Top 10 Beaches in India You Must Visit

India, with its 7,500 km long coastline, is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the world. The beaches here are not just about sand and water—they are about history, spirituality, adventure, culture, food, and unique experiences.

From the Andaman Islands’ turquoise waters to the Goan party vibes, from the spiritual shores of Odisha to the hidden gems of Maharashtra and Karnataka, Indian beaches cater to every type of traveler.

Top 10 Beaches in India You Must Visit

If you’re planning your next holiday, here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 beaches in India you must visit.

Table of Contents

1. Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Often hailed as one of the best beaches in Asia by Time Magazine and TripAdvisor, Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) is the definition of paradise. Located on Havelock Island, it features silky white sand, turquoise waters, and a backdrop of tropical forests.

Why It Stands Out

Frequently voted the cleanest and most beautiful beach in India.
Perfect balance of tranquility and natural beauty.
One of the best places for honeymoon couples and solitude seekers.

Things to Do

Swimming: The waters are calm and safe.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Explore colorful coral reefs and marine life.
Photography: Especially at sunset, when the sky glows in shades of pink and orange.
Nature Walks: Trails around the forested area near the beach.

Nearby Attractions

Elephant Beach – A water sports hub.
Kalapathar Beach – Famous for sunrise views.
Cellular Jail (Port Blair) – A must-visit for history lovers.

Best Time to Visit: October – May (monsoon season should be avoided).

2. Palolem Beach – South Goa

Palolem is a crescent-shaped beach, famous for its scenic views, lively vibes, and colorful beach huts. Unlike North Goa’s crowded beaches, Palolem offers a blend of serenity and fun.

Why It Stands Out

Ideal for backpackers, families, and couples.
Known for its silent disco parties where people dance with headphones.
Great mix of nightlife and peaceful mornings.

Things to Do

Dolphin-spotting boat rides.
Kayaking in the calm waters.
Yoga and meditation retreats.
Shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs at Palolem market.

Nearby Attractions

Butterfly Beach – Accessible by boat, a hidden paradise.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary – A green escape near the beach.
Cabo de Rama Fort – For history lovers.

Best Time to Visit: November – February

3. Varkala Beach – Kerala

Perched beneath dramatic red laterite cliffs, Varkala Beach (also called Papanasam Beach) is unique in India. According to Hindu belief, a dip here washes away sins.

Why It Stands Out

Only beach in Kerala where cliffs meet the Arabian Sea.
Blend of spirituality and leisure.
Very popular with international tourists for yoga and Ayurveda.

Things to Do

Paragliding from the cliffs.
Ayurvedic massages and therapies.
Relax at cliff-top cafes with panoramic sea views.
Visit Janardana Swami Temple (a 2000-year-old Hindu temple).

Nearby Attractions

Varkala Lighthouse – For sweeping coastal views.
Anjengo Fort – A colonial fort with historical significance.
Kappil Lake – Perfect for boating.

Best Time to Visit: October – March

4. Tarkarli Beach – Maharashtra

Tarkarli, located in Sindhudurg district, is a hidden gem of Maharashtra. It’s one of the few beaches in India where underwater visibility is excellent, making it a favorite for scuba divers.

Why It Stands Out

Famous for adventure water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing.
Peaceful alternative to Goa.
Crystal-clear waters with abundant marine life.

Things to Do

Scuba diving to see coral reefs.
Snorkeling and parasailing.
Houseboat stays in backwaters.
Dolphin-spotting boat rides.

Nearby Attractions

Sindhudurg Fort – Historic sea fort.
Devbagh Beach – For paragliding and water sports.
Malvan Market – Great for spices and seafood.

Best Time to Visit: October – March

5. Marina Beach – Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Stretching over 13 km, Marina Beach is the longest natural urban beach in India and the second longest in the world. It’s not a swimming beach due to strong currents but is culturally vibrant.

Why It Stands Out

Iconic Chennai landmark.
Bustling with street food, kite flying, and cultural activities.

Things to Do

Evening strolls along the promenade.
Street food tasting (sundal, murukku, bhajji).
Horse riding.
Visit Marina Lighthouse for panoramic city and sea views.

Nearby Attractions

Santhome Basilica – A 16th-century church.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple – A Dravidian-style temple.
Government Museum – One of the oldest in India.

Best Time to Visit: November – February

6. Agonda Beach – South Goa

If you’re tired of Goa’s crowds, Agonda Beach is your answer. It’s calm, peaceful, and perfect for solitude seekers.

Why It Stands Out

A nesting site for endangered Olive Ridley turtles (seasonal).
Extremely clean and less commercialized.

Things to Do

Relaxing sunbaths.
Yoga and meditation classes.
Exploring small cafes and boutique shops.

