The Top 11 Best Beaches in India That You Must Explore| Top Travel Foodist

India has a long coastline with many beautiful and peaceful beaches.

In and around Mumbai, some of the best beaches in India are Juhu Beach, Manori Beach, Alibaug, Kashid Beach, Murud Janjira, Harihareshwar Beach, Ganpatipule, and Tarkarli.

To the north of Mumbai, famous beaches include Mandvi Beach, Daman, Diu, Dumas Beach, and Somnath.

Chennai, known as the beach town of India, is home to the beautiful Marina Beach.

Other notable beaches near Chennai are Mahabalipuram, Tranquebar, Kovalam, Poompuhar, and Kanyakumari.

Pondicherry is famous for its lovely beaches and attracts many tourists from nearby cities like Bangalore and Chennai.

Kerala has many exotic and beautiful beaches such as Kovalam, Varkala, Kochi, Alappuzha, Bekal, and Kozhikode.

Goa’s beaches are very popular and attract a large number of tourists every year.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have some of the most stunning and untouched beaches, offering a unique and serene experience for visitors.

Top Destinations: The Best Beaches in India

Here are the top 11 best beaches in India from “Top Travel Foodist” that you must explore.

Escape the hot weather and enjoy a beach holiday with friends, family, or even on a solo trip.

You’ll love the beautiful sunrises, sunsets, sandy shores, tides, and coral. Let’s dive into some top beach destinations for you!

1. Goa

Goa is famous for having some of the best beaches in India, attracting tourists from all over the world.

When talking about the top 10 beaches in India, many are found in Goa.

Popular beaches in India, especially in Goa, include Baga Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and water sports, and Calangute Beach, often called the “Queen of Beaches.”

Anjuna Beach is famous for its vibrant nightlife and flea markets, while Palolem Beach is perfect for a peaceful and scenic experience.

For those seeking a quieter spot, Agonda Beach is ideal. Vagator Beach offers stunning cliffs and beautiful sunsets, and Morjim Beach is known for its turtle nesting sites.

Colva Beach is great for families, while Arambol Beach attracts many backpackers.

These beaches in Goa showcase the diversity and beauty of the best beaches in India, making Goa a top destination for beach lovers.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Goa: 

• Book accommodation in advance
• Explore both North and South Goa
• Rent a scooter or bike (don’t forget your driving license)
• Pack beachwear, flip-flops, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lightweight clothes
• Avoid carrying too much cash
• Bring your swimwear/beachwear
• Try Goan cuisine
• Keep yourself hydrated

How To Reach Goa

By Air: Dabolim Airport is 26 km from Panaji, Goa’s capital. It has two terminals: one for domestic flights and one for international flights. Major airlines fly here from cities like Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai. International flights go to places like Muscat and Doha. Taxis are available outside the airport.

By Road: Buses to Goa run from Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore by KSRTC, MSRTC, and KTC. Drivers from Bangalore and Mumbai can use the smooth NH 4 highway. Those from Mangalore can take the NH 17 route.

By Train: Goa is easy to reach by train. The main stations are Vasco da Gama and Madgaon, well-connected nationwide. Regular trains run from Delhi. Madgaon is 38 km from Panjim, Vasco da Gama is 29 km. Taxis are available at both stations.

Best Time to Visit:  November to February

Amazing facts about Goa: The Naval Aviation Museum is a military museum in Bogmalo, Goa, India. It is 6 kilometers from Vasco da Gama.

2. Digha

Digha, a coastal town in West Bengal, is famous for its beautiful beaches.

It’s a popular destination among the beaches in India.

The main beach in Digha is known for its gentle waves and long, sandy shoreline, perfect for a relaxing walk or a swim.

Another charming spot is New Digha Beach, which is newer and less crowded, offering a peaceful escape.

Digha’s beaches are often considered among the best beaches in India due to their natural beauty and clean surroundings.

People come here to enjoy the stunning sunsets, fresh seafood, and pleasant weather.

Though Digha may not always make the list of the top 10 beaches in India, it remains a favorite for those seeking a quiet and beautiful coastal retreat.

If you’re exploring popular beaches in India, Digha is definitely worth a visit for its serene and scenic charm.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Digha: 

• The best time to visit the beach is before 9:00 PM because it can be unsafe after that. So, try to go earlier for a safer and more enjoyable experience.

How To Reach Digha

To get to Digha, take a train from Howrah Junction to Digha railway station. From there, you can easily find rickshaws, local cabs, and shared autos for a convenient ride. Buses and E-rickshaws are also available.

