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India is home to some of the most magnificent coastlines lined with turquoise blue water and exotic scenery. Sparkling sand, frothy waves, and lip-smacking local cuisines make up these 7 beach places in India. Whether you are looking for a laid-back getaway with family or a thrilling adventure with friends, these beach destinations in India fit the bill. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in India:
1. Goa
When you think of the best beach destinations in India, you think of Goa. One of the cheapest beach destinations in India, Goa has more to offer than what meets the eye. Flanked on the western coast, Goa is known for its golden sand beaches, towering coconut trees, vibrant nightlife, and eclectic cuisine. North Goa is a hustling hub swamped with trendy beach shacks, water sport enthusiasts, clubs, and flea markets. The slightly more private and laid-back beaches in South Goa are perfect for those looking to enjoy luxurious resort properties.
Popular Beaches
- Manderem Beach
- Baga Beach
- Anjuna Beach
- Colva beach
- Calangute beach
Best Time to Visit: Goa from November to February has pleasant weather.
Things to Do
- Enjoy the nightlife at Baga Beach
- Dine on a cruise in Panjim
- Indulge in water sports activities in Calangute
- Check out the 17th Century Portuguese Fort Aguada
- Eat at Goa’s most popular restaurant Thalassa- The Greek Taverna
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Goa
Nearest Train Station: Margao
North Goa: Vasco Da Gama Railway Station
South Goa: Madgaon Junction
2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Blessed with surreal beach spots, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are among the best beach places in India. Cradled by the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, the tropical island is a piece of paradise. Soak in the island’s natural beauty after a day of exciting water activities like scuba diving and snorkelling.
Popular Beaches
- Elephant Beach
- Kala Pathar Beach
- Chidiyatapu Beach
- Wandoor Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do
- Scuba diving and snorkelling
- Day trip to Ross Island
- Kayaking
- Birdwatching
- Dolphin and turtle spotting
- Boating on Baratang Island
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (in Port Blair)
3. Lakshadweep Island
Translating to a thousand islands, Lakshadweep is among the top 7 beach places to visit in India, and for good reason. Home to 36 islands, this beach holiday destination in India is off the beaten track making it an ideal spot to unwind. Surrounded by blue water lagoons, coral reefs, exotic birds, and silent shores, this beach place in India is unlike others.
Popular Beaches
- Minicoy Beach
- Agatti Beach
- Kavaratti Beach
- Kadmat Beach
- Kalpeni Beach
- Amini Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Scuba diving
- Sailing
- Boating in glass-bottom boats at Kavaratti Beach and Visiting the Marine Museum
- Birdwatching
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Agatti Aerodrome, Cochin International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Kannur Railway Station, Kerala
4. Gokarna, Karnataka
Tucked just 140kms from Goa, Gokarna in Karnataka is one of the offbeat beach cities in India. Unlike Goa, beaches in Gokarna offer a lingering calm surrounded by mesmerizing beauty. Among the best beach destinations in India, Gokarna has something for every age.
Popular Beaches
- Om Beach
- Kudle Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Half Moon Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do
- Swimming at Paradise Beach
- Water sports at Kudle Beach
- Eating local delicacies at seaside shacks
- Offering prayers to the Atmalinga at Mahabaleshwara Temple
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Goa
Nearest Train Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station
5. Alleppey, Kerala
When planning a beach vacation in India, the stunning backwaters of Kerala are never far behind on the list. Home to some most spectacular beach places in India, Kerala is called God’s Own Country for a reason. Boasting a scenic setting, beach tourism in India ranks Kerala as one of the best spots for a family beach vacation.
Popular Beaches
- Andhakaranazhi Beach
- Alappuzha Beach
- Marari Beach
- Thottappally Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Things to Do
- Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage,
- Water sports at Alappuzha Beach
- Shopping on Mullakkal Street
- Trying the local Alleppey fish curry
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Alleppey (Alappuzha) Railway Station
6. Digha, West Bengal
A quaint beach town flanked along the Bay of Bengal, beaches in Digha are still untouched by commercial tourism. Surrounded by an eery calm, Digha is the perfect destination for family vacations. Less crowd means more space to cycle along the shore, enjoy intimate family picnics, and take plenty of pictures with the frothy waves for the ‘gram.
Popular Beaches:
- New Digha Beach
- Talsari Beach
- Shankarpur Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Things to Do:
- Visit MARC- Marine Aquarium and research centre
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Talsari beach
- Take a walk at Amarabati Park
- Offer prayers at Chandaneswar temple
How to Reach:
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata
Nearest Train Station: Digha Railway Station
7. Muzhappilangad Beach, Kerala
Nestled in the Thalassery region of Kerala, Muzhappilangad is a popular beach place in India. One of the largest drive-in beaches in India, Muzhappilangad attracts plenty of foreign tourists who visit the area for its calm environment and awe-inspiring sunset. As you drive along the picturesque beach, stop to have a snack and taste the state’s delicious local cuisine.
Popular Beaches
- Payyambalam Beach
- Thottada Beach
- Kizhunna - Ezhara Beach
- Meenkunnu Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Paragliding
- Power boating
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Karipua International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Kannur Railway Station
If mentally you’re already at one of these 7 beaches in India, you need to plan a holiday soon. To enjoy the best beach holiday in India, plan and book your travel ahead to avoid any last-minute hiccups. With everything else taken care of, all you need to do is jet, set, and pack!
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