Planning a trip to Havelock Island in the Andaman? Well, it’s the best choice you’ll make! It is a popular tourist spot due to its treasure trove of wonders, offering tourists a wealth of experiences, from explorations and local interactions to adventure activities. With its reputation as the most sought-after island in the Andamans, travelers often find themselves wondering: Which beaches are a must-visit? Best Time to Visit? Where should I stay? How do I make the most of my limited days? That’s exactly why you need a comprehensive Havelock Island travel guide to ease the confusion and help you plan smartly.
Your One-Stop Havelock Island Guide
Havelock Island in the Andamans, also known as Swaraj Dweep, was renamed in 2018, referring to the crown jewel of the Andamans. It is a tourist hotspot that honors India’s profound history. Many still lovingly call it Havelock, and for many, it has become synonymous with paradise.
The island is famous for its paradisiacal beaches, especially the famous Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7), which was once voted Asia’s Best Beach by Time Magazine. Each evening here is nothing short of magical, creating perfect moments for honeymooners and photographers alike. Let’s read on to know more details about these dramatic islands and their offerings.
Best Time to Visit Havelock Island
The best time to visit Havelock Island in the Andaman Islands is during the winter months, from October to May. The weather during this time is pleasant, with clear skies and calm seas, making it ideal for outdoor activities, including excursions and water sports.
Attractions & Beaches in Havelock
If Havelock is on your bucket list, then getting to know its top attractions is a must! Read on to explore the most popular and visited tourist attractions:
1. Radhanagar Beach: Crowned as “Asia’s Best Beach”, the Radhanagar Beach is renowned for its peaceful vibes and paradisiacal views. The sunset is what makes this beach even more gorgeous, transforming the sky into a vibrant dance of colors. At Radhanagar Beach, you will witness its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. This beach is ideal for swimming, taking long walks, and enjoying romantic evenings.
2. Kalapathar Beach: Now, after admiring Radhanagar’s ethereal sunset, comes Kalapathar’s relaxing sunrise views. Head out early in the morning here and witness the sun rising, turning the skies from dark to deep hues of yellow and orange. The best part? The black rocks, as the name suggests, “Kala Pathhar” at this beach, lining the shore, create a perfect contrast with the white sands here. Also, during the sunrise, there are rare chances of spotting countless colorful crabs making their way from the shore to the jungle, creating an even more beautiful visual experience.
3. Elephant Beach: This gigantic beach features turquoise waters and is best for all types of water sports and activities. You will also find several weathered driftwood pieces and dead tree trunks, which are aesthetically pleasing and offer a perfect backdrop for photos. The best part is that you will reach this beach via a short boat ride or a short yet thrilling jungle trek.
4. Vijaynagar Beach (Beach No. 5): A tranquil beach with a long stretch of serene coastline lined with coconut palms. This spot is ideal for kayaking, swimming, or simply lazing by the sea. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing time and explore the nearby cafes.
5. Turtle Beach: Those seeking an offbeat adventure must head to the Turtle Beach in Havelock. It is a less-visited gem where turtle nesting occasionally takes place. Visitors can witness a rich and untouched coral life here and experience something unique! This spot is best reached via boat tours and is perfect for snorkeling away from crowds.
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Adventure & Water Sports
As we all know, Havelock Island is a paradise for water sports and adventures. So, why wait? Here’s what thrill seekers are going to experience in the adventure capital of the Andamans:
- Snorkeling at the Elephant Beach and the Turtle Beach: This is a must-try experience that will be completely magical as you get to witness the colorful corals, schools of colorful fish, and sometimes even turtles, all just a few feet below the water’s surface.
- Scuba diving in Havelock: It is one of the most popular activities to do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Havelock is renowned as Asia’s premier scuba diving destination, due to its breathtaking marine beauty, rich coral reefs, and excellent visibility.
- Experienced / Professional divers can approach Certified dive schools like Dive India, Barefoot Scuba, and Andaman Bubbles, which offer professional courses and fun dives. They can enjoy exploring deeper sites like The Wall, Dixon’s Pinnacle, and Johnny’s Gorge, where manta rays, turtles, and reef sharks often make an appearance. Beginners can go for an introductory dive, which will be an equally fantastic experience.
- Snorkeling at the Elephant Beach and Turtle Beach: This water sport is excellent for those who prefer sticking to the surface and avoiding depths. This water adventure is conducted with professional guides who take you to the hotspots where you can witness vibrant corals, schools of colorful fish, and sometimes even turtles, all of which are present just a few feet below the water’s surface.
- Kayaking and Mangrove Exploration: Kayaking during the day or night through the giant mangroves under bioluminescent waters (especially at night) will be a kind of experience. These are often conducted via guided tours to help you make the most of your experience.
- Sea Walking at Elephant Beach: This will be a unique yet fantastic experience where you’ll be taken to the seabed to walk while wearing a special helmet. Best for non-swimmers, this activity allows you to experience the underwater world at your own pace with a professional guide to help you.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: Almost conducted at every beach, the glass-bottom boat rides are a less adventurous yet safe way to view coral reefs and colorful marine creatures without getting wet. This activity is ideal for children and elderly visitors.
- Parasailing at Elephant Beach: A top-tier adventurous activity held at Elephant Beach, where you are taken way out in the water in a speedboat and professionally guided to soar high to soak in the panoramic views of the surroundings.
