Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Suggested Day Trip Itinerary
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Travel Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) on Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is famed for its powder-white sand, turquoise water, and unforgettable sunsets. Often ranked among Asia’s best beaches and certified Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety, it’s perfect for a serene day trip centered on swimming, long walks, and unhurried beach time.
This guide blends a practical one-day itinerary with local insights on the best time to visit, how to reach, costs, nearby spots, and smart tips for different traveler types.
History & Importance
Radhanagar Beach rose to global fame after being named “Asia’s Best Beach” by Time Magazine in 2004. In recent years, it earned Blue Flag certification, recognizing its high standards in water quality, safety, and eco-management. Dense coastal forest frames the wide, gently curving bay, creating a pristine setting where the focus is on nature rather than motorized watersports.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: December to February (cool, dry, vivid sunsets).
- Good window: October to May (calm seas, clear skies on most days).
- Monsoon: May/June to September can bring heavy rain, choppy seas, and possible ferry cancellations.
- Best hours: Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds; late afternoon for the signature sunset (around 5:00–5:45 pm depending on season). Swimming after sunset is not allowed.
Suggested Day Trip Itinerary
Morning
- Arrive on Havelock by early ferry or start from your Havelock stay after breakfast.
- Reach Radhanagar by 9:00–10:00 am to enjoy mellow light and calm water.
- Take a relaxed swim within the lifeguard-flagged zone; stroll the shoreline for photos.
Midday
- Break under the shade of casuarina and palm trees; hydrate often.
- Use restroom/changing facilities near the main entrance if needed.
- Head out for lunch at nearby eateries toward the parking area or in Govind Nagar market.
Afternoon
- Return for a post-lunch beach walk; consider the short forested trail to Neil’s Cove (check local advisories; avoid swimming there if warnings are posted).
- Quiet time: read, nap, or practice beach yoga; keep the beach litter-free.
Evening
- Settle in early for the iconic sunset. Respect lifeguard instructions and leave the water before dusk.
- If you must catch a return ferry the same day, plan to depart the beach well in advance to reach the jetty on time (you may miss sunset on tight schedules).
Top Things to Do
- Swim in crystal-clear waters within lifeguard zones.
- Sunset watching from the central stretch of the beach.
- Nature walk to Neil’s Cove (subject to safety advisories).
- Beach photography: early morning for textures; evening for golden hues.
- Shell-spotting along the high-tide line (do not collect shells/coral; it’s prohibited).
- Unplug and relax: limited mobile coverage encourages a true digital detox.
Note: To preserve tranquility, motorized watersports aren’t offered at Radhanagar. For snorkeling or adventure activities, visit Elephant Beach.
How to Reach
From Mainland India to Port Blair (IXZ)
- Direct flights operate from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
- Most travelers arrive a day before their Havelock transfer to cushion weather or schedule changes.
Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- By ferry: Government and private ferries take around 1.5–2.5 hours depending on sea conditions and vessel.
- Book tickets in advance during peak season. Carry a printed or digital copy and valid ID.
Havelock Jetty to Radhanagar Beach
- Distance: ~10–12 km; travel time: ~20–30 minutes.
- Transport: taxi, auto-rickshaw, shared jeep (limited), or self-drive scooter (rentals widely available).
- Parking available near the main entrance; small parking fee may apply.
Permits & Regulations
- No special permits are required for Indian or foreign tourists to visit Havelock/Radhanagar (standard entry to Andaman applies).
- Drones require prior permission from local authorities.
- Respect plastic restrictions and beach rules; alcohol consumption on the beach is prohibited.
Accommodation Options
Even on a day trip, many travelers choose to stay a night on Havelock to enjoy sunset without ferry rush. Options span all budgets:
- Budget (hostels/guesthouses): ~INR 800–2,000 per night; mostly around Govind Nagar/Market No. 3.
- Mid-range boutique resorts: ~INR 3,500–8,000 per night; beachfront or near-beach settings.
- Luxury resorts: ~INR 12,000–35,000+ per night; private beach access vibes and premium dining.
- Day-use rooms: Limited availability via some properties for freshening up; inquire locally.
Estimated Costs
- Ferry (one-way, per adult): Government ~INR 550–750; Private ~INR 1,500–2,800; prices vary by season/class.
