Best Beaches & Snorkelling Spots in the Andaman Islands

# Best Beaches & Snorkelling Spots in the Andamans

Top 5 Beaches

1. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock — THE beach

Consistently rated Asia's top beach. 2 km of white sand backed by tropical forest, calm turquoise water, and no commercial development. Sunset here is a spiritual experience.

2. Elephant Beach, Havelock — Snorkelling paradise

A 30-minute boat ride from Havelock jetty (or 40 min trek through jungle). The coral reef starts just metres from shore — you can snorkel straight off the beach. Clownfish, parrotfish, and brain coral everywhere.

3. Bharatpur Beach, Neil — Family-friendly

Shallow, calm water perfect for families. Glass-bottom boat rides let you see coral without getting wet. The adjacent jetty area has a lively food scene.

4. Kalapathar Beach, Havelock — Sunrise magic

Named for the black rocks (kala patthar) that line the shore. The beach faces east — arrive before 6 AM for a sunrise that turns the entire sky orange and pink. Quiet, uncrowded, and photogenic.

5. Long Island Beach — Secret paradise

Few tourists make it here. A pristine crescent of white sand accessible only by government ferry + a 45-minute trek through forest. No facilities — bring water and food. Pure Robinson Crusoe.

Best Snorkelling & Diving

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Pro Tips

Bring your own mask and fins for better fit than rental gear

Reef-safe sunscreen only — chemicals destroy coral

Don't touch or stand on coral — it takes decades to grow back

Best visibility: January-April (pre-monsoon)