Havelock Island: The Complete First-Timer's Guide

Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is the single most popular island in the Andaman archipelago — and for good reason. Home to Radhanagar Beach, consistently rated among Asia's finest, it draws honeymooners, divers, and families alike.

How to Get There

Havelock is reached by ferry from Port Blair, a journey of roughly 90 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on the operator (Makruzz, Green Ocean, or Nautika are the main options). There is no airport on the island itself, so you will always transit through Port Blair first.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal window is October through May, when the seas are calm and skies are clear. The monsoon (June to September) brings rough water and occasional ferry cancellations, so it's best avoided if your schedule is tight.

What to Do

Radhanagar Beach is the obvious highlight — arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Beyond the beach, Havelock is one of India's best spots for scuba diving and snorkeling, with several PADI-certified dive centres offering everything from introductory dives to full certification courses. Elephant Beach, a short boat ride away, is popular for water sports like sea walking and jet skiing.

Where to Stay

Havelock offers everything from budget guesthouses near the main market to premium beachfront resorts along Radhanagar Beach Road. If romance is the goal, look for stays closer to Radhanagar; if you're diving, staying near Govind Nagar Beach puts you closer to most dive centres.

Our Tip

Book your ferry tickets in advance during peak season (December–January), as seats sell out days ahead. If you're short on time, a 2-night stay is enough to cover the essentials, but 3–4 nights lets you properly relax and explore beyond the main beach.