Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island
Radhanagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 7, is a renowned gem nestled in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Revered for its breathtaking beauty, this beach was honored as the best beach in Asia and the 7th best beach in the world by Time Magazine in 2004. In 2016, it was included among the Top 25 beaches in Asia by Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards. With its captivating blend of coconut trees and lush tropical jungle, Radhanagar Beach offers visitors a haven of tranquility and relaxation.
Upon passing through the gate, you’ll be greeted by an awe-inspiring sight. The panoramic view of the sea, adorned with soft white sand stretching as far as the eye can see, instantly uplifts your spirits and instills a sense of rejuvenation. The emerald blue waters gently caress the shore, inviting you to take a refreshing dip.
Numerous huts, benches, and chairs are scattered along the beach, providing perfect spots to unwind, enjoy some snacks, and savor the scenic beauty with family and friends. The beach allows visitors to bring their own food and water inside, allowing for leisurely picnics while the kids frolic in the sand. Don’t miss the double-story hut at the beach’s center, offering a splendid vantage point for capturing stunning photographs.
Unlike many other beaches in Andaman, Radhanagar Beach allows unrestricted swimming. The waves are moderate, and the sea gradually deepens, making it a safe and enjoyable place to frolic in the ocean with loved ones. Lifeguards stationed on the beach ensure the safety of visitors and promptly assist in case of any emergencies.
While swimming is encouraged, it’s essential to exercise caution and avoid venturing too far into the sea. Staying within a 10-meter distance from the shoreline is recommended, as the water currents and waves become slightly rough beyond that point.
General Information and Tips:
- Visitors are not allowed to stay on the beach after a specific time.
- Radhanagar Beach is also referred to as Beach Number 7, situated in the Radhanagar Village area.
- Swimming is prohibited within a 50-meter radius on both sides of the beach.
- The beach boasts clear waters without any coral formations.
- Paid showers are available at a nominal cost of INR 10.
- Lockers can be rented for the day at INR 10.
Things to Do at Radhanagar Beach:
Swimming:
Swimming at Radhanagar Beach is a delightful and safe experience, with lower chances of encountering crocodiles due to the vigilant forest department’s surveillance. The absence of rocks and corals makes it an ideal spot for swimming. While adults can venture a bit deeper, it’s advisable to remain within the 10-meter radius. Children are encouraged to play closer to the shoreline for added safety.
Sunset:
Radhanagar Beach offers a mesmerizing view of the open sea, making it one of the best spots on Havelock Island to witness breathtaking sunsets. The vast expanse of the horizon, coupled with clear blue waters and lush greenery, creates a truly enchanting scene. Plan to arrive at the beach well before the sunset (around 5:30 PM) to secure a comfortable spot for your family and friends to enjoy this magical moment.
Trek:
Strolling along the right and left sides of the beach is a delightful experience. The dense rainforest on one side and the expansive sea on the other create an atmosphere of wonder and tranquility. On the right side, you can trek approximately 1.3 kilometers through the beach and jungle to reach Neil’s Cove lagoon, offering an excellent opportunity to capture lasting memories.
How to Reach Radhanagar Beach:
The beach is located 10.8 kilometers from the Havelock Island jetty and can be conveniently reached via the SH4 road, which passes through open areas and jungles. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation. Here are the available options:
Bus:
Government-owned A/C and Non-A/C buses run from the jetty to Radhanagar Beach. Buses start departing from the jetty at 6:20 AM and continue throughout the day, providing frequent rides. Non-A/C buses charge INR 30, while A/C buses cost INR 50.
Prebooked Cabs:
Prebooking a cab is recommended for comfort and convenience. The cab fare from the jetty to Radhanagar Beach is approximately INR 1500 for A/C and INR 1200 for Non-A/C, covering the entire round trip, including waiting time. The journey usually takes around 18 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can find cabs waiting near the jetty and negotiate a price of around INR 1700 for a direct trip to the beach.
Rental Scooter:
Renting a scooter is an excellent option for small families and individuals, as it offers a more immersive view of the surroundings during the journey. The typical rental cost for a scooter is around INR 500 for the whole day, with petrol to be purchased separately. Ensure you have an offline map of the island and leave Radhanagar Beach before dark, as streetlights and shops are scarce.
Numerous rental bike shops are available on Havelock Island, with “Bike Renting” being one of the closest options, situated around 160 meters away from the jetty. You can take their contact information and rent a bike after reaching your hotel.
