Kerala’s homestays offer a blend of authenticity, comfort, and local hospitality that’s perfect for families. Unlike impersonal hotels, a homestay provides home-cooked food, local guidance, and a cozy environment where kids and elders feel safe. Whether you’re exploring the backwaters, beaches, or hills, there’s a family-friendly homestay waiting for you.
1. Mango Tree Homestay – Fort Kochi
Overview:
Located in the heritage zone of Fort Kochi, Mango Tree Homestay is a beautiful colonial-style home just a short walk from popular attractions like St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi Beach, and the Chinese fishing nets.
Why it’s great for families:
- Spacious family rooms with heritage décor
- Hosts provide authentic Kerala breakfast daily
- Quiet neighborhood — ideal for walks with kids
- Short walking distance to cafés and parks
Bonus: Children enjoy exploring the courtyard garden filled with local fruit trees and birds.
2. Marari Dreamz – Mararikulam (Near Alleppey)
Overview:
A collection of charming cottages nestled in a tropical garden, just 5 minutes from the pristine and peaceful Marari Beach. It’s run by a warm couple who treat guests like family.
Why it’s great for families:
- Private cottages = privacy + comfort
- Clean, safe beach access
- Delicious home-cooked meals made fresh with local ingredients
- Hosts arrange family-friendly activities like cycling, village walks, and cooking classes
Bonus: Kids can safely roam in the fenced garden and enjoy petting the resident cat and dog.
3. Vembanad House – Alleppey Backwaters
Overview:
This heritage lakefront homestay offers a rare blend of tradition, comfort, and natural beauty. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, it’s perfect for a slow-paced, peaceful family vacation.
Why it’s great for families:
- Huge open space for kids to run and play
- Evening canoe rides on calm backwaters
- Spacious rooms with antique furniture and lake views
- Authentic Kerala thali meals served fresh
Bonus: Hammocks, swing chairs, and nature-watching spots on the lawn.
4. Thekkady Homestay – Kumily (Near Periyar Reserve)
Overview:
Tucked inside a spice plantation near Periyar Tiger Reserve, this eco-homestay is a paradise for families who enjoy nature and wildlife.
Why it’s great for families:
- Surrounded by cardamom and pepper plantations
- Close to Periyar boat safari, elephant camps, and trekking trails
- Campfires in the evening and storytelling with hosts
- Big, clean rooms with garden views
Bonus: Kids love exploring the spice garden and spotting butterflies and colorful birds.
5. Riverside Heritage – Thodupuzha, Idukki
Overview:
A beautiful 100-year-old riverside bungalow set amidst green fields and coconut trees. This is for families looking for a rural, offbeat escape.
Why it’s great for families:
- Safe river access for shallow water play
- Organic farm walks and fresh fruit picking
- Huge verandas and wide lawn for games
- Kerala-style breakfast served by loving hosts
Bonus: Story sessions about Kerala’s culture and family history by the elderly owners.
6. Olive Homestay – Wayanad
Overview:
In the heart of Wayanad’s lush hills, Olive Homestay is ideal for families looking to explore waterfalls, tea estates, and tribal villages.
Why it’s great for families:
- Simple, budget-friendly rooms with mountain views
- Bonfire nights, indoor games, and storytelling
- Close to tourist spots like Edakkal Caves and Pookode Lake
- Traditional food and warm hospitality
Bonus: Trekking trails start right from the property gate — great for active families.
7. Anugraha Homestay – Munnar
Overview:
A hillside homestay with panoramic tea garden views, Anugraha is peaceful, clean, and offers a personal touch that families love.
Why it’s great for families:
- Private balconies with misty views
- Homemade meals with flexible timings
- Near attractions like Attukad Falls and Munnar Tea Museum
- Friendly hosts who guide you on local sightseeing
Bonus: Kids enjoy the cool weather and watching the fog roll through the valleys.
8. Cherai Homestay – Cherai Beach (North Kochi)
Overview:
Cherai Homestay offers a comfortable beachfront experience — the kind that’s hard to get in commercial resorts.
Why it’s great for families:
- Sea-facing rooms with easy access to the beach
- Hosts offer fresh seafood (veg options too)
- Ayurveda massage options for parents
- Shallow, clean beach ideal for young kids to play safely
Bonus: You can spot dolphins early in the morning!
9. Thapovan Heritage – Varkala
Overview:
Nestled on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, this traditional property is full of Kerala charm and offers peace and space to families.
Why it’s great for families:
- Spacious cottages in a green campus
- On-site yoga, Ayurveda, and meditation sessions
- Close to Varkala beach and cliff cafés
- No party crowd — ideal for quiet, spiritual family retreats
Bonus: Grandparents enjoy the calm, while kids explore the garden and temple on the premises.
10. Akkarakalam Memoirs – Kuttanad, Alleppey
Overview:
An ancient wooden family home set on stilts in the middle of Kuttanad’s paddy fields and canals. It’s a beautiful immersion in Kerala’s true village life.
Why it’s great for families:
- Authentic “backwater living” experience
- Quiet boat rides and walkways to explore nature
- Rooms are large and airy with wooden floors and antique beds
- Home-cooked Kerala vegetarian meals
Bonus: Kids love the occasional canoe ride and spotting egrets, kingfishers, and frogs.
Tips for Choosing the Right Family Homestay in Kerala
- Check for Family Amenities: Extra beds, indoor games, outdoor space, safe bathrooms.
- Host Reviews Matter: A warm, child-friendly host can make your stay unforgettable.
- Food Preferences: Ask if veg/non-veg options are available for kids.
- Proximity to Attractions: Avoid long commutes with children.
- Wi-Fi & Essentials: If you’re traveling with teens or working remotely, check for connectivity.
FAQs – Best Homestays in Kerala for Family
Q1. Are homestays in Kerala safe for families?
Yes, most family homestays in Kerala are extremely safe, and the hosts treat guests like extended family.
Q2. Are homestays in Kerala affordable for large families?
Many homestays offer large rooms or multi-room cottages at much better rates than resorts.
Q3. Can we get traditional Kerala food at these homestays?
Absolutely! Most hosts serve authentic Kerala meals — both veg and non-veg.
