“India has now a total of 12 recognised Blue-Flag beaches known for their cleanliness and beauty with two more new entrants this year – Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach in Lakshadweep.”
India, the country which is surrounded by water on its three sides, without a doubt, possesses a diverse coastline that itself makes a geo-cultural region. The entire coastline of India extends about 7,516 kilometres. It creates borders between the Arabian Sea in the Southwest, Gulf of Kutch in the Western corner, Indian Ocean in the South and Bay of Bengal in the East.
The reason to state these important facts about India’s extending coastline is to give an idea about the beautiful beaches the coastline produces along. And, amongst numerous beaches of the country, there are some exotic beaches which are recognised as ‘Blue-Flag Beaches’ for their beauty and cleanliness. Interesting, no? Keep reading!
Firstly, let’s know about What is Blue Flag certification
Now, there are 12 Blue Flag beaches in India, which have been added to the list of eco-friendly beaches in the world for their beauty and cleanliness. Behind this noble job, the organisation responsible is a Denmark-based non-profit Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). According to Blue-Flag beach standards compiled by FEE, a beach must comply with 33 tourist-related environmental conditions to get the Blue Flag Beach certification. As a result, these 12 Must-Visit Blue Flag Beaches In India have been developed as an eco-tourism model providing all details to tourists including hygienic bathing water, safety measurements, basic amenities, coastal zone ecosystems, waste management and sustainable development of that particular coastal zone.
Starting from golden sand beauties to white pristine sand beaches, these 12 picturesque locations must be on your bucket list for sure. Now, it’s time to know about these top 12 Blue Flag Beaches in India which you should visit for a memorable holiday.
Coveted List of Blue Flag Beaches in India
| Name of The Beach |
Location |
| Shivrajpur Beach |
Dwarka, Gujarat |
| Golden Beach |
Puri, Odisha |
| Ghoghla Beach |
Ghoghla, Diu |
| Kasarkod Beach |
Kasarkod, Karnataka |
| Padubidri Beach |
Udupi, Karnataka |
| Kappad Beach |
Kozhikode, Kerala |
| Rushikonda Beach |
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| Radhanagar Beach |
Havelock, Andaman and Nicobar |
| Kovalam Beach |
Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu |
| Eden Beach |
Chinna Veerampatinam, Puducherry |
| Minicoy Thundi Beach |
Lakshadweep |
| Kadmat Beach |
Lakshadweep |
Also Check Out: Popular Beach Holiday Packages
Shivrajpur Beach, Gujarat
The Shivrajpur beach is located on the Dwarka-Okha Highway in Gujarat, about 12 kilometres from Dwarka. This spotless and well-liked white sand beach is close to the named settlement. One of the finest features of Gujarat’s one of the best beach destinations to visit is that Shivrajpur Beach is disabled-friendly. Compared to other beaches, the waters are calm and shallow. The blue water, rocky shoreline and the presence of a lighthouse make this beach one of the beautiful Blue Flag beaches in India.
How to Reach Shivrajpur Beach?
You can get a public or private transport from Ahmedabad to Dwarka and then to Shivrajpur Beach. Dwarka is the nearest railhead and Jamnagar Airport is the nearest airport to the beach.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Activities to Do
- Swimming
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkelling
- Boating
- Island Tour
- Sunset Watching
- Relaxing
- Dolphin Sightings
- Birdwatching
Nearby Places to Visit
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Beyt Dwarka
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
- Rukmini Devi Temple
- Sunset Point Dwarka
Also Check Out: Other Must Visit Beaches in Gujarat
Golden Beach, Odisha
The Golden Beach, also known as the Puri Beach, is a lovely stretch of golden sand that is lined with shops selling delectable seafood and trinkets. One of the beautiful beaches in India, as well as Odisha, Golden Beach is well-liked by pilgrims who travel there to worship Lord Jagannath at the nearby temple. Long walks are enjoyed on the opulent Marine Drive, which runs parallel to the beach. Visitors are enthralled by the Puri beach’s excellent cleanliness and the boom of the Bay of Bengal’s waters all year long. However, in November you can explore the beach in its best form as the annual Puri Festival is hosted here every year.
How to Reach?
