India has been blessed with one of the longest coastlines in the world that has some most of the most picturesque beaches. Indian beaches are an amalgam of pristine beauty, serenity and a wide variety of beach activities. The beaches in India receive huge footfalls all around the year.
Be it exciting parties, lip-smacking local delicacies, thrilling water sport activities or laid back languidness, soaking-in the tranquility. Do what you want to, as the list is endless! Browse through this list of top 38 amazing beaches in India and plan your beach vacation in India now!
Palolem Beach, South Goa
Located in South Goa, the crescent-shaped Palolem beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. Tourists can enjoy swimming at this serene beach. Comparatively less-crowded beach, it is the site of Silent-noise party (headphone party) that attracts crowds from all around the globe. This charming beach is bound by thick coconut palms on one side and azure sea waters on the other.
Beach huts, boats and fish nets cover most of the part of the Palolem beach. It is one of the best beaches for those who are looking for some seclusion and silence, away from touristy hustle-bustle of north Goa beaches. Tourists can enjoy boat riding, dolphin spotting, and fishing. You can also plan a visit to the Cotigao wildlife sanctuary.
Best time to visit: October to March
Colva beach, South Goa
Located 6 km westwards of Margao, Colva beach is the largest and the oldest beach in South Goa. This beautiful beach has white sands dotted with thick coconut palms from Cabo De Rama in the south and Bogmalo in the north. A decent break from the crowded North Goa beaches, this beach is ideal for some serene moments.
In the colonial times, the beach was a popular place for the resting space of the high society people but now Colva beach is popular for rave parties. You can also visit the local church of Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Piedade / Our Lady of Mercy, established in the year 1630. Relish local food from the nearby eateries and stalls.Read More
Best time to visit: October- May
[Don’t miss out on these 51 amazing things and activities]
Majorda Beach, South Goa
Boasting of abundant scenery, and dotted with toddy and bakeries, Majorda beach in South Goa is a picturesque beach of India. The Goa version of Ramayana states that as a kid, Lord Rama was kidnapped and brought here. Swimming is one of the popular activities here.
Located in the southern part of Bogmola, Majorda beach is one of the most popular beaches of Goa state. The shops near the beach sell jewelry, silks, objects with wood carvings and Kashmiri handicrafts. Mae De Deus Church is another popular local attraction here. To relish the wonderful pleasures completely, book your stay at the Majorda Beach Resort.
Best time to visit– October- May
Agonda Beach, South Goa
A relatively quiet and comparatively less crowded beach, Agonda beach is ideal for relaxing, swimming and sunbathing. Also known as a nesting site for Ridley turtle, this beach is one of Asia’s most picturesque beaches with a serene atmosphere. Have a long lazy day and treat your eyes to the stunning sunset views, away from touristy crowd.
Agonda beach is just the best place for newly-wedded couple as the turquoise blue waters and soft air brush past your faces when you take a walk here. Bungalows and villas are available on rent near the beach. You can also bargain with a local fisherman for a dolphin spotting ride. Hawkers are not a part of your sight at this beach. Read More
Best time to visit: November- April
Cavelossim Beach, South Goa
Enveloped by an assortment of flora such as paddy fields, casuarinas vegetation and palm trees, Cavelossim Beach is sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and Sal River. Some of the popular activities here are shopping, sun bathing, sunset cruise and dolphin viewing trips. You can get your hands on some wonderful crafts from India and other interesting gift items that you can carry as souvenirs.
A wonderful contrast of black rocks and white sands, Cavelossim Beach offers an access to luxury hotels and beach resorts, which are located nearby. This place is perfect for peace-seekers nature-lovers.Read More
Best time to visit: November- April
Mandrem Beach, North Goa
Positioned in North Goa, Mandrem beach is a serene beach, which is known to be one of the best beaches in India. A slight exception to the other crowded beaches of northern Goa, this beach is a less-crowded one, and thus is highly preferred by newly-wedded couples. It is an ideal beach if you are searching for a peaceful and laid-back day, indulged in activities such as leisure walk, a relaxing massages, and Yoga and meditation.
