relatively quiet environment for calls. Some homestays are more geared towards holidaymakers, so confirming these work-specific amenities upfront is crucial. Many long-term rental sites now allow you to filter for work-friendly spaces.
Find Your Cafe, Then Find Your Home
The cliff is lined with cafes, but not all are created equal for productivity. Some are lively spots with loud music, while others offer a more tranquil atmosphere. Popular work-friendly cafes often mentioned include AUM Cafe, known for good coffee and a quiet vibe, Cafe del Mar for sunset views, and Inda Cafe. Instead of picking a homestay first, consider spending your first few days sampling different cafes. Once you find one or two with the right atmosphere and internet speed, focus your homestay search in the immediate vicinity. This ensures your perfect workspace is just a short walk away, making your daily routine seamless and enjoyable.