Public transport and private taxis are available from Puri to reach the beach.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
Activities to Do
- Strolling
- Relaxing
- Shopping
- Surfing
- Sea bathing
- Food tours
Nearby Places to Visit
- Jagannath Temple
- Puri Lighthouse
- Gundicha Temple
- Swargadwar Beach
- Sea Beach Road
- Sudarshan Crafts Museum
Also Check Out: Popular Beaches in Odisha
Ghoghla Beach, Diu
A beautiful beach in Diu on the Arabian Sea coast is called Ghoghla Beach. It is one of the most stunning beaches in India and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the village of Ghoghla. Also, one of the must-visit beautiful beaches in India, Ghoghla Beach is one of Diu’s less-travelled beaches and is incredibly clean. The Arabian Sea’s glittering blue contrasted with the golden-hued coastline as far as the eye can see is a sight to behold. Tourists who want to spend some time alone are drawn to the beach because it is the least visited.
How to Reach?
The beach is just four kilometres away from Diu Bus Station and you can reach here easily by taking a private cab or by walking.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Activities to Do
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Parasailing
- Village Walks
- Relaxing
- Food Tours
Nearby Places to Visit
- Diu Fort
- Saint Paul’s Church
- Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach
- Naida Caves
- Jalandhar Beach
- Diu Museum
Also Check Out: Daman & Diu Complete Tourism Information Guide
Kasarkod Beach, Karnataka
The Kasarkod beach, which is one of the cleanest beaches in India, extends for up to five kilometres. This unspoiled beach has white sand and Casuarina trees all around it. Those who want to stroll along this beach will have a wonderful experience because of the visual beauty and calm that surround Kasarkod. The beach was created to promote ecotourism in Karnataka and draw visitors from around the world. This beach is not at all congested when compared to the majority of the well-known beaches in Karnataka. If you’re searching for some peace and quiet, this is the place to go.
How to Reach?
National Highway 66 connects Kasarkod Beach to other towns in Uttara Karnataka and other states. Private and regular buses are available between the towns. However, you can also reach Kasarkod Village by taking a train to the nearest Honnavar Railway Station.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities to Do
- Sightseeing
- Swimming
- Boating
- Sea Bathing
- Relaxing
- Picnic
Nearby Places to Visit
- Sharavathi River And Estuary
- Mavinkurve Island
- Higund Island
- Basavaraja Durga
- Ramathirtha
Also Check Out: Karnataka Tourism Information
Padubidri Beach, Karnataka
The Padubidri beach in Karnataka’s Udupi district is a lengthy stretch of sand where you may take in the ideal sea vista. There were many park seats available for tourists at the tidy, well-kept beach, which was bordered by palm trees. A stunning sight to behold, especially after dusk, is the light flashing from the lighthouses at Surathkal and Kaup. Numerous exciting and entertaining activities and events, such as fairs, competitions, beach volleyball, banana boat rides, and others, are also held along the beach. One of the best eco-friendly beaches in India, Padubidri Beach is famous among travellers who want to experience a fun-filled holiday but in a peaceful location.
How to Reach?
The two closest railheads are Padubidri Railway Station and Mulki Railway Station. Moreover, as the beach is in Udupi, which is a famous place in Karnataka, it is connected to all major towns in the state and other nearby states.
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Activities to Do
- Strolling
- Sea Bathing
- Water Scooter Riding
- Playing Beach Volleyball
- Speed Boat Riding
- Banana Boat Riding
Nearby Places to Visit
- Mahalingeshwara Maha Ganapathi Temple, Padubidri
- Padubidri End Point
- Brahmasthana
Other Interesting Blog to Read
Kappad Beach, Kerala
In Kerala’s Kozhikode district, Kappad Beach is a secluded beach that provides a tranquil setting away from the bustle of the city. Due to its extensive historical significance, the beach is referred to by locals as Kappakkadavu. The beach is encircled by substantial evergreen palm grooves that serve as a nest for people to sit and take in the scenery. The first person to set foot on this shore was the renowned explorer Vasco Da Gama in the year 1498. One of India’s cleanest beaches, Kappad Beach is where the Arabian Sea and the River Korappuzha’s backwaters combine and undoubtedly it is a popular tourist destination.
