Guitar Island, Long Island (Andaman) — Tourist FAQs

Guitar Island is a tiny, uninhabited sandbar-and-forest islet off the coast of Long Island in the Middle Andaman region of India. Famous for its guitar-like shape at low tide, it’s a serene day-trip destination known for powdery white sand, turquoise shallows, and a complete absence of crowds and commercial activity. Below are answers to the most common questions to help you plan a safe, responsible, and memorable visit.

Quick Facts

• Where: Off Long Island, Middle Andaman, India
• Type: Uninhabited islet/sandbar; day-trip only
• Access: By small boat/charter from Long Island (or sometimes from Rangat/Yerrata Jetty)
• Facilities: None on the island (no shops, toilets, fresh water, shade is minimal)
• Best season: Generally November–April (calmer seas and clearer weather)

FAQs

Where exactly is Guitar Island, and how do I get there?

Guitar Island sits a short boat ride from Long Island in the Middle Andamans. Most travelers reach Long Island first, then charter a local boat to Guitar Island.

Typical routes

• Port Blair → Rangat (road or ferry) → Long Island (local ferry): Common and flexible. Expect a full travel day when combining legs.
• Direct government ferries (when scheduled): Occasionally link Port Blair and Long Island, but schedules can be infrequent and subject to change.
• Boat to Guitar Island: From Long Island jetty by small charter (often 20–45 minutes, sea conditions permitting). Some operators in Rangat/Yerrata can also arrange direct charters, subject to permits and weather.

Tip: Plan your Guitar Island trip after you’ve settled on Long Island. Local guesthouses, resorts, or boatmen can advise on tides, permits, and the best departure time.

Do I need permits to visit Guitar Island?

Policies can change. Travelers generally visit with a local boatman who handles any required permissions for the trip. Carry a valid photo ID, and keep a copy of your accommodation booking on Long Island. If you are a foreign national, ask your host or tour operator about current rules and any restricted-area or forest permissions applicable at the time of travel.

When is the best time to visit? What about tides?

• Season: November–April usually offers calmer seas and clearer skies. The monsoon period can bring rough water, rain, and trip cancellations.
• Tides: The island’s “guitar” shape is most visible near low tide. Aim to arrive around low tide for the longest sandbar exposure and shallowest, clearest shallows.
• Time of day: Early mornings often mean gentler winds, cooler temperatures, and fewer boats.

What can I do on Guitar Island?

• Swim and relax: Enjoy calm, shallow waters (conditions vary; always assess before entering).
• Snorkel (light): While not a premier coral site, you may spot fish, seagrass, and starfish in clear conditions.
• Beach walk and photography: The sandbar shape and turquoise palette are the stars.
• Boat ride highlights: Keep an eye out for dolphins and seabirds en route; mangrove creeks and glassy channels are common in the area.
• Picnic: Pack your own food and water—there are no vendors.

Is it safe?

• No lifeguards: Swim conservatively and within your limits. Wear a lifejacket if unsure.
• Currents and weather: Conditions can change quickly. If the boatman advises against swimming or if winds pick up, heed the advice.
• Marine life: Occasional jellyfish or sea urchins are possible. Water shoes help; avoid touching marine life.
• Monsoon: Trips may be canceled for safety. Build flexibility into your plan.

Are there any facilities on Guitar Island?

No. There are no shops, toilets, shelters, lifeguards, or fresh water. Shade is limited and the sandbar can get very hot by midday. Prepare accordingly and carry back all your waste.

What should I pack for the trip?

• Water and snacks/lunch (enough for the entire outing)
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, light cover-up
• Footwear: sandals/water shoes for hot sand and occasional shells
• Snorkel gear: if you plan to get in the water
• Dry bag and towel
• Insect repellent (especially for mangrove areas or if you linger near vegetation)
• Small first-aid kit and any personal medication
• Trash bag to pack out every bit of waste
• Cash for boat payment; connectivity can be patchy for digital payments

Can I camp or stay overnight?

