Radhanagar Beach: Timings, Sunset & Complete Visit Guide

Havelock's Famous Beach

Radhanagar Beach, officially catalogued as Beach No. 7, is the single most photographed stretch of sand on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) — and arguably in the entire Andaman Islands. Time magazine named it one of Asia's best beaches back in 2004, a reputation that has stuck for two decades and still drives a large share of the islands' tourism.

What sets it apart isn't a single dramatic feature but the combination: powder-white sand, shallow turquoise water that stays calm for long stretches, and a dense green tree line framing the whole beach. It's a beach built for slow days rather than adrenaline — motorised water sports aren't allowed here, unlike at Elephant Beach elsewhere on Havelock.

Best Time to Visit Radhanagar Beach

Our pick: arrive in the late morning to enjoy a quieter stretch of beach, then stay through to sunset — the golden hour here is worth the wait.

How to Reach Radhanagar Beach

Unlike some Andaman beaches, Radhanagar is reached entirely by road, not by boat.

• From Havelock's main jetty: Roughly 30-40 minutes by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or rented scooter along the island's single main road.
• Rented scooter: The most flexible option if you want to time your visit for a quiet morning or a lingering sunset without arranging return transport.
• Shared taxis/autos: Widely available near the market and most guesthouses for a fixed fare.

What Makes Radhanagar Special

Radhanagar's reputation rests on a combination rather than any single feature: fine, powder-white sand that stays cool underfoot even at midday; shallow, calm turquoise water that's genuinely swimmable rather than just photogenic; and a dense green tree line that backs the beach and offers natural shade along its length.

The beach curves gently for roughly a kilometre, wide enough that even on busier days it rarely feels crowded — a contrast to some of India's more built-up beach destinations.

Sunset at Radhanagar

Sunset is Radhanagar's signature moment, and the reason many visitors plan their whole day around an evening visit. The beach faces a direction that catches the setting sun cleanly over the water, without landmass blocking the horizon.

• Arrive early: Get there at least 45 minutes before sunset to claim a good spot before the evening crowd builds.
• Bring a light layer: It cools down quickly once the sun is down, especially with a sea breeze.
• Plan your return transport: Autos and taxis become scarce shortly after dark — arrange pickup in advance.

Rules & What's Not Allowed

Radhanagar's ecology is actively protected, which shapes what you can and can't do here.

• No motorised water sports: Jet-skiing, banana boats, and similar activities aren't permitted — head to Elephant Beach if that's what you're after.
• No plastic litter: Carry out what you bring in; enforcement has tightened in recent years as the beach's popularity has grown.
• Lifeguard hours apply: Swimming is generally supervised during daylight hours only — avoid swimming after dark or well outside the marked safe zone.
• No permanent structures on the sand: Vendors and facilities are kept to a designated area near the entrance, keeping most of the beach undeveloped.

Suggested Visit Plan (Half-Day)

Where to Eat Nearby

Radhanagar itself has a few basic snack stalls near the entrance, but for a proper meal, head back toward Havelock's main market.

• Beach entrance stalls: Coconut water, light snacks, and cold drinks — enough for a short break but not a full meal.
• Havelock market seafood shacks: A short drive away, with fresh grilled fish and prawns at reasonable prices.

Budget Breakdown

Radhanagar Beach itself is free to visit — your main costs are transport and any food you buy.

* Figures are per person, per visit, and exclude your accommodation cost on Havelock Island itself.

Essential Tips for Visiting Radhanagar Beach

• Arrange return transport in advance: Especially for sunset visits, since autos and taxis thin out after dark.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen and reapply: There's little shade directly on the open sand.
• Don't expect water sports here: Head to Elephant Beach if jet-skiing or banana boats are what you're after.
• Carry cash: The few stalls near the entrance don't reliably accept cards.
• Combine with a full Havelock day: See our Havelock Island guide for how to plan Radhanagar alongside Elephant Beach and diving.

Frequently Asked Questions