For beaches lover, India offers a diverse range of picturesque coastal paradises, worth exploring!
With breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and a serene ambiance, these picturesque beaches are a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Today, numerous celebrities promoting Indian beaches have showcased the beauty of these coastal areas on various platforms, making them even more popular among tourists.
10 Best Instagrammable Beaches of India
1. Havelock Beach, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Havelock Island Beach, located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. You can fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair and take a ferry or sea travel directly to Havelock Island. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.
There are several accommodation options available on Havelock Island, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts like SeaShell Beach Resort and Symphony Palms Beach Resort. Budget considerations depend on the type of accommodation you choose.
Havelock Island is home to some spectacular beaches, including Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Kalapathar Beach, and Vijaynagar Beach. A visit to Neil Island, known for its relaxed vibe and beautiful beaches, is also recommended.
The ideal time to visit Havelock Island is between November and May. Food choices on the island are diverse. Popular restaurants include Anju Coco Resto, Full Moon Cafe, and SeaShell Restaurant.
Shopping options on Havelock Island are limited. Havelock Island maintains hygiene standards with well-maintained beaches and offers necessary services like medical facilities, ATMs, and internet connectivity.
Engage in activities like scuba diving and snorkeling to explore the underwater world, trekking through lush forests, and enjoy water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing. Don’t forget to spend leisure time on the island’s beautiful beaches and witness breathtaking sunsets on a sunset cruise.
2. Bangaram Beach, Lakshwadeep Islands
Bangaram Beach in the Lakshadweep Islands is a stunning destination boasting pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. To reach Bangaram, fly to Agatti Airport, take a boat or helicopter ride, or opt for ship services from Kochi, which takes around 18-20 hours. Book your stay through the Lakshadweep Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC), who operate hotels on Bangaram Island. The cost of accommodation and food varies depending on the season and room type, so it’s best to check with LTDC for the latest rates.
The beach is the main attraction, but nearby islands like Thinnakara, Parali, and Kalpitty are worth exploring. The best time to visit is from October to May, and a week-long trip is ideal.
Food options primarily cater to non-vegetarians and seafood lovers, with fresh seafood a highlight. Shopping options are limited, but you can find local handicrafts, seashell jewelry, and souvenirs. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, sunbathing, beach walks, and star-gazing are popular activities at Bangaram Beach.
3. Butterfly Beach, Goa
Butterfly Beach in Goa is a picturesque destination that offers a tropical paradise experience. To reach, hire a cab or take a 30-minute hike from Palolem Beach. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly beach huts to luxurious resorts. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals.
Butterfly Beach is best visited from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The beach offers a variety of seafood and Goan delicacies to satisfy your appetite. It’s worth exploring the beauty of Indian beaches like Goa, instead of relying solely on foreign destinations like Maldives, to partake in local tourism and experience India’s diversity and charm.
4. Varkala Beach, Kerala
Varkala, located in the beautiful state of Kerala, offers many options for travelers to reach and explore its stunning attractions. The nearest airport, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, provides convenient access to the town. Alternatively, Varkala has its railway station, making it easily accessible by train for those who prefer this mode of transportation.
Travelers can find mid-range hotel rooms costing approximately INR 2000-5000 per night, providing comfortable and convenient stays. Apart from its mesmerizing beach, Varkala is famous for its Janardana Swamy Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple, the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual and cultural institution, and the Varkala Cliff with stunning panoramic views. Exploring these attractions adds a cultural touch to the trip.
Visiting Varkala between October to March is best. A 3-4 day trip is ideal. Food lovers will be delighted in Varkala, as the town offers a variety of seafood options and traditional Kerala cuisine.
Visitors can also explore local markets for handicrafts, traditional clothes, and souvenirs. It offers various water sports activities, such as surfing and parasailing. Relaxation seekers may go to yoga classes and Ayurvedic spas to rejuvenate their minds and bodies.
5. Radhanagar Beach, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
To reach Radhanagar Beach, one must first travel to Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Once arriving in Port Blair, visitors have a range of accommodations near Radhanagar Beach to choose from. These lodging options cater to different budgets, offering everything from affordable choices to upscale resorts. The nightly rates for these accommodations typically range from INR 3000 to 10,000, depending on the selected hotel.
Besides the stunning Radhanagar Beach, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer numerous other attractions, such as the Cellular Jail, Ross Island, Havelock Island, and Neil Island. The most favorable time to visit Radhanagar Beach is from October to May.
Food enthusiasts can delight in a wide variety of cuisines, with a particular emphasis on seafood and traditional Indian dishes. Local eateries and restaurants also serve international fare. Additionally, shoppers can explore the markets in Port Blair, where they can find seashell-based souvenirs, jewelry, handicrafts, and local spices. The beach is well-known for its array of water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing. There are also opportunities for boat rides to nearby islands and trekking adventures.
6. Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra
Tarkarli, situated in the Maharashtra region, is a renowned beach destination celebrated for its immaculate beauty and captivating points of interest. Travelers can conveniently reach Tarkarli by flying into Goa’s Dabolim Airport, which is approximately 130 km away. Additionally, Kudal, the nearest railway station, can be found around 32 km from Tarkarli.
Accommodation options in Tarkarli are abundant, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious beach resorts, visitors can effortlessly book their accommodations using online travel websites and booking platforms.
