Havelock Island: Complete Travel Guide & Best Beaches

Introduction to Havelock Island

Havelock Island (now renamed to Swaraj Dweep) is the premier beach destination in Andaman Islands. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving spots, Havelock Island is a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Getting to Havelock Island

• Ferry from Port Blair: 1.5-2 hours journey
• Ferry Frequency: Multiple daily departures
• Ferry Cost: Rs. 400-600 per person (economy), Rs. 800-1000 (business)
• Helicopter Option: 30 minutes flight from Port Blair
• Booking: Advance booking recommended during peak season

Best Beaches of Havelock Island

Radhanagar Beach

• Asia's best beach (voted by international publications)
• White sand and turquoise waters
• Sunset views are spectacular
• Gentle waves, safe for swimming
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon

Elephant Beach

• Named after elephant statues nearby
• Water sports hub - diving, snorkeling, parasailing
• Jungle trekking accessible from beach
• Coral gardens perfect for snorkeling
• Adventure activities available

Kalapathar Beach

• Unique black sand beach
• Excellent sunset and sunrise point
• Geological formations and rock formations
• Less crowded than other beaches
• Photography enthusiasts' favorite

Vijayanagar Beach

• Peaceful and quiet beach
• Good for swimming and relaxation
• Small beach with few crowds
• Limited commercial activity

Water Sports and Activities

Scuba Diving

• World-class diving destination
• PADI certification courses available
• Open water dives (beginners welcome)
• Advanced dives for experienced divers
• Best sites: Reef Ledge, Lighthouse, Barracuda City

Snorkeling

• Accessible without certification
• Coral reefs at shallow depths
• Marine life viewing opportunity
• Equipment rental available at beaches

Other Activities

• Parasailing and jet skiing
• Glass-bottom boat tours
• Island hopping
• Fishing trips
• Jungle trekking
• Kayaking

Where to Stay

Luxury Resorts

• Taj Exotica - beachfront luxury
• Barefoot at Havelock - exclusive resort
• Angsana Laguna Resorts - premium amenities

Mid-Range Hotels

• Fortune Resort Bay Island
• Peerless Resort
• Sumitra Residence
• Blue Fin

Budget Accommodations

• Guest houses and homestays
• Budget hotels and hostels
• Reasonably priced options

Food and Dining

Seafood Specialties

• Fresh fish and prawns
• Crab and lobster dishes
• Traditional curry preparations
• Grilled seafood specialties

Restaurants

• Resort restaurants with ocean views
• Local seafood shacks
• Beach-side cafes
• Fine dining options at luxury resorts

Shopping and Souvenirs

• Shell handicrafts and jewelry
• Coconut products
• Local artwork and paintings
• Tribal art and crafts
• Clothes and beach wear

Suggested Itinerary (3-4 Days)

Day 1

• Ferry from Port Blair to Havelock
• Check-in at resort
• Explore nearby beach
• Dinner at resort

Day 2

• Morning: Radhanagar Beach and swimming
• Afternoon: Rest or water sports
• Evening: Sunset watching

Day 3

• Scuba diving or snorkeling trip
• Coral reef exploration
• Marine life viewing

Day 4

• Elephant Beach visit
• Optional activities (parasailing, jungle trek)
• Ferry back to Port Blair

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season: November-February
• Moderate Season: March-May
• Avoid: June-September (monsoon)

Budget Planning (Per Person)

• Ferry: Rs. 400-600
• Accommodation: Rs. 1,500-10,000/night
• Food: Rs. 500-2,000/day
• Activities: Rs. 2,000-5,000

Travel Tips

• Book ferry in advance, especially peak season
• Carry sunscreen and water
• Bring camera for stunning photos
• Book diving courses ahead
• Respect marine conservation efforts
• Arrange water sports through resort