Havelock Island Complete Guide: Best Beaches, Resorts & Things to do

Havelock Island is off the coast of the Andaman Sea, yet it is one of the most beautiful beaches. Every year, thousands of tourists visit here for the white beaches, crystal clear blue sea, and to enjoy a whole list of water sports.

You can also call it as a scuba diver’s paradise, as beaches like Radhanagar and Elephant Beach draw attention to adventure seekers as much as those who just wanted to chill and enjoy in their luxury resorts. 

Each beach has a feel to it, some are full of people while some are super quiet. Radhanagar Beach has been rated as among the very best beaches in Asia, while Elephant Beach is the place to go if you’re into snorkeling or water sports.

There is also the Kalapathar Beach, still quiet and highly famous among travelers for sunsets. You just sit there and watch the magical colors change in the sky.

Traveling to Havelock? From budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, there is something to suit you all. You could do adventure activities such as water sports, fishing and kayaking, or just hops around the islands and enjoy its beauty.

Overview of Havelock Island

Havelock Island is approximately 39 km northeast of Port Blair and covers an area of 113 square km. It’s one of the most populated islands among the Andaman group.

In 2018, the name was changed to Swaraj Dweep by the government. It is open throughout the year, however, some months have significantly better weather than others.

How to Reach Havelock Island?

You can reach Havelock only via boat from Port Blair. You can hover over any daily government ferries that are managed by the Directorate of Shipping Services.

Tickets may be booked either at Common Service Centres or the Phoenix Bay Jetty around Port Blair. It takes approximately 2-3 hours traveling on the ferry, depending on the boat and its speed.

Speedboats and private boats are also there, but they are costly. When you arrive at the Havelock Jetty, you can pick taxis or auto-rickshaws to your hotels.

Roads on the island are nicely maintained and connect to all the main beaches as well as villages. You can rent a scooter, pick up a tourist taxi, or get into a shared jeep if your budget is tight.

History and Renaming as Swaraj Dweep

It was so named after the British general, Sir Henry Havelock. It has been called Havelock Island by people since ages.

Later, in December 2018, the government of India decided to change the name of a group of islands. Havelock was now called “Swaraj Dweep” which means “self-rule island” in Hindi.

However, the locals and the tour operators still use Havelock’s names.

Best Time to Visit Havelock Island

High season is from November to mid-May. The largest crowds are seen during December to March. 

1. Peak Season (December-March)

• Sunny skies and calm waters
• Ideal spot for diving and water sporting
• Hotel prices shoot up
• Book ahead your stay

2. Good Season (Nov, Apr-May)

• Less busy than the peak season
• Excellent weather still for most activities
• It is easier to find hotel discounts

3. Monsoon Season (June-September)

• A lot of rain and restless sea
• Most of water activities are get cancelled
• Low-cost hotels
• Several ferries are get canceled

5 Best beaches on Havelock Island

Havelock has five major beaches, each one is known for its own diversity and activities. 

1. Radhanagar Beach Highlights

Radhanagar Beach is ranked as the 7th best beach globally and the best in India. White sand stretches as far as the eyes can see along with turquoise blue waters.

It is also known for its sunset. You can visit around 3:00 PM to see the sunset. You can enjoy sunbathing and swimming nearly the entire year (except that of monsoon season).

Recommended activities include:

• Swimming across the calm water
• Snapping sunset photos
• Long and steady strolls on the beach
• Sunbathing among the palms

It has very little facility, so be ready to carry your towel, sunscreen, etc. Barefoot Resort and TAJ Exotica Resort are close by if you want to spend time and money there.

They sell snacks and fresh coconuts. It becomes full during the high season, yet there is room where everyone can spread out.

2. Elephant Beach Expedition

Elephant Beach is where you’ll find all the water sports. The 2004 tsunami changed the shoreline, but now there are a series of old trees that make the place feel kind of mystical.

Popular water sports include:

• Jet skiing
• Banana boat rides
• Parasailing
• Scuba diving
• Snork

The beach is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. Water activities are fun during the period of October to May.

You can reach Elephant Beach either by boat or a short trek through the jungle. Coral reefs are filled with vibrant fishes as well as, occasionally, sea turtles.

Paddle-ski renting companies will supply the kit for your water activity. However, prices differ throughout the season, so book up front if you can.

3. Vijay Nagar Beach Charm

Vijay Nagar Beach is about those golden sunrises and calm mornings. The beach goes on for more than a mile, and the waters are calm that makes it a great place for a swim.

Go early because afternoons do get pretty hot. Good for photos or just some me time.

Main features:

• Long, pristine sand
• Gentle waves swimming pools
• Spectacular sunrise vistas
• Loads of beachfront resorts

Sandy Waves Beach Resort and Munjoh Ocean Resort are high class. If you’re on a budget, Aroma Resorts or Greenwood Beach Resort work well.

This beach is also less crowded than Radhanagar, so it is recommended as a place for couples or those who value their privacy. Food stalls sell fresh sea food, cold beers, and the prawns.

4. Kala Pathar Beach

Kala Pathar Beach is known for its black rocks that are scattered over the white sand and blue sea. If you want to take a walk, there are still more quiet spots in the jungle. 

