Hidden from the beach but with the backwaters on your doorstep, Les 3 Elephants is a soothing French-Indian-owned resort with boutique flair. The beautifully and uniquely designed cottages have private sit-outs and lovely backwater views across gardens to Chinese fishing nets. There's yoga and meditation plus an ayurvedic spa (massage ₹1500), and the restaurant serves excellent home-cooked French-Indian fare (mains ₹200 to ₹500).
Guests can use the pool at a neighbouring property, while nearby Mini Elephant rooms offer a more budget-friendly experience (₹1000).