Havelock Island Guide 2025 - Best Beaches, Ferry & Activities

Havelock Island isn't just another beach destination – it's where pristine nature meets adventure in perfect harmony. Officially renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018, this tropical paradise has earned its reputation as India's premier beach getaway without losing its authentic island charm.

Why Havelock Stands Out:

• Geographic Marvel: 113-square-kilometer island with 7 distinct beaches
• Manageable Tourism: Only 200,000 annual visitors vs. overcrowded mainland beaches
• Marine Excellence: 50+ dive sites with Great Barrier Reef-level biodiversity
• Year-Round Appeal: Perfect weather Nov-Apr, lush green beauty during monsoons
• Easy Access: Just 1.5-2 hours by ferry from Port Blair

What makes your Havelock experience truly special are those unplanned moments – watching bioluminescent plankton light up the waves, discovering a hidden cove during low tide, or sharing sunset stories with fellow travelers from around the world. This guide helps you find both the must-see highlights and those magical off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

 

The Seven Wonders: Havelock's Beach Collection

Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7)

Why It's Famous:

• Time Magazine's "Asia's Best Beach" – and the hype is real
• 2-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand
• Perfect sunset views facing west
• Family-friendly with calm morning waters

Best Times & Activities:

• Morning: Ideal swimming conditions, fewer crowds
• Evening: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for prime spots
• Photography: Golden hour through Mahua trees
• Snorkeling: Northern end where reef approaches shore

Pro Insider Tip: The beach transforms completely throughout the day – morning serenity gives way to sunset spectacle.
 

Elephant Beach: The Adventure Capital

Adventure Central Stats:

• Coral reef just 100 meters from shore
• Accessible by 20-minute boat ride OR 2km forest trek
• Shallow, protected waters perfect for beginners
• Endemic bird spotting opportunities on trek route

Water Sports Menu at Elephant Beach:

• Snorkeling: ₹500-800 (equipment included)
• Scuba diving (beginners): ₹3,500-4,500
• Sea walking: ₹3,000-3,500
• Kayaking: ₹800-1,200 per hour
• Jet skiing: ₹1,000-1,500 for 10 minutes
• Parasailing: ₹2,500-3,500

Choose Your Adventure: Boat for convenience, trek for the complete jungle-to-beach experience.
 

Vijaynagar Beach (Beach No. 5): The Local's Secret

While tourists flock to Radhanagar, savvy travelers head to Vijaynagar Beach for a more authentic island experience. This 3-kilometer stretch offers some of the best value accommodations on the island, with beach shacks and guesthouses literally steps from the water. The northern section provides excellent snorkeling, while the southern end is perfect for romantic evening walks.

The beach's unique selling point is its community vibe – local fishermen still use traditional boats here, and you'll often find impromptu beach volleyball games in the evenings. The shallow waters make it exceptionally safe for swimming, and the sunrise views are arguably the best on the island.
 

Kalapathar Beach: The Photographer's Dream

Named after the distinctive black limestone rocks that punctuate its coastline, Kalapathar Beach offers the most dramatic scenery on Havelock. The contrast between jet-black rocks, pristine white sand, and turquoise waters creates compositions that photographers dream about. This eastward-facing beach is perfect for sunrise shoots and peaceful morning meditation.

The beach remains relatively untouched by commercial activity, making it ideal for picnics and quiet contemplation. The rocky formations also create natural pools during low tide, perfect for children to explore safely.

Best Photography Times:

• Sunrise: 6:00-7:00 AM for dramatic lighting
• Low tide: Natural rock formations and pools exposed
• Golden hour: Late afternoon for warm rock colors

Govind Nagar Beach: The Social Hub

Conveniently located near most hotels and restaurants, Govind Nagar Beach serves as Havelock's social center. While it may lack the pristine beauty of Radhanagar or the adventure quotient of Elephant Beach, it compensates with excellent infrastructure and a vibrant atmosphere. This is where you'll find beach cafes serving fresh seafood, impromptu music sessions, and the island's most reliable Wi-Fi connections.
 

