A Local's Guide to the Best Beaches in Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)

So, you’ve made it to Havelock Island (or Swaraj Dweep, as we call it now)! Smart choice. After you hop off the ferry from Port Blair, we know what’s on your mind: the beaches. Everyone talks about them, and trust us, they live up to the hype. But with a few popular spots to choose from, you might wonder where to start.

As folks who live here, we’ve spent more lazy afternoons and celebrated more birthdays on these sands than we can count. Here’s our take on the must-visit beaches for anyone setting foot on Havelock for the first time.

Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): The Star of the Show

There’s no way around it—you have to visit Radhanagar. It’s not just famous in the Andamans; it’s often called one of the best beaches in Asia. And for once, the hype is real. The first time you walk through the little patch of forest and see that huge expanse of white sand and turquoise water, you’ll get it.

The beach is long and wide, so even when it’s "busy," you can always find a quiet spot. Just walk for about ten minutes to your left or right from the main entrance. The crowds thin out fast, and you’ll feel like you have the whole paradise to yourself. The sand is as soft as flour, and because it’s so fine, it makes these funny little squeaking sounds under your feet.

But the main event at Radhanagar is the sunset. It’s absolutely spectacular. The sky turns all shades of orange, pink, and purple. It gets pretty busy around sunset, so our advice is to come a bit earlier, enjoy a swim in the calm, gentle waves, and then settle in for the show. It’s one of those views that sticks with you long after you’ve gone home.

Elephant Beach: More Than Just Sand

If Radhanagar is for relaxing, Elephant Beach is for adventuring. This is the spot for water sports and getting a peek at our beautiful coral reefs. Now, an important heads-up: despite the name, there are no elephants here for you to see. They used to be here years ago, but not anymore. What you will find is a vibrant reef just a few feet from the shore.

You have two main ways to get here. You can take a small boat from the main jetty, which is quick and easy. Or, if you’re up for it, there’s a walking trail through the forest. It takes about 30-45 minutes and can get muddy, especially after it rains. But it’s a cool experience seeing the towering trees and listening to the jungle sounds before emerging onto the beach.

Once there, you’ll see lots of people snorkeling. The reef is shallow and perfect for beginners. You can see colorful fish and corals without having to go deep. It’s also where you’ll find providers for activities like sea walking and banana boat rides. Things wrap up by mid-afternoon, so don't plan a sunset trip here!

Kalapathar Beach: The Quiet, Scenic One

After the buzz of Radhanagar and Elephant Beach, you might crave some peace and quiet. That’s when you head to Kalapathar. Located on the eastern side of the island, this beach has a totally different vibe.

It gets its name from the big black rocks ("kala pathar" means "black rock") that line the coast, contrasting beautifully with the white sand and blue water. It’s not the best beach for swimming because of the rocks and corals close to shore, but it’s perfect for a long, quiet walk. The road to Kalapathar is a scenic ride in itself, running right along the coastline.

We love coming here for sunrise. You can sit on one of the smooth, weathered tree trunks that have washed ashore and just watch the day begin. It’s a photographer’s dream and a great place to just sit with a book or your thoughts. You’ll find a few small shops selling coconut water and snacks, but it’s much less commercial than the other beaches. It’s our little slice of serenity.

FAQs

Q: Which beach is the best for swimming? A: Radhanagar Beach, hands down. The waves are usually gentle, the water is clear, and there are no hidden rocks or strong currents near the main area. It's clean, safe, and just perfect for a dip.

Q: Can I visit all these Havelock beaches in one day? A: You could, but it would be super rushed! We’d suggest splitting them into two days. Maybe pair Elephant Beach in the morning (since activities close early) with a sunset at Radhanagar. Then, you can enjoy a peaceful sunrise at Kalapathar the next day.

Q: What about food and changing rooms? A: Radhanagar Beach has good facilities, including changing rooms, lockers, and plenty of small shacks and restaurants selling food and drinks just outside the entrance. Elephant Beach has basic amenities near the activity area. Kalapathar has a few small vendors selling coconuts and snacks, but not much else.

Q: Is it easy to get around to these beaches? A: Yes! The best way is to rent a scooter, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can also hire an auto-rickshaw for the day. They’re readily available, and the drivers know all the spots.