Best Time to Visit:  July to March

Amazing facts about Digha: Digha’s Marine Aquarium is the largest inbuilt marine aquarium in India.

3. Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep, a beautiful group of islands in India, is home to some of the most stunning beaches.

Known for their crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores, the beaches in Lakshadweep offer a peaceful escape.

Some of the best beaches in India can be found here, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing.

The popular beaches in India include Agatti Beach, known for its vibrant marine life, and Bangaram Beach, famous for its untouched beauty.

Kavaratti Beach is another gem, offering amazing water sports and scenic views. Minicoy Beach, with its turquoise waters, is a must-visit too.

For those seeking the top 10 beaches in India, Lakshadweep should definitely be on the list.

Its serene and beautiful beaches provide a unique and unforgettable experience, making them some of the best beaches in India to explore.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Lakshadweep: 

• All visitors need a special entry permit to visit Lakshadweep. Get it from the Lakshadweep Administration, authorized agents, or online. Apply before your trip.

How To Reach Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep needs air and sea travel to reach. There is no direct road access due to isolation. Entry to the islands is by air.

By Air: Nearest Airport is Agatti Airport (AGX) on Agatti Island.

Connecting Cities: Flights from Kochi (COK). Kochi International Airport links to major Indian cities.

Best Time to Visit:  October to March

Amazing facts about Lakshadweep: The only coral atolls in India are in Lakshadweep.

4. Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a beautiful place with some of the best beaches in India.

It’s well-known for its peaceful and clean shores. Promenade Beach is popular for its long, rocky stretch, perfect for a relaxing walk.

Serenity Beach is great for surfing and has a calm, laid-back vibe.

Paradise Beach, accessible by boat, is famous for its golden sands and clear waters, making it one of the best beaches in India.

These beaches in India are loved by tourists for their unique charm and beauty.

Auroville Beach is another gem, especially for those who enjoy quiet and solitude.

With its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere, Pondicherry’s beaches are truly some of the popular beaches in India.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Pondicherry : 

• Pre-book activities like scuba diving and heritage walks, especially in peak seasons.
• Check attraction schedules; some like Auroville may be closed on certain days.
• Monsoon season may restrict water sports and beach activities due to rough seas.
• Avoid currency exchange scams by using authorized centers or banks.
• Mobile connectivity is good, but remote areas may have limited coverage; a local SIM card can help.
• Pondicherry is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle due to its compact and pedestrian-friendly streets.

How To Reach Pondicherry 

By Air: Chennai International Airport, 135 km away, is well-connected to major Indian cities. Taxis are available to Puducherry.

By Train: Villupuram Railway Station, 35 km away, connects to Trichy, Madurai, and Chennai. Taxis are available to Puducherry.

By Road: Buses and taxis from Chennai, Madurai, and Bengaluru. Frequent buses from Koyembedu, Chennai, take 3.5 hours to reach Puducherry.

Best Time to Visit:  October to March

Amazing facts about Pondicherry : In Puducherry, many folks have both French and Indian citizenship. It means about half the people there are citizens of both countries.

5. Tarkarli

Tarkarli is a charming coastal village in Maharashtra known for its beautiful beaches.

Among the popular beaches in India, Tarkarli stands out with its clear waters and pristine sands.

It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, making it one of the best beaches in India for adventure lovers.

The underwater life here is vibrant and colorful, attracting many tourists.

Tarkarli Beach itself is serene and less crowded, offering a peaceful getaway.

Nearby, you’ll also find other scenic spots like Devbagh Beach and Sindhudurg Fort, which add to the area’s appeal.

For anyone exploring the popular beaches in India, Tarkarli is definitely a must-visit destination for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Tarkarli : 

• Keep the place clean, don’t throw trash around.
• If you want to do stuff here, make sure you listen to the safety rules.

How To Reach Tarkarli 

Tarkarli is in Malvan, which is part of Sindhudurg District in Maharashtra. Malvan City is like the main spot nearby.

Big cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Goa aren’t too far. The main trains on this route are The Konkan Express and Mandovi Express.

If you’re going by road, the easiest way is through Kolhapur. From there, you can either take the Radhanagari route or the Gaganbawda route. Tarkarli and Malvan are connected by buses and rickshaws too.

Best Time to Visit:  October to March

Amazing facts about Tarkarli: Malvan in Maharashtra has really clear water, perfect for scuba diving.