What to expect:

• Black rock formation
• Soft, white beach
• Clear waters for a swim
• Peaceful picnic spots

You can even swim to watch out for rocks and coral. Umbrellas and chairs are available during the peak season. They offer coconuts and occasional mango juice. 

Silver Sands Beach Resort is the pricey choice, while the Green Valley Resort is the cheaper option.

The beach is open between 6 AM and 5 PM. Food is also restricted, so it would be best to pack some snacks as a precaution.

5. Govind Nagar Beach

Govind Nagar Beach is popular among scuba diving enthusiasts, as Nemo Reef lies just off the beach. Coral reefs here are densely populated, so this place is a must among underwater enthusiasts.

It’s best to dive and snorkel early in the morning because of quiet and peace. Various dive shops offer instruction to newcomers as well as experienced divers.

Diving highlights:

• Vibrant coral gardens
• Tropical fish everywhere
• You can spot sea turtles
• Very clear underwater vision

It is great during low tide, as there is no better place than this during beach walks and exploring the pools. Shallow pools are ideal where kids can play.

Luxury resorts are Aquays Hotels & Resorts and Gold Star Beach Resort. Budget resorts are Pano Eco Resort and Royal Pearl Beach Resort.

Best Resorts and Places to Stay

Havelock’s offers something for each budget category. Top-end resorts are nearly all beach-based, allowing easy access to spa services as well as water sporting facilities.

1. Luxury Resorts on Havelock

The top in the list is the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, which is located on 46 acres at Radhanagar Beach. Villas are stunning, as are numerous restaurants and world-class spas.

There’s also an outdoor pool, a gym, as well as direct access to one of Asia’s best beaches. It’s the sort of place that you don’t want to leave.

Symphony Palms Beach Resort and Spa is also a pretty good high-end alternative. Good rooms along with a spa that gets positive word-of-mouth.

Luxury resorts usually feature:

• Private beach areas
• Several restaurants and bars
• Full-service spas
• Sports on the waterways

Be ready to pay anything from ₹16,000-40,000 a night during the high season. Pre-booking is advised, especially if your vacation time falls between October and April.

2. Budget- Friendly Mid-Range Options

Silver Sand Beach Resort offers a great value, with beachfront rooms and plenty to offer families. It has a pool, spa, and multiple rooms, including suites that fit families.

Sea Shell Resort & Spa is within walking distance to the ferry terminal, so it’s very handy. Ocean vistas, an on-site spa, and beach access are the big sell.

Blue Bird Resort Vijay Nagar Beach boasts attractive gardens and friendly personnel. It is also close to the mainstream beaches, so getting around is easy.

Munjoh Ocean Resort, Beach No. 5, is the ultimate in private beach access and garden chalets. Personal service and the diving centre make it that little bit special.

Mid-range resorts typically offer:

• AC rooms
• Swimming pools
• On-site dining
• Guides or help during tours
• WiFi 

It costs between ₹6,500-16,000 a night, depending on the season and category.

3. Budget and Unique Accommodations

Traveling on a budget, guesthouses and budget resorts will usually start from ₹2,500-6,500 per night. These accommodations usually come with the basics like air conditioning and a bathroom, which is all you’re honestly gonna want after travelling all day.

Barefoot at Havelock is located next to Radhanagar Beach and has a very cool eco-friendly atmosphere. They provide forest surroundings as well as plenty of nature-based activities.

In the locally-based Guesthouses of Govind Nagar, a slice of real island living is offered. They also rent bikes and help plan your trip.

Beach huts and ecolodges are a unique alternative. These are about being close to nature—the rooms won’t be luxury ones, but the experience will be something to hold dear.

Budget remains typically include:

• Small, clean rooms
• Shared or private bathrooms
• Local food options
• Bike rental
• Booking assistance for tours

List of Adventures and Activities in Havelock Island

Havelock Island is also a hub for underwater activities. Its reefs are genuinely some of the best in Asia, and there’s everything from mangrove kayaking to forest trekking among rare birds.

1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The water is transparent, so Havelock is among India’s premier diving spots. Nemo Reef, Barracuda City, and Turtle Bay Beach are globe-class dive sites.

Never attempted any diving before? No worries. Beginners courses are available with PADI-licensed dive-masters. We’ve more dive shops and licensed guides here than anywhere else on the Andamans.

Popular dive sites:

• Nemo Reef: Good for beginners
• Barracuda City: Experienced divers see large schools of big fish
• Seduction Point: Coral gardens and sea fans

It will cost you a minimum ₹6,500 for scuba diving. It costs around ₹3,500 to go snorkeling to Elephant Beach.

2. Kayaking and Water SportsKayaking

Kayaking here among the mangroves is a prime activity. You will kayak through forests that make up a fifth of India’s mangrove reserve. Early morning and sunset are best if you want to spot some wildlife.

Night kayaking is absolute magic. The glow comes from small bioluminescent organisms.

Elephant Beach is the prime activity place for water activities. Jet-skiing begins at ₹800 for a few rounds.

