Andaman

Places to visit in Havelock Island for beaches and reefs

Andaman By Pragya October 1, 2026 14 min read

Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is one of the most popular islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Spread across roughly 113 sq. km, it combines long stretches of white sand with turquoise waters, coral-rich reefs and dense tropical forests. Located about 39 km northeast of Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), the island offers a mix of relaxing beaches, water sports, adventure activities and quieter natural spots.

What makes Havelock special is that sightseeing here does not have to feel rushed. You can spend your mornings exploring beaches, afternoons enjoying water activities and evenings watching the sunset. While Radhanagar Beach is the island’s most famous attraction, places such as Elephant Beach, Kalapathar Beach and the quieter east-coast beaches offer a different side of Swaraj Dweep.

This guide covers the major places to visit in Havelock Island, along with activities, travel planning and practical information to help you decide what is worth including in your itinerary.

In this guide

Radhanagar Beach – Havelock’s most famous beach, known for its soft sand, clear water and beautiful sunset scenery.
Elephant Beach and water activities – A popular spot for snorkelling, scuba diving, sea activities and exploring the island’s marine life.
Quiet east-coast beaches – Less crowded coastal areas such as Kalapathar and Vijaynagar, ideal for peaceful walks, photography and sunrise views.
Scuba, kayaking and nature experiences – Explore Havelock beyond its beaches through underwater activities, kayaking, forest trails and wildlife experiences.
Places to visit in Havelock Island at a glance – A simple overview of the island’s main attractions and what each place is best known for
How to reach Havelock – Information about ferries, private cruises and local transportation after arriving on Swaraj Dweep.
How many days and best time to visit – Guidance on planning a comfortable Havelock itinerary without trying to cover everything in a hurry.

Sunset over Radhanagar Beach, the best known of the places to visit in Havelock Island

Radhanagar Beach, the star of Havelock

Radhanagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 7, is the most famous attraction on Havelock Island, now officially called Swaraj Dweep. Located on the island’s western coast, roughly 12 km from the main jetty, it is known for its wide stretch of soft white sand, clear blue water and dense tropical forest along the shore. The beach is often associated with international recognition for its beauty. TIME magazine named Radhanagar one of the world’s best beaches, helping put Havelock on the international travel map.

The best thing about Radhanagar is that you do not need a packed itinerary. Give yourself a few hours to simply enjoy the setting. Walk along the shoreline, take photographs, relax under the surrounding greenery or swim where permitted. The beach becomes particularly beautiful toward evening, when the changing sunlight creates warm colours across the sand and sea.

What to do at Radhanagar Beach

Enjoy the sunset: Sunset is one of the main reasons travellers stay at Radhanagar until evening. The wide shoreline gives you plenty of space to find a comfortable spot and watch the sun gradually disappear over the horizon.

Walk along the beach: The long sandy coastline is ideal for a leisurely walk. You can enjoy the changing views of the sea and forest without needing to follow a fixed route.

Swimming: Swimming can be enjoyable when conditions and designated areas permit. Always follow the instructions of local authorities and lifeguards, particularly regarding permitted swimming hours and sea conditions.

Photography: The combination of white sand, turquoise water and dense tropical vegetation makes Radhanagar one of Havelock’s most photographed locations.

Tips for visiting Radhanagar Beach

Try to reach the beach in the afternoon and stay through sunset if your schedule allows. This gives you enough time to explore the shoreline without rushing. Follow all local beach and swimming regulations. Sea conditions can change, and swimming may not be permitted at certain times.

If you plan to use a drone, check the current local rules and obtain the required permissions before flying it. Do not assume that recreational drone use is automatically permitted. A walk along the coastline can also take you toward Neil’s Cove, a quieter natural area near Radhanagar. Access and conditions can vary, so follow local guidance rather than entering restricted or unsafe areas.

Best for: Sunset, swimming, photography, beach walks and relaxed sightseeing.

For a more personal account of the experience, you can also read the Lazy Yatra Radhanagar Beach diary.