6. Alibaug

Alibaug, a coastal town near Mumbai, is known for its beautiful beaches, making it one of the best places to visit for beach lovers.

The beaches in Alibaug are clean, serene, and perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Some of the popular beaches in Alibaug include Alibaug Beach, Nagaon Beach, and Kashid Beach.

These beaches offer stunning views, soft sand, and gentle waves, making them some of the best beaches in India.

Alibaug Beach is great for evening strolls and watching the sunset, while Nagaon Beach is known for water sports like jet-skiing and banana boat rides.

Kashid Beach, with its white sand and clear water, is perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.

If you’re looking for popular beaches in India to visit, Alibaug should definitely be on your list. It’s a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast.

How To Reach Alibaug 

Alibaug beach is not too far from the city center, just about 2 kilometers away.

If you’re coming from the local bus station, it’s even closer, only about 1 kilometer.

Getting there is easy because Alibaug has good transportation options. You can hop on a bus, grab an auto-rickshaw, or take a taxi to reach the beach.

Best Time to Visit:  November to March

7. Kovalam

Kovalam, located in Kerala, is home to some of the best beaches in India.

Known for its scenic beauty and serene environment, Kovalam attracts many tourists every year.

The beaches in Kovalam are famous for their soft sands and clear waters, making them perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Among the popular beaches in India, Kovalam stands out with its three main beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.

Lighthouse Beach is the most famous, known for its iconic lighthouse that offers stunning views of the coastline.

Hawa Beach is perfect for watching the sunrise and sunset, while Samudra Beach provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re looking for the best beaches in India, Kovalam should definitely be on your list.

Its beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and relaxed vibe make it a top destination for beach lovers.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Kovalam: 

• Bring your swimsuits and sunscreen.
• If you want to do water sports, get an instructor even if you don’t need a guide for the beach.
• You’ll find plenty of places to eat at Lighthouse Beach, so don’t worry about bringing your own food.

How To Reach Kovalam

Kovalam is near Trivandrum, so it’s pretty simple to get there. You can catch a cab or hop on a local bus from Trivandrum to reach the beach.

Plus, it’s only about 11 kilometers from the railway station, so it’s not far at all!

Best Time to Visit:  September to March

Amazing facts about Kovalam: Kovalam is a famous beach with three curved beaches next to each other that people from all over the world know about.

8. Gokarna

Gokarna, a small coastal town in Karnataka, India, is known for its beautiful and peaceful beaches.

It is becoming one of the popular beaches in India. Some of the best beaches in India can be found here, each offering a unique experience.

Om Beach, shaped like the sacred Hindu symbol, is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunset.

Kudle Beach is another favorite, known for its serene and quiet atmosphere.

Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach are more secluded, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds.

Gokarna’s beaches are clean, less commercialized, and provide a perfect setting for both adventure and relaxation.

If you’re exploring the best beaches in India, Gokarna should definitely be on your list.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Gokarna: 

• If you visit the main town, please dress modestly to show respect for the god and the locals.
• Make sure to have some good sunscreen ready to avoid long-lasting tans!

How To Reach Gokarna

By Air: The closest airport to Gokarna is Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about a 3.5-hour drive away. Dabolim Airport has flights to all the major cities in India and some international destinations. From the airport, you can reach Gokarna by taxi, bus, or train, but traveling by road is recommended.

By Road: Gokarna is easy to reach by road from nearby cities. You can catch direct buses from Goa, Bangalore, Mangalore, and even from Delhi. If you prefer a more comfortable trip, you can also hire a taxi from these nearby cities.

By Train: The closest railway station to Gokarna is Gokarna Road, which is 10 km away from the main city. However, this station is small and doesn’t connect to major cities. Another station, Ankola, is 20 km from Gokarna and is the nearest station with good connections to major cities.

Best Time to Visit:  October to March

Amazing facts about Gokarna: Gokarna is a city known as “The city of Lord Shiva.”

9. Varkala

Varkala, located in Kerala, is known for some of the best beaches in India.

The beaches in Varkala are famous for their stunning cliffs, golden sands, and clear blue waters.

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

It’s a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy the sunset. Another beautiful beach in Varkala is the Black Beach, named for its unique black sand.

These beaches are among the best beaches in India, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.

