Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach Elephant Beach
- Sample Day Itinerary
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Accommodation Options on Havelock
- Estimated Costs for a Day Trip
- Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Where powder-soft sands meet a glass-clear lagoon, Elephant Beach on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is the Andamans’ go-to day trip for snorkeling, sea walks, and postcard-perfect blues. The reef lies close to shore, so even first-time snorkelers can spot vibrant corals and reef fish with minimal effort. Whether you speedboat in or trek through the forest, a day here is all about water, sun, and the slow island rhythm.
History and Importance
Elephant Beach takes its name from the logging elephants once used on Havelock Island; sightings along this stretch were common decades ago. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami reshaped parts of the shoreline, creating shallows and reef flats that today make the beach a favorite for beginners and families. Its fringing reef hosts hard and soft corals, anemones, parrotfish, and butterflyfish—making it one of Havelock’s most accessible marine experiences.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: November to April offers calm seas, clear visibility, and reliable boat operations.
- Shoulder: late September–October and May can be pleasant but occasionally windy or rainy.
- Monsoon: June to early September sees rough seas and frequent boat cancellations; activities may be limited.
- Best time of day: Mornings (8:30–11:30 am) typically have calmer water and better visibility.
How to Reach Elephant Beach
From Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Ferry: Government and private ferries connect Port Blair to Havelock in about 1.5–2.5 hours. Pre-book in peak season.
- Departure: Phoenix Bay/Water Sports Complex (Port Blair) to Havelock Jetty (Govind Nagar).
From Havelock to Elephant Beach
- By speedboat: 15–20 minutes from Havelock Jetty; boats run mainly 8:30 am–2:00 pm with last returns around 3:00 pm (weather/season dependent).
- By trek: A forest trail (around 2 km; 30–45 minutes one way) from the Radhanagar Road area leads to the beach. The path can be muddy after rain; hire a local guide if unsure.
- Permits: Boat operators typically arrange beach permits. Foreign nationals require a valid Andaman entry permit (RAP/ILP as applicable upon arrival).
Sample Day Itinerary
- 7:00–7:30 am: Breakfast at your Havelock stay; pack reef-safe essentials.
- 8:00–8:30 am: Reach Havelock Jetty; board a speedboat to Elephant Beach.
- 9:00–11:30 am: Guided snorkeling and glass-bottom ride; relax on the sand between sessions.
- 11:30 am–12:30 pm: Optional sea walk or parasailing (weather-permitting).
- 1:00–1:30 pm: Return boat to Havelock; lunch at a café near Govind Nagar.
- Late afternoon: Head to Radhanagar Beach for sunset.
Top Things to Do
- Snorkeling: The reef starts close to shore; expect parrotfish, sergeant majors, anemones, and branching corals. Go with a licensed guide.
- Sea walk: Helmet diving on a seabed platform (typically 6–8 m deep). Ideal for non-swimmers; medical restrictions apply.
- Glass-bottom boat: Coral and fish viewing without getting wet—great for families and seniors.
- Parasailing (seasonal): For lagoon views from above; operations depend on wind and sea state.
- Jet ski & banana boat: Short adrenaline rides in a designated zone with life jackets.
- Trek-in experience: The forest approach offers birds, mangroves, and a different perspective on the coastline.
- Beach downtime & photography: Shallow turquoise hues, driftwood, and powdery sand make striking photos; respect no-fly drone rules.
Nearby Attractions
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Iconic sunsets and wide sandy bay; about 20–30 minutes from the jetty by road.
- Kalapathar Beach: Rocky shoreline with teal waters; best for sunrise and quiet strolls.
- Vijaynagar & Govind Nagar beaches: Long, shallow lagoons ideal for paddle-outs and relaxed swims at high tide.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): A ferry away for natural bridges, Laxmanpur sunsets, and serene beaches.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Elephant Beach has basic shacks offering coconuts, snacks, and occasional quick bites; options are limited.
- Plan main meals in Havelock. Popular picks include seafood thalis, grilled fish, and island-style curries at cafés around Govind Nagar and Beach No. 5.
Shopping
- Small boutiques in Havelock sell beachwear, bamboo crafts, and souvenirs. Card networks can be patchy; carry cash.
- Do not buy corals or shells; collection and trade are prohibited.
Culture
- Andamans host a mix of communities from mainland India; tourism is a key livelihood on Havelock.
- Plastic bans are enforced. Keep the beach pristine and follow lifeguard/forest department advisories.
