In planning a tropical island vacation, choosing the perfect beach is paramount, as it sets the tone for relaxation, adventure, and immersion in natural beauty. That’s why selecting the best beaches should prioritize a balance of stunning scenery, pristine water quality, accessibility, safety, and a range of activities to cater to your preferences and ensure a memorable and fulfilling experience amidst the beauty of nature and local culture.
Now in this article, we will introduce the bests among a substantial number of beaches scattered across the 500 islands, sandbanks, and rocky outcrops in India’s Andaman and Nicobar– that not only meet the criteria for being world-class but also surpass them by miles in terms of pristine beauty, unexplored allure, and adventurous vibes waiting to be discovered.
The variety of beaches in Andaman and Nicobar has the potential to captivate both global travelers and India’s domestic tourists alike due to their unparalleled diversity and natural beauty. From serene, coconut or palm-fringed shores with crystal-clear waters ideal for sunbathing and swimming to rugged, unexplored coastlines offering thrilling adventures such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and jungle treks, there is something to enchant every type of traveler. Moreover, the rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and opportunities for cultural immersion with indigenous tribes add a unique allure that promises an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world and within I
Radhanagar BeachAnd, the perfect weather, with temperatures averaging around 28-32°C, during the months of November to April, provides ideal conditions for tropical beach sun tanning, basking in the sweet sunshine.
Additionally, the exclusive seclusion of some superb hidden beaches, which are not normally visited by the general Indian tourists due to their remote and costly accessibility, further enhances their appeal for those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
1) Radhanagar Beach, Havelock
Radhanagar Beach, located on Havelock Island, is widely celebrated as the best beach in the Andaman Islands. Known for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it offers a stunning tropical escape. Towering lush trees and serene waves create a postcard-perfect setting, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and sunset views. Voted one of Asia’s top beaches, Radhanagar’s pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.
Neil’s Cove, a picturesque inlet adjacent to the famous Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island, is a secluded spot that enchants visitors with its raw, untouched beauty. Its calm, shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling, revealing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, from colorful fish to majestic sea turtles. The walk to Neil’s Cove from Radhanagar Beach is a scenic trail through dense mangrove forests, adding to the sense of adventure and solitude. The cove’s serene ambiance, enhanced by a canopy of lush green trees and gentle waves, offers a peaceful retreat from the main beach. Though swimming is allowed, visitors are advised to stay vigilant as the area occasionally has mild currents. Neil’s Cove is a must-visit for those looking to connect with nature and explore Andaman’s marine biodiversity in a tranquil setting.
Radhanagar Beach may be the only beach in the Andamans to receive the Blue Flag Beach certification, owing to its popularity among beach lovers in India and the availability of well-equipped facilities around the beach. However, its top ranking can easily be challenged if you explore some of the lesser-known yet stunning beaches beyond Havelock, the most buzzing island destination in India. Despite ranking Radhanagar Beach as Number 1 for its certification, popularity, and beach facilities, we will go on to disclose the names of other beaches in the Andamans that will undoubtedly stun you.
2) Merk Bay Beach, North Passage Island
I would like to introduce Merk Bay Beach what I consider the best beach in the Andamans, characterized by its white powdery sands, expansive width and length, pale to vibrant turquoise colored water, extensive shallow foreshore, vast coconut grove at the backside, and dense tropical forest behind.
The beach is safe for swimming and perfect for snorkeling. The bay area is also a great spot for birdwatching, offering spectacular views of various species. Want to see dolphins in their natural habitat and witness their playful nature firsthand? Merk Bay is the place to be.
- Location: North Eastern End of North Passage Island
- Crowd: Super Secluded Beach
- Space: Expansive
- Gateway: Long Island, Rangat, Middle Andaman
- Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Accessibility: By Boat 5.6 Km from Long Island, Nearest Inhabited place to Merk Bay Beach. Long Island can be reached by ferry from Rangat, which is 155 km away from Port Blair. Direct Ferries are also available from Port Blair/Havelock/Neil to Long Island on a daily basis.