A quiet hideaway, unlike the other busy Goa beaches, Mandrem feels like it is your private beach as the people or tourists around you are very less. Surfing and swimming can be done here. The natural scenery is another charmer. Admire the lovely sunset views.Read More
Best time to visit: November- April
Calangute beach, North Goa
Addressed as the ‘Queen of the beaches’, Calangute beach is the largest beach in the northern region of Goa state. If you wish to see all Goa action, be it night parties, thousands of tourists, various adventure activities and more, it is at this beach. The beach is dotted with several beach shacks, playing loud music, owning sunbeds with umbrellas and serving sumptuous delicacies along with a long list of beverages on the menu.
Holiday makers and honeymooners, alike in huge numbers, flock at Calangute beach to indulge in several water sports activities such as banana ride, skiing, water scooter ride, surfing as well as parasailing. You can also enjoy dolphin viewing clubbed with sightseeing, through a speed boat ride. Once you spend the day enjoying at the beach, in the evening you will be welcomed by thrilling night parties at the shacks.Read More
Best time to visit– October- May
[Also check out Top 25 Beaches in Goa]
Vagator Beach, North Goa
The venue for the very popular Sunburn festival, Vagator is one of the most popular beaches in the northern region of Goa. Offering memorable sunset views, Vagator beach is divide into Little Vagator- while you are facing the sea, it is on the left side and Big Vagator-it is on the right side. This is a wonderful beach with a laid-back atmosphere, also known for trance parties in Goa.
The beach has dramatic red-colored cliffs coming down towards the shore with 2 fresh-water springs just at a shouting distance. A 500-yr Old Portuguese fort, Chapora fort, located nearby, is a prime attraction. The shore has several shacks and bars, and the beach is crowded too. It is one of those Goa beaches that have abundant scenic beauty.Read More
Best time to visit: October- May
Sinquerim beach, North Goa
Known to be the first tourist beach of Goa, Sinquerim beach is perfect for beach and water activities such as water-skiing, para-sailing, banana-ride, fishing, scuba diving. jet-skiing and windsurfing. Lying southwards of Calangute, Candolim and Baga beaches and adjacent to Aguada beach, this beach also offers ample opportunities for swimming. Do not miss visiting the very popular Aguada fort which is placed nearby.
Sinquerim beach is close to a number of luxury accommodations and fine restaurants. You can also enjoy boat rides here. Several Bollywood movies have also been shot here. You will have a wonderful time here.Read More
Best time to visit– October- May
Dona Paula Beach, Panaji
Located a distance of just 7 km from Panaji- the state’s capital, Dona Paula beach is one of the popular attractions of Goa. Tourists can indulge in a number of activities such as motorboat rides, water scooter ride, cycling, windsurfing, yachting, kayaking, toboggan ski-biscuit, sports fishing, skibob, harpoon fishing and snorkeling.
Dona Paula also has a romantic legend connected to it which every local or hawker can tell you. Just relax at this beach along with your loved ones. The Dona Paula region is known to be the place where the rich people of Panjim have their homes. Reis Magos Church and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary are two very popular attractions that are placed close to the beach.
Read Also:
[Plan your Trip to Goa with these tastefully crafted packages]
Best time to visit– October- May
Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island
Located 12 km away from the Havelock’s ferry pier, Radhanagar beach surely is one of the best beaches in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Clean white sand, azure waters and the peace spread everywhere, allure travelers from all around. Time’s Magazine in 2007, rated Radhanagar Beach as Asia’s best and 7th in the world.
Boasting a wide of flora and fauna, Radha nagar beach offers water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming and kayaking. Do not miss elephant rides and sunset viewing.
