Lonely PlanetAug 19, 2026
Best beaches in India: where they are and what you can expect
From soulful surfing hubs to sunny relax-away sands and party-loving strands, these are the best beaches in India.
25 things in this story
- VarkalaSightlively backpacker/surfing scene
- KovalamSuburbbeach town with ayurvedic retreats
- Elsewhere
- Namaste Yoga FarmHotelGokarna, Indiafuss-free guesthouse near Gokarna
- Kudle BeachSightGokarna, Indiagolden-blonde sand beach
- Om BeachSightGokarna, Indiasand beach accessible from Gokarna
- Thottada BeachSightKannur, Indiasecluded beach with homestay scene
- Neeleshwar HermitageHotelBekal, Indiasustainability-driven hotel
- PalolemSightGoa, Indiadreamy beach, calm waters for kayaking
- PatnemSightGoa, Indiabeach with a go-slow feel
- AgondaSightGoa, Indiaserene, family-friendly golden sand beach
- Cola BeachSightGoa, Indialagoon-fringed hidden-away delight
- Kovalam (Covelong)SightChennai, Indiafishing village with surf school
- Covelong Point surf schoolPlaceChennai, Indiapioneering surf school hosts festival
- Mamallapura (Mahabalipuram)NeighborhoodMamallapuram, Indiabeach-hugging pilgrim town with temples
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)SightAndaman Islands, Indiajewel with spectacular beaches and diving
- Radhanagar BeachSightHavelock, Indiabeautiful beach with silken sand
- Barefoot at HavelockHotelHavelock, Indiaupmarket hotel near Radhanagar Beach
- JalakaraHotelHavelock, Indiachicly designed hotel
- TarkaliSightMalvan, Indiafishing area with sun-soaked beach
- Sindhudurg FortSightMalvan, Indiaruined 17th-century fort offshore
- Mad About CocoCaféVarkala, Indiastay at this buzzy accommodation
- Half Moon BaSightGokarna, India
- Paradise BeachSightGokarna, India
- Blue MermaidHotelKannur, India
- Costa MalabariHotelKannur, India