We all remember the ending scene of Dear Zindagi where Alia Bhatt’s character feels liberated as she stands by the sea, playing with the foamy waves, and feeling a sense of joy and liberation. That is what beaches do to many of us. “Are you a beach person or a mountain person?” Well, if you’re a beach person, you must keep reading this list of India’s 10 most beautiful beaches.
10 Most Beautiful Beaches In India
Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island
This beach on the Havelock Island in Andaman & Nicobar archipelago is one of India’s cleanest beaches. In fact, Radhanagar Beach has received the prestigious Blue Flag Beach certification – an international eco-label for beaches that meet high standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental regulations. The beach has received global recognition for its pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and cleanliness. In fact, Time Magazine featured it as one of the best beaches in the world in 2004. At the TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025, the beach was ranked in the Top 10 Beaches in Asia. This award-winning beach is one of India’s most treasured natural sites as it enjoys a comparatively lesser crowd than other beaches in India.
Palolem Beach, Goa
Is this list even complete without mentioning any entry from Goa? Palolem Beach located in South Goa is one of Goa’s best beaches when it comes to cleanliness and picturesque views. Lined with tall palm trees and studded with colorful beach shacks, the beach makes it perfect for a summery, breezy day-out with friends. And when the sun starts to set, sit back and enjoy the crimson hues and calm waves. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, make sure to try out the exciting activities like banana rides, kayaking, and even dolphin viewing tours. So, what are you waiting for?
Puri Beach, Odisha
Odisha’s beaches are truly underrated for the beauty and calm that they offer. One such beach is the Puri Beach here. Located close to the famous Jagannath Temple, the beach attracts not only tourists but also pilgrims who’ve come all the way to pay their respects at the temple. Many of the latter visit the beach to take a dip in the waters of the Bay of Bengal as they believe that it’ll wash away their sins. Puri Beach hosts its annual Puri Beach Festival, where you’ll get to witness a plethora of cultural performances, sand art exhibitions, and colorful stalls selling handicrafts and food. If you’re visiting Odisha, this place should definitely be your priority.
Dhanushkodi Beach, Tamil Nadu
The Dhanushkodi Beach is considered to be the southernmost tip of Tamil Nadu and is also the place where the Indian Ocean meets the Bay of Bengal. What makes Dhanushkodi Beach unique is its significance in the Hindu epic of Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama began making his bridge to Lanka from this point. Today, there is a dedicated Ram Setu Viewing Point here from where you can get panoramic views of the deep, blue waters spanning for hundreds of miles ahead. The beach isn’t as happening as other beaches in this list when it comes to nightlife. However, that is what sets it apart – it’s a great destination to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate. No wonder why it is one of the most beautiful beaches in India!
Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra
Beaches of Maharashtra have a charm of their own, and with that 750-km long Konkan coastline, there are plenty of unexplored beaches in this state. The Tarkarli Beach is one such beach here – it’s quite popular among the locals but not too popular that it’s overhyped.
There are plenty of restaurants here that serve authentic Malvani cuisine. This cuisine places special emphasis on Malvani spices, curry bases, coconut, tamarind, and most importantly, fish! Also, did we mention that you can take a boat ride to the historic island fort of Sindhudurg? Tarkarli is also famous for the plethora of water adventure sports you can try here. From scuba diving and snorkeling to aquatic jet rides and bumper rides, there’s something for everyone. Stroll by the beach, explore the quaint town, savor delicious Malvani seafood and end your day by enjoying the sunset at Tarkarli Beach.
Varkala Beach, Kerala
This beach at the coast of its eponymous hamlet is a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and make your way to a silent retreat. Varkala Beach is right next to a tall mountain cliff, meaning you can enjoy its views from a bird’s eye view. Pair it up with pristine white sand and waves that gently calm you down, and you have one of the best beach destinations in India. Varkala is also famous for its plenty of spiritually-inclined workshops, meditation and yoga classes, temples, and cozy cafes. The small hamlet of Varkala is inviting enough not just for international travelers but also domestic travelers. This makes Varkala one of the best destinations in India for solo travelers, even if you are a woman!
Auroville Beach, Pondicherry
No worries if you can’t make it to France this summer for your ‘Emily in Paris’ moment. You can simply get a similar experience in Tamil Nadu’s Pondicherry. The vibrant French Quarters (an area housing colonial French villas and buildings), the Auroville Center, and the numerous beaches and markets here. The Auroville Beach here is particularly a local and tourist favorite. The reason? The beach is connected to a promenade that’s lined with shops and cafes. Here, you can cycle, walk, stroll, and simply relax. Plus, the beach itself is one of the cleanest beaches, offering stunning sunrise views. When visiting Pondicherry, Auroville Beach is definitely a destination you must not miss out on.
Marina Beach, Chennai
Not just one of the most popular beaches in India, but Marina Beach is also the second longest urban beach in the world. This important Chennai landmark spans for a whopping 13 km when most urban beaches in India are not even a kilometer long! Visit the beach in the evenings particularly as locals and tourists alike relax by the beach. You’ll find them savoring street food from local stalls, singing and dancing, and just enjoying the evening. There’s also a skating rink here as well as two swimming pools that are incredibly popular amongst tourists. The beach is known for some of the best sunrise and sunset views, attracting tourists from all over the country (and the world).
Gokarna Beach, Karnataka
The Western coastline of India is blessed with many stunning beaches opening up to the Arabian Sea. One such beach is Gokarna. This small temple town is famous particularly for its Mahabaleshvara Temple that becomes particularly crowded during Maha Shivratri celebrations. Located nearby are Paradise Beach, Om Beach, and Half Moon Beach, and trust us, each of them is a unique experience in itself. The beaches here aren’t filled with too much noise – most people are here to have a relaxing time. Gokarna, similar to Varkala, has plenty of meditation schools and workshops – perfect for nourishing your body and mind. Catch sunrises and sunsets, play at the beach, take a dip in the water, and savor delicious food at the cafes here.
Cabo De Rama Beach, Goa
The last one on our list of the most beautiful beaches in India is South Goa’s lesser-known gem. The beach is surrounded by tall mountain cliffs and rocky pathways that lead to the beach, and trust us, the views will take your breath away. Here, you can try kayaking in the backwaters and also bask in the golden sun. Plus, there are a few popular restaurants nested on the cliffside, where you’ll be able to savor delicious global cuisine and decadent cocktails. Cabo De Rama Beach is easily one of Goa’s prettiest beaches and definitely one of the cleanest. If you’re over Goa’s hyped beaches like Anjuna and Baga, this one’s just right for you!
Summing Up
These are what we think are the 10 most beautiful beaches in India. With a long coastline that stretches from Gujarat in the west to West Bengal in the West, these beaches are simply some of India’s best kept natural treasures. So, if you are someone who loves beach tans, summer martinis, and a beach-y retreat, these beaches are just right for you!
FAQs
What Is The Prettiest Beach In India?
It’s quite tough to choose just one beach in India, so here are some of the prettiest beaches you’ll come across:
- Radhanagar Beach
- Marina Beach
- Varkala Beach
- Palolem Beach
- Tarkarli Beach
Which Is The Longest Beach In India?
Chennai’s Marina Beach is considered to be the longest beach in India. It runs across a length of 13 km and is also the second longest urban beach in the world.
Which Is The Last Beach Of India?
The Dhanushkodi Beach is considered to be the last beach of India as it is situated on the southernmost tip of India.
