India boasts diverse all the way from the highest peaks of the Himalayas to the most desolate deserts, but one of the country’s many unique and less known treasures is its 7,500 km coastline. India offers some of the best beaches in the world with pristine, tranquil sunsets, exquisite turquoise waters and thrilling water sports or exhilarating nightlife right next to the beach.
If you’re planning a coastal escape, here’s a list of the Top 10 Beaches in India that you simply can’t miss.
Beaches in India
Discover the top 10 beaches in India you must visit for a sun-soaked getaway filled with relaxation, adventure, and stunning natural beauty.
Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
Radhanagar Beach is frequently listed among the best beaches in Asia and is a beautiful paradise. The beach offers soft, white sand; blue, transparent ocean water; and lush green forests serving as mountains in the background. It’s ideal for swimming, photographers, or those seeking a romantic escape.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing
Palolem Beach, Goa
Palolem Beach is situated in South Goa, famous for its picturesque crescent shape, lively beach shacks and calm waters. Palolem Beach attracts a variety of tourists from both inside and outside India who are looking for a balance of relaxation and entertainment.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Kayaking, dolphin-spotting, silent disco
Varkala Beach, Kerala
Varkala Beach, rising from the red laterite cliffs, is beautiful and sacred. Nearby Papanasam beach is thought to provide a rinse for sins, making it popular with both pilgrims and wellness seekers.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Yoga, Ayurvedic massage, cliffside cafes
Gokarna Beach, Karnataka
Gokarna is the peaceful cousin of Goa. It offers unspoiled natural beauty and spiritual vibes with its nearby temples. Its Om Beach is uniquely shaped like the Hindu symbol ‘Om’, making it a spiritual and scenic marvel.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Trekking, surfing, temple visits
Agonda Beach, Goa
One of the cleanest and quietest beaches in Goa, Agonda is ideal for travelers looking for solitude. With minimal commercialization, it’s perfect for meditation, writing, or just a digital detox.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Activities: Sunbathing, meditation, long walks
Kovalam Beach, Kerala
Kovalam is known for its crescent-shaped coast and well-known lighthouse and is one of the most popular beaches in South India. It has gentle waves, making it appropriate for beginners and professional surfers alike.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Activities: Surfing, parasailing, catamaran rides
Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra
A hidden gem in the Sindhudurg district, Tarkarli is ideal for adventure seekers. It offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling experiences in India thanks to its clear waters and coral reefs.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, houseboat stay
Marina Beach, Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
As one of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach offers a lively blend of culture and recreation. It’s a great spot for early morning walks, local street food, and observing local life.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Activities: Kite flying, horse riding, street food tasting
Puri Beach, Odisha
Puri Beach has the famous Jagannath Temple in proximity, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists. It is also a great spot to see sunrise views and participate in sand art festivals.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Camel rides, temple visits, sand art
Dhanushkodi Beach, Tamil Nadu
Located at the southeastern tip of India, Dhanushkodi Beach is where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean. The haunting beauty of this abandoned town adds a mysterious allure to its pristine shoreline.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Activities: Scenic drives, photography, sightseeing ruins
Conclusion
From fragment of untouched peace of Andaman Islands to the buzz and bustle of Goa, beaches across India offer something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a family on vacation, or a couple on a romantic retreat, there’s a beach waiting for you.