Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Secret Beaches of Havelock Island
- Top Things to Do on the Secret Beaches
- How to Reach Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
- Travel Tips and Responsible Travel
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Havelock Island—officially Swaraj Dweep—in India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands is famed for Radhanagar’s sunsets and Elephant Beach’s snorkel-ready waters. But beyond the headline spots lie quiet coves, house-reef shallows, and whispering casuarina groves where you can have the shore almost to yourself. This guide reveals the secret beaches of Havelock Island, how to find them safely, and the best ways to enjoy their pristine beauty.
History and Importance
Havelock Island was renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018 to honor India’s freedom movement. Historically a logging outpost during the British era (hence names like Elephant Beach), the island has transformed into a low-impact eco-destination. While Radhanagar Beach has won global accolades, the island’s lesser-known shores are ecological buffers for coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and nesting turtles. Their low footfall helps preserve fragile marine life—making responsible visitation essential.
Best Time to Visit
- October to May: The best weather and sea conditions. Peak months are December–March.
- June to September (Monsoon): Heavy rain and swell; some boat services may be suspended; visibility for snorkeling/diving drops.
- For quiet beaches: Aim for shoulder months (Oct–Nov, Apr–May) and weekdays. Arrive at beaches early morning or post-4 pm.
Top Secret Beaches of Havelock Island
These are quieter stretches and coves around Havelock’s famed shores. Always check tides and local advisories before entering the water.
1) Neil’s Cove (North of Radhanagar)
A tranquil lagoon-like cove bordered by jungle, about a 10–15 minute walk north from Radhanagar’s main entrance. Best visited in daylight and mid-tide for calm pools.
- Why it’s special: Clear tide pools for wading and photography, fewer crowds.
- Good to know: Swim only when conditions are calm; heed lifeguard signs and avoid dawn/dusk. Ask locals about current conditions.
2) Govind Nagar Beach No. 2 (House-Reef Stretch)
Between the jetty and Beach No. 3, small sandy entries open to a living house reef.
- Why it’s special: Gentle, shallow explorations with a guide reveal coral bommies and reef fish right off the beach.
- Good to know: Use a licensed guide; wear reef-safe sunscreen; avoid low-tide when corals sit close to the surface.
3) Vijaynagar Beach (Beach No. 5, Sunrise End)
A long, tree-fringed eastern shore where you can stroll into near-empty stretches at daybreak.
- Why it’s special: Silky sunrises, hammock-perfect shade, bird song.
- Good to know: At very low tide the seabed is rocky and seagrassy—best for walks and photos rather than long swims.
4) Kalapathar’s Southern Stretch
Beyond the main Kalapathar viewpoint, continue south through the village to find quieter coves and shaded benches of sand.
- Why it’s special: Dramatic black rocks, turquoise water contrasts, fewer visitors.
- Good to know: Watch your footing near the rocks; swim only where sandy entries are visible and currents are mild.
5) Radhanagar’s Far Ends
Walk away from the central lifeguard zone towards either end; the crowds thin out quickly while the sand stays powder-soft.
- Why it’s special: Vast, empty perspectives for sunset solitude.
- Good to know: Stay within flagged safe zones if you plan to swim; currents can be strong.
6) Elephant Beach at Off-Peak Hours
The main strip is popular mid-morning, but arrive by the forest trail early or linger late to catch quieter moments and tiny pocket beaches nearby.
- Why it’s special: Clear water, fish-rich shallows, and occasional stillness at the edges.
- Good to know: Respect boat lane markings; never snorkel near moving craft; verify trail access and timings with authorities.
Top Things to Do on the Secret Beaches
- Sunrise and Sunset Hunts: Catch sunrise at Vijaynagar and Kalapathar; head to Radhanagar for fiery sunsets.
- Guided Snorkeling: Explore house reefs off Govind Nagar or calm pockets near Elephant Beach with certified guides.
- Tide-Pool Photography: Neil’s Cove offers glassy pools—use polarized filters and step only on sand, never coral.
- Stargazing and Bioluminescence: On moonless nights, gentle waves sometimes glow; enjoy from dry sand without entering the water in the dark.
- Quiet Beach Picnics: Pack out all trash; single-use plastics are discouraged on the islands.
How to Reach Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
Fly to Port Blair
- Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair).
- From the airport: Transfer to the Phoenix Bay/Water Sports Complex jetty for ferries to Havelock.
Ferries to Havelock
- Private catamarans: ~1.5–2 hours; faster and pricier.
- Government ferries: ~2–3 hours; economical but limited seats.
- Tip: Book ahead in peak season; carry a printed or digital ticket and valid ID.
Helicopter (Limited)
Occasional seats from Port Blair; weather-dependent and scarce—best for emergencies or special cases.
Getting Around the Island
- Scooter rental: The most flexible way to reach quiet stretches; helmets mandatory.
- Taxis/autorickshaws: Available at the jetty and resorts; negotiate or use fixed-rate boards where posted.
- Cycling: Pleasant on the Vijaynagar–Kalapathar side; hydrate and avoid the midday sun.
