India's best beaches
Kick off your flip-flops in tropical Kerala, stretch out on the sunny sands of Goa or relax on idyllic Marari. Explore colour-washed colonial streets and laze under swaying coconut palms. India’s southwest coastline is scattered with golden stretches of sand and dotted with dreamy under-cliff coves. If you’re looking for a laid-