Elephant Beach and water activities

If Radhanagar is about relaxing on the sand, Elephant Beach is where Havelock becomes more adventurous. Located on the island’s northwest coast, it is one of the main destinations for snorkelling, marine activities and water sports.

The area is particularly popular because the water around the beach can be relatively shallow and coral-rich, creating good conditions for viewing marine life. Clear visibility, however, depends on the weather and sea conditions on the day of your visit.

How to reach Elephant Beach

There are two common ways to reach Elephant Beach.

By boat: Boat services from the Havelock area provide the most popular route. The journey generally takes around 20–40 minutes, depending on the departure point, boat and sea conditions. The ride itself can be an enjoyable part of the experience, with views of Havelock’s coastline along the way.

By forest trail: Another option is the land route through the forest. You generally travel by road toward the forest trail area and then continue on foot. The walk can take around 40 minutes, depending on conditions and your pace. The trail should only be used when it is officially open and safe for visitors.

Before choosing the trail, check the current local access conditions. Heavy rain, forest restrictions or other local conditions can affect whether the route is available.

Snorkelling is one of the most popular activities at Elephant Beach. You can float near the surface using a mask and snorkel while looking down at the coral and marine life below. The relatively shallow reef areas can make snorkelling approachable for beginners, although you should always follow the instructions of the activity operator and use the required safety equipment.

Water visibility is not guaranteed every day. Weather, tides and sea conditions can affect how clearly you can see the underwater environment.

Glass-bottom boat rides: If you want to see the underwater world without getting into the sea, a glass-bottom boat ride is a convenient alternative. These boats have transparent viewing sections in the floor, allowing passengers to observe coral formations and marine life from above the water. It can be particularly suitable for families, children and non-swimmers who still want to experience Havelock’s underwater environment.

Other water sports Depending on the season, weather and local operating permissions, Elephant Beach may offer activities such as sea walking, jet skiing and other water sports. Availability and prices can change, so it is better to check directly with the authorised activity operator on the day rather than planning your itinerary around a specific activity.

Protecting the coral

The underwater environment around Havelock is delicate. Do not touch, stand on or break coral, even if it looks harmless. Avoid collecting coral, shells or marine organisms, and follow the instructions provided by your guide or activity operator. Responsible behaviour helps protect the reef and keeps the marine environment healthy for future visitors.

Best for: Snorkelling, water sports, boat rides, marine life and adventure.

For a first-hand travel experience, read the Lazy Yatra Elephant Beach diary.

Shallow coral reef at Elephant Beach, a top snorkelling spot among places to visit in Havelock Island

Quiet east-coast beaches

After exploring Havelock’s busier attractions, the island’s eastern coastline offers a slower and more peaceful side. The beaches here are less about organised activities and more about sunrise, coastal scenery, quiet walks and photography.

Kalapathar Beach

Kalapathar Beach is one of the most scenic beaches on Havelock. The coastline combines pale sand with scattered dark rocks, clear blue water and thick green vegetation, creating a striking contrast that makes the beach particularly attractive for photography.

The beach is best experienced in the early morning. As the sun rises, soft light spreads across the water and the rocks, while the cooler morning atmosphere makes it comfortable to walk along the shore. It is a good place to slow down, take photographs and enjoy the coastline before the day becomes busy.

Unlike Elephant Beach, Kalapathar is not primarily about water sports. Its appeal comes from the landscape itself. You can spend time walking along the sand, sitting near the shore or simply enjoying the combination of forest and sea.

Best for: Sunrise, photography, peaceful walks and scenic views.

Vijaynagar Beach

Vijaynagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 5, is a long and relatively relaxed stretch of coastline surrounded by tropical greenery and palm trees. It is a good choice when you want to experience Havelock’s beaches without spending the entire day at its busiest attractions.

The beach works particularly well as part of a coastal sightseeing drive. Rather than making it a rushed stop, take some time to walk along the shoreline and enjoy the open views of the sea. The surrounding vegetation also gives the area a distinctly tropical character.