Tourists have a variety of must-see attractions close to Tarkarli Beach, including Sindhudurg Fort, Tsunami Island, Devbagh Beach, and Malvan. The optimal time to visit Tarkarli is between October and March.
A 3-4 day itinerary is sufficient to explore Tarkarli and its surrounding areas. Gourmands will be delighted by the assortment of Maharashtrian cuisine, particularly the delectable seafood dishes. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are readily available at local eateries.
For avid shoppers, Tarkarli’s local markets offer traditional handicrafts, premium cashew nuts, and regional spices. To fully enjoy the beach experience, visitors can partake in activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating. Additionally, dolphin-watching tours and backwater cruises are also available for those seeking unique experiences.
7. Palolem Beach, Goa
A trip to Palolem Beach in Goa is easy via. an international airport approximately 67 km away. The beach is also accessible through road and rail networks. Palolem Beach offers a range of options, including beach huts, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. Booking hotels is a breeze with online travel portals and hotel websites. Depending on your chosen establishment, prices range from INR 1500-8000 per night.
Palolem Beach is also home to attractions like Agonda Beach, Butterfly Beach, and Cabo de Rama Fort. The best time to visit is between November to February. A 2-3 day trip is sufficient to explore the area.
Food lovers will be pleased to find a variety of restaurants and cafes offering Goan delicacies, continental dishes, and fresh seafood. Shopping enthusiasts can head to local markets for handicrafts, beachwear, and funky accessories.
Water sports enthusiasts can try kayaking, banana boat rides, and paddleboarding. Boat trips to spot dolphins and turtles are also popular options. Other activities to enjoy include swimming, sunbathing, yoga sessions, taking a stroll along the beach, and experiencing the nightlife at nearby beach shacks.
8. Puri Beach, Odisha
Puri Beach, located in the coastal town of Puri in Odisha, India, is a popular tourist destination. Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is roughly 60 kilometers distant. Puri is well-connected by rail and road networks as well.
Puri offers a range of options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, with prices ranging from INR 1000-6000 per night. The best time to visit Puri Beach is from October to February.
Several attractions near Puri Beach are worth visiting, including the famous Jagannath Puri Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Chilika Lake, and Swargadwar Beach.
Food lovers will be delighted by the mouth-watering seafood options available at Puri Beach, especially prawns and crabs. Local delicacies like Puri Mahaprasad and Aloo Dum are popular.
Puri Beach is well-maintained, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene for tourists. Shopping enthusiasts can explore the markets in Puri which offer souvenirs, seashell crafts, traditional textiles, and handicraft items. Enjoy parasailing, speed boating, and horsecart rides. Boat cruises to Chilika Lake are also popular among tourists.
9. Marari Beach, Kerala
Marari Beach in Kerala is a tranquil haven for beach lovers. To reach this beautiful destination, the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, 70 km away. You will get resorts here starting from 1000 INR. The beach offers a variety of lip-smacking seafood dishes, with local restaurants and resorts serving authentic Kerala cuisine.
Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Alappuzha Backwaters, and Alleppey Beach.
The best time to visit is from November to February, and a 2-3 day trip is sufficient to explore the area. Shopping enthusiasts can explore handicraft stores offering local artifacts, coir products, and handmade jewelry.
10. Gokarna Beach, Karnataka
Gokarna, a beach town in Karnataka, India, offers a serene and rejuvenating holiday experience. To reach Gokarna, the nearest airport is Dabolim Airport in Goa, approximately 150 km away. The town is well connected by road and rail.
Accommodation options in Gokarna range from beach resorts to budget hotels and guesthouses, with online travel websites facilitating easy hotel bookings. The budget for accommodation in Gokarna typically ranges from INR 1000-8000 per night, depending on the type of hotel chosen. Popular attractions near Gokarna Beach include Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, and Half Moon Beach.
The ideal time to visit Gokarna Beach is from November to February. A 3-4 day trip is suitable to explore Gokarna and its surrounding attractions. The town offers a variety of food choices, including seafood, traditional South Indian cuisine, and international dishes. Gokarna’s local markets are a great place to shop for handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
The beach is well-maintained, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene for tourists. Gokarna Beach also offers various services and activities, such as water sports, yoga sessions, and Ayurvedic spa treatments.
Read Also : The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Luggage Bag: Travel in Style and Ease
Why Choose Indian Beaches Over Foreign Destinations like Maldives?
Indian beaches are preferred over foreign options like the Maldives, for multiple reasons. Firstly, affordability plays a significant role, as Indian beaches offer a more pocket-friendly experience than the higher prices in the Maldives.
Additionally, Indian beaches provide a rich cultural experience, allowing travelers to indulge in regional cuisine, art, and traditions. Moreover, traveling within India is more convenient due to fewer restrictions and visa requirements. India’s diverse landscapes, renowned hospitality, and the opportunity to support local economies are also factors that make it an attractive choice.
Furthermore, Indian beaches are easily accessible, and opting for them promotes responsible tourism and reduces carbon footprints associated with long-distance travel.
While exploring the diverse landscape, Indian beaches offer affordability and cultural immersion and contribute to the local economy.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore these coastal gems!
Conulsion
India’s coastline offers an incredible mix of serene escapes, vibrant beach towns, and cultural treasures. From Goa’s lively shores to Andaman’s untouched beauty, each destination promises unique experiences. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, India’s beaches are coastal paradises waiting to be explored and cherished for a lifetime.
