Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Wellness & Spa Scene on Long Island
- Practical Travel Information
- Nearby Attractions
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Safety, Permits & Responsible Travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Long Island in the Andaman archipelago is a quiet, forested escape known for powdery beaches, mangrove creeks, and a languid village vibe. While it isn’t a typical luxury hub, its slow-travel rhythm, yoga-friendly shores, and nature-first experiences make it a compelling wellness getaway. If you’re searching for “spa resorts in Long Island Andaman,” here’s a clear-eyed guide to what’s available locally, what to expect, and how to plan a restorative island break.
History & Importance
Settled primarily in the post-independence era, Long Island grew as a small community tied to forestry, fishing, and inter-island trade. Today it’s valued for:
- Access to pristine beaches like Lalaji Bay and nearby Guitar Island and Merk Bay.
- Low-impact tourism that preserves coral reefs, mangroves, and birdlife.
- A gateway feel between Middle Andaman’s Rangat and lesser-visited islands in the area.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak (Nov–Apr): Clear seas, excellent snorkeling visibility, pleasant temperatures.
- Shoulder (Oct & May): Warm and humid; occasional showers; good for fewer crowds.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Rough seas, frequent rain, possible ferry cancellations.
Top Things to Do
Lalaji Bay Beach
A serene, sweeping beach reached via a forest trail or boat. Ideal for sunrise walks, yoga, and leisurely swims when the sea is calm.
Boat Trip to Merk Bay (North Passage Island)
- Known for powder-white sand, calm waters, and coral patches.
- Trips are weather- and permission-dependent; arrange locally.
Guitar Island Hop
Shallow turquoise water, sand spits at low tide, and great photo ops. Combine with Merk Bay on a half-day outing.
Mangrove Creek Explorations
Kayak or take a small boat through creeks around Long Island to spot mudskippers, crabs, and birdlife.
Snorkeling & Beach Time
Carry your own mask and snorkel; hire a local guide for safe, reef-friendly spots. Avoid standing on coral.
Slow Living & Wellness
Sunrise yoga, journaling by the beach, and digital detox are natural fits on this unplugged island.
Wellness & Spa Scene on Long Island
Long Island is rustic and low-key. Full-fledged spa resorts are limited here, but wellness-forward stays and ad-hoc therapies are sometimes available through local hosts.
What You’ll Typically Find
- Simple stays with airy cottages or eco-huts near the beach or village.
- Occasional yoga sessions hosted by resident instructors or seasonal travelers.
- On-request massages arranged through guesthouses (availability varies).
Dedicated Spa Resorts on Long Island
Information not available.
For Full-Service Spas Nearby
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Multiple resorts with proper spa menus and wellness programs. Accessible by ferry from Port Blair, and onward connections to Long Island may be seasonal/indirect.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil): Smaller set of resorts; some offer spa treatments.
- Port Blair: City hotels with spa facilities—useful for pre/post-island stays.
Tip: Split your itinerary—enjoy spa days on Havelock or Port Blair, then retreat to Long Island for quiet, nature-led wellness.
Practical Travel Information
How to Reach
- Via Port Blair → Rangat → Long Island:
- Fly into Port Blair (IXZ). Take a government/private bus or shared jeep to Rangat (6–8 hours via Andaman Trunk Road; road crosses tribal reserve—no stops allowed).
- From Yerrata Jetty (Rangat), board a government ferry to Long Island (approx. 45–75 minutes). Schedules change—check locally a day prior.
- Direct/Inter-Island Ferries: Occasional connections from Port Blair or Havelock may operate seasonally. Seats are limited; verify at the DSS (Directorate of Shipping Services) counters.
- Charter Boats: Possible from Rangat on calm-sea days with permits as required.
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Simple guesthouses, basic cottages, homestays near the village.
- Mid-range: Limited eco-stays close to beach trails; some offer larger rooms and on-request activities.
- Government/Forest Rest Houses: Basic rooms; advance coordination typically required.
- Spa-specific resorts: Limited or unavailable on Long Island; consider pairing with Havelock/Port Blair stays.
