Havelock Island Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Plan the perfect trip to Swaraj Dweep — Andaman's crown jewel. From Radhanagar Beach to world-class diving, here's your complete guide to Havelock Island.
Plan Your Havelock TripHow to Reach Havelock Island
By Ferry from Port Blair
Government ferries (₹500-700, 2.5 hrs) and private ferries like Makruzz & Nautika (₹1,200-1,800, 1.5 hrs). Private ferries offer AC seating, smoother rides, and onboard snacks. Government ferries are cheaper but can be crowded. Both depart from Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair.
Book Ferry TicketsBy Helicopter
Limited Pawan Hans helicopter service from Port Blair to Havelock. ₹4,500 one-way, just 30 minutes flight time. Very limited seats available — book months ahead during peak season. Subject to weather conditions and cancellations.
From Neil Island
Direct ferry from Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) to Havelock. Government ferry ₹400-500 (1 hr), private ferry ₹800-1,200 (45 min). Multiple departures daily during peak season, fewer during monsoon months.
Pro Tips for Getting There
Book private ferries 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (October-February). Morning ferries are less crowded and have calmer seas. Carry motion sickness medicine — the sea can be choppy. Arrive at the jetty 45 minutes before departure for check-in.
Best Beaches in Havelock
Havelock is home to some of Asia's finest beaches. Each one has its own character — from award-winning sands to hidden adventure spots.
Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7)
Asia's #1 beach as rated by TIME Magazine. A stunning 2-kilometre stretch of pristine white sand backed by lush tropical forest. Famous for its breathtaking sunset views that paint the sky in shades of orange and pink. No water sports are allowed here — just pure, unspoiled natural beauty. The gentle waves make it perfect for swimming. Lifeguards are on duty until 5 PM. Best time to visit is 4-6 PM for the legendary sunset. Free entry.
Elephant Beach
The adventure hub of Havelock Island. Snorkeling, kayaking, banana boat rides, jet skiing, and glass-bottom boat rides are all available here. The coral reef is just metres from the shore, making it perfect for snorkeling. Reach by boat (₹600 return, 20-minute ride) or trek through the jungle (1.5 km, about 40 minutes one way). The boat ride itself offers beautiful views of the coastline. Best for water sports lovers and adventure seekers.
Kalapathar Beach
Serene and incredibly photogenic. Named after the striking black rock formations (kala pathar means "black rock") that contrast beautifully against the turquoise water and white sand. Early morning visits are magical — watch the sunrise light up the rocks and calm waters. Almost no crowds compared to other beaches. Best for photography enthusiasts and those seeking peaceful morning walks along the shore.
Vijaynagar Beach (Beach No. 5)
A long, uncrowded beach located near the main jetty area. Good for swimming in the calm, shallow waters and perfect for relaxed morning walks. Several budget-friendly stays and guesthouses are located nearby, making it a convenient base for travellers. The beach stretches for over a kilometre with clean sand and gentle waves. Less touristy than Radhanagar but equally beautiful in its own quiet way.
Govindnagar Beach
A quiet, authentic beach near Govindnagar village. Local fishing boats dot the shoreline, creating a charming and photogenic scene especially during early morning when fishermen head out to sea. Much less touristy than the other beaches, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of Havelock islanders. The nearby village has small shops and local eateries serving fresh seafood at very affordable prices.
Top Activities & Adventures
Havelock offers world-class underwater experiences and unique island adventures for every kind of traveller.
Scuba Diving
World-class dive sites including The Wall, Dixon's Pinnacle, and Aquarium. Beginners can try Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) with no prior experience needed. Advanced divers can explore deeper sites with incredible marine biodiversity. PADI certification courses available for those who want to go deeper.
Beginners: ₹3,500-5,000 | Advanced: ₹2,500-3,500 per dive
Learn more →Snorkeling
Best at Elephant Beach and near the Lighthouse area. See colourful clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, and stunning coral gardens teeming with marine life. Equipment is provided — just jump in and explore. Even complete beginners can snorkel comfortably with basic instruction from guides.
₹500-1,500 with equipment
Learn more →Kayaking
Sunset kayaking at Elephant Beach is an absolute must-do experience. Paddle through calm turquoise waters as the sky turns golden. Mangrove kayaking is also available for those who want to explore the island's quieter waterways and spot unique birdlife and marine creatures up close.
₹500-1,500 per hour
Night Kayaking
Bioluminescent kayaking available from November to February. Watch the water glow an ethereal blue-green with every paddle stroke as microscopic plankton light up around your kayak. A truly magical and unforgettable experience unique to the Andaman waters. Best on moonless nights.
