The Best Beaches in India

India is a country of diverse landscapes and abundant natural beauty. The subcontinent has a long coastline and some of the most beautiful shores in the world. From long stretches of sand to mangrove-lined shores or coasts lined with coconut trees, India has it all. The refreshing tropical vibe of these idyllic beaches is perfect for a family vacation or some alone time with your special someone. 

Beaches in India offer amazing adventure sports and fun activities to make your trip special. You can pick from lazing at the beach with your toes buried in the white sand while sipping cocktails or indulging in adrenaline-pumping water sports.

Goa is among India’s most popular beaches and has the best white sand beaches for an exciting trip with friends. Mumbai boasts of the scenic beauty of Juhu Beach, Alibaug, and Aksa Beach. Marina Beach in Chennai has the reputation of being the longest beach in India. Dumas Beach in Gujarat offers an offbeat and creepy beach experience like none other in the world. 

Here is a list of the best beaches in India to help you plan your next vacation whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation.

Goa

Lying on the western coast, Goa is India’s smallest state and the most happening as well. Known for its pristine beaches, stupendous sunsets, stellar nightlife, and eclectic seafood, Goa attracts tourists from across the world. The beach town is also home to marvelous architecture and listed UNESCO world heritage sites in India. 

Chilling on a beach is one of the best things to do in Goa. The popular beaches of Goa are Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach, Palolem Beach, and Agonda Beach. You can choose to relax and laze around at these beaches or indulge in exciting water sports.

Goa offers fun activities such as freshwater diving, parasailing, jet-skiing, and boat rides. Grand Island is famous for scuba diving while a cruise at the Mandovi River is another enthralling activity to try in Goa.

The beaches of Goa also host vibrant parties where you can dance to heart-thumping music while enjoying the finest cocktails. Goan cuisine offers delectable dishes including seafood. A beachside dinner with your loved one is the most romantic thing to do in Goa. 

Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is an ancient archipelago in the Indian Ocean and the smallest Union Territory of India. It is home to some of India’s most beautiful and exotic beaches. Lying 400 km southwest of the Arabian Sea coast, it has around 36 islands out of which most are uninhabited. 

Lakshadweep is a hidden gem of India that has some truly pristine white sand beaches, sapphire lagoons with colorful corals. This peaceful destination is ideal for an exotic vacation amidst nature. You can rejuvenate all your senses in the serene ambiance of these distant islands.

All tourists, including Indians, must have a permit to visit the islands. Most islands of Lakshadweep have been untouched by commercialization. You can explore nature at its best at Androth Island and Agatti Islands. The calm waters are ideal for snorkeling while Kalpeni island is great for scuba diving. You can enjoy fishing at Kadmat Island or indulge in canoeing at Minicoy Island. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, you can try kitesurfing and jet skiing too.

Andaman & Nicobar

A land of blue water and white sand, Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a hidden treasure worth discovering. Lying 1,400 km east of India’s coast with Port Blair as its capital city– this little slice of paradise offers tourists a private getaway set in the lap of nature.

You can enjoy dipping your toes in the stunning turquoise waters or dive for pearls at its many beaches. Havelock and Neil Islands are popular among tourists for their white sandy beaches and great diving and sea walking options. Red Skin Island, Elephant Beach, and Jolly Buoy Island are great spots for swimming and snorkeling.

Mayabunder offers offbeat activities like mangrove kayaking. Parasailing, seaplane ride, and glass boat gliding are other fun activities to try in Andaman & Nicobar.

Varkala

Varkala is a southern town in Kerala that has become well-known for its hippie culture. You can spot shacks on the cliff serving great seafood and playing global music. It also houses one of India’s most popular temples – Janardana Swami Temple or Dakshin Kashi.

Varkala is also home to some of India’s best beaches, hills, and lakes. The most popular among them is the pristine Varkala Beach, known for its azure waters and natural springs. You can also watch the stunning sunsets on the sandy beaches of Kappil. The nearby Ponnumthuruthu Island is a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Varkala also offers adrenaline-gushing water sports such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.

Pondicherry

The French capital of India, Pondicherry is a holiday destination that offers serenity and fun at the same time. The small-town charm of Pondicherry attracts tourists from all over the world. The quaint town also known as Puducherry has several pristine white sand beaches for you to relax. 

You can witness the beauty of nature while enjoying a stunning sunrise at Promenade Beach. Cool Shark Reef, Temple Reef, 4 Corners, Aravind’s Wall, Ravines, and The Hole are prominent diving spots in Pondicherry. Satisfy the adventure seeker in you by visiting Paradise and Karaikal Beach to enjoy water sports such as jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and Backwater sailing. Overnight camping on the beachside is also available in Pondicherry.