Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)

Radhanagar, scuba, and the reason most people come.

Ideal nights

2 to 3 nights

Best time to go

October to May. Diving visibility peaks December to April.

Havelock is the centre of gravity of an Andaman holiday. Radhanagar Beach is regularly rated among Asia's best, Elephant Beach is where most snorkelling happens, and the island has the archipelago's deepest bench of dive schools. It is also the most developed island for stays, from beach shacks to genuinely premium resorts. Ferries fill up weeks ahead in peak season — this is the single most common thing travellers get wrong.

What it's actually good for

• Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) at sunset
• Kalapathar Beach in the early morning
• Scuba diving and PADI certification
• Elephant Beach snorkelling and sea walk
• Kayaking through the mangroves at Yatri Niwas
• The best restaurant scene outside Port Blair

How to reach

Private or government ferry from Port Blair, roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the operator. Book reserved seats well in advance.