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The coastal beaches in India are more than just stretches of sand. Some lie beneath towering cliffs, while others extend endlessly with golden shores. Along the coast, fishing boats rest on the shores, seafood stalls serve fresh catches, and local traditions shape everyday life. At the same time, busy beach towns create a lively atmosphere, whereas hidden shores offer a quieter escape. From sunrise over the Bay of Bengal to sunset along the Arabian Sea, each beach has its own atmosphere and appeal.
10 Best Coastal Beaches In India
Here are the best coastal beaches in India, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying stunning views of the sea:
1. Radhanagar Beach
Radhanagar Beach, often considered one of the most breathtaking coastal beaches in India, is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters that stretch as far as the eye can see. Towering trees provide ample shade, creating a perfect retreat after a refreshing swim in the gentle waves. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of golden and pink hues, making it a spectacular sight. For those who enjoy underwater exploration, nearby Elephant Beach presents an excellent snorkelling opportunity, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life create a mesmerising underwater world.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Major Attractions: Kalapathar Beach, Chidiya Tapu, Ross Island, Baratang Island
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
2. Agonda Beach
Agonda Beach, a stark contrast to Goa’s bustling party hubs, offers a serene escape with its expansive golden shoreline lined with swaying palm trees and rustic beach huts. Unlike the crowded shores of North Goa, this peaceful retreat allows visitors to truly connect with nature. The calm waves make it an inviting spot for swimmers, while beginner surfers can enjoy gentle swells perfect for practice. Local fishermen bring in fresh catches daily, and beachfront cafés serve delicious seafood dishes infused with traditional Goan flavours. Those lucky enough may even spot dolphins swimming gracefully just offshore, adding an element of surprise to this already enchanting destination.
Location: Agonda, Goa 403702
Major Attractions: Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Cabo de Rama Beach, Galgibaga Beach, St. Alex Church
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim)
Nearest Railway Station: Canacona Railway Station
3. Bangaram Beach
Photo: Aryan R / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Situated on an uninhabited island in Lakshadweep, Bangaram Beach is one of the most pristine coastal beaches in India, with powdery white sand and a turquoise lagoon that looks almost too perfect to be real. The beach is surrounded by a vibrant coral reef teeming with marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts. With visitor numbers strictly limited, Bangaram remains remarkably untouched, ensuring an atmosphere of tranquillity that is increasingly rare in more commercialised coastal destinations. After sunset, the shoreline occasionally glows with bioluminescent plankton, creating an almost magical experience as the waves shimmer under the moonlight.
Location: Bangaram island, Lakshadweep 682553
Major Attractions: Bangaram Atoll, Suheli Par, Minicoy Island, Kadmat Island
Nearest Airport: Agatti Airport
4. Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach is unlike most coastal beaches in India, as it is uniquely positioned below dramatic red cliffs that rise 15 meters above the Arabian Sea. This stunning landscape creates a breathtaking contrast between the golden sands below and the lush greenery atop the cliffs. A paved walkway along the cliffside is lined with boutique shops, yoga studios, and open-air cafés serving fresh seafood, all while offering panoramic views of the ocean. Certain sections of the beach hold religious significance, as devotees come to bathe in the natural springs believed to have healing properties.
