Simi Cottages has become the Marina Kovalam. I've just moved in today (January 4, 2007) and must say that my room is very pleasant. Cold water shower only but it has been so hot here I don't think I'll mind. The room is large, clean and bright. No ocean view but some of the rooms on the top floor have that (and hot water).
You can email to inquire about rooms or call 91-471-6418618. If you are coming by taxi or autorickshaw ask to be dropped off at Lighthouse Beach - this way you won't have to walk all the way along the beachfront from the other end of the beach (Hawa Beach) where the bus stand is. If you're coming by bus I think it's best to get off at the bus stand - you could get off at the head of Lighthouse Beach road but it would probably be a longer walk. Here is a shot of the outside of Marina Kovalam so you can recognize it (it's next to Hotel Sea View Palace).
