Beach hopping culture is gaining popularity with people seeking the sun, sand, and sea, and Port Blair, capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands stands out as a prime destination for this intriguing trend. It’s an ideal destination to experience the hopping culture because of the variety of beaches present here.
With its rich history, lush greenery, and pristine waters, Port Blair is not just a gateway to the islands but a perfect base for a fun adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax, snorkel, or indulge in other water sports, the beaches of Port Blair are the place to be! Dive into this itinerary to know how you can spend your day here.
Best Beaches In Port Blair
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach
- Jolly Buoy
- Redskin Island
- Chidiya Tapu
- Munda Pahad
1. Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Begin your day at Corbyn’s Cove, one of the most picturesque beaches in Port Blair, located just 7 km from the city center. Known for its serene ambiance and coastline flanked by coconut groves, this spot lets you relax. You can try jet skiing, swimming, or simply sunbathing at the beach. Also try the banana boat rides, or take a stroll along the shore.
The beach also has several quaint eateries by the shore where you can have some delicious local seafood while enjoying stunning views of the sea.
Time: Open 24 hours
How To Reach:
The beach is easily accessible by road, with frequent auto-rickshaws and taxis available from Port Blair. The journey is convenient and takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
2. Jolly Buoy
Next up, let’s get going quickly to the Jolly Buoy beach or you might miss it! Open for only 6 months in a year from October to May, this island is one of the most famous in the archipelago because of the diverse corals and marine life. It’s situated within Mahatma Gandhi National Park.
You can explore the marine ecosystem, including colorful coral reefs and various species of fish, through a range of water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides. Jolly Buoy Beach and the island are perfect for unwinding because you can simply just relax on the sand and listen to the gentle sounds of the waves. Remember, that visits to Jolly Buoy Island are limited during the day and overnight stays are not permitted.
Time: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
How To Reach:
To reach Jolly Buoy Island, you must reach Wandoor Jetty first. Reaching here is easy, you can simply take an auto, taxi, or the local bus and cover the distance of 20 km from Port Blair to Wandoor in about 30 minutes. Be here sharp by 8:00 am as the ships start to sail to Jolly Buoy at this time and sail for only 1 hour until 9:00 am.
3. Redskin Island
If you missed out on visiting Jolly Buoy, don’t worry, you can hop to another beach–the Redskin Island. Both the islands are adjacent to each other which means the latter is also situated inside the Mahatma Gandhi National Park. Redskin Island is an alternative to Jolly Buoy and is open during the months when the other is closed,
However, reaching here requires you to work a bit. A permit from the Forest Department is needed a day before visiting, and the island is closed on Mondays. Here too, overnight stays are not allowed.
The idea behind the seasonal visits is that it helps protect the ecosystem of the island. Since plastic is strictly prohibited here, the environment is maintained. This commitment to preserving the Red Skin Island as is, makes it a must-visit beach for those exploring around Port Blair.
Time: Same as Jolly Buoy Island.
How To Reach:
It’s the same as Jolly Buoy Island.
4. Chidiya Tapu
Next, head to Chidiya Tapu so you can partake in an exciting trek while you have the energy. Often called the ‘Bird Island’, this is located just 17 km from Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The name comes from the numerous migratory birds that flock to this area, particularly during the winter months. Besides birdwatching, it’s a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea walking to explore vibrant marine life.
For trekkers, there’s a scenic trail from Chidiya Tapu to Munda Pahad, passing by the striking Kalpathar rocks. You can also stop by a small zoo near the beach. However, swimming here is not advised as the waters are known to be inhabited by crocodiles!
Time: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
How To Reach:
You can easily reach Chidiya Tapu from Port Blair by hiring a taxi or taking the local bus, which shouldn’t take you more than 30 to 40 minutes.
5. Munda Pahad
Let’s talk about the end point of the previous trek, Munda Pahad, a rather hidden gem that’s extremely tranquil and peaceful. To embark on its trek, start in the early afternoon. You won’t require a guide as the trek is marked well with multiple landmarks. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the peak and it’ll be completely worth it when you witness the panoramic views of the expansive sea against the setting sun.
You’ll see the sea converging from three sides, indeed a sight to marvel! Although some areas are barricaded by rocks, there is still plenty to explore and enjoy by the ocean. The Munda Pahad trek is not just an activity; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the untouched natural beauty of the archipelago, leaving you with unforgettable memories.
Time: 10:30 am to 5:00 pm
How To Reach:
One way to reach Munda Pahad is by trekking from Chidiya Tapu. Another way, however, is by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus from Port Blair. It’s 19 km away and would normally take about 30 minutes to reach.
Summing Up
From the tranquil shores of Corbyn’s Cove to the soft sands of Chidiya Tapu, beache hopping in and around Port Blair is an adventure in the making for you! Visit this capital islet of Andaman & Nicobar ASAP to experience the perfect blend of fun and relaxation.
FAQs
Which Beach Is Secluded In Port Blair?
Munda Pahad is the secluded beach in Port Blair.
Why Is Port Blair Famous?
Port Blair is famous for its involvement in the Indian freedom struggle. It was a key location that housed several leaders to keep them away from the independence movement and punish them for their prior involvements.
Which Is Better Port Blair Or Lakshadweep?
Both, Port Blair and Lakshadweep are famous tourist destinations. While reaching Port Blair is easier, Lakshadweep requires more documentation which can get tedious. Upon reaching, both have uniquely scenic beaches and popular attractions that you can explore.
How Do You Spend A Day In Port Blair?
You can spend a day in Port Blair by starting with a visit to the iconic Cellular Jail to delve into its rich history. Next, explore the Anthropological Museum and Samudrika Marine Museum for fascinating insights into local culture and marine life. In the afternoon, head to Corbyn’s Cove Beach for sunbathing, water sports, or simply soaking up the serene coastal vibes. End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at the beachside stalls, accompanied by the soothing ocean breeze.
You May Like Also:
