India’s 7,500 km coastline attracts beach lovers and tourists from India and abroad. However, the increase in tourism and inadequate waste management has led to pollution in many beaches. This article explores the most beautiful and clean beaches in India.
India’s coastal charm
India attracts tourists with diverse landscapes, including hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, deserts, and beaches. The beaches, spanning 7,517 km, are perfect for summer vacations, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views, sea breezes, and water sports.
We often leave beaches sullied in our quest to enjoy them. The Blue Flag certification, a globally recognized eco-label, maintains environmental standards. Awarded by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE) in Denmark, it requires beaches to meet criteria related to environmental protection, education, safety, and accessibility. The program promotes sustainability in tourism through environmental education and practices.
India has 12 Blue Flag-certified beaches. These include Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach in Lakshadweep, Golden Beach (Puri) in Odisha, Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman Islands, Rushikonda Beach in Andhra Pradesh, Kappad Beach in Kerala, Kasarkod and Padubidri Beaches in Karnataka, Kovalam Beach in Tamil Nadu, Eden Beach in Puducherry, Ghogla Beach in Diu, and Shivrajpur Beach in Gujarat. They demonstrate how environmental sustainability and tourism can coexist.
Top Beaches in India
Here’s a closer look at some of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in India, each offering a unique experience:
Bangaram Beach, Lakshadweep
Bangaram Beach is a 120-acre island destination, surrounded by coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. It’s known for its lush coconut plantations, diverse wildlife, and activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and under-sea fishing.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Agatti Aerodrome. Air India offers daily flights from Bangalore, with a stopover in Kochi. From Agatti, a boat will take you to Bangaram Beach.
Ranpar Beach, Ratnagiri (Maharashtra)
Ranpar Beach in Maharashtra is known for its clean shores and serene environment. It’s ideal for a quiet retreat, away from the crowds. The limited water sports, refreshing air, and tranquil setting make it a perfect weekend getaway for Mumbai and Pune residents.
How to Reach: Pune is well-connected by rail, road, and air. The train journey from Pune to Ratnagiri takes around 9.5 hours. From Ratnagiri, local transport will take you to Ranpar Beach.
Radhanagar Beach, Andaman Islands
Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is renowned for its untouched beauty and is often referred to as the most stunning beach in the Andaman Islands. It offers a perfect blend of blue seas and white sands, surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene and breezy environment.
How to reach: Fly to Port Blair and take a 2-hour ferry to Havelock Island. Local transport is available to Radhanagar Beach.
Dhanushkodi Beach, Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu)
Dhanushkodi Beach, at the southeastern tip of Pamban Island in Rameswaram, is a lesser-known treasure. The beach, known as Arichal Munai, offers stunning views of the vast ocean meeting the sandy shorelines. The clean waters and visible coral reefs make it a paradise for surfers and nature enthusiasts.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Madurai. You can also reach Madurai by bus or train and then drive or hire a taxi to Dhanushkodi.
Tarkarli Beach, Malvan (Goa)
Tarkarli Beach, along the Konkan coastline, is famous for its clear waters and scenic beauty, perfect for water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat rides. The peaceful Karli River backwaters add to the beach’s charm, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed holiday.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Dabolim, Goa, 80 km away. The closest railway station is Kudal, 45 km from the beach.
Marari Beach, Kerala
Marari Beach is a tranquil destination perfect for unwinding. The beach is known for its serene environment and offers beach volleyball, fresh seafood, and luxurious resorts. It’s also an excellent place to experience Kerala’s backwaters while living sustainably.
How to Reach: Buses and taxis are available from Cochin and Alleppey. The nearest airport is Kochi, and the closest railway station is Alleppey.
Chandrabhaga Beach, Puri (Odisha)
Chandrabhaga Beach is a haven for nature lovers, known for its pristine beauty and cultural significance. The beach hosts the annual Chandrabhaga Mela to honor Lord Surya and has been awarded the Blue Flag Certification for its cleanliness and environmental standards. It’s best to visit the beach in February, October, November, and December.
How to Reach: Puri is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The beach is 31 km from Puri, with Konark just 3 km away.
India’s beaches showcase the country’s natural beauty and diversity. These beaches have it all, whether it’s adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience you’re after. As responsible travellers, we must keep these beaches clean and preserve their beauty for future generations. The Blue Flag-certified beaches in India set a benchmark for others to follow.
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