- Beach Facilities: Available
- Eateries: Not Available (You have to bring your own and take back the waste)
- Swimming/Snorkeling/Bathing: Superb Experience
- Bay Watch: Available
- Beachside Accommodation: Not Available (With the Permission of the Andaman and Nicobar’s Forest department, you can experience a night stay in the tent)
- Recommendation: Perfect for those seeking ultimate seclusion and pristine natural beauty. Prepare adequately with food supplies for a memorable beach experience
3) Jahaji Beach, Rutland Island
South Andaman’s Rutland Island, also known as Kalapahar locally, has long been a well-kept secret among the tourists, boasting two remarkable world-class beach pavilions: Jahaji Dera and Bada Khari, both situated side by side. This area has remained less developed due to its location within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Jahaji Dera Beach, enveloped by the tropical canopy of Andaman Bullet-Woods, offers a serene retreat amidst nature’s embrace. With its vast expanse of 11 hectares of pristine white sands and the stunning hue of celadon green sea, the beach stands as one of the largest beach pavilions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Additionally, it serves as a nesting place for the majestic Leatherback turtles, adding to its ecological significance and allure.
- Location: South West End of Rutland Island
- Crowd: Super Secluded Beach
- Space: Expansive
- Gateway: Manjery or Pongi Balu, South Andaman
- Timing: 6 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Accessibility: 25 minutes Journey by Boat from Manjery or Pongi Balu Jetty. Nearest Inhabited place to Jahaji Dera Beach is Bada Khari village in the Rutland Island.
- Beach Facilities: Available
- Eateries: Not Available (You have to bring your own and take back the waste)
- Swimming/Snorkeling/Bathing: Mesmerizing Experience with view of underwater live coral gardens
- Bay Watch: Available
- Beachside Accommodation: Not Available (With the Permission of the Andaman and Nicobar’s Forest department, you can experience a night stay in the tent)
- Recommendation: Perfect for those seeking ultimate seclusion and pristine natural beauty. Prepare adequately with food supplies for a memorable beach experience
4) Ross & Smith Island Beach, Doglipur
The third-best beach comes from North Andaman’s Smith Island, situated on its eastern side starting from the North. This beach is connected with a sandbar that extends to the southern side of the Ross Island Wildlife Sanctuary, featuring a wide stretch of white sand facing the Andaman Sea. During low tide, the sandbar becomes exposed, transforming into a 500-meter-long beach with silvery sand. Positioned with the Andaman Sea to its east and a shallow bay on the other side, this beach offers a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Andaman Islands.
- Location: North Andaman Islands, connected by a narrow sandy isthmus during low tide
- Crowd: Moderate
- Space: Long but Medium at Width
- Gateway: Diglipur, North Andaman
- Timing: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee: Free – However for exploring the Ross Island Wildlife Sanctuary which starts at the northern ending point of the Sand-bar, requires Rs 50 for the Indians and Rs 1000 (13 USD) for the foreigners.
Accessibility: Accessible via boat from Diglipur. During low tide, visitors can walk across the sandbar connecting the two islands. Boat charges depend on the size and type of the boat and normally fibre boats of 5 to 10 seater cost 6000 to 12000 Rs.
Beach Facilities: Limited
Eateries: Not Available (Visitors are advised to carry their own food and water)
Swimming/Snorkeling/Bathing: Excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters
Bay Watch: Available
Beachside Accommodation: Not Available (Visitors can opt for accommodations in Diglipur). Few Eco huts are there by the side of the beach but it’s very hard to get them available.
Recommendation: A must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Prepare adequately for a day trip with food, water, and sunscreen.