Electricity and internet can be intermittent. Book early in peak season; carry cash as ATMs and card acceptance are limited.
Estimated Costs (Per Person, Indicative)
- Stay: Budget INR 1,200–2,500; Mid-range INR 3,000–6,000 per night.
- Meals: INR 250–500 per meal for simple thalis/seafood.
- Ferries: INR 100–600 depending on route/class.
- Boat Excursions (Merk Bay/Guitar Island): Shared INR 1,000–2,500; Private charter INR 6,000–12,000 per boat (group split).
- Permits/Entry Fees: INR 50–500 where applicable.
- Guides/Snorkel Hire: INR 500–1,500.
Prices fluctuate with season, fuel costs, and availability—confirm on ground.
Nearby Attractions
- Merk Bay (North Passage Island): Calm lagoon, soft sand, snorkeling.
- Guitar Island: Sandspit walks at low tide; great for photos.
- Rangat: Amkunj Beach (eco-park), Yeratta Mangrove Walkway.
- Baratang (en route between Port Blair and Rangat): Limestone caves and mangroves (usually visited as a separate day trip from Port Blair).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Home-style seafood thalis (fish curry, fried fish, dal, rice).
- Coconut-based dishes, seasonal fruits, simple snacks.
- Vegetarian options available; menus are limited—inform hosts in advance.
Shopping
- Small convenience stores for essentials and snacks.
- Very limited souvenirs—buy responsibly in Port Blair or Havelock instead.
Culture
- Islanders are warm and community-oriented; greet, be polite, and dress modestly in villages.
- Respect local customs and private property; keep beaches clean.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Pick calm-sea months (Nov–Apr) for safer swims.
- Carry snacks, medicines, and sun protection; facilities are basic.
- Confirm ferry timings a day earlier to avoid last-minute rushes.
Honeymooners
- Book a larger cottage near beach trails; plan private boat trips to Merk Bay.
- Split stay: 2–3 nights in a spa resort on Havelock + 2 nights on Long Island for seclusion.
- Sunrise yoga or a beach picnic at Lalaji Bay pairs well with golden-hour photos.
Friends/Backpackers
- Travel light; expect patchy network—download offline maps.
- Group up for boat charters to reduce costs.
- Bring snorkel gear and reef-safe sunscreen.
Safety, Permits & Responsible Travel
- Sea conditions: Always check local advice before boat trips or snorkeling.
- Permits: Some trips (e.g., to Merk Bay/North Passage) may require permissions; your boatman will guide.
- ATR transit: The Andaman Trunk Road crosses a notified tribal reserve—no stopping, photography, or interaction is allowed.
- Environment: Pack out all trash; avoid single-use plastic; never touch or step on coral.
- Health: Carry personal medications, ORS, and basic first aid; clinics are limited.
FAQs
Q: Are there full-fledged spa resorts on Long Island itself?
A: Options are very limited. Long Island focuses on simple, nature-forward stays. For comprehensive spa menus, consider adding nights in Havelock, Neil, or Port Blair.
Q: How many days should I spend on Long Island?
A: Two to three nights are ideal to cover Lalaji Bay, a boat hop to Merk Bay/Guitar Island, and some unhurried beach time.
Q: Do I need to pre-book ferries?
A: It’s recommended. Government ferry schedules change; check at DSS counters and book at least a day in advance, especially in peak season.
Q: Is snorkeling good around Long Island?
A: Yes, in select calm spots. Visibility is best Nov–Apr. Hire local guides and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect corals.
Q: Can I find ATMs and mobile data easily?
A: Services are limited and can be unreliable. Carry sufficient cash and expect patchy mobile data.
Conclusion
Long Island, Andaman, is a serene alternative to the busier resort circuit—think quiet beaches, mangroves, and slow rhythms perfect for a wellness reset. While dedicated spa resorts are scarce on the island, pairing it with spa-equipped stays in Havelock or Port Blair delivers the best of both worlds: indulgent treatments and an unspoiled, nature-driven retreat.