Other everyday adventure activities include Banana Boat, Jet Ski Rides, Swimming & Paddle Boarding, which are conducted at almost every beach. These activities are safe for families and give you maximum thrill and excitement. Well, after all the fun and amazement, spend some relaxing time admiring the more surreal sunsets at the Radhanagar Beach, where time seems to stand still.
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Food & Cuisine in Havelock
Havelock Island is a paradise for beach lovers– we all know that! But, do you see that it stays on top when it comes to offering delicious seafood scenes? Yes, the seafood and other cuisine in Havelock are a must-try as the island offers something for every palate.
Seafood lovers will savor exotic lobsters, crabs, prawns, and reef fish, served grilled, curried, or barbecued with island-selective spices. The specialty is that the coconut and mustard flavors dominate the overall taste, reflecting the Andaman-style cooking and giving dishes a unique tropical twist.
Vegetarians do not have to feel left out as many cafes and local eateries also serve delicious Indian, Continental, and Asian cuisines, ensuring that vegetarian and vegan travelers won’t feel left out.
For those wishing for an entirely local experience, street-side eateries also serve pocket-friendly meals, ranging from fresh parathas to fried fish snacks.
Our Expert Tip: Top cafe recommendations include Something Different Café or Full Moon Café for beachside dining. You’ll have a great experience here!
Where To Stay in Havelock
Visiting Havelock? Then, choosing the right stay is a must for you! Here’s a crisp list of the best resorts in Havelock for a comfortable yet beautiful stay:
- Luxury resort options include Taj Exotica Resort & Spa and Barefoot at Havelock, ideal for honeymooners and luxury seekers.
- Couples seeking privacy and sea views can go for beachside cottages.
- Budget travelers can choose from Blue Bird Resort and Dolphin Resort, offering a comfortable stay with a rustic island vibe.
- Mid-range travelers can choose from Symphony Palms and Coral Reef Resort, which offer a perfect balance of great amenities and comfort.
- Solo travelers can opt for hostels and backpacker lodges.
Know More: Neil Island Travel Guide 2025 – Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Tips
Travel Tips for Havelock Island
- Book your ferries in advance. The reason is that Government and private ferries fill up quickly, especially during peak season, which is from October to March.
- One of the best things to do in Havelock Island is to get a temporary BSNL network because other networks, such as Airtel or Jio, face zero to no connectivity.
- Make sure to choose your stay wisely, whether you prefer luxury and sunsets or hostels for budget-friendly stays. It’s best to book a stay near the beach.
- It’s best to bring a reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, flip-flops, light cotton clothes, and waterproof bags to protect your gadgets.
- Please carry sufficient cash because ATM’s are limited in Havelock. You may need to do cash payments for water sports at Elerphanta Beach and at the local eateries.
- A medical emergency knows no time or place. Therefore, it’s best to carry essential medicines, a first-aid kit, and any prescribed drugs.
- Havelock is an eco-sensitive zone. Make sure you travel responsibly and avoid using plastic, avoid littering beaches, leaving a carbon footprint, or touching or stepping over the corals.
- Get travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation.
- Pack light when traveling between the islands because ferries do not encourage heavy luggage.
- Purchase/carry a waterproof camera to capture the beautiful underwater scenes in Havelock Island.
Important: Allow for a buffer in your itinerary, as delays on the ferries are a common occurrence here. It's best not to keep your return flight tightly scheduled after your Havelock trip; add a day’s buffer to ensure a seamless departure experience.
With our ready-to-save Havelock Island travel guide, you are all set to make the most of your tourism experience. Why wait any longer? Get your dream Andaman tour package today with JustWravel and get ready for a world-class escape wrapped in natural beauty.
Havelock Island Guide FAQs
Are there any other things to do in Havelock Island apart from beaches?
Visiting Havelock Island is not just about beaches and water sports. You can also try the following activities to make your visit much more amazing:
- Taking sunset cruises
- Going on village walks and participating in local interactions
- Go for Birdwatching & mangrove exploration
- Try relaxing yoga retreats & stay at the wellness resorts
Are there any medical facilities available in Havelock Island?
Yes, Havelock Island has a Government health centre and a few small clinics for basic medical needs. But it’s important to note that the facilities are limited. Therefore, patients with serious medical conditions are usually referred to Port Blair.
How many days are sufficient for a Havelock Island tourism trip?
2-3 days are sufficient to explore Havelock Island to the fullest. In this, you can cover all the main things to do in Havelock Island, such as water sports, beach explorations, village tours, and much more. For a more relaxed trip, 4 days allow you to explore offbeat spots and enjoy leisure time.
Why is Havelock special compared to other islands?
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is considered special among other islands due to its world-famous Radhanagar Beach, ranked among Asia’s best. Also, Havelock is a paradise for water sports lovers, offering scuba diving, snorkeling, and bioluminescent kayaking.
Are water sports done on the Radhanagar Beach?
Radhanagar Beach is mainly known for its breathtaking beauty and peaceful vibes. Water sports and other adventure activities are not conducted here. Here, tourists mostly enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and watching magical sunsets. Its calm waters are ideal for a relaxing dip, but adventure seekers head elsewhere on the island.
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