Vijaynagar can easily be combined with nearby coastal stops, making it useful for travellers who want to explore more of Havelock in a single outing.

Best for: Beach walks, relaxed sightseeing, photography and coastal drives.

Govind Nagar Beach

Govind Nagar Beach is located close to Havelock’s main settlement and is therefore one of the more convenient beaches to visit. If you are staying near the jetty or central areas of the island, you can include it without making a long journey.

The surrounding area is also an important base for scuba-diving centres, water-activity operators and tourist services. This makes Govind Nagar useful not only as a beach stop but also as a starting point for arranging marine activities.

The beach itself is better suited to a short, relaxed visit than an entire day’s excursion. You can walk along the coast, enjoy the sea views or combine the stop with nearby shops, restaurants and activity centres.

Best for: Short beach visits, photography, relaxed walks and convenient access to activities.

The coastal road between Vijaynagar and Kalapathar

The journey between Vijaynagar and Kalapathar is part of the experience. Instead of treating the road simply as a way to reach the next attraction, take your time and enjoy the changing scenery.

Along the way, you pass small settlements, dense tropical vegetation, stretches of forest and glimpses of the sea. The road gives you a chance to see a quieter, more everyday side of Havelock away from the main tourist attractions.

If you are travelling by scooter, car or taxi, allow some flexibility for short scenic stops where permitted. Avoid stopping in unsafe locations or blocking the road, and respect local residents and private property.

For travellers who enjoy photography, this coastal route can be especially rewarding in the softer morning or late-afternoon light.

Best for: Scenic drives, photography, exploring the quieter side of Havelock and relaxed sightseeing.

When to explore the east coast

The morning is a particularly good time to explore this side of the island. Kalapathar is well suited to sunrise, while the cooler hours make coastal walks more comfortable. You can then continue towards Vijaynagar and Govind Nagar as part of a relaxed sightseeing route.

If you have limited time, you do not need to visit every beach. Choose Kalapathar for scenery and sunrise, Vijayna

Scuba Diving, Kayaking and Nature Experiences

Sunrise at Kalapathar Beach on the east coast of Havelock Island

Havelock Island is not just about beaches and sightseeing. It is also one of the best places in the Andamans for water activities, marine experiences and nature-based adventures. Whether you want to explore coral reefs, paddle through calm coastal waters or enjoy a quiet forest walk, there are several ways to experience the island beyond its beaches.

Scuba diving is one of Havelock’s most popular activities. The island’s surrounding waters offer opportunities to see coral reefs, colourful reef fish and other marine life. Beginners can take an introductory dive with a certified or authorised diving operator, while experienced and certified divers can choose deeper or more specialised dive sites according to their experience. The experience usually begins with a safety briefing and basic instructions before entering the water. Visibility and sea conditions can change depending on the season and weather, so diving plans may be adjusted when conditions are unsuitable. Always follow the instructions of your dive instructor and use properly maintained equipment.

Kayaking offers a slower and quieter way to explore Havelock’s coastal landscape. Depending on the route and local conditions, you can paddle through calm coastal waters and mangrove areas while enjoying views of the surrounding forest and shoreline. Guided kayaking trips are useful, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with the area. Local guides can help with routes, tides and weather conditions and make the experience easier for beginners. Early morning and calmer weather generally provide a more comfortable paddling experience.

Birdwatching and Forest Walks: Havelock’s natural environment extends well beyond its beaches. Birdwatching and forest walks are good options for travellers who prefer a quieter experience. Early morning is generally the best time for spotting birds and enjoying the forest before the day becomes busy and warm. While walking through natural areas, stay on permitted trails, keep noise to a minimum and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Feeding animals or birds should be avoided because it can disturb their natural behaviour.

Light House Point: This is a scenic coastal area on the northern side of Havelock. The location is associated with coastal views and is sometimes considered as an alternative outing when conditions make other popular beach excursions difficult. Access and activity options can vary, so it is sensible to check the current local access and sea conditions before planning a visit. If you are interested mainly in photography and coastal scenery, the area can provide a quieter experience away from some of Havelock’s busier attractions.