With charming cafes and shops along the cliffs, Varkala’s beaches are a must-visit. If you’re exploring popular beaches in India, Varkala should definitely be on your list.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Varkala: 

• Safety: Be careful walking on the cliff path at night because it can be slippery, and some parts don’t have a fence.
• Dress Code: Dress modestly on the beach to respect local customs. Wearing a sarong over your bikini is a good idea. Also, avoid drunk strangers, beggars, and hawkers.
• Rough Sea: The currents in Varkala are very strong and even good swimmers need to be careful in the water.
• Things to Carry: Bring a flashlight because there are frequent power cuts, and it gets very dark after sunset. There are also lots of insects, including mosquitoes, so bring mosquito repellent.
• Beach Closure: Sometimes Varkala Beach is closed during high tide or rough seas. Check the weather and beach conditions before you go.

How To Reach Varkala 

By Air: There are no direct flights to Varkala. The closest airport is in Thiruvananthapuram, about 40 km away. This airport has flights to major cities in India and other countries. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Varkala, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

By Road: You can easily get to Varkala by road from different parts of Kerala and nearby states. National Highway 66 runs through Varkala, linking it to cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, and Kollam. Both government and private buses regularly go to Varkala from major cities and towns in Kerala. You can also hire a taxi or drive yourself on well-maintained roads to reach Varkala.

By Train: Varkala has its own train station called Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station. It’s well-connected to big cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, Kollam, and Chennai. Many trains go to and from Varkala every day, making it easy for travelers to get there. From the train station, you can easily find auto-rickshaws and taxis to take you to different places in Varkala.

Best Time to Visit:  October to February

Amazing facts about Varkala: Varkala is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs stand by the sea.

10. Diu

Diu, a small island in India, is known for its stunning and serene beaches.

Some of the best beaches in India can be found here. Nagoa Beach is the most popular, offering a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing.

Its clear waters and palm trees make it one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in India.

Ghoghla Beach is another favorite, known for its golden sands and tranquil environment.

It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the calm sea.

Jallandhar Beach, with its scenic views and gentle waves, is also a great spot to visit.

Diu’s beaches are not just beautiful but also less crowded, making them ideal for a quiet getaway.

If you’re looking for popular beaches in India that offer both beauty and peace, Diu’s beaches should be on your list.

They truly represent some of the best beaches in India.

How To Reach Diu

By Air: You can fly to Diu through Diu Airport. It’s the only airport that links the Union Territories of Daman and Diu to the rest of India.

By Road: Buses go to Diu from Porbandar, Junagadh, and Veraval. So, to get to Diu by bus, you need to reach one of these places first. Alternatively, you can drive yourself to Diu on NH8 from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, or Baroda.

By Train: The Veraval Railway Station is the closest train station to Diu, located 87 kilometers away.

Best Time to Visit:  November to February

11. Havelock Island

Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is famous for its stunning beaches, making it one of the best beaches in India.

One of the most popular beaches in India, Radhanagar Beach, is located here.

With its soft white sand and clear blue waters, it’s perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Another gem is Elephant Beach, known for its vibrant coral reefs `and great snorkeling opportunities.

Vijaynagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 5, is quieter and ideal for peaceful walks and enjoying the sunrise.

The beaches in Havelock Island offer a serene escape and are considered among the best beaches in India for their natural beauty and tranquility.

If you’re looking to explore popular beaches in India, Havelock Island should be at the top of your list.

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Havelock Island: 

• Always check the weather before you go. 
• Ask a local guide if water sports are available, as they can depend on the season. 
• You can scuba dive at Havelock Island even if you can’t swim, but make sure you do it with an expert.
• Try Seafood.

How To Reach Havelock Island

If you want to get to Havelock Island, the closest airport is in Port Blair.

From there, you can either take a seaplane or a ship to reach the island.

Another option is to take a fancy air-conditioned ferry called a catamaran to get there.

Best Time to Visit:  October to February

Amazing facts about Havelock Island: Havelock Island, also called Swaraj Dweep, is the largest island in Ritchie’s Archipelago. It’s located east of Great Andaman in the Andaman Islands.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India is home to some of the best beaches in the world, offering a variety of stunning coastal destinations for every type of traveler.

From the lively shores of Goa and the serene beauty of Kerala’s beaches to the untouched splendor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, there is something for everyone.

Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or scenic beauty, the popular beaches in India provide the perfect escape.

Havelock Island, with its pristine beaches like Radhanagar and Elephant Beach, exemplifies the natural charm and tranquility that make Indian beaches truly exceptional.

Exploring these diverse and beautiful beaches is a must for any beach lover.