5) Khurma Dera and Mahua Dera Beach
Tucked away on the western side of South Andaman, Khurmadera Beach stretches long and slender, adorned with pristine white and golden sands bordered by coconut groves. It cradles the diverse shades of the Bay of Bengal, ranging from refreshing mint green to vibrant turquoise. Along its length, rocky outcrops emerge, creating natural pools during the time of high tide, filled with crystal-clear seawater. The right side of the Khurmadera beach features endless dead coral beds and a climbable tall rock, offering panoramic ocean views and housing a small World War II Japanese bunker. The left side boasts sandy shores dotted with huge fallen trees, adding to its unique charm. Khurmadera’s stunning sunset, probably the best in the Andamans, completes its allure, making it a must-visit destination.
- Crowd: Secluded Beach
- Space: Narrow and Long
- Gateway:- Collinpur
- Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Rs 50/Head (Private Beach)
- Accessibility: By Road, 25 Km from Port Blair
- Beach Facilities: Available
- Eateries: Available (Limited)
- Swimming/Snorkelling/Bathing:- Permitted Places Only (Due to Crocodile Habitat in the Nearby Estuaries)
- Bay Watch: Available
- Beachside Accommodation: Available (Limited)
6) North and South Cinque Island Beaches
North Cinque Beach captivates with its wide beach berm adorned by strikingly white sands, a standout feature against the backdrop of the expansive and tranquil lagoon. Separated from the open sea by a narrow tail of rocks, sands, and littoral forest, this beach offers a unique landscape that adds to its allure.
Also near the North Cinque Beach lies a wide and elongated tombolo, connecting the northernmost peninsula of North Cinque Island. Renowned for its scenic beauty and unique geological formation, this tombolo is celebrated for its stunning isthmus vibes, with the sea stretching out on both sides.
Traveling by boat further south to South Cinque Beach reveals the most beautiful beach in the entire Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Cradled in a cove bordered by lush hills and rocky cliffs on one side, and a stunning turquoise lagoon on the other, this beach exudes unparalleled natural splendor. The sands here are dazzling white and powdery soft, while the area is wider than that of North Cinque, offering visitors an expansive and breathtaking coastal experience.
- Location: Off-shore of south-eastern side of the Rutland Island, South Andaman District
- Crowd: Minimal
- Space: Expansive
- Gateway: Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor
- Timing: Open throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Permit required
Accessibility: Boat trips and guided tours available from Jetties in Port Blair, Chidiyatapu, Manjery, Pongi Balu or Wandoor. - Beach Facilities: Limited
- Eateries: Not Available (Visitors are advised to carry their own food and water)
- Swimming/Snorkeling/Diving: Excellent opportunities for water activities due to the clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. shallow lagoon. North Cinque Beach offers the best conditions for swimming and snorkeling, with its shallow lagoon of crystal-clear turquoise water and sandy bottom adorned with fringes of stunning coral formations. Meanwhile, South Cinque Beach is renowned for bathing, with moderate swells against a backdrop of white sands and bordering lush hills and cliffs
- Bay Watch: Available
- Beachside Accommodation: Not Available (Day trips are common; overnight stays may require special arrangements). Nearest place that has accommodation options is the Rutland Island.
- Recommendation: A pristine paradise offering untouched natural beauty, North and South Cinque Island Beaches are perfect for those seeking seclusion and adventure amidst the stunning landscapes and rich marine life of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
7) Jolly Buoy Island Beach
Jolly Buoy, a small secluded island situated offshore of Manjery in South Andaman’s Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is renowned for its captivating attractions. Not only does it offer exhilarating glass-bottom boat rides over vibrant coral colonies, but it also provides the ultimate beach experience. With its pristine white coral sands and waist-deep turquoise lagoon bordered by the deep blue of the open sea, Jolly Buoy boasts one of the finest beaches in the Andamans. The soft sand beach and its calm lagoon are regarded as the safest in the region, offering an unparalleled swimming pool-like experience for visitors to enjoy.
When Jolly Buoy Island remains closed (May to October), adhering to government regulations aimed at preserving the highly eco-sensitive zones in and around the Andaman’s National Park areas, visitors can still experience similar beach vibes at nearby Red Skin Island. Situated within the same marine park area, Red Skin Island offers a stunningly picturesque beach experience akin to Jolly Buoy. With its pristine shores, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery, Red Skin Island ensures that visitors can continue to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Andaman Islands’ coastal wonders while supporting conservation efforts to protect these invaluable ecosystems.