Guitar Island is typically a day-trip only destination. Camping is generally discouraged or prohibited without explicit permission from authorities. Plan to return to Long Island the same day.

Where can I stay on Long Island?

Long Island offers a small selection of basic-to-comfortable guesthouses and eco-stays. Book ahead in peak season. Expect a laid-back island vibe with limited services.

• Power and internet: Can be intermittent; do not rely on stable Wi‑Fi.
• ATMs: Rare or absent. Bring adequate cash from Port Blair or Rangat.
• Food: A few local eateries/canteens; pre-arrange packed lunches for day trips.

How much does the boat cost?

Charter prices vary with season, fuel costs, boat size, and how many stops you include (e.g., combining with Lalaji Bay or Merk Bay). As a broad guideline, expect a private charter to be priced at a few thousand INR; sharing with other travelers, when possible, can reduce per-person cost. Confirm the fare, inclusions (lifejackets, fuel, wait time), and route before departure.

Is it family-friendly? Suitable for non-swimmers?

• Family-friendly: Yes, if you bring sufficient shade, water, and snacks. Keep children supervised at all times—no lifeguards.
• Non-swimmers: The shallows can be very gentle near low tide, but always use a lifejacket and stay close to shore.

Will my phone work there?

Connectivity on Long Island is improving but remains inconsistent. On Guitar Island, assume no signal. Inform your accommodation about your plan and expected return time. Download offline maps and tide tables in advance.

Are drones allowed?

Drone use in the Andamans may require permissions from aviation and local authorities. Always check current rules, get approvals if needed, and respect wildlife and other visitors’ privacy. When in doubt, avoid flying.

What about responsible tourism and regulations?

• Leave no trace: Pack out all trash, including fruit peels and biodegradable waste.
• No collection: Do not remove shells, corals, or any marine life.
• No alcohol or loud music: Keep the island peaceful and safe.
• Respect wildlife and mangroves: Observe from a distance; do not trample vegetation.
• Plastic use: Minimize single-use plastics; follow local bans and advisories.

How does Guitar Island compare with nearby spots like Lalaji Bay and Merk Bay?

• Guitar Island: Minimalist, photogenic sandbar; great for solitude and shallow swims.
• Lalaji Bay (Long Island): A long, scenic beach reached by trek/boat; more shade, forest backdrop.
• Merk Bay (North Passage Island): Known for clear water and good snorkeling on the right day; usually part of a combined charter.

Tip: If time and budget allow, combine two or even all three for a varied day on the water.

Sample 2–3 day plan

• Day 1: Travel to Long Island; check in; sunset walk near the jetty.
• Day 2: Early boat to Guitar Island timed with low tide; optional add-on to Merk Bay; return by mid-afternoon.
• Day 3: Trek/boat to Lalaji Bay; depart Long Island late afternoon (or add a rest day).

Is the trip suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

Boarding and disembarking small boats requires good balance and sure footing. There are no jetties or ramps on the sandbar. If mobility is limited, discuss feasibility and assistance with your boat operator in advance.

What if the weather turns or the tide changes faster than expected?

• Stay flexible: Weather can change quickly; the boatman may adjust timings for safety.
• Monitor the time: The sandbar shrinks as the tide rises. Keep your belongings consolidated and ready to board.
• Safety first: If conditions deteriorate, cut the visit short and return.

Practical Tips

• Confirm everything locally: Boat availability, fares, timing, and permits can vary. Local hosts are your best resource.
• Time your visit: Use a tide chart for the Long Island area; aim for low tide.
• Carry cash: ATMs are scarce; digital payments may fail without signal.
• Set a check-in time: Tell your hotel where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Be eco-kind: Your footprints should be the only trace you leave behind.

Important Note

Transport schedules, permit rules, and on-ground services in the Andamans can change without much notice. Always verify the latest details with your accommodation, licensed tour operators, or local authorities before you travel.