How to Reach?
The nearest railhead is Kozhikode, around 35 kilometres away and the nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, about 45 kilometres away.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities to Do
- Swimming
- Boat Ride
- Playing Beach games
- Houseboat Cruise
- Sunbathing
- Shopping
Nearby Places to Visit
- Vasco Da Gama Memorial
- Mananchira Square
- Simon Britto Art Gallery
- Backwaters of Kozhikode
- Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery
- Kozhikode Planetarium
- Kozhikode Beach
- Kadalundi Bird sanctuary
- Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village
- Tali Temple
Also Read: Popular Beaches in Kerala
Rushikonda Beach, Andhra Pradesh
A popular beach in Andhra Pradesh, Rushikonda beach is close to the city of Visakhapatnam (only eight kilometres) and is visited by many locals and tourists each year. The Rushikonda beach, sometimes referred to as the “Jewel of the East Coast,” is renowned for its pristine beauty, its golden sand, and the thick vegetation that envelops its beaches. One of the key factors contributing to the beach’s enormous popularity with both domestic and international visitors is its natural beauty. Rushikonda Beach, one of Andhra Pradesh’s cleanest beaches, is the perfect place to go for a relaxing weekend break.
How to Reach?
The nearest railhead to the beach is Visakhapatnam Railway Station and the closest airport is the Visakhapatnam International Airport. You can also take a cab or rickshaw from the nearest bus stop of the beach, which is Endada Bus stop.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities to Do
- Swimming
- Water Skiing
- Windsurfing
- Scuba Diving
Nearby Places to Visit
- Kailasagiri
- Rama Krishna Beach
- Submarine Museum
- Bheemili Beach
- Simhachalam
Other Interesting Blog to Read
Radhanagar Beach, Andaman and Nicobar
One of the stunning blue water beaches in India to visit, Radhanagar Beach is a famous tourist attraction in Andaman and Nicobar. Located in Havelock Island, Radhanagar, also referred to as Beach No. 7, was named the greatest beach in Asia and the seventh best beach in the world by Time Magazine in 2004. It goes without saying that it is one of the most magnificent beaches you will see when visiting the Andaman Islands. The Radhanagar Beach welcomes tourists into a world of perfect tranquillity and relaxation. It is surrounded on all sides by coconut trees and is bordered on both sides by tropical jungle. After a long day of swimming and playing games on the beach, witnessing a dramatic sunset in the afternoon with your loved ones – is the best thing to do while visiting Radhanagar Beach.
How to Reach?
You have to first reach Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar and then can be transported to Havelock Island via ship.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities to Do
- Seabathing
- Swimming
- Photography
- Watching Sunset
- Glass Boat Riding
- Strolling
- Relaxing
Nearby Places to Visit
- Neil’s Cove
- Elephant Beach
Also Check Out: Top Tourist Destinations of Andaman
Kovalam Beach, Tamil Nadu
Kovalam Beach, formerly known as Covelong, is a breathtaking beach in the state of Tamil Nadu. This beautiful beach is located in the Kanchipuram district, some 40 kilometres from Chennai, near the little fishing community of Covelong. Additionally, this beach is renowned for offering the ideal conditions for “surfing,” and it is one of the few locations on the eastern coast where “windsurfing” is regularly practised. Apart from the water activities, the beach is also popular among the tourists for offering a splendid view of sunset.
How to Reach?
The nearest railhead and airport, both are at Chennai, around 40 kilometres away. Moreover, you can reach the beach by taking a cab or bus from Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore and Madurai.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Activities to Do
- Windsurfing
- Swimming
- Seabathing
- Relaxing
- Strolling
- Sightseeing
- Scuba Diving
- Fishing
- Sailing
Nearby Places to Visit
- Dutch Fort
- Catholic Church
Other Interesting Blog to Read
Eden Beach, Puducherry
One of India’s 12 beaches with the blue flag certification is Eden Beach in Pondicherry. The well-kept beach received the blue flag designation in 2021 for providing guests with all necessary amenities for a pleasurable experience. Even though Eden Beach in Pondicherry is less well-known to most tourists, it never ceases to astound. A coconut tree plantation in the style of Kerala, sit-out umbrella huts, a watchtower, an amphitheatre, scuba diving, a children’s play area, fitness equipment, and backwaters can all be found at this beach.