Barren Island cruise. A Barren Island cruise is a completely different experience from regular Havelock sightseeing. Barren Island is known for its volcanic landscape and is home to India’s only confirmed active volcano. Depending on permissions, weather and operator availability, some excursions travel toward the island so visitors can view the volcanic landscape from the sea. This is generally a longer and more specialised excursion, rather than a standard Havelock day-trip attraction. Trips can be affected by sea conditions and operational or administrative restrictions, so availability should always be confirmed locally before making plans.

Best for: adventure seekers, couples, photographers and travellers interested in nature and marine experiences.

Other Experiences to Add to Your Havelock Trip

Along with the major beaches, Havelock offers several smaller experiences that can easily be added to your itinerary.

Glass-bottom boat rides are particularly suitable for families and travellers who want to see coral and marine life without going underwater. The boat’s transparent viewing section allows you to observe parts of the reef from above.

A forest trail toward Elephant Beach is another option for travellers who enjoy short walks and want to experience the island’s greenery before reaching the coast. Follow the designated route and local instructions, as forest conditions can change.

For a relaxed day, you can simply combine Radhanagar Beach, Kalapathar Beach and one of the quieter eastern beaches with a nature activity such as kayaking or birdwatching. This gives you a mix of beaches, adventure and the natural side of Havelock rather than spending the entire trip only at the main tourist spots.

Map of places to visit in Havelock Island with Radhanagar, Elephant Beach and Kalapathar

How to Reach Havelock Island

Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is connected to Port Blair by regular ferry services. Since there is no road connection between the islands, travelling by sea is the most common way to reach Havelock.

The government ferry is one of the more economical ways to travel from Port Blair to Havelock. The journey generally takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the vessel and sea conditions. Fares can vary by ferry and seating category, with typical fares around ₹700–₹1,000.

You can check the latest schedules, fares and official travel information on the Andaman & Nicobar Tourism website.

Private ferries and high-speed cruises are a popular choice for tourists who want to reach Havelock faster. The journey usually takes around 1.5 hours, although the exact travel time depends on the vessel and sea conditions.

Private cruises generally offer more comfortable seating and multiple departure options, but fares are usually higher than government ferry tickets. If you are deciding between the two, our private cruise vs government ferry guide explains the differences in more detail.

Helicopter and seaplane services may also be available depending on the current schedule and operational conditions. These options can significantly reduce travel time but usually cost considerably more than a ferry.Because transport schedules in the Andamans can change due to weather, sea conditions and operational restrictions, it is important to confirm the latest schedule before travelling.

Once you arrive on Havelock, getting around the island is relatively straightforward. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, local buses and rented two-wheelers are commonly used for travelling between beaches and sightseeing locations.

For additional background about the island, you can also refer to Wikipedia’s Havelock Island page.

If you are travelling from Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), you can also check our Havelock day trip from Neil Island guide for planning ideas.

How Many Days Do You Need in Havelock?

The ideal length of your Havelock trip depends on how much sightseeing and how many water activities you want to include.

Day 1 : With only one day, focus on Radhanagar Beach and one additional experience such as Elephant Beach, snorkelling or another water activity. Trying to cover every beach in a single day can make the trip rushed.

Day 2: Two days allow you to explore the island at a more comfortable pace. You can dedicate one day to Elephant Beach and water activities, while using the second day for Radhanagar, Vijaynagar and Kalapathar Beach.

Day 3: Three days give you enough time to combine sightseeing with adventure. Along with the major beaches, you can add scuba diving or kayaking and still leave time for a forest walk, birdwatching or a relaxed beach visit.

Best Time to Visit Havelock Island

The period from approximately October to May is generally considered a convenient time for enjoying Havelock’s beaches and outdoor activities. During these months, travellers can plan activities such as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and boat excursions more comfortably.

However, tropical weather can change quickly. Ferry and boat schedules may be affected by rain, strong winds or rough seas, even during otherwise favourable travel months. Always check the latest sea and weather conditions before planning water-based activities..