Radhanagar Beach is on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The island is officially called Swaraj Dweep, and locals know this beach as Beach No. 7. The sand runs about 2 km along the shore, with clear blue water on one side and tall trees on the other. The calm, shallow sea and the sunset are the main draws. Plan time for a walk along the sand, a swim in the flagged area and a meal or drink at one of the cafes or shacks.
Beach No. 7 and its recognition
Radhanagar Beach is the best-known beach on Havelock Island, and most island visitors know it as Beach No. 7. Beaches on the island are numbered, which is why the name appears on signs, maps and taxi requests.
In 2004, TIME Magazine named Radhanagar Asia's best beach. The beach has also carried Blue Flag certification, a standard that covers water quality and beach management. Both points explain why it appears on so many island itineraries.
The sand, the water and the shore
The beach runs for about 2 km. Its sand is powdery and white, and the water is clear and blue. Behind the sand, tall trees and palms give shade, and in parts mangroves line the shore.
The sea is shallow for a good distance out, and the waves are gentle. Families often spend long periods in the water here. Swimming is safest in the areas marked with flags, where lifeguards keep watch. Turtles and manta rays have been reported in the waters around the island, so keep an eye out from the shore.
Facilities on the sand
Changing rooms, washrooms and lockers are available. Lockers and changing rooms are paid, so bring cash. Cafes, fruit stalls and simple dhabas sit near the sand, and some shacks sell souvenirs. The local market has a few shops and restaurants.
Photographers are available for hire if you want a shoot on the sand. Parking is available for those who drive.
Getting there
Radhanagar Beach is about 11 km from Havelock Ferry Ghat and roughly a 30-minute drive from Havelock jetty. From the jetty, you can take an auto, a local bus, a cab or a two-wheeler. Buses and autos run to the beach until sundown, so plan the return trip before dark. Some visitors take the bus back to town for a short, simple ride.
Sunset, crowds and the cove
Sunset is the hour most visitors plan around. The beach fills up in the evening, so arrive early if you want a quiet stretch of sand.
Neil's Cove sits at the northwest end of the beach. It is a secluded sandy inlet, reached by an easy jungle trek or by walking along the sand. The trek is short and suitable for most walkers, and the cove is a good place to watch the sun go down away from the main crowd.
FAQ
How do I get to Radhanagar Beach from Havelock Jetty?
Take an auto, a local bus, a cab or a two-wheeler. The drive takes about 30 minutes, and buses and autos run to the beach until sundown.
Is the water safe for children?
The sea is shallow for a good distance and the waves are gentle. Swim in the areas marked with flags, where lifeguards keep watch.
Are there changing rooms and lockers?
Yes. Changing rooms, washrooms and lockers are available on a paid basis, so bring cash.
What can I eat at the beach?
Cafes, fruit stalls and simple dhabas sit near the sand, and the local market has a few restaurants.