Best time to visit: November – April
Elephant Beach, Havelock Island
Around 20 minutes away (by boat) from the Havelock Island dock, Elephant beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Havelock Island. Do not miss out on a boat ride to the beach passing through the light house along with indulging in other activities like sea bathing, snorkeling, beach walking and sun basking. As the sapphire-colored water with soft waves make its way through colorful coral reefs, the sight looks refreshing.
This beach is best for spending some relaxing moments and enjoy a picnic lunch with all the loved ones. This beach lies on the road to Radhanagar beach. There is a bus stand on the right side. From here, a walk of 30-40 min through the forest, takes you to the beach.
Best time to visit: October – May
Wandoor Beach, Port Blair
A popular beach in Port Blair, Wandoor beach is a huge beach that receives a decent number of tourists. The beach is popular for its memorable sunset views and long peaceful beach walks. Snorkeling is another popular activity here. You can also enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride to view to the vibrant coral reefs.
The beach is quite close to Cellular Jail, where wonderful light and sound show narrates the poignant struggle for India’s Independence. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is also easily accessible. Planning a visit to Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island is another great idea. As the boats leave early morning, make the bookings in advance. The beach is 25 km eastwards of Port Blair. Read More
Best time to visit– October – March
Kala Pathar Beach, Havelock Island
A tiny beach on Havelock Island, Kala Pathar beach is known for its serene ambiance that would be ideal for peace-seekers, mainly because of its craggy charm. Though not a perfect beach for swimming or snorkeling, it is ideal for planning a picnic lunch with friends and family.
The beach gets its name from the black-colored rocks that dot its coastline. When the sea waves hit the rocks, the site and sound seems to be calming. Just lay back on the silvery sand, read your favorite book or enjoy drinks with your loved ones.
Best time to visit– October – May
[Plan your Andaman trip with our collection of Andaman tour packages]
Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
One of the three beaches that form the crescent-shaped Kovalam beach, the Lighthouse beach (along with Samudra beach and Hawa beach) enjoys an equal popularity as the Baga beach of Goa. Named after the 30 m high light house on the beach towards its eastern end, this beach with silver-sand and lush palm trees sees all the touristy action. A visit to this lighthouse is a must.
If you like water sports, you can partake in beach sports like swimming, surfing, parasailing and paragliding. The beach is equally popular amid family vacationers and honeymooning couple. Let the cool sea breeze brush past your face when you are indulged in your favorite activities.Read More
Best time to visit– September – March
Varkala Beach, Varkala
Located at a distance of 10 km from the main town, Varkala beach is also known as Papanasham beach, which is sandwiched between Alleppey and Kovalam. Boasting of abundant scenic beauty, this beach allures tourists as well as photographers alike in huge numbers. It is believed that a dip in the waters of a natural spring nearby, removes all your sins.
The only beach in southern Kerala where cliff runs along the mighty Arabian Sea, Varkala offers memorable views of sunset. A two thousand year old shrine the Janardhanaswamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt are two popular attractions location nearby.Read More
Best time to visit– October – March
Marari Beach, Mararikulam (Alleppey)
Quite close to the very popular Alleppey, Mararai beach belongs to the sleepy fishermen’s crowd of Mararikulam. Known for its breathtaking environment and matchless cleanliness, this beach is a serene beach that is perfect for seclusion-seekers and newly-wedded couples. This is a perfect beach to get a sneak-peak into the typical Kerala village life.
Marari beach is dotted with several resorts and villas, offering a pleasant stay world-class amenities. The beach is also the gateway to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Soak-in the serenity spread all around.
Best time to visit: September – March
Bekal Beach
One of the most popular beaches of Kerala, Bekal beach is also known for housing one of Kerala’s biggest forts, Bekal fort. A clean and quiet beach, Bekal is known for its wonderful sunset views and bold waves.