Accommodation Options on Havelock
- Budget: Guesthouses and hostels near Govind Nagar and Vijaynagar (approx. INR 1,200–2,500 per night).
- Mid-range: Beachfront cottages and boutique stays along Beach No. 5 (approx. INR 4,000–8,000 per night).
- Luxury: High-end resorts near Radhanagar and secluded coves (approx. INR 15,000–40,000+ per night).
- Location tip: Stay near the jetty for early boats, or near Radhanagar for sunset access.
Estimated Costs for a Day Trip
- Port Blair–Havelock ferry (one way): Govt INR 500–800; Private INR 1,200–1,800.
- Speedboat to Elephant Beach (return): INR 1,200–1,800 per person (often includes permits and a basic glass-bottom session; varies by operator/season).
- Trek to beach: Free; optional guide INR 500–1,000 per group.
- Snorkeling (guided): INR 800–1,500 per person for a short session; longer sessions cost more.
- Sea walk: Approx. INR 3,500–4,500 per person including photos/video by some operators.
- Glass-bottom ride: INR 600–1,000 per person.
- Parasailing: INR 3,000–4,000 per person (weather-permitting).
- Jet ski/Banana boat: INR 500–1,000 per person.
- Local transport on Havelock: Scooty rental INR 500–800 per day; auto-rickshaw INR 200–500 per ride.
- Meals: INR 300–800 per person per meal at island cafés.
- Lockers/Changing rooms: Basic facilities may charge INR 100–200.
Note: Prices fluctuate by season, operator, and weather. Always confirm inclusions (gear, photos, safety cover) before paying.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
Packing Checklist
- Reef-safe sunscreen (zinc-based), wide-brim hat, sunglasses.
- Rash guard or lightweight full-sleeve swimwear; aqua shoes to avoid coral cuts.
- Waterproof phone pouch, dry bag, microfiber towel, spare clothes.
- Reusable water bottle, light snacks, small cash, government ID.
Safety & Environment
- Wear life jackets on boats and during water sports. Follow marked swim zones and guide instructions.
- Do not touch or stand on corals; avoid kicking up sand over the reef.
- Jellyfish and sea urchins can occur—protective swimwear helps.
- No drones, alcohol, or littering on the beach; carry back all trash.
Logistics
- Boats usually operate only till early afternoon; plan morning slots.
- Mobile data can be unreliable; carry cash for on-site payments.
- Monsoon can cancel boats at short notice; have a backup plan.
- Medical: Sea walk and some activities are not advised for those with heart, respiratory issues, or during pregnancy.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose glass-bottom rides and shallow guided snorkeling. Ask for child-size life jackets.
- Arrive early to avoid midday heat; pack snacks and extra water.
- Strollers struggle on sand—use a baby carrier instead.
Honeymooners
- Opt for an early private boat or a small-group charter for quieter reef time.
- Time your return to catch sunset at Radhanagar Beach.
- Consider a resort near a quieter stretch for privacy and late breakfasts.
Friends/Groups
- Look for combo packages (snorkel + glass-bottom or sea walk) to save time and money.
- Bring an action camera with a float; confirm if operators provide footage.
- Rent two-wheelers for flexible island-hopping post-trip.
FAQs
Q: Is Elephant Beach open all year?
A: It’s generally accessible year-round, but boat operations depend on weather. Monsoon months (June–September) often see cancellations or limited services.
Q: Can non-swimmers snorkel at Elephant Beach?
A: Yes. The reef is shallow and close to shore. Go with a licensed guide, wear a life jacket, and stay within designated areas.
Q: Is it better to trek or take a boat?
A: Boats are faster and include permits and safety oversight. The trek is scenic and budget-friendly but can be muddy after rain and requires carrying your gear.
Q: Are lockers, showers, and changing rooms available?
A: Basic changing areas and occasional lockers are available, but facilities are limited. Bring a dry bag and towel; don’t expect full-service amenities.
Q: Do I need a special permit to visit?
A: Boat operators typically arrange beach permits. Foreign nationals need the standard Andaman entry permit obtained on arrival. Drones are not allowed, and carrying corals/shells is prohibited.
Conclusion
A day trip to Elephant Beach blends easy-to-reach coral reefs with calm, shallow waters that suit first-timers and families as much as seasoned water lovers. Arrive early, pick a couple of water activities, and plan your return in time for a Radhanagar sunset. Go light on gear, heavy on reef-friendly habits, and you’ll leave with clear-water memories that linger long after the sand shakes off.
