The headland of Thangassery, about 3 km south of Kollam town, offers the best vantage point on this stretch of coast. The 1902 lighthouse stands on the cliff edge with views across the Arabian Sea and back along the beach toward the town. Climb to the top for a fine panorama.
Below the lighthouse, fragments of the old Portuguese fort survive — stone walls and arched gateways overgrown with vegetation. A small fishing community lives around the headland, and the warren of lanes between the old fort walls and the sea is a good place for a quiet wander. The Portuguese church of St. Thomas (1519) is one of the oldest in Kerala and still holds services.