There is a well-built and clean walkway for the tourists so that they can treat their eyes to the fine coastline and picturesque views of the wonderful Bekal Fort. During the evening hours, the beach gets illuminate so that the visitors can enjoy themselves even after sunset.
Best time to visit– November – March
Also Read:
- Best Luxury Hotels in Kerala
- Best Places for Ayurveda Treatments in Kerala
- Top 10 Tree House Resorts in India
[Explore Kerala Tour packages to plan your trip]
Mahabalipuram Beach, Mahabalipuram
Popular for housing the Group of Monuments that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabalipuram beach is a real treat for the visitors. A testimony to the opulence of the Pallava rulers and enduring the test of times, these temples are a must-watch on Mahabalipuram beach. The tranquility of the beach is broken by the roaring waves.
One of the most popular beaches of Tamil Nadu state, Mahabalipuram beach is best known for its surfing opportunities. Rock-cut sculptors, monolithic Ratha, ancient caves and chariots must be visited. Unwind yourself completely. Read More
Best time to visit– October to March
Rameshwaram Beach, Tamil Nadu
Located on the tip of the Indian Peninsula, Rameshwaram beach is known for its religious significance and is said to the site where Lord Rama had installed a Shivalinga to worship Lord Shiva. A quiet beach with shallow sea waters, this beach allured tourist for sunbathing and swimming.
The beach is also known for exotic marine life that includes sea cow, starfish, life-algae and sea cucumber. Bird watching is another popular activity at Rameshwaram beach. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agnitheertham, Gandamadana Parvatham, Dhanushkodi, and Erwadi are some of the nearby attractions
Best time to visit– October to April
Kanyakumari Beach, Tamil Nadu
A beautiful and serene stretch of multi-colored sand, Kanyakumari beach is extremely popular for offering memorable sunset and sunrise views. Positioned on the tip southernmost tip of Indian peninsula, it is bounded by sea waters on 3 sides and is equally important as Rameshwaram for its religious importance.
Kanyakumari is also known as Triveni, it is the confluence of Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal with rough waves. The beach boasts of abundant scenic beauty and tranquility. Thiruvalluvar statue and the massive Vivekananda Rock are a real treat for the eyes of the visitors.Read More
Best time to visit– October to March
Marina Beach, Chennai
Famed for being the second largest beach in the world, Marine beach of Chennai attracts thousands of tourists on a daily basis. The sea waters here are splashy and thus, swimming and bathing is not recommended. Enjoy long walks on the sea shore, just relax or savor crispy murukku and sunal available at the food stalls.
Lying along the Bay of Bengal, Marina beach is known for being an extremely beautiful one. Do not miss sunset and sunrise views here. Near the beach, there are various historical monuments that are must-visit. Hawkers selling food items and other knick-knacks can be seen here
Best time to visit– November to February
Also Read:
[Browse through our collection of Tamil Nadu Tour Packages]
Puri Beach, Orissa
Placed on the shores of Bay of Bengal, Puri beach is one of the most popular Indian beaches that is visited by a huge number of tourists as well as devotees of Lord Jagannath, every year. This beautiful palm-fringed beach boats of clean sands and serene ambiance, offering an ideal relaxing atmosphere.
The beach is equally popular amid Indian and foreign tourists because of its annual beach festival that is organized in the month of November. Puri beach offers lovely sunrise and sunset views. You can visit the nearby fishing villages and treat your taste buds to the local seafood delicacies. The Jagannath Rath Yatra, the famous chariot festival held every year attracts devotes from all over the world.
Best time to visit: November – March
Konark Beach, Orissa
A popular spot amid holiday makers as well as devotees visiting Konark temple, Konark beach is a beautiful and serene site. The Sun temples is just 3 km and Ramchandi Temple is just 10 km from the beach. One of the world’s excellent beaches, Konark beach of Orissa is ideal for bathing, and sunrise as well as sunset views.
Placed on the east coast of India, this beach is glistening sands and a wonderful ambiance. The beach is equally popular amidst locals as well as tourists. Enjoy long leisure walks at the beach.