Sitapur Beach: The Early Bird's Reward

Early Bird Rewards:

• Island's most spectacular sunrise at 6:00 AM
• Eastern tip location for unobstructed views
• Complete isolation and serenity
• Best visited November-April for clear weather

Planning Tip: Set that 5:30 AM alarm – the sunrise show is worth losing sleep over.

Krishna Nagar Beach: The Hidden Gem

• 30-minute forest trek OR boat access during high tide
• Largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism
• Complete isolation and pristine natural beauty
• Perfect for meditation and digital detox

Access Challenge: The difficult journey keeps crowds away – exactly what makes it special

Getting to Paradise: Your Journey to Havelock

Flying to Freedom

Your Havelock adventure begins at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. Multiple daily flights connect Port Blair with major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, with flight times ranging from 2-4 hours.

Flight Frequency (High Season: November-April):

• Delhi to Port Blair: 2-3 daily flights
• Mumbai to Port Blair: 1-2 daily flights
• Chennai to Port Blair: 2-3 daily flights
• Kolkata to Port Blair: 1-2 daily flights
• Bengaluru to Port Blair: 1 daily flight

From Port Blair airport, it's a 15-minute taxi ride to Phoenix Bay Jetty, where your island-hopping adventure truly begins.

Ferry Connections: Your Gateway to the Islands

The ferry journey from Port Blair to Havelock is more than just transportation – it's your first taste of Andaman's marine beauty. Multiple ferry services operate daily, with the earliest departure at 6:00 AM and the latest at 2:00 PM, taking approximately 1.5-2.5 hours depending on the vessel.

Private Ferry Operators (Recommended)

Makruzz: The premium choice

• Departures: 8:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM
• Journey time: 1.5-2 hours
• Price range: ₹1,750-2,500
• Features: AC cabin, café, entertainment systems

Nautika: The comfortable middle ground

• Departures: 7:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM
• Journey time: 1.5-2 hours
• Price range: ₹1,400-2,200
• Features: AC seating, refreshment counter

Green Ocean: The reliable workhorse

• Departures: 8:30 AM, 1:30 PM
• Journey time: 2-2.5 hours
• Price range: ₹1,200-1,800
• Features: Standard seating, basic amenities

Government Ferries: Budget-Friendly Option

Government ferries operate daily with morning and evening services, though morning departures may be cancelled on certain days. While cheaper (₹300-500), they're less comfortable and have limited schedules. Book well in advance through the Directorate of Shipping Services counter in Port Blair.
 

Island Hopping Made Easy

Port Blair → Neil Island → Havelock Route: Inter-island connectivity between Neil and Havelock is limited to government ferries with only 5-6 services per week. This makes planning crucial if you want to explore both islands.

Recommended Island Hopping Schedule:

• Day 1-2: Arrive Port Blair, explore local attractions
• Day 3-5: Neil Island (Bharatpur Beach, Natural Bridge)
• Day 6-9: Havelock Island (main beaches, water sports)
• Day 10: Return to Port Blair for departure

Booking Your Ferry Tickets: For hassle-free booking, platforms like trytrabby.com offer comprehensive ferry booking services with real-time availability, instant confirmation, and competitive pricing. They also provide package deals combining accommodation and ferry transfers.
 

Underwater Paradise: Diving and Water Sports

Scuba Diving: Gateway to Another World

Havelock's underwater realm rivals world-famous diving destinations, with visibility often exceeding 40 meters and water temperatures remaining comfortable year-round (26-29°C). Professional dive operators like Frogman and Havelock Divers provide excellent training and safety standards, making underwater exploration accessible even for non-swimmers.