Approximate distances: Jetty to Radhanagar ~12 km; Jetty to Kalapathar ~10 km; Jetty to Elephant Beach trailhead ~8–9 km.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
- Budget beach huts (Vijaynagar/Govind Nagar): Simple bamboo or brick cottages, fan rooms, walk-to-beach access.
- Mid-range resorts: AC cottages, in-house cafes, small pools, beach access or short strolls.
- Luxury stays (near Radhanagar): Villa-style rooms, curated dining, private-beach vibes, higher privacy.
Booking tips: Choose east-coast stays for sunrise calm (Vijaynagar/Kalapathar) and west-coast stays for sunset drama (Radhanagar). In peak season, book weeks in advance.
Estimated Costs
- Ferry (one-way, Port Blair–Havelock): INR 800–2,800 depending on class and operator.
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800 per day + fuel.
- Meals: INR 300–700 per person at local cafes; seafood platters INR 800–1,800.
- Guided snorkeling (shore): INR 1,200–3,000 including gear, site-dependent.
- Intro scuba (Discover Scuba Diving): INR 3,500–6,500 per person.
- Accommodation (per night, double): Budget INR 1,500–3,500; Mid-range INR 4,500–12,000; Luxury INR 20,000+.
Prices vary by season and availability; always confirm inclusions (gear, transfers, breakfast).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood: grilled fish, Andaman mud crab, prawn curries, lobster in season.
- Light island fare: coconut water, tropical fruit, dosa/poori breakfasts, veg thalis.
- Beachside cafes cluster around Govind Nagar and Vijaynagar; evenings are relaxed and unhurried.
Shopping
- Small island boutiques sell beachwear and handicrafts.
- Best for authentic crafts is often in Port Blair (e.g., government emporiums).
- Avoid buying coral, shells, or turtle products—collection and trade are illegal.
Culture
- A mix of Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Nicobarese influences; Hindi and Bengali widely understood.
- Quiet evenings; respect local customs and keep noise low after dark.
- Island sustainability matters: carry refillable bottles; refuse single-use plastics.
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Award-winning sunset beach with lifeguards and facilities.
- Elephant Beach: Clear snorkeling waters and water-sport kiosks; go early for calmer scenes.
- Mangrove Kayaking: Guided twilight or dawn paddles through creeks near the jetty side.
- Scuba Dive Sites: The Wall, Lighthouse, Aquarium—varied reefs for beginners to certified divers.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island) Day Trip: Short ferry ride for natural bridges and quiet beaches.
Travel Tips and Responsible Travel
- Permits and IDs: Carry valid photo ID. Most tourists do not require a separate Restricted Area Permit for Havelock; stay within permitted zones.
- Water safety: Observe flags and lifeguards; avoid swimming at dawn/dusk; check tides and currents.
- Marine etiquette: Do not stand on or touch coral; keep fins off the reef; use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Wildlife and environment: Do not feed fish; keep a 3–5 m distance from turtles and rays; pack out all trash.
- Legalities: Wild camping on beaches is not allowed; drones require prior permission; alcohol only in licensed premises.
- Connectivity and cash: Mobile data can be patchy; carry sufficient cash as ATMs are limited.
Traveler-Specific Tips
For Families
- Pick gentle, sandy entries (parts of Vijaynagar and Radhanagar’s flagged zones).
- Carry snacks, hats, mineral water, and a small first-aid kit; mind midday heat.
For Honeymooners
- Plan sunrise strolls at Kalapathar’s quieter ends; sunset picnics at Radhanagar’s far reaches.
- Book stays with beach access to maximize private moments.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Rent scooters to beach-hop; start early for empty sands.
- Mix shore snorkeling with an intro-dive for a full reef day.
Packing and Safety
- Reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, water shoes for rocky entries, dry bag, headlamp.
- Vinegar sachets can help with mild jellyfish stings; seek medical help for serious reactions.
FAQs
Q: How many days do I need to explore Havelock’s secret beaches?
A: Two to three full days let you see several quiet stretches at an easy pace, with time for snorkeling and a sunset or two.
Q: Is snorkeling safe on these beaches?
A: Yes with precautions—go with a licensed guide, choose mid to high tide with calm seas, and avoid boat lanes. Always follow local advisories.
Q: Can I camp or light bonfires on the beach?
A: No. Wild camping and beach bonfires are not permitted. Stay in registered accommodations and use designated picnic areas.
Q: Do I need special permits to visit the beaches?
A: No special permits for most tourists in Havelock’s permitted areas. Carry valid ID and respect protected zones and timings.
Q: Will I get mobile data on the beaches?
A: Coverage exists but can be unreliable. Download offline maps, share plans with your hotel, and carry cash for payments.
Conclusion
Havelock’s secret beaches reward unhurried travelers with quiet sands, reef-fringed shallows, and painterly dawns and dusks. Visit in the fair-weather months, arrive early or late for solitude, and explore with care—protecting the delicate marine world that makes these coves so special.
