Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do at Elephant Beach
- How to Reach Elephant Beach, Havelock
- Accommodation Options on Havelock
- Estimated Costs and Budgeting
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions on Havelock
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Expert Tips for Snorkeling at Elephant Beach
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Snorkeling at Elephant Beach, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), is one of the Andaman’s classic underwater experiences. A shallow fringing reef, clear turquoise water, gentle currents, and abundant coral gardens make this spot ideal for first-timers and fun for seasoned snorkelers. Whether you arrive by a short jungle walk or a quick speedboat from Havelock jetty, you’ll find calm lagoons, colorful reef fish, and a friendly setup of licensed operators on the beach.
History and Importance
Elephant Beach likely takes its name from the island’s logging-era past, when elephants were used to move timber and were known to swim across shallow channels. Today, the beach is protected for tourism and recreation, known for its accessible reef flat dotted with hard corals (including staghorn and table corals), sea fans, and giant clams. The beach plays a key role in Havelock’s sustainable tourism economy, offering low-impact marine activities while raising awareness for reef conservation.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: November to March for the calmest seas, best visibility, and sunny skies.
- Good window: October and April–May; slightly warmer but usually clear waters.
- Monsoon: June to September can bring rough seas, rain, and reduced visibility; boat trips may be canceled.
- Daily timing: Reach between 8:00 am and 11:00 am for calmer water and fewer crowds. Most operators wind down by ~2:30–3:00 pm.
Top Things to Do at Elephant Beach
1) Snorkeling
- Shore-entry and boat-assisted sessions are available for beginners and swimmers alike.
- Expect sightings of clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, sergeant majors, juvenile reef sharks (rare, harmless), and occasional sea turtles.
- Visibility typically ranges 6–15 m depending on weather and tide.
2) Sea Walk
- A guided walk on the seabed with a weighted helmet provides a stable way to view corals for non-swimmers.
3) Glass-Bottom Boat Rides
- Great for families with kids and non-swimmers to see the reef without getting wet.
4) Gentle Water Sports
- Season-dependent operators may offer banana boat rides or jet ski rides in designated zones.
5) Beach Time and Photography
- White sand and overhanging trees create classic Andaman scenes. Light is best mid-morning.
- Facilities are basic; carry a dry bag for electronics.
How to Reach Elephant Beach, Havelock
Step 1: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ)
- Regular flights from major Indian cities. Aim for a morning arrival to connect to ferries the same day.
Step 2: Ferry to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
- Duration: ~1.5–2.5 hours depending on service (government or private catamarans).
- Advance booking recommended in peak season. Carry valid ID; foreigners carry passport.
Step 3: Getting to Elephant Beach
- By speedboat: 10–20 minutes from Havelock jetty; commonly includes permits and a fixed return time.
- By forest trail: ~1.8–2 km one way through the jungle; 20–30 minutes. Trail conditions can be muddy after rain; check local advisories as the trail may close during bad weather or maintenance.
Local Transport on Havelock
- Scooter rentals: convenient for independent travel.
- Auto-rickshaws and taxis: easy for point-to-point trips.
- Cycles: scenic but hot midday; hydrate well.
Accommodation Options on Havelock
- Budget: Guesthouses and backpacker stays near Govind Nagar and Village No. 3–5; simple rooms, fan or basic AC.
- Mid-range: Cottage-style beach resorts with in-house dive/snorkel desks, AC rooms, and on-site cafes.
- Premium/Luxury: Upscale beachfront resorts near Radhanagar and Govind Nagar with private beaches, spas, and curated excursions.
Tip: Pick a stay close to your morning meeting point (usually near the jetty or operator’s desk) to save time.
Estimated Costs and Budgeting
- Port Blair–Havelock ferry (one-way): INR 400–1,500 per person (service and class dependent).
- Return boat to Elephant Beach: INR 1,000–1,500 per person, often including basic permits.
- Snorkeling (15–30 mins, shared guide, gear): INR 1,000–2,000 per person from shore; boat-assisted sessions may cost more.