Top Dive Sites:

• The Wall: 25-meter vertical drop with massive schools of fish
• Aquarium: Shallow site perfect for beginners, abundant marine life
• Jackson Bar: Advanced site with strong currents and large pelagics
• Lighthouse: Night diving specialty with bioluminescent creatures
• Nemo Reef: Healthy coral formations and diverse fish species

Certification Courses Available:

• PADI Open Water: ₹18,000-22,000 (3-4 days)
• PADI Advanced Open Water: ₹15,000-18,000 (2-3 days)
• Discover Scuba (No certification): ₹3,500-4,500 (Half day)

Beyond Diving: Surface Water Adventures

Kayaking Through Mangrove Channels: Explore Havelock's hidden creeks and mangrove forests on guided kayaking tours. These eco-friendly excursions offer wildlife spotting opportunities and provide insight into the island's delicate ecosystem. Tours typically last 3-4 hours and cost ₹2,000-2,500 per person.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): The calm lagoons around Havelock provide perfect conditions for SUP. Several operators offer lessons and rentals, with rates starting at ₹800 per hour. Early morning sessions offer the best conditions and stunning sunrise views.

Deep-Sea Fishing: Charter boats are available for half-day and full-day fishing expeditions. Expect to catch tuna, mackerel, red snapper, and if you're lucky, barracuda or queenfish. Rates: ₹8,000-15,000 for full-day charters (including equipment and lunch).
 

Where to Rest Your Head: Accommodation Guide

Luxury Resorts: Ultimate Indulgence

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans

• Accommodation: All-villa property with private villas
• Price Range: ₹35,000-80,000 per night (seasonal variations)
• Signature Features:
  • Clean private beach access and large, fully equipped villas
  • Excellent breakfast spread and awesome high tea for all guests
  • World-class spa and multiple fine dining restaurants
  • Water sports and nature excursions

Barefoot at Havelock

• Philosophy: Eco-luxury jungle resort concept
• Price Range: ₹25,000-50,000 per night
• Unique Selling Points:
  • Tree-top cottages integrated with natural forest
  • Pristine turquoise water and pearly beach access
  • Sustainable tourism practices
  • Organic cuisine and nature-focused activities

Sea Hills Havelock Resort

• Price Range: ₹15,000-30,000 per night
• Star Attraction: KraMuka - fine dining restaurant offering forest-themed dining experience that blends coastal charm with culinary finesse
• Guest Experience: Calm, refreshing atmosphere of this hotel in Havelock Island Andaman surrounded by lush greenery with incredibly polite and welcoming staff
• Features:
  • Modern amenities with nature integration
  • Phenomenal food with every meal full of flavor and beautifully presented
  • Water sports facilities and travel desk
  • Easy beach access

Mid-Range Comfort: Best Value Options

Silver Sand Beach Resort

• Price Range: ₹8,000-15,000 per night
• Perfect For: Families and couples seeking beachfront comfort
• Facilities:
  • Direct beach access with stunning views
  • Swimming pool and multi-cuisine restaurant
  • Bike and scooter rental services
  • Travel assistance and tour bookings

Sea Shell Resort & Spa, Havelock

• Price Range: ₹10,000-18,000 per night
• Dining Excellence: White Lotus fine dining restaurant, High Tide beach-front bar, and Bonova Cafe with live music
• Unique Features:
  • Satiating seafood speciality dinner with live music by talented singer Padmini
  • Beach-front bar for sunset cocktails
  • Comprehensive spa services

TSG Blue Resort & Spa

• Price Range: ₹8,000-16,000 per night
• Appeal: Contemporary design with traditional island hospitality
• Services: Spa treatments, water sports coordination, cultural tours

Budget-Friendly Stays: Authentic Island Experience

Emerald Gecko

• Price Range: ₹2,000-4,000 per night
• Eco-Conscious Choice: Bamboo construction and sustainable practices
• Community Vibe: Social atmosphere perfect for solo travelers and backpackers
• Services: Bike rentals, tour information, basic but clean amenities

Haywizz Havelock

• Standout Feature: Lovely mid-sized hotel with massive swimming pool that's very clean and well maintained
• Price Range: ₹3,000-6,000 per night
• Layout: 2 long buildings of ground plus 1st floor built parallel to each other
• Value: More affordable than most resorts while maintaining quality