Shared Jeep:
For those seeking an affordable transportation option, shared jeeps and cabs are available to and from the beach, charging around INR 50 for the journey from the jetty to Radhanagar Beach. These shared jeeps can be found near the jetty and do not follow specific timings. You can also find them outside the beach area until 6 PM. Although faster than buses, shared jeeps might get a bit crowded as they are commonly used by locals to travel around the island.
Nearby Places to Explore:
Elephant Beach:
Situated just 2.2 kilometers from Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach is considered the water sports hub of Havelock Island. You can reach the beach either by boat or by trekking through the nearby forest. Here, you can indulge in various water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, glass-bottom boat rides, and sea walking, making it an ideal destination for fun and adventure.
The best part is that with proper planning, you can easily visit both Radhanagar and Elephant Beach in a single day.
Distance From Other Major Attractions:
Havelock Jetty to Radhanagar Beach: 10.8 KMs Radhanagar Beach to Kalapathar Beach: 6.3 KMs
Hotels and Resorts near Radhanagar Beach:
Taj Exotica:
A mere 43 meters away from the beach, Taj Exotica is a luxurious 5-star resort that sets new standards among Havelock Island’s hotels. Covering 46 acres, the resort offers premium independent rooms with breathtaking views of the beach. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of cuisines and includes an attached bar. With facilities like an in-house spa and an outdoor Olympic-length swimming pool, Taj Exotica provides an unforgettable stay experience.
Rooms Start From: INR 29,000/-
Dreamland Resort:
Popular among families and solo travelers, Dreamland Resort offers budget-friendly accommodations located just 270 meters from Radhanagar Beach. The resort features small bamboo hut-style rooms with both A/C and Non-A/C options, each with an attached bathroom. The open-air restaurant on the terrace serves a selection of cuisines. Dreamland Resort provides a decent stay without breaking the bank.
Rooms Start From: INR 1,000/-
TSG Blue:
Situated 600 meters from Radhanagar Beach, TSG Blue is a 3-star hotel exuding a vintage charm. The premium wooden rooms offer a delightful ambiance, surrounded by lush green forest, and the beach is just a 7-minute walk away, ensuring a peaceful retreat. The hotel also features a swimming pool and an indoor restaurant, enhancing the overall stay experience at an attractive price range.
Rooms Start From: INR 7,000/-
Blue Ocean Resort:
Blue Ocean Resort is a budget-friendly option just 600 meters from Radhanagar Beach. This 2-star hotel offers cozy, independent, wooden rooms equipped with basic amenities for a comfortable stay. The resort also houses an in-house restaurant, that delivers food straight to your room. The beach is within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy long hours of relaxation and swimming. Overall, a decent place to stay without straining your budget.
Rooms Start From: INR 2,000/-
Barefoot Jungle Resort:
Nestled 1.3 kilometers from Radhanagar Beach, Barefoot Jungle Resort offers a unique stay experience for nature enthusiasts. Embraced by the tranquility of the jungle, far from city noises, the resort immerses guests in the soothing sounds of the forest and chirping birds. The cottage-style independent rooms come without TV or WiFi, encouraging guests to fully appreciate the surrounding nature. An open-type restaurant allows you to relish meals with your loved ones under the cool evening breeze. A perfect staycation for nature lovers.
Rooms Start From: INR 14,000/-
Nearby Restaurants:
The Mohwa:
Situated within the beach area, The Mohwa is a wooden hut-style restaurant, located approximately 170 meters from the beach. The restaurant serves Indian cuisine and seafood in an open seating area on the first floor. While the food might be a bit greasy, it provides a good spot for a quick bite.
A meal for two costs around INR 600.
Turtle House:
Located 400 meters from Radhanagar Beach, Turtle House – Global Grill Restaurant is a part of Taj Exotica and offers high-quality, mouth-watering food from various cuisines. The restaurant boasts wooden interiors with comfortable sofa-style shared seating that complements the meal in every way. Turtle House is the best choice for an upscale dining experience, worth spending a bit extra.
A meal for two costs around INR 1,200.
The Blue Cafe:
The Blue Cafe, situated 700 meters from the beach, offers excellent refreshments and decent food. While it might not be ideal for a full meal, the restaurant is a good option if you are looking for tea, soft drinks, or snacks.
A meal for two costs around INR 300.
