Havelock Island, officially renamed Swaraj Dweep, is the crown jewel of the Andaman Islands. Famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, this tropical paradise offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
1. Radhanagar Beach - Asia's Best Beach
Ranked as Asia's best beach by Time Magazine, Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) is a 2-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand meeting turquoise waters.
Perfect For:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Romantic sunset walks
- Photography
- Beach picnics
Best Time:
- Sunrise: 5:30-6:30 AM
- Sunset: 5:30-6:30 PM
- Less crowded: Early morning
- Swimming: Low tide periods
2. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Havelock offers some of India's best diving experiences with visibility up to 40 meters and diverse marine life including sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful corals.
Top Diving Sites:
🐠 Elephant Beach
Perfect for beginners, shallow waters, vibrant corals
🦈 Barracuda City
Advanced divers, deeper waters, large pelagic fish
🐢 Turtle Bay
Sea turtle sightings, reef diving, moderate depth
🏛️ The Wall
Dramatic wall dive, advanced level, stunning drop-offs
Pricing Guide:
- • Discover Scuba (Beginners): ₹4,500-5,500
- • Fun Dives (Certified): ₹3,500-4,500
- • Snorkeling: ₹1,500-2,500
- • PADI Open Water Course: ₹28,000-32,000
3. Elephant Beach Adventures
Accessible by boat or a scenic 45-minute trek through tropical forests, Elephant Beach is a haven for water sports and coral viewing.
Boat Ride
15-minute scenic journey
Jungle Trek
45-minute nature walk
Water Sports
Snorkeling & sea walking
4. Kala Pathar Beach
Named after the black rocks (Kala Pathar) that line the shore, this beach offers a unique landscape perfect for photography and peaceful walks.
5. Sea Walking Experience
A unique underwater experience where you can walk on the ocean floor while wearing a special helmet that provides air supply. Perfect for non-swimmers!
🌟 Insider Tips for Havelock
- • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (Oct-May)
- • Carry cash as ATMs are limited and card acceptance is poor
- • Respect the marine environment - don't touch or take corals
- • Apply for permits online to avoid long queues
- • Book return ferry tickets immediately upon arrival
- • Try fresh seafood at local beach shacks
Getting to Havelock Island
🚢 By Ferry
- • From Port Blair (2-2.5 hours)
- • Government ferry: ₹500-800
- • Private ferry: ₹1,500-2,500
- • Multiple daily departures
🚁 By Helicopter
- • From Port Blair (20 minutes)
- • Cost: ₹4,500-5,500
- • Limited daily flights
- • Weather dependent
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury Resorts (₹8,000-25,000/night)
Sea Shell Resort, Havelock Island Beach Resort, Silver Sand Beach Resort
🏠 Mid-Range Hotels (₹3,000-8,000/night)
Symphony Palms, Wild Orchid Resort, Coral Reef Resort
🛏️ Budget Options (₹1,500-3,000/night)
Backpacker hostels, beach huts, guesthouses near Govind Nagar
