The short answer
Radhanagar Beach: what visitors should know first
Absolutely, if you are willing to see it on a day trip from Neil Island or stay overnight on Havelock. The reputation is deserved: the water is clear, the sand is fine and the reef is excellent for snorkelling. Go early or after 3 pm to avoid the midday crowds. Swimming and snorkelling are good year-round in the dry season.
Useful facts
Radhanagar Beach facts at a glance
- Location
- Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), roughly 35 km from Port Blair
- Type
- Day trip
- Time needed
- 2 to 4 hours on the beach; ferry 2 hours each way from Neil Island
- Best time
- November to April; morning or late afternoon in any season (before 10 am or after 3 pm) to avoid crowds and heat
Why it matters
Why Radhanagar Beach is worth your time
Radhanagar Beach became famous after being named Best Beach in Asia by TIME magazine in 2004. The ranking elevated it from local treasure to tourist destination overnight. The development of Havelock around Radhanagar—resorts, restaurants, dive schools—followed the beach's fame.
For first-time Andaman visitors, it justifies the journey to the islands. For those chasing a more off-the-beaten experience, it is also a touchstone: seeing what the islands can look like at their most polished helps you appreciate the quieter beaches elsewhere. It is worth visiting, ideally at the edges of the day when the light and solitude are at their best.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Arrive early (6–7 am if possible) to claim a quiet section of the beach before crowds build. The beach is long enough that early arrivals find solitude. Swim in the shallows and snorkel; the reef starts within 50–100 metres of shore depending on the tide. Look for parrotfish, surgeon fish, and the occasional reef shark (harmless to swimmers).
By 10 am the beach is crowded with day-trippers and tour groups. If you prefer quiet, take a break in the early afternoon and return after 3 pm. The late afternoon light is warm and beautiful, and the water is still swimmable until dark. Most operators and tour groups have left by evening.
The one café on the beach (usually open morning to evening) sells basic snacks, soft drinks and instant noodles; bring your own lunch if you want a sit-down meal, or eat at a restaurant in Havelock town (a short ride away).
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go at sunrise or after 3 pm to beat crowds and heat
- Bring your own water and food; the beach café is basic and crowded
- Rent snorkelling gear from shops in Havelock town, not the beach
- Use an underwater camera if you have one; the coral and fish are photogenic
- Wear reef shoes to protect your feet from sharp coral
- The reef can be sharp; check your snorkelling gear for holes
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), roughly 35 km from Port Blair
- Time needed
- 2 to 4 hours on the beach; ferry 2 hours each way from Neil Island
- Best time
- November to April; morning or late afternoon in any season (before 10 am or after 3 pm) to avoid crowds and heat
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The beach is accessible from the road with a short walk. There are few facilities (one café), so bring water. The sand is flat and easy to walk on. Shade is limited; the palm trees do not cover much of the beach. Wading depth is shallow for a long way out, which is good for those who swim slowly.
- Tickets and access
- Beach entry is free. Snorkelling gear hire is available from shops near the beach for roughly 200–400 INR per day. Some operators offer guided snorkelling trips for additional cost.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Radhanagar Beach
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The beach is accessible from the road with a short walk. There are few facilities (one café), so bring water. The sand is flat and easy to walk on. Shade is limited; the palm trees do not cover much of the beach. Wading depth is shallow for a long way out, which is good for those who swim slowly.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Radhanagar Beach worth the hype?
Yes. The water is clear, the sand is fine, the reef is healthy and close to shore, and on a quiet morning it lives up to the reputation.
What time of day is best to visit?
Early morning (before 8 am) or late afternoon (after 3 pm). Midday is crowded and hot.
Can you snorkel here?
Absolutely. The reef is close to shore and holds colourful fish and coral. It is one of the best easy-access snorkelling spots in the Andamans.
Are there facilities on the beach?
One café selling basic food and drinks. No toilets or changing rooms. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
How do you reach Radhanagar from Neil Island?
Ferry from Neil to Havelock (2 hours), then scooter or taxi to Radhanagar Beach (about 20 minutes).
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