Location: Kerala
Major Attractions: Ponnumthuruthu Island, Anjengo Fort, Golden Island, Chilakoor Beach
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station
5. Om Beach
Photo: Siddhesh Mangela / Unsplash
Named for its distinct shape that resembles the sacred “Om” symbol, Om Beach in Gokarna offers a perfect mix of relaxation, spirituality, and adventure. Unlike Goa’s more commercialised beaches, Om Beach retains a laid-back charm, attracting visitors who seek a more peaceful and authentic coastal experience. The golden sand meets clear blue water, creating an inviting space for swimming and water activities. Rocky outcrops at each end of the beach provide natural viewpoints where visitors can watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
Location: Gokarna, Karnataka 581326
Major Attractions: Mirjan Fort, Yana Caves, Vibhooti Falls, Sharavati Backwaters
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim)
Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station
6. Marari Beach
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Marari Beach offers a glimpse into Kerala’s traditional coastal lifestyle, where fishing boats set out each morning, and nets are spread along the shore to dry under the sun. The wide sandy beach, bordered by tall coconut palms, never feels overcrowded, even during peak travel seasons. The waters remain calm for swimming during most of the year, though monsoon season brings dramatic waves that add to the natural beauty of the coastline. Unlike more tourist-oriented beaches, Marari has retained its authenticity, allowing visitors to witness the daily lives of local fishermen while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Location: Mararikkulam, Cherthala, Kerala 688523
Major Attractions: Andhakaranazhi Beach, Thanneermukkom Bund, Krishnapuram Palace, Arthunkal Church
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Alappuzha Railway Station
7. Shivrajpur Beach
One of Gujarat’s best-kept secrets, Shivrajpur Beach has earned Blue Flag certification for its cleanliness, safety, and well-maintained facilities. The golden sands stretch along a clear, shallow coastline, making it an ideal destination for families with young children. Unlike many crowded beaches in India, Shivrajpur remains relatively peaceful, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, and the beach is equipped with lifeguards, changing rooms, and designated safe zones.
Location: Gujarat
Major Attractions: Narara Marine National Park, Gopi Talav, Ghumli, Harsiddhi Mata Temple
Nearest Airport: Jamnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Dwarka Railway Station
8. Kovalam Beach
Photo: Mohamed Adil / Unsplash
Kovalam Beach, Kerala’s most famous coastal destination, is actually composed of three crescent-shaped sections separated by rocky outcrops. Lighthouse Beach, the most popular of the three, is always bustling with visitors enjoying the calm waters, while the beachfront promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and massage centres. Hawa Beach attracts more local visitors, while Samudra Beach remains a quieter, more secluded option for those seeking tranquillity. The red-and-white striped lighthouse, one of Kovalam’s most iconic landmarks, offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea from the top of its spiral staircase.
Location: Kerala 695521
Major Attractions: Neyyar Dam, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Aruvikkara Dam, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central Railway Station
9. Paradise Beach
Photo: Darshika28 / Wikimedia Commons
Accessible only by boat, Paradise Beach lives up to its name by offering a secluded and unspoiled retreat far from urban distractions. The journey itself is part of the experience, as visitors must take a boat ride through serene backwaters lined with mangrove forests before reaching the golden shores. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach remains largely undeveloped, preserving its raw and natural beauty. With only a few basic facilities available, Paradise Beach feels like a hidden sanctuary where visitors can relax without the usual tourist crowds.
Location: Manaveli Rd, Chinna Veerampattinam, Pudukuppam, Puducherry 605007
Major Attractions: Chunnambar Boat House, Ousteri Lake, Bharathi Park, French War Memorial
Nearest Airport: Pondicherry Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Villupuram Junction
10. Tarkarli Beach
Photo: Asifkhan31416 / Wikimedia Commons
Tarkarli Beach is famous for its exceptionally clear waters, where visibility can reach up to 20 feet, making it Maharashtra’s best destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. The long, narrow beach is lined with coconut and casuarina trees, creating a scenic backdrop for those looking to unwind. Just beyond the shore, the Karli River meets the Arabian Sea, forming beautiful backwaters where visitors can take boat rides and enjoy a completely different coastal experience. Dolphins are frequently spotted during these boat trips, adding an exciting element to the visit.
Location: Tarkarli beach, malvan, Maharashtra 416606
Major Attractions: Bhogwe Beach, Karli River, Malvan Marine Sanctuary, Rock Garden
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Goa
Nearest Railway Station: Kudal Railway Station
The coastal beaches in India offer peaceful shores, beautiful landscapes, and rich local culture. From the white sands of Radhanagar to the cliffs of Varkala, each destination has something special. Beyond these, many other coastal spots across Goa, Kerala, and Maharashtra are waiting to be explored. Book with TripXL today for easy travel, helpful guides, and great deals on hotels and activities.
Cover Photo: alexey turenkov / Unsplash