₹1,500-2,500 per person
Elephant Beach Trek
A scenic 1.5-kilometre jungle trek from the road to Elephant Beach. Walk through dense tropical forest and spot colourful butterflies, exotic birds, and tropical plants along the way. The trail is relatively easy and well-marked. Carry water and wear good shoes. The reward is arriving at a pristine beach.
Free — just walk!
Deep Sea Fishing
Deep sea fishing tours take you into the open waters around Havelock. Catch your dinner — red snapper, grouper, barracuda, and more — and have it cooked fresh at your hotel or a local restaurant. A unique experience that combines adventure with an incredible meal afterwards.
₹2,000-4,000 per person
Where to Stay in Havelock
Budget
₹500-2,000/night
Zostel Havelock, Havelock Hostel, Mad Hatter Hostel, basic guesthouses and homestays near the village areas.
Best area: Beach No. 5 / Govindnagar
Mid-Range
₹2,000-6,000/night
Havelock Island Beach Resort, Symphony Palms, Sea Shell Havelock. Comfortable rooms with AC, restaurant, and garden views.
Best area: Beach No. 3 / Radhanagar Road
Luxury
₹8,000-25,000/night
Taj Exotica, Barefoot at Havelock, Munjoh Ocean Resort. Private beach access, spa, fine dining, and world-class hospitality.
Best area: Radhanagar Beach area
Booking Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead for peak season (October to February). Off-season rates (June to September) drop by 30-50%. Beach-facing rooms get booked the fastest, so plan early for the best views.
Where to Eat in Havelock
From beachside cafes to local dhabas, Havelock has surprisingly good food for a small island. Fresh seafood is the star of every menu.
Full Moon Cafe
Best pizza and pasta on the island. Laid-back beachside seating with fairy lights and ocean breeze. A favourite among international travellers for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta.
Budget: ₹300-500 per person
Anju Coco
Affordable local Indian food and fresh seafood. Generous portions and consistently good quality. Hugely popular with backpackers and budget travellers for its value-for-money meals.
Budget: ₹150-300 per person
Barefoot Restaurant
Fine dining experience set within the Barefoot resort. Grilled seafood, continental dishes, and expertly crafted cocktails. The ambiance is unmatched — dine under the stars on a wooden deck.
Budget: ₹800-1,500 per person
Something Different
Creative fusion food served in a charming garden setting surrounded by tropical plants. Try the fresh fish curry or the prawn masala — both are outstanding. A hidden gem loved by repeat visitors.
Budget: ₹400-700 per person
B3 (Brewery, Bistro, Bar)
Craft cocktails and wood-fired pizza in a lively atmosphere. The best nightlife spot on the island with music, drinks, and a social vibe. Their signature cocktails use local ingredients.
Budget: ₹500-800 per person
Local Dhabas
Authentic Indian food at unbeatable prices. Head to the dhabas near Govindnagar village for a genuine fish thali with rice, dal, vegetables, and freshly caught fish. The best way to eat like a local.
Budget: ₹100-200 per meal
3-Day Havelock Itinerary
The ideal itinerary to experience the best of Havelock Island without feeling rushed. Adjust based on your interests and pace.
Day 1: Arrive & Sunset at Radhanagar
Arrive at Havelock by morning or afternoon ferry from Port Blair. Check into your hotel or hostel and freshen up. Head to Radhanagar Beach by 3:30-4:00 PM — walk along the 2-km shoreline and find your spot for the legendary sunset. Watch the sky turn from gold to crimson as the sun dips below the horizon. End the evening with dinner at a nearby beach cafe. Try the fresh grilled fish or a seafood platter.
Day 2: Diving, Elephant Beach & Kalapathar
Start your morning with a scuba diving session (book the day before). After an incredible underwater experience, grab lunch and then head to Elephant Beach by boat for an afternoon of snorkeling, kayaking, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. In the late afternoon, visit Kalapathar Beach to unwind — the black rock formations against the turquoise sea make for stunning photographs. End your day with a relaxed dinner.
Day 3: Kayaking, Explore & Depart
Start with an early morning kayaking session — either sunset kayaking at Elephant Beach or mangrove kayaking for a different experience. After breakfast, trek through the jungle trail to Elephant Beach on foot (1.5 km) for a completely different perspective. Visit Vijaynagar Beach for a quiet swim. Pick up souvenirs from the local shops. Catch the afternoon ferry back to Port Blair or continue onward to Neil Island for more island exploration.
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