8 best beaches in India
India is a land of beaches that has over 7500 kilometers of sun-drenched coastline with many beautiful, lively and unique beaches. Being a tropical country, all the beaches in India have a temperate to cool climate throughout the year and the water is never too cold for swimming at any time of the year.
Anjuna beach, Goa
This is the original Goa beach for backpackers. This beach is known for its nightlife, seaside shacks, adventure, beach parties, and flea markets. There is never a dull moment on Anjuna. Prior to commercialization, Anjuna was a popular hippie destination in the 60s and retains that vibe even today. This beach is not crowded but has the best nightclubs and restaurants in the city, making it a favorite destination for long-term foreigners visiting Goa.
Varkala beach, Kerala
Varkala is a beach town in the state of Kerala, an hour's drive from the bustling capital Thiruvananthapuram. Situated between rocks with coconut trees on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other, the panorama of this beach is breathtakingly beautiful. This beach is still untouched due to natural rock formations that do not allow any permanent structures to be built on the shore. This Indian beach is known for its laid-back vibe where you can simply relax, go for yoga therapy, indulge in sumptuous seafood, or just go for a dip in the warm waters. You can stay in budget hotels near the beach or in Thiruvananthapuram.
Marari Beach, Alleppey, Kerala
Kerala has many beaches, given the length of the coast of the Arabian Sea. Marari Beach is one of the hidden gems of Kerala. This beach is located in a small fishing village that is untouched by modern commercialization. Marari Beach can be an ideal getaway for those who want to cruise through the backwaters of Kerala and enjoy the beach in one trip.
Kashid Beach, Maharashtra
This sandy beach is a couple of hours drive from Mumbai, with cliffs and forests, beach shacks and tonga rides. Kashid Beach is the perfect getaway with enchanting views, calm waters and serene forest depths. Here you can ride camels or just sit in the shade of the casuarina trees along the beach. Near Kashid Beach there are old island fortresses such as Murud Janjira Fort.
Kavaratti beach, Lakshadweep
Kavaratti Island is the capital of the Lakshadweep Islands in southwestern India. The island's beaches are mostly narrow, but the surrounding lagoons are full of diverse marine life and coral reefs. South of the island's lagoon is best for swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, canoeing, scuba diving and snorkelling. The sparkling white sand of the beach and the quaint beach town vibe make this island a must-visit on your island travel list.
Minicoy Beach, Lakshadweep
It is the southernmost and second largest island of Lakshadweep. The island has a large lagoon which is known for its large strips of coral reefs. Diving and snorkeling are the most popular activities on this island.
The pristine white sands and palm-fringed beach overlooking the azure waters are a sight to behold for anyone lucky enough to visit this island.
Puri Golden Beach, Odisha
Puri is a temple city on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. Golden Puri Beach in Odisha is one of the 10 Blue Flag beaches in India. Unlike the Arabian Sea, swimming in the Bay of Bengal sea is considered risky due to strong currents and powerful waves. Camp on an island in Chilika Lake, a two-hour drive from Puri. This lake is India's largest salt lake and is listed as a Preliminary World Heritage Site.
Mahabalipuram beach, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
This beach south of Chennai is known for its rock-cut sculptures, an 8th-century coastal temple, and thriving surfing from June to September. Ideal for families and backpackers alike, this beach in India offers accommodation for every budget.
It has golden sands and places of interest such as the crocodile beach and the sculpture museum.