10 Mesmerizing Beaches of India
When you are traveling to India for a summer holiday, the first beach destination that comes to mind is Goa. Goa is unarguably beautiful but not many of us know that India is full of captivating beaches scattered along its long coastline and offshore islands. They offer different experiences from family-oriented atmosphere to party filled coves. Here are some of the most mesmerizing beach destinations in India to help you plan your summer getaway.
1) Kadmat Beach, Lakshadweep Islands
If you are looking forward to a relaxing summer holiday in India with your family, Kadmat will take your family bonding to the next level. A spot in the Indian Ocean when you look it up in the map, a beach holiday at Kadmat is on par with Mauritius and Maldives. Its silver sands, pristine emerald waters and rich underwater life are some of the best in India and is something that needs to be experienced by all beach lovers.
Things to do in Kadmat:
a) Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: The waters near Kadmat island are teeming with rich marine life and hence are ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.
b) Kayaking: The lagoon on one side of Kadmat island is perfect for those kayaking sessions with friends.
c) Sunbathing with a book in your hand: Kadmat beach is ideal for sunbathing and since there are hardly any people here, the only sounds that disturb you are the sound of the waves.
2) Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Considered as Asia’s No. 1 beach, Radhanagar beach or beach number 7 is famous for its iconic sunsets. Located on Havelock island in the Andaman and Nicobar islands of India, Radhanagar beach is extremely popular with couples and honeymooners.
Things to do in Radhanagar beach:
a) Lazy walks: Radhanagar beach is perfect for those long lazy walks especially during its magical sunsets.
b) Mangrove treks: Just beyond the beach are gorgeous mangroves, tidal flats and tropical forests that make for great hikes.
3) Cola Beach, Goa
One of the hidden gems of Goa, Cola beach is located right under a tall cliff and is an absolutely beautiful place where a small river joins the sea. The beach is not super big here, but the river joining the sea here ensures that you can get the best of both fresh water and sea water.
Things to do in Cola:
a) Kayaking on the cola river under the shade of swaying coconut palms.
b) Beach volleyball at the place where the river joins the sea.
c) Stay in a riverside hut with a sea view.
4) Varkala Beach, Kerala
This cliff beach is undoubtedly one of Kerala’s most popular beaches. And it is also one of those divine beaches where a dip in the sea is supposed to wash away all your sins.
Things to do in Varkala:
a) Temple visit: Offer your prayers at the nearby 2000 year old Janardhan Swamy temple.
b) Cliff walk – dine, shop and enjoy the views while walking along the cliff edge.
5) Tarkarli, Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s Tarkarli beach boasts of a long stretch of white sand perfect for morning or afternoon walks. The beach is safe for the kids to play with waves. The community is known for being courteous and respectful. Tarkarli is a perfect place for fresh seafood by the shore and hammocks over the sand.
Things to do in Takarli:
a) Snorkeling – dive deep into the blue waters of Tarkarli and discover the beauty of underwater scenes like one-of-a-kind coral reefs and rare species of fishes.
b) Stay in a House Boat – experience the serenity and calmness of Tarkarli by staying in a Houseboat. Also, this is a good way to bond with family and kids because the cruise is exclusive to one guest or family.
c) Dolphin Watching – Dolphins are truly enjoyable to watch; they are one of the most charismatic sea creatures. Dolphin experience is one of the most captivating and exciting activities in Tarkarli.
6) Kaup, Karnataka
If you are looking for a quiet and clean sanctuary, Kaup is the place to be. The beach is very peaceful and calm. You can sit and relax in the shades of one of the large rocks while watching the waves. There are also a lot of restaurants with good food in the area. Kaup is famous for its lighthouse and pristine blue and green waters.
Things to Do in Kaup:
a) Visit Tourist Places – there are a lot of popular attractions and tourist spots in Kaup. Tourists can book day trips, excursions, and tours to maximize Kaup’s beauty.
7) Kovalam, Kerala
Another beach perfect for families is Kovalam, Kerala. The beach is one of the best for surfing and other water sports. Kovalam consists of two coves-Hawa and Lighthouse. Lighthouse is full of open-air restaurants with a fantastic view.
Things to do in Kovalam, Kerala:
a) Sight-Seeing Tour- there are a lot of tourist attractions in Kovalam. Enjoy the majestic view of these attractions while cruising along the water.
b) Overnight sightseeing in a houseboat – enjoy the tranquillity of backwaters while floating in a houseboat.
c) Water sports – you can try a water sport you’ve been dying to try. You can choose from surfing, paragliding, parasailing, jet skiing, or snorkelling.
8) Galgibaga, Goa
One of Goa’s cleanest beaches, Galgibaga beach is an important turtle nesting site. As it is a turtle nesting site, you will not find any tourist infrastructure here, but you can certainly walk on it and enjoy its pristine white sands and warm waters.
Things to do in Galgibaga:
a) Turtle nesting: If you happen to visit during turtle nesting season, you can either see the turtles come to the beach to lay the eggs or you can see the little ones make their way to the Arabian sea after they hatch from the eggs. Both of these are surreal experiences.
b) Long Barefoot walks: Galgibaga is one of those places where you will not find any trash, garbage or pollutant. It is as clean as how mother nature created it.
9) Muzhappilangad, Kerala
Muzhappilangad, Kerala is known as the longest drive-in beach in Asia. It is also one of the best beaches for driving. Muzhappilangad, Kerala offers a one-of-a-kind experience by driving a 4KM stretch of sand while you enjoy the view of the Malabar Coast. Enjoy swimming safely with the kids because the water current is not high. You can also get to taste their delicacies along the way with multiple shacks that offer authentic cuisine.
Things to Do in Muzhappilangad:
a) Walk to the Dharmadam Islands - you walk to Dharmadam Island a few minutes away from Muzhappilangad. Dharmadam Island is a private beach with scenic views.
b) Enjoy Water Activites – your stay at Muzhappilangad Beach will not be complete without trying their water activities like parasailing and paragliding.
10) Patnem, Goa
Patnem beach is located in Goa. It’s the perfect sanctuary for complete relaxation. Yogis visiting Goa love this serene place. If you want some me time, this place is not too crowded and can be your perfect haven in India. You can peacefully hang out in a humble bamboo hut by the beach and relax as you swim in the clear waters.
Things to do in Patnem:
a) Enjoy a yoga retreat- If you’re in for a yoga holiday, this is the place to be. There are yoga classes for beginners and professionals alike.
b) Visit Jaali Boutique and Café- For the fashionista, you can find exquisite designer clothes in this boutique plus modern Rajasthani textiles, jewellery, and other handicrafts.
Takeaway
I hope you have realized by now that India is full of beautiful beaches that offer everything from gorgeous setting, pristine nature, warm waters, adventure, partying and so much more. So, where have you decided to go on your beach holiday in India?