- Location: Within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, South Andaman Island
- Crowd: Moderate as trips to the islands are regulated by the govt.
Space: Small Beach Area
Gateway: Accessible via boat from Wandoor and Manjery
Timing: 8.30 AM to 3.30 PM
Entry Fee: Permit required
Accessibility: Boat trips and guided tours available from Port Blair or Wandoor Beach
Beach Facilities: Limited
Eateries: Not Available (Visitors are advised to carry their own food and water)
Swimming/Snorkeling/Diving: Excellent opportunities for water activities due to the clear waters and vibrant coral reefs
Bay Watch: Available
Beachside Accommodation: Not Available (Day trips are common; overnight stays may require special arrangements)
Recommendation: Jolly Buoy Island offers an idyllic escape with its pristine white sands, waist-deep turquoise lagoon, and vibrant coral colonies. Perfect for snorkeling, diving, and swimming enthusiasts seeking a serene natural retreat.
8) Elephant Beach, Havelock Island
Elephant Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Andaman Islands, especially for adventure seekers. Its powdery white sand and shallow crystal-clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling, with stunning coral reefs just a short swim from the shore. The vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and various coral species, makes it a top destination for underwater exploration. For those looking for more excitement, the beach offers water sports like jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and sea walking.
Location: Havelock Island Crowd: Moderate Space: Medium Gateway: Havelock Jetty Timing: 7 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: Free Accessibility: Reachable by boat from Havelock Jetty, a 20-minute ride away Beach Facilities: Available Eateries: Limited food stalls available Swimming/Snorkeling/Bathing: Excellent for snorkeling, safe for swimming Bay Watch: Available Beachside Accommodation: Not Available Recommendation: Perfect for adventure lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts.
9) Lalaji Bay, Long Island
Lalaji Bay is a serene and unspoiled beach located on the western side of Long Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Known for its pristine beauty, the beach is a peaceful escape, with soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters that attract nature lovers and solitude seekers. The tranquil surroundings and lush mangrove forests nearby add to the charm of the bay. Lalaji Bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely beach walks. A short trek through the mangroves or a boat ride from the main jetty is required to reach this hidden gem.
- Location: Long Island
- Crowd: Sparse
- Space: Wide
- Gateway: Long Island Jetty
- Timing: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Accessibility: Accessible by boat from Long Island Jetty, followed by a trek or a boat ride
- Beach Facilities: Minimal
- Eateries: None, carry your own supplies
- Swimming/Snorkeling/Bathing: Great for swimming, but snorkeling options are limited
- Bay Watch: Not available Beachside
- Accommodation: Available in Long Island, but not directly on the beach
- Recommendation: Ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty away from crowds.
10. Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar Beach, located on Havelock Island, is a picturesque destination known for its stunning black rocks (from which it derives its name) and white sandy shores. The beach is less crowded compared to other popular beaches on Havelock, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and quiet contemplation. The turquoise waters and contrasting dark rocks create a striking visual appeal, ideal for photography. While the beach may not be ideal for swimming due to the rocky seabed, it’s a great place for peaceful strolls and enjoying the natural beauty of the Andaman Islands.
- Location: Havelock Island
- Crowd: Sparse to moderate
- Space: Moderate
- Gateway: Havelock
- Timing: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by road from Havelock’s main town
- Beach Facilities: Minimal, basic seating and shelters available
- Eateries: Small stalls nearby, limited options
- Swimming/Snorkeling/Bathing: Not ideal due to rocky seabed
- Bay Watch: Not available Beachside
- Accommodation: Available in Havelock Island, but not directly on the beach
- Recommendation: Ideal for those looking for a peaceful and scenic spot for a short visit.
11) Gujji Nallah Beach, Mayabunder
12) Madhuban Beach, Kalatang, Port Blair