- Scooter rental: ~INR 600–1,000 per day + fuel.
- Taxi (jetty ↔ Radhanagar return): ~INR 1,200–2,500 depending on vehicle and wait-time.
- Meals (per person): ~INR 300–800 for simple cafés; more at resort restaurants.
- Facilities: Changing room/locker/shower if available ~INR 50–200; parking ~INR 30–50.
Indicative day budgets:
- From Port Blair same-day return: ~INR 3,500–7,000 per person (ferry choice drives cost; you may miss sunset).
- From Havelock stay: ~INR 800–2,000 per person for local transport, meals, and incidentals.
Prices are approximate and subject to seasonal and operator changes.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food & Beachside Eats
- Light snacks and coconut water near the parking/entrance area.
- For fuller meals, head to cafés and restaurants around Govind Nagar and Vijaynagar beaches.
- Try fresh seafood thalis, grilled fish, and island-style curries; ask about catch-of-the-day.
Shopping
- Souvenir stalls near the Radhanagar parking sell handicrafts and beachwear.
- Market No. 3 has better variety for essentials, snacks, and basic pharmacy items.
Culture & Etiquette
- Andaman follows a strong eco-ethic: avoid plastic, don’t litter, and respect turtle nesting zones if signed.
- Dress modestly when away from the beach; swimwear is fine on the sand/waterline.
- Public drinking is not allowed on the beach.
Nearby Attractions
- Elephant Beach: Snorkeling and water activities; accessible by boat or a forest trail (check current access rules).
- Kalapathar Beach: Serene sunrise spot with rocky outcrops and aqua tones.
- Vijaynagar (Beach No. 5): Long sandy stretch and mellow waters.
- Govind Nagar Market: Cafés, bakeries, dive shops, and casual eateries.
Travel Tips
Packing & Safety Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and a light cover-up.
- Quick-dry towel, flip-flops, and a reusable water bottle.
- Basic first-aid and prescribed meds; the island has limited medical facilities.
- Waterproof pouch for phone/cash; network can be patchy—carry some cash.
- Observe lifeguard flags; currents can change with tides. No swimming after sunset.
Eco-Responsibility
- Do not collect shells, coral, or sand; it’s illegal.
- Take all trash back to designated bins; avoid single-use plastics.
- Drone and professional shoots require permissions; respect privacy and wildlife.
Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Plan morning beach time when the sun is softer; bring snacks for kids.
- Stick to guarded zones; keep children within sight at all times.
- Consider a taxi with return pickup to simplify logistics.
Honeymooners
- Arrive for golden hour and linger for the pastel sky after sunset.
- Pack a light picnic but leave no trace; choose a quiet patch away from the main entrance.
- Book a beachfront or forested resort on Havelock to enjoy a slow evening.
Friends & Solo Travelers
- Rent scooters to hop between beaches; refuel early as pumps can run low.
- UPI may work intermittently; keep backup cash.
- If hiking to Neil’s Cove, go in daylight and heed any crocodile or safety advisories.
FAQs
Q: Is there an entry fee for Radhanagar Beach?
A: No, visiting Radhanagar Beach is free. Small charges may apply for parking, lockers, or showers.
Q: Can I do snorkeling or jet-skiing at Radhanagar?
A: No motorized watersports operate here to preserve the tranquil environment. For snorkeling and activities, head to Elephant Beach.
Q: Are there lifeguards and facilities?
A: Yes, lifeguards are present during the day and basic facilities like restrooms and changing rooms are available near the entrance.
Q: Is a same-day trip from Port Blair realistic?
A: It’s possible with early and late ferries, but you may rush and risk missing sunset. Staying a night on Havelock is more relaxed.
Q: What mobile networks work on Havelock?
A: Coverage is improving but can be patchy. BSNL often fares better; Airtel/Jio work in pockets. Expect limited connectivity on the beach.
Conclusion
A day trip to Radhanagar Beach is about unhurried hours on a world-class shoreline—swimming, strolling, and watching the sky turn gold at day’s end. Visit between October and May, plan transport and meals smartly, and keep the beach pristine. Pair it with nearby Elephant Beach or Kalapathar for a complete Havelock experience.