Local Guesthouses & Homestays

• Price Range: ₹1,000-3,000 per night
• Authentic Experience: Stay with local families, learn island culture
• Locations: Scattered around Vijaynagar and Krishna Nagar areas
• Benefits: Home-cooked meals, local insights, budget-friendly rates
• Booking: Best arranged through local contacts or upon arrival

Pro Accommodation Tips:

Booking Strategy:

• Peak Season (Nov-Apr): Book 2-3 months advance, prices 40-60% higher
• Shoulder Season (May, Oct): Best deals with good weather
• Monsoon (Jun-Sep): Up to 70% discounts but limited activities

Location Considerations:

• Radhanagar Area: Premium pricing, best sunsets, luxury resorts
• Vijaynagar (Beach No. 5): Best value, local atmosphere, budget options
• Govind Nagar: Central location, restaurants nearby, mid-range choices

Hidden Costs to Consider:

• Ferry transfers not always included in package deals
• Water sports and diving typically extra charges
• Airport transfers from Port Blair (₹500-800)
• Meals may not be included in all packages

Island Adventures Beyond the Beach

Trekking and Nature Exploration

Elephant Beach Trek: Distance: 2 kilometers one way Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 30-45 minutes each way Highlights: Tropical forest, bird watching, beach arrival

This well-maintained trail winds through dense tropical forest, offering opportunities to spot endemic bird species like the Andaman Drongo and Andaman Woodpecker. The path is clearly marked, but hiring a local guide (₹500-800) adds valuable insights about flora and fauna.

Mount Kalapathar Trek: Distance: 4 kilometers round trip Difficulty: Moderate Duration: 2-3 hours total Highlights: Panoramic island views, sunrise/sunset photography, less crowded trails

Starting from Kalapathar Beach, this trek leads to the island's highest accessible point, offering 360-degree views of the Andaman Sea. Best undertaken during early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
 

Cultural Immersion and Local Experiences

Village Walks: Explore the local settlements around Vijaynagar and Krishna Nagar to interact with the island's diverse community. Many residents are descendants of refugees from Bangladesh and Burma, creating a unique cultural blend. Guided village walks (₹1,000-1,500) include traditional lunch and craft demonstrations.

Fishing with Locals: Join local fishermen for traditional night fishing expeditions. These authentic experiences offer insights into traditional fishing methods and the chance to catch your own dinner. Arrange through your accommodation (₹2,000-3,000 per person).
 

Wellness and Relaxation

Ayurvedic Spa Treatments: Several resorts offer authentic Ayurvedic treatments using locally sourced herbs and oils. Popular treatments include:

• Traditional Abhyanga massage: ₹3,000-5,000
• Shirodhara therapy: ₹4,000-6,000
• Herbal steam baths: ₹1,500-2,500

Yoga and Meditation Sessions: Beach yoga sessions are available at most resorts, with some offering specialized wellness retreats. Sunrise yoga at Radhanagar Beach is particularly popular (₹800-1,200 per session).
 

Culinary Journey: Tasting Paradise

Fresh Seafood Specialties

Havelock's dining scene revolves around incredibly fresh seafood, with boats arriving daily with the catch. Must-try dishes include:

• Andaman Fish Curry: Local red snapper in coconut-based curry
• Grilled Lobster: Simply prepared with garlic butter
• Crab Masala: Blue swimmer crab in spicy tomato gravy
• Prawn Tempura: Japanese-influenced preparation popular among tourists
• Barracuda Tandoori: Whole fish marinated in local spices

Top Dining Destinations

Full Moon Café (Radhanagar Beach) Specialties: Wood-fired pizza, fresh seafood, sunset dining Price range: ₹800-2,000 per person Atmosphere: Beachfront location, romantic setting

Anju Coco Resto (Govind Nagar) Specialties: Pan-Asian cuisine, cocktails, live music
Price range: ₹1,200-2,500 per person Atmosphere: Trendy, Instagram-worthy interiors

Something Different (Beach No. 5) Specialties: Continental breakfast, seafood platters, craft beer Price range: ₹600-1,500 per person
Atmosphere: Casual beachside dining, backpacker-friendly