Best time to visit– October to March
[Explore Orissa Tour Packages to Plan your trip]
Gokarna, Karnataka
One of the most pristine and secluded beaches in India, Gokarna beach is quite close to a pilgrim site of a Hindu temple and, thus is visited by devotees and tourists alike. Slowly becoming extremely popular, this beach lies along other popular beaches like Om beach, Paradise beach, Kudlee beach and Half-moon beach.
Mahabaleshwar Temple and Ganpati Temple with its huge chariots are some of the nearby attractions. Gokarna beach is a perfect beach for lazing around or enjoying a picnic lunch with the loved ones. You can spend some peaceful time here. The scattered small hills and islands look stunning.
Best time to visit– October – March
Kaup Beach, Karnataka
A pleasing environment and cool breeze allure visitors to Kaup beach that also has a 100 ft high fully-operational old light house, which was erected in 1901. Located at a distance of 12 km from Udupi, this beach has been the shooting site of a number of movies. It is one of the popular beaches of Karnataka where one can enjoy surfing in the high tides.
Banana ride, water biking and speed boat riding can be enjoyed at the Kaup beach. Dolphin viewing during boat ride is a must. The ruins of an old fort also lie near the beach.Read More
Best time to visit– October – March
Om Beach, Karnataka
Just 8 km from the Gokarna town, Om beach gets its name because of the fact that the beach is in shape of inverted Om symbol (two semi-circular coves). The place is also popular amid Sadhus as a site for doing penance. Water skiing, surfing and para sailing are some of the popular water sports activities here.
Probably the most popular beach in Gokarna, Om beach is also known as a hippie haven. The beach is close to a number of deluxe resorts. This pristine beach lies further along the Kudle coast.
Best time to visit– October – March
Also Read:
[Explore karnataka Tour Packages to Plan your trip]
Tarkali beach, Maharashtra
One of the finest beaches with white sands, Tarkali beach is famed as the ‘Queen Beach of Sindhudurg’ in the whole of the stretch of the Konkan coast beaches. As the sea waters here are pretty clear, it is said that one a bright sunny day, visitors can see up to 20 feet of the sea bed. One of the most popular beaches in Maharashtra for water sports activities, visitors can try their hands at snorkeling and scuba diving.
Close to the beach are Tarkali backwaters in River Karli, where one can enjoy a stay in well-equipped houseboats. Dolphin sighting can also be done here. Sindhudurg Fort is a popular attraction near the beach.
Best time to visit– October to March
Malvan beach, Maharashtra
One of the few beaches in Maharashtra where visitors can partake in snorkeling and scuba diving, Malvan beach has interesting sites like Devbag sangam, Sindhudurg fort, and Vengurla rocks. A commercially active beach in the Konkan region, this beach boasts of huge patches of white sands and stretches of cashew, mango, and coconut trees.
Tourists can also enjoy houseboat stay in Karli River. The local fishermen sell freshest of their catches in the fish market that is organized near the beach in the evening. Do not miss visiting the popular Sindhudurg Fort. There are a number of restaurants and bars near the beach.
Best time to visit– October-end to mid-May
Alibaug Beach, Maharashtra
One of the most popular beaches in Maharashtra, Alibaug beach is flocked in huge numbers by locals as well as tourists. Along with Kashid beach that is placed nearby, this beach is known for offering wonderful views of the Arabian Sea. Kolaba Sea Fort by Maratha Ruler Shivaji the great is one of the attractions here.
Amongst all the beaches in the Alibaug town, this Beach is known to have the blackest sand deposits. A religious site dedicated to Ali Shah Bawa lies in the heart of the town and the beach gets its name from him.