- Underwater photos/videos add-on: INR 500–1,500 per group/session.
- Sea Walk: INR 3,500–4,500 per person.
- Glass-bottom boat ride: INR 500–1,000 per person.
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800 per day (+ fuel).
- Meals: INR 250–800 per person per meal depending on cafe/resort.
- Taxi day hire on Havelock: INR 1,500–3,000 for common circuits.
Note: Prices vary by season, fuel rates, and operator. Always confirm inclusion of life jacket, mask/snorkel, fins, and guide.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood grills, island-style curries, and coconut-based dishes are highlights.
- Vegetarian-friendly cafes serve Indian and continental options.
- Hydrate with tender coconut water on the beach; carry reusable bottles.
Shopping
- Small island markets offer handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
- Avoid buying corals, shells, or turtle-derived items; it’s illegal and harms the ecosystem.
Culture
- Andaman culture is a blend of communities from mainland India. English and Hindi widely understood.
- Dress modestly away from the beach; respect local guidelines and signage.
Nearby Attractions on Havelock
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Famous sunset beach with wide sands and gentle surf.
- Kalapathar Beach: Dramatic black rocks, quieter mornings, good for photos.
- Govind Nagar Beach (Beach No. 5): Easy-access lagoon for relaxed swims.
- Neil’s Cove: Serene cove near Radhanagar; check safety flags before entering the water.
Traveler-Specific Tips
For Families
- Choose glass-bottom rides or a guided shallow-water snorkel for kids; life jackets are mandatory.
- Pack snacks, quick-dry towels, hats, and child-safe reef-friendly sunscreen.
For Honeymooners
- Book early-morning slots for calmer seas and privacy.
- Opt for underwater photo packages to capture the experience.
For Friends/Groups
- Negotiate group rates for snorkeling/boat transfers.
- Split scooter/taxi rentals to keep costs low and flexible.
Expert Tips for Snorkeling at Elephant Beach
- Start early: Winds pick up by midday, reducing visibility.
- Safety brief: Listen carefully to your guide; stay within the marked reef area.
- Gear fit: Ensure your mask seals properly; practice clearing before heading to deeper patches.
- Reef-safe habits: Do not touch corals or stand on the reef. Keep fins up and maintain buoyancy.
- Sunscreen: Use reef-safe formulas; apply 20–30 minutes before entering the water. Consider long-sleeve rash guards.
- Dry bag kit: Phone in a waterproof pouch, spare zip-locks, microfiber towel, and a change of clothes.
- Weather flex: Activities are weather-dependent; schedules may shift due to tides or advisories.
- Facilities: Expect basic stalls and limited restrooms; carry cash and minimal valuables.
- Connectivity: Mobile network is spotty on the beach; set meeting points and times with your operator beforehand.
FAQs
Q: Is Elephant Beach suitable for non-swimmers?
A: Yes. Non-swimmers can snorkel with life jackets and a guide in shallow waters, or choose glass-bottom boats and sea walks.
Q: What are the usual timings for water activities?
A: Most activities run roughly from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, with last return boats around 3:00 pm, depending on weather and tides.
Q: Do I need a special permit to visit Elephant Beach?
A: No special permit is needed for most visitors beyond standard island entry requirements. Boat operators typically handle the necessary local permissions for beach access.
Q: Can I bring my own snorkel gear?
A: Yes, you can. Operators also provide gear, but bringing your own well-fitted mask and snorkel can improve comfort and hygiene.
Q: What’s the water visibility like?
A: On good days, expect around 6–15 meters. Visibility varies with season, wind, and tide; mornings are generally clearer.
Conclusion
Elephant Beach on Havelock Island blends easy access with vivid coral life, making it one of the Andaman’s most reliable snorkeling spots. Arrive early, book a licensed guide, and follow reef-friendly practices to enjoy calm lagoons, colorful fish, and sunlit sands. With flexible options for non-swimmers, families, and adventure seekers, it’s a compact, memorable slice of the Andaman marine world.
