Located amidst the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Neil Island beckons travellers with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back charm. Easily accessible via a ferry ride from Port Blair, the laid-back charm of beaches in Neil Island is a tourist destination popular amongst people worldwide. Unlike its bustling neighbour, Havelock Island, Neil Island offers a tranquil escape, where the rhythm of life revolves around swaying palm trees and gentle ocean waves. On Neil Island, you must explore every beach. All of them are equally popular, not to mention, but each one of the beaches offers a unique experience.
Best Time to Visit Beaches in Neil Island
The ideal time to visit Neil Island’s beaches is between October and May. The weather is pleasant during this period, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The peak tourist season is from October to February when the island experiences the maximum influx of tourists. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for good weather and affordable hotel prices. The temperature between March and May usually gets slightly warmer but still comfortable enough to explore the beaches. From June to September, Neil Island experiences the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall is expected, which might disrupt some beach activities. However, the lush greenery around makes up for it with natural charm.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Havelock
List Of Beaches On Neil Island
Choosing and travelling to the best beach in Neil Island can be challenging, as there are so many different beaches. To overcome this, plan your itinerary to cover all the primary beaches so you aren’t missing out on any.
Following are some of the most popular beaches to visit and explore in Neil Island:
1. Bharatpur Beach
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Hands down, the best beach in Neil Island is Bharatpur Beach, known for its vibrant coral reefs and clear blue waters. It is termed the “Water Sports Capital” of Neil Island, allowing visitors to indulge in various activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, etc. Even parasailing is an option for tourists on the beach. The glass-bottomed boat ride is A unique experience you can’t skip out on. This is perfect for tourists who don’t particularly enjoy water sports but want to witness the marine life and coral reefs underwater. For refreshments, walk to the side of the beach where small shack owners sell coconut water, juices and snacks, too.
How to reach: Take a ferry from Port Blair to the Neil Island jetty. From there, auto rickshaws, bikes and bicycles can take you to the beach.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
2. Laxmanpur Beach
Next on the list of the best beaches in Neil Island is Laxmanpur Beach, otherwise known as “Sunset Beach.” Split into two parts, Laxmanpur Beach I and II, this beach offers different experiences. Most first-time tourists aren’t aware of the fact that Laxmanpur Beach I is perfect for a peaceful stroll and enjoying the serene environment, while Laxmanpur Beach II, also known as the “Natural Bridge” or “Howrah Bridge,” is renowned for its natural rock formations. If you are a photographer, visit during the low-tide period to get the perfect shot of the “bridge.”Besides the mesmerising natural beauty, the beach is equally renowned for its sunset views, which paint the sea with a bright orange-red hue.
How to reach: Take a ferry from Phoenix Bay jetty in Port Blair to Neil Island, where bikes, cycles, and auto rickshaws are available.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Related Post: Resorts In Havelock
3. Sitapur Beach
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Sitapur Beach is a haven for sunrise enthusiasts. Most tourists visit this island at the crack of dawn at 05:00 AM when the beach opens. Besides the allure of the sunrise, there are not a lot of water activities on this beach. The high tides and strong currents make this beach unsuitable for swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and other water activities. But you can visit this beach to unwind, relax and rejuvenate. The views of the crystal-clear water and the waves thrashing against the shore are a treat to the eyes, not to mention that the unique limestone formations offer a riveting sight for the tourists as well. The beach is the perfect spot to host a picnic, too.
How to reach: The beach is around 5 km from Neil Island. Once you reach the Neil Island jetty, take an auto-rickshaw or motorbike to reach the beach.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
4. Ramnagar Beach
Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons
Located on the western coast of Neil Island, Ramnagar Beach is one of the hidden beaches in Neil Island. It is a haven for individuals seeking peace and tranquillity. This private beach, often frequented by guests of the surrounding resorts, has pristine white sand and calm waters, perfect for relaxation and long walks on the beach. You can find several popular ones around the beach for the tourists looking for Neil Island Beach Resort. Due to the heavy influx of tourists on the beach, quite a few popular water sports and activities are accessible on this beach. Some parts of the sea on the beach have sharp corals, so ensure that you are aware of them so as not to hurt yourself while swimming in the water.
How to reach: Boat services from Mayabunder and Port Blair take you to Neil Island. From there, you can hire an auto-rickshaw, bike or cycle to get to the beach.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Related Post: Things To Do In Havelock
5. Howrah Bridge
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We have briefly discussed Laxmanpur Beach, but a unique attraction near that beach is the “Howrah Bridge.” Now, the more popular Howrah Bridge is in Kolkata, West Bengal. However, during low tides, a natural rock formation near Laxmanpur Beach unveils, mimicking the appearance of the Howrah Bridge. When discussing the beaches in Neil Island Andaman and Nicobar, this is one of those unique spots you need to stop and explore. The area offers a relaxed atmosphere with shallow waters, ideal for families with young children. There’s not much to do besides click photographs, build sand castles or relax under the shade of the palm trees.
How to reach: It is located near Laxmanpur Beach on Neil Island. If you are planning to visit, take a ferry to Neil Island and then take an auto-rickshaw, motorbike, or cycle to the exact location.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Activities To Indulge In Neil Island Besides Beaches
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While exploring the best beaches in Neil Island accounts for the best part of the vacation, there’s more to the island than that.
From glass-bottom boating to cycling around the island and exploring hidden gems, there are many ways to uncover offbeat locations and make the most of the trip.
- Not many tourists are aware of the jungle trek. It takes you through dense forests, where you can witness and interact with the flora and fauna up close.
- Most of the nature trails are free to explore, so there’s nothing you’d have to pay. However, if you hire a local guide to take you around, you’d have to pay them an additional fee, starting from ₹1000 for the entire trek.
- Also, don’t forget to enjoy the local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood that’s a staple in Neil Island. There are a few restaurants and roadside stalls in the Neil Island market area where you can grab a bite.
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The beaches in Neil Island offer something for everyone: a perfect retreat for an adrenaline-pumping water adventure and a peaceful haven for relaxation or a romantic escape. With its diverse range of beaches and calm turquoise waters, Neil Island promises an unforgettable beach vacation experience. On your next trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you must include all these beaches to maximise the trip experience to the fullest.
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Cover Image Credit: Biswajit Majumdar for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches In Neil Island
What are the best things to do on Neil Island's beaches?
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, Neil Island's beaches offer a variety of activities including scuba diving and snorkelling, jet skiing and parasailing at Bharatpur Beach. You can also visit Dolphin Point Beach for dolphin watching.
Which beach is best for families with young children?
Ramnagar and Laxmanpur beaches are the two best beaches on Neil Island that are perfect for families and little children.
What are the best beaches for witnessing sunrises and sunsets?
Sitapur Beach is the prime spot for witnessing sunrises. At the same time, Laxmanpur Beach is renowned for its mesmerising sunsets.
Can I rent water sports equipment on the beaches?
Yes, on the beaches where water sports are accessible, there is water sports equipment to rent from the operators.
What are the best places to stay near the beaches?
There are a few Neil Island Beach Resort options around for you to explore. However, during peak season, these resorts are usually booked out, so pre-book a few months before your vacation.
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