KraMuka SeaHills Specialties: Indian regional cuisines, vegetarian options Price range: ₹400-1,200 per person Atmosphere: Family-friendly, local flavors

Local Food Markets and Street Eats

The small market area near Govind Nagar offers authentic local experiences:

• Fresh fish market (early morning): Select your own catch
• Coconut water stalls: Fresh from the tree (₹30-50)
• Local fruit vendors: Seasonal tropical fruits
• Dosa and idli stalls: South Indian breakfast staples (₹50-150)

Seasonal Planning: When Paradise Calls

Peak Season (November-April): The Golden Months

Weather: Sunny, dry, temperatures 23-30°C Sea conditions: Calm, excellent visibility for diving Pros: Perfect weather, all activities operational Cons: Higher prices, advance booking essential, more crowded

Monsoon Season (May-October): Nature's Fury and Beauty

Weather: Heavy rainfall, temperatures 25-32°C
Sea conditions: Rough seas, limited water sports Pros: Lush green landscapes, dramatic skies, significantly lower prices Cons: Many activities cancelled, ferry cancellations possible

Best Months for Specific Activities:

• Scuba Diving: December-March (best visibility)
• Photography: November-February (clear skies)
• Budget Travel: May-September (lowest prices)
• Wedding/Honeymoon: December-January (most romantic weather)

Essential Travel Tips and Local Insights

Money Matters

• ATMs are available but can run out of cash during peak season
• Carry sufficient cash as many small operators don't accept cards
• Budget approximately ₹3,000-5,000 per day for mid-range travel
• Bargaining is acceptable at local markets but not in established restaurants

Connectivity and Communication

• BSNL and Airtel provide the most reliable network coverage
• Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations but can be slow
• Internet cafes charge ₹100-150 per hour
• Download offline maps before arrival

Health and Safety

• Basic medical facilities available; serious cases require evacuation to Port Blair
• Carry sunscreen (SPF 30+), insect repellent, and basic medications
• Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues
• Be aware of strong ocean currents when swimming

Sustainable Andaman Tourism Practices

• Avoid single-use plastics; carry reusable water bottles
• Don't touch or damage coral reefs while snorkeling/diving
• Respect local customs and dress codes
• Support local businesses and guides
• Follow designated trails during trekking

Packing Essentials

• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
• Waterproof phone case and dry bag
• Quality snorkeling gear (if you have your own)
• Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Underwater camera or GoPro
• Power bank and universal adapter

Creating Your Perfect Havelock Experience

3-Day Itinerary: The Essential Experience

Day 1: Arrive, settle in, explore Radhanagar Beach, sunset viewing
Day 2: Elephant Beach water sports, snorkeling, beach relaxation
Day 3: Kalapathar Beach morning visit, departure preparation
 

5-Day Itinerary: The Explorer Package

Day 1: Arrival, Govind Nagar Beach orientation
Day 2: Radhanagar Beach full day, sunset photography
Day 3: Elephant Beach adventures, water sports extravaganza
Day 4: Vijaynagar Beach, local village exploration, cultural interaction
Day 5: Kalapathar sunrise, last-minute shopping, departure
 

Conclusion 

Havelock Island represents more than just another tropical destination – it's a place where digital detox happens naturally, where the rhythm of waves replaces the tick of clocks, and where adventure and relaxation coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports, serene beach meditation, or simply the joy of discovering untouched natural beauty, Havelock delivers experiences that linger long after your tan fades.

The island's magic lies not just in its stunning beaches or vibrant coral reefs, but in its ability to restore something fundamental that urban life slowly erodes – a sense of wonder, tranquility, and connection with nature. As you plan your 2025 escape to this paradise, remember that the best experiences often come from embracing spontaneity alongside careful planning.

Pack light, arrive with an open heart, and prepare to discover why Havelock Island has quietly become India's most cherished beach destination. The turquoise waters are waiting, the coral reefs are thriving, and your perfect island story is about to begin.

Safe travels, and welcome to paradise.