Popular water activities:

• SeaKart adventures (₹3,700)
• Parasailing (₹3,500)
• Banana boat rides (₹500-1,000)
• Sea walking (₹3,500)

Parasailing offers a bird’s-eye view of the entire coast. Book your activities in advance if it’s peak season, or you may regret it.

3. Coral Reef Exploration

Havelock’s reefs play host to more than 200 species of coral and an insane amount of fish. Glass bottom boat tours are ideal if you cannot swim but would still like to see the underwater scene.

Elephant Beach contains the most diverse corals. Soft corals here make the bottom of the sea look like a garden.

Marine life highlights:

• Parrotfish and angelfish
• Sea turtles (if your luck holds up and it’s the season)
• Moray eels hiding in coral cracks
• Giant sea clams and sea fans

Snorkelling equipment is available at each of the major beaches. Guided tours enable you to identify and see various fish and corals.

Ideal times to go: Mornings are generally the calmest and clearest. Afternoons may cause winds to agitate the water, making it murky.

4. Hiking and Nature Walks

The 1.8-kilometer walk to Elephant Beach takes you through thick tropical jungles. It’s a 20-30 minute walk from Radhanagar beach. You will trek through massive Garjan trees and dense jungle vegetation.

Kalapathar Beach Forest Trek is easier and goes along the coast. It’s perfect if you are travelling with children. The Char Naarial Trek is reserved for serious hikers and you must have legitimate permits. 

Safety guidelines:

• Take short walks under 2 hours long.
• Get police permit to undertake longer treks
• Never go into the prohibited forest regions
• Beware of snakes, especially on rainy days

5. Bird Watching Hotspots

More than 150 bird species live within Havelock due to the mixed habitats. Mangroves are where you are most likely to see the rare ones.

Kayaking during the early morning through mangroves is great to spot kingfishers, herons, as well as egrets.

Best birding spots:

• Mangrove tidal creeks near Elephant Beach
• Forest fringes around beach paths
• Govind Nagar Beach wetlands

Common birds you’ll see:

• White-bellied sea eagle
• Collared kingfishers
• Pacific reef herons
• Andaman woodpeckers

Bring binoculars if you have them. The early morning hours are best for birdwatching, before the island wakes up.

6. Unique Flora and Flora

Mostly the interior of Havelock is wrapped up with thick tropical jungles. Garjan trees dominate the landscape above the rest, their roots appearing like they belong to a fantasy film.

Mangroves such as Avicennia and Rhizophora exhibit wild, knotty root systems. These areas are richly inhabited by mudskippers and crabs.

Wildlife you might spot:

• Hermit crabs on every beach 
• Monitor lizards in the forests 
• Spreading Wings (giant flying-fox bats) during sunset. 
• Coconut crabs if you’re very lucky—they’re seldom seen and only venture out during nighttime.

They range from rare orchids to sea-hardened coastal shrubs that survive the saline air as well as sandy soils.

Beach morning glories hold the sand in place. Casuarina trees line most used beaches and offer necessary shade. 

Island Exploration and Transportation From Havelock Island

Havelock is an excellent hub from where you can reach other Andaman Islands. You can sail over to Neil Island to see some coral reefs or check out Port Blair to learn some history.

1. Traveling to Neil Island

Traveling Neil Island is just around 20 km. It is smaller in size and less populated than Havelock, yet the reefs and beaches are first-class. It takes about half an hour to ride on the boat. 

Neil Island’s best beaches: 

• Bharatpur Beach: Great for swimming and coral spotting 
• Laxmanpur Beach: Sunset views here are unreal 
• Sitapur Beach: Sunrise point if you’re an early riser.

It is a shallow garden, so there is no need to go too far into the water to watch colorful fish and coral. 

Most visitors go to Neil Island as a day tour, starting with a morning boat and are held back with an evening boat. There are a couple of very basic restaurants and shops if you want something to eat.

2. Exploring Port Blair

Port Blair is the Andaman’s capital, as well as the most frequent entry point to Andaman. 

Headline attraction is the Cellular Jail. It once imprisoned freedom fighters during the British period, and it now houses a museum. It is unexpectedly emotional during the evening light and sound presentation. 

Additional must-visit places: 

• Ross Island: Previously the British HQ, now scattered with ruins and deer 
• Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Premier beach location in Port Blair 
• Anthropological Museum: Cool exhibits about the local tribes 
• Samudrika Marine Museum: On any geek’s must-visit marine life list

Port Blair has more shopping and eating opportunities than any island. Aberdeen Bazaar is where you can shop for local crafts and handicrafts. 

3. One-Day Trips Around Nearby Islands

There are some lesser islands off Havelock that offer fantastic day excursions. However, you need to book early through a local tour operator. 

Barren Island is home to India’s only active volcano. You cannot land in boats, although you will be close enough to spot the smoldering crater. It’s costly, around ₹25,000 a person. 

Red Skin Island is famous for uncrowded beaches as well as fantastic snorkeling. Reefs are also less inhabited than the most famous locations.

Inglis Island is peaceful and quiet. Nobody inhabits this place, so there are your vacant beaches where you can go on a picnic, swim, or sunbathe.