Nearby Attractions

Cola Beach Lagoon – A hidden gem.
Cabo de Rama Fort – For panoramic views.
Galgibaga Beach – Another turtle nesting site.

Best Time to Visit: November – March

7. Puri Beach – Odisha

Located on the Bay of Bengal, Puri Beach is both a spiritual and leisure destination. It’s close to the famous Jagannath Temple, making it one of India’s most visited beaches.

Why It Stands Out

Hosts the famous Puri Beach Festival with cultural performances.
Known for sand art sculptures by international artists.

Things to Do

Witness fishermen at work.
Sunrise and sunset photography.
Shopping for seashell jewelry and local handicrafts.

Nearby Attractions

Jagannath Temple – A major pilgrimage site.
Konark Sun Temple – UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chilika Lake – Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.

Best Time to Visit: November – February

8. Kovalam Beach – Kerala

Kovalam is Kerala’s most famous beach, known for its crescent-shaped coastline and lighthouse.

Why It Stands Out

Hub of Ayurvedic massage centers.
Popular among both domestic and international tourists.

Things to Do

Surfing and swimming.
Ayurvedic spa and yoga.
Climb the lighthouse for incredible views.

Nearby Attractions

Padmanabhaswamy Temple – World’s richest temple.
Vellayani Lake – Serene boating spot.
Poovar Island – Backwaters meet the sea.

Best Time to Visit: September – March

9. Gokarna Beaches – Karnataka

Gokarna is often called the quieter cousin of Goa. Famous for its Om-shaped beach, it is popular with backpackers and spiritual seekers.

Why It Stands Out

Has multiple beaches – Om, Kudle, Half Moon, Paradise.
Great mix of trekking, spirituality, and beach life.

Things to Do

Beach trekking between Om, Kudle, and Paradise.
Jet skiing and banana boat rides.
Visit Mahabaleshwar Temple.

Nearby Attractions

Mirjan Fort – Historic fort.
Yana Caves – Geological wonder.
Vibhooti Waterfalls – Refreshing day trip.

Best Time to Visit: October – March

10. Diu Beach – Daman & Diu

Unlike Goa, Diu is quiet, less commercialized, and historically rich with Portuguese architecture. Nagoa Beach is the most popular here.

Why It Stands Out

Calm, safe waters – perfect for families.
A mix of history, Portuguese culture, and beaches.

Things to Do

Parasailing, jet skiing, and banana rides.
Cycling along the coast.
Visit Diu Fort and historic churches.

Nearby Attractions

St. Paul’s Church – Baroque-style architecture.
Naida Caves – Fascinating rock formations.
INS Khukri Memorial – Naval history site.

Best Time to Visit: October – February

Travel Tips for Beach Trips in India

Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, reusable bottles.
Respect Local Culture: Some beaches are near temples – dress modestly.
Stay Safe: Swim only in safe zones. Always follow lifeguard instructions.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Don’t litter; use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect marine life.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss coastal seafood like prawn curry, crab masala, and fish fry.

FAQs

Q1. Which is the cleanest beach in India?
Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman Islands is often rated as one of the cleanest and most pristine beaches in India, thanks to strict eco-tourism rules and limited commercialization. Agonda Beach in Goa is another clean option, maintained well by local authorities and known for its peaceful, litter-free shoreline. Both offer unspoiled natural beauty.

Q2. Which beach is best for honeymoon in India?
For couples, Radhanagar Beach (Andaman) is a paradise with turquoise waters and privacy. Varkala in Kerala is famous for its cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, perfect for romantic evenings. Agonda Beach in Goa is quieter than other Goan beaches, offering seclusion, luxury resorts, and sunset views—making it ideal for honeymoons filled with peace and romance.

Q3. Which is the longest beach in India?
Marina Beach in Chennai is the longest beach in India, stretching about 13 km along the Bay of Bengal. It is also among the world’s longest urban beaches, attracting millions of visitors every year. Known for its golden sands, cultural landmarks, and vibrant local atmosphere, Marina Beach is a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Q4. Which beach is best for foreigners?
Palolem in Goa is extremely popular among international travelers for its calm waves, nightlife, and yoga retreats. Varkala in Kerala attracts foreigners with its cliffside cafes, Ayurvedic treatments, and serene vibes. Gokarna in Karnataka has gained fame as a less-commercialized alternative to Goa, offering backpacker-friendly stays, spiritual retreats, and scenic beaches like Om Beach.

Q5. Which beach is best for water sports?
Tarkarli in Maharashtra is a hotspot for scuba diving and snorkeling, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. Kovalam in Kerala is ideal for surfing and parasailing, while Goa’s Baga and Calangute beaches are famous for jet skiing, banana rides, and parasailing. These destinations offer thrilling water activities with professional operators and safe conditions.