Best time to visit– October to May
Ganapatipule Beach, Maharashtra
An ideal getaway for the city dwellers of Mumbai as well as Pune, Ganapatipule beach is a beautiful beach that is also known to be one of the cleanest beaches on the Konkan coast. The beach is equally popular amidst pilgrims, beach-lovers as well as seclusion-seekers, and attracts them in decent numbers. The beach is lined with coconut palms and mangroves.
One of the best beaches of Maharashtra, this 3-km stretch has clear sea waters and golden-colored sands. Tourists can indulge in activities like camel ride, speed boat ride, camel ride and instant snaps. Relish lime juice and coconut bhel puri from the nearby stalls. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the other popular activities here. Swayambhu (self-originated) Ganesh temple is a popular attraction too.
Best time to visit: October- February
Juhu beach, Mumbai
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Mumbai, Juhu beach equally attracts both locals as well as tourists in huge numbers. The site of several Bollywood movie shooting, this beach shares its border with a posh locality of the city where a number of Bollywood stars reside. If you wish to see all the action of the city, it is at this beach. This energetic beach is an ideal venue to enjoy sunset views.
Do not miss relishing street food of Mumbai such as bhel puri, pao bhaji and panipuri from the food stalls and eateries near the Juhu beach. If you visit the beach in morning hours, you can people indulged in cycling, jogging and yoga sessions. You can also enjoy horse riding here.
Best time to visit– October to March
Also Read:
[Explore Maharashtra Tour Packages to Plan your Trip]
Auroville Beach, Pondicherry
With shores of soft, golden and black volcanic sand, Auroville beach is one of the best beaches of Pondicherry that is located at a distance of just 12 km from the main town. Flocked by visitors mainly during the weekends, this beach offers spellbinding sunset views. A war memorable dedicated to martyrs of World War I and a 4 m long statue of Mahatama Gandhi are two of the popular monuments, near the beach.
Also called Auro beach, this beach is a wonderful ambiance that is popular among youths. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and beach volleyball. While you simply laze around, let the cool breeze brush past your face. Spend some peaceful moments at Auroville beach.
Best time to visit– October – February
Serenity Beach, Pondicherry
Fittingly called the Serenity beach, this beach in Pondicherry boasts of being a wonderful tranquil beach, offering a laid-back environment. This secluded beach is perfect for honeymooning couples and peace-seekers. It is one of the most popular beaches of Pondicherry.
You can enjoy a walk on the pathway that has been created by black rocks. Spot fishermen boats and their fishing nets. As there are very less trees on the beach, it is best to visit Serenity beach in the evening, when you can also treat your eyes to the memorable sunset views. Surfing is a popular activity here.
Best time to visit– October – February
[Plan your Pondicherry trip with these tour packages]
Paradise Beach, Pondicherry
Placed at a distance of just 8 km from the main town, Paradise beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Pondicherry. A serene and isolated beach, it is a much cleaner beach where you can enjoy a peaceful day, while also enjoying the presence of dolphins. Swimming is allowed but only near the shore.
Paradise beach is dotted with several shacks and restaurants that serve lip-smacking dishes along with a huge number of beverages. The beach is accessible only from the Chunnambar Resort through boats. The last boat leaves at 6:30 in the evening.
Best time to visit– October – February
Agatti Island, Lakshadweep
Known as the gateway to the Lakshadweep Islands, the Agatti Island boasts of a charming ambiance and a serene location. A visit to this beach is surely a calming experience for your mind, body and soul. One of the highlights of your visit to this beache is marine life viewing through glass bottomed boats
One of the best beaches in India, Agatti Island has silver glistening sands, azure waters, colorful coral reefs and verdant coco palms. You can also hire a cycle to explore the place. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, sailing and water skiing are some of the activities that you can indulge here in.
Best time to visit– October – mid May
Geetika Handa
Geetika Handa is a travel writer who has an interest in sharing her experiences with all. She provides a detailed account of any travel topic she chooses to write on. You can get detailed information and tips about choosing the right kind of holiday packages in the country from her write-ups.
