All You Need Know About Radhanagar Beach (Havelock Island), Andaman

Also called Beach No. 7, the beach has been rated amongst the best beaches in Asia by numerous platforms. In 2004, Time Magazine gave it the title of the best beach in Asia and the 7th best beach in the world.

The beach has also been included in the Top 25 beaches in Asia by Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards in 2016.

Laden with white sand, beautiful blue skies, lush green trees at one end and crystal clear water at the other end, there is no doubt that this beach deserves to be included amongst the best beaches around the globe.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit is November to February. The weather is pleasant, with a soothing breeze and perfect blue skies. The best time to go to the Radhanagar Beach is around 3:00 PM so that you can spend the evening strolling on the beach and end the day with the most spectacular sunset you'll witness. However, the evenings are a bit crowded as it is bombarded with tourists for the sunset.

If you want to avoid the crowds, you can go early in the morning and see the sunrise. No matter what time you go, this place will not cease to amaze you with its beauty!

How to Reach Radhanagar Beach?

Renting two-wheeler

Renting a two-wheeler is the best option to explore the island, and one can even go to Radhanagar beach. The roads to the beach are well maintained, and the route offers some of the most breathtaking views. If you are someone who loves to drive, then there could not be any better transport option.

Rent: ₹500 per day (excluding fuel)

Before leaving, inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and ensure that the brakes and headlights are in good working order, as there are few street lights on the way back. Also, since the network connectivity is quite poor on the island, it is better to download the offline map on your phone before you leave because there are hardly any shops on the route.

Bus

If you are not comfortable with the idea of renting a vehicle and still want to be on a budget, then government buses are the best option. The buses start from the jetty, and it takes around an hour to reach the beach. It takes longer than other modes of transportation because it is public, but if time is not an issue, one can consider it.

The first bus from the jetty departs at 6:20 AM and reaches there by 7:15 AM. Following this, a bus is available almost every hour, i.e., at 8:45 AM, 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 12:45 PM, 3:45 PM, and 5:15 PM.

Ticket cost: ₹30 per person for non AC and ₹50 per person for AC.

Note: If you opt for local transport, make sure you confirm the timings of the last pickup from the beach. Usually, the last bus from the beach is at 6:00 P.M.

Autos

You can find many 3-wheelers around the island, and one can book the same to go to the beach and back to the hotel. The disadvantage of taking is that you can only stay for 3 hours before having to return. If you want to stay longer, then you'll have to pay extra.

Rent: ₹600 for 3 hrs. Charges extra after 3 hours.

Taxi

If time is an issue, then hiring a taxi is the best way to reach the beach. You can either book one from the jetty or ask the staff of the hotel at which you are staying to arrange one for you. Depending on traffic, the taxi ride takes between 15-20 minutes.

However, like autos, most taxis have a stay period of 3 hours and charge extra if you stay for long. So make sure you negotiate and discuss the rates along with the time properly with the driver to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Rent: Between ₹1500- ₹2500 (negotiable)

Things to Do at Radhanagar Beach:

1. Go for a swim

Swimming in the ocean is one thing that is loved by all water babies! The waters at the Radhanagar beach are the best if you love to take a dip in the blue waters. No rocks or coral, medium waves, and lifeguards nearby make this place a perfect yet safe place to swim. Just make sure not to go too deep into the water and take care of the children to prevent any mishaps.

The beach also has bathing and changing facilities.

Bio-degradable huts on the beach: Free of charge, but stinky and unhygienic.

Paid showers: ₹10

Locker facility: ₹10 per day

2. Relax on the beach

If you are someone who doesn't love to go in the water, then no problem! One can just relax on the beach or stroll on that white sand with all its natural beauty.

Radhanagar beach is adorned with a number of huts, benches, and chairs, along with tall trees that give you a place to relax, take in the beauty, and unwind. The double-story hut at the centre of the beach provides a complete view of the sea in front and is a great place to capture photographs.

You can also bring snacks and food, have a picnic with your friends and family, read a book, take a stroll along the 2 kilometre long stretch of the beach, play some beach volleyball, take time out for a peaceful session of yoga or just lay back and let yourself bask in the warmth of the sun.

3. Watch the gorgeous sunsets

The sunset at Radhanagar beach is hands down one of the most beautiful sunsets you'll ever see. The way the hues of the sky change and it paints the sky is worth watching! Not a view to be missed.

4. Go for scuba diving

The Andaman islands boast beautiful marine life, and the best way to witness it is by diving right into the sea and swimming with the fishes and watching the beautiful coral. Although scuba diving is not done exactly on the beach, there are many sites nearby from which one can book one for themselves.

If you are someone who's adventurous and wishes to get their blood pumping, this is an activity that is a must for you.

Cost: From ₹2500- ₹3500 per person(includes underwater photography) for non-certified divers.

If you are travelling in a group, do negotiate, as these people tend to give you better rates.

Where to stay