How to Reach?
You can reach Eden Beach from Pondicherry Bus Stop enroute the famous Paradise Beach; it is just about nine kilometres away.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities to Do
- Scuba Diving
- Sea Bathing
- Relaxing
- Sightseeing
- Food Tours
Nearby Places to Visit
- Paradise Beach
- The Arts and Crafts Village
Also Check Out: Other Popular Beaches in Puducherry
Minicoy Thundi Beach, Lakshadweep
One of the Lakshadweep archipelago’s most beautiful, unspoiled and must-visit beaches, Minicoy Thundi Beach features white sand and turquoise lagoon water. Both swimmers and tourists will find it to be a heaven. The British constructed a lighthouse next to the beach that offers a breathtaking vantage point of the entire area. The gorgeous location is also a popular tourist attraction as a result of numerous activities including tuna fishing and canning.
How to Reach?
You can reach Minicoy Thundi Beach by availing one of the passenger ships from Kochi.
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Activities to Do
- Canoeing
- Scuba Diving
- Sunbathing
- Sunset Watching
Nearby Places to Visit
- Lighthouse
- Juma Masjid
- Agatti Island
- Bangaram Island
Also Check Out: Top Tourist Destinations in Lakshadweep
Kadmat Beach, Lakshadweep
The 9.3 km-long Kadmat Island is a part of the Lakshadweep archipelago’s Amindivi Subgroup of islands. Here you will find one of the newly enlisted Blue-Flag beaches of Lakhshadweep, Kadmat Beach. With its stunning coral island’s sun-kissed pearl white sand, blue lagoon, and vibrant coral reefs, Kadmat Beach, one of the cleanest beaches in India, welcomes both Indian and international visitors with open arms. On this island, Kadmat is the sole settlement that is inhabited and a well-liked location for sea turtle breeding. The beach is popular among the cruise tourists who visit the island, as well as the beach for water sports.
How to Reach?
You have to fly down at Agatti Airport, which is located at a distance of 77 kilometres from Kadmat Beach, from airports like Cochin, Chennai and Bangalore. From Agatti Airport, tourists are transported to Kadmat Island by speedboats, ferries and catamaran vessels.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Activities to Do
- Deep Sea Fishing
- Snorkelling
- Scuba Diving
- Kayaking
- Glass Boat Sailing
- Sea bathing
Nearby Places to Visit
- Kadmat Beach
- Agatti Island
- Golden Jubilee Museum
- Kavaratti
- Mohiyuddin Museum
- Andrott
Here’s our complete travel guide to help you plan a trip to one of these above-mentioned scenic beaches in India for a perfect vacation. Hope, the article helps you. However, if you have any query about any itinerary of beach holidays in India, you can ask us in the comment section or contact us directly. Let’s make a trip together!
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
Like & Follow our social media accounts at Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin & Instagram for getting the latest updates & offers on holiday packages.
Disclaimer: This content is written by our team of expert Travel Writers with deep research. In case you find any incorrect information or missing information, please do send your valuable inputs at webmaster@tourmyindia.com. We will update the content as soon as possible with respect to your inputs.
We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian beaches are in Blue Flag?
Now, India has 12 beaches which received Blue Flag certification.
What is a Blue Flag?
One of the most recognisable voluntary awards in the world for marinas, beaches, and sustainable boating tourist providers is the Blue Flag, which is given by a Denmark-based non-profit organisation, named Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
Which Indian beaches got Blue Flag recently?
Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach in Lakshadweep got Blue Flag in October, 2022.
Which are the Blue Flag Beaches in South India?
The name of the South Indian Blue Flag Beaches are:
- Kasarkod Beach, Karnataka
- Padubidri Beach, Karnataka
- Kappad Beach, Kerala
- Rushikonda Beach, Andhra Pradesh
- Kovalam Beach, Tamil Nadu
- Eden Beach, Puducherry
About the author
From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.
+91-9212777225
Plan Your trip
