Best Time to Visit Long Island, Andaman

For most travelers, the best time to visit Long Island in the Andamans is from November to April, when the sea is calm, skies are clear, and the forest trails are at their most inviting. The absolute sweet spot is December to February for comfortable temperatures, glassy water, and reliable boats to Lalaji Bay and nearby islets. The June to September monsoon brings lush greenery and solitude, but rough seas and frequent ferry disruptions make it less suitable for beach and water activities.

Weather at a Glance

• Temperature: ~24–32°C year-round
• Rainfall: Heavy during June–September; light to moderate pre-/post-monsoon
• Sea State: Calmest November–April; choppy with swells during monsoon
• Water Visibility (snorkeling/diving): Typically best December–April

Season-Wise Breakdown

Dry, Clear, and Calm: November–February (Peak)

Why go: Bright days, pleasant evenings, and calm seas ideal for boat trips to Lalaji Bay, Guitar Island sandbar, and nearby reefs. Water visibility is usually high, making snorkeling delightful.

• Pros: Best overall conditions; reliable ferries; great for swimming, kayaking, and forest walks.
• Cons: Popular period—book limited stays early (especially around Christmas–New Year).

Warm Shoulder: March–April

Why go: Fewer crowds and warm, clear water. Early mornings and late afternoons are gorgeous on the beach, with good chances of calm seas.

• Pros: Excellent underwater visibility; quieter trails; good for photography and stargazing.
• Cons: Hot and humid midday; occasional jellyfish—wear a rash guard.

Pre-Monsoon Heat: May

Why go: Still workable if you can handle humidity. Short squalls possible; greenery starts to pop.

• Pros: Deals on stays; low visitor numbers; moody skies for dramatic photos.
• Cons: Sticky heat; rising sea chop; sporadic ferry delays begin.

Monsoon Lushness: June–September

Why go: Deep greens, solitude, and soft light for those who love the rainforest mood.

• Pros: Most tranquil time crowd-wise; budget-friendly; emerald forest landscapes.
• Cons: Frequent rain; rough seas; possible suspension of boat services; muddy trails to Lalaji Bay; limited water activities.

Month-by-Month Highlights

• October: Monsoon tapers; improving weather; some residual swell. A good shoulder month if you’re flexible.
• November: Settled seas; fresh greenery; great for beach days and treks.
• December: Peak conditions; long, sunny days; high water clarity. Book boats and stays in advance.
• January: Cool mornings/evenings; excellent for kayaking and mangrove creeks; festivals in Port Blair if you pass through.
• February: Consistently calm; superb snorkeling days; less holiday rush than December.
• March–April: Warm, clear water; bioluminescence sometimes seen on dark, moonless nights; carry sun protection.
• May: Hot spells; occasional squalls; keep ferry buffers.
• June–September: Heavy showers, strong winds; nature at its lushest but plans must be flexible.

Best Time by Interest

• Beach lounging & swimming: Nov–Apr (calmest seas; lifeguard presence is limited—swim sensibly).
• Snorkeling & casual reef time: Dec–Apr (clearest water, gentler currents).
• Kayaking & mangroves: Nov–Feb for cooler paddles; Mar–Apr okay with early/late sessions.
• Forest walks to Lalaji Bay: Nov–Apr for dry, firm trails; avoid heavy-rain days in monsoon.
• Photography: Nov–Feb for crisp skies; Jun–Sep for dramatic monsoon moods.
• Solitude & slow travel: May and Jun–Sep (accept weather trade-offs).

Sea Conditions and Visibility

Winds and Swell

Long Island sits off Middle Andaman’s east. Seas are typically calmest November–April, favoring inter-island boats and beach days. During June–September, southwesterly systems raise swells; boat schedules can be curtailed.

Underwater Clarity

Expect good-to-excellent visibility in Dec–Apr (often 10–25 m on a good day). Visibility drops during monsoon with runoff and wind-driven chop.

Festivals & Local Flavor

• Island Tourism Festival (Port Blair): Usually in January. If your route passes through, you can add cultural events to a beach-heavy plan.
• Regional festivities (Oct–Nov): Durga Puja and Diwali are observed across the islands—pleasant to experience en route.

What to Pack (Season-Smart)

• Year-round: Light cottons/linens, wide-brim hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, sturdy sandals, reusable water bottle.
• For water activities: Rash guard, snorkel mask if you prefer your own, dry bag, quick-dry towel.
• Monsoon/Shoulder: Light rain jacket, pack covers, insect repellent, anti-slip footwear; small first-aid kit.
• Trekking to Lalaji Bay: Breathable hiking shoes, electrolyte salts, and a headlamp if returning near dusk.

Travel Logistics That Vary by Season

• Getting there: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ). From there, travel to Rangat (by road or ferry) and connect by government ferry or licensed boat to Long Island Jetty. Direct services can be limited—check latest schedules.
• Monsoon impact: Jun–Sep may see ferry delays/cancellations. Keep buffer days and flexible bookings.
• Permits & rules: Tourist visits to Long Island are generally allowed; some nearby protected areas are off-limits. Carry ID and follow local/forest department advisories.
• Cash & connectivity: ATMs are limited or absent on Long Island; bring sufficient cash. Mobile data can be patchy.
• Safety: Follow posted warnings about currents and wildlife. Beaches may occasionally close after crocodile sightings—always heed local guidance.
• Power & services: Expect simple stays; occasional power cuts. Book in advance during Dec–Feb.

Sample Mini-Itineraries

48 Hours in Peak Season (Dec–Feb)

• Day 1: Arrive, sunset at Long Island Jetty, evening stargazing.
• Day 2: Morning trek or boat to Lalaji Bay; swim/snorkel; kayak in the mangroves at dusk.

Shoulder Season Slowdown (Mar–Apr)

• Early beach time, midday rest, late-afternoon photography; keep a night free for potential bioluminescence on moonless nights.

Monsoon Retreat (Jun–Sep)

• Nature walks between showers, reading hammocks, village life—plan without relying on boat trips.

Quick Decision Guide

• Best overall: Dec–Feb
• Best for value with good weather: Nov and Mar–Apr
• Best for solitude (with weather caveats): May and Jun–Sep

Bottom Line

If you want the quintessential Long Island experience—calm turquoise water, boat trips to Lalaji Bay, and easy forest walks—target November to April, with December to February as the prime window. Outside these months, you’ll trade water-time for monsoon mood and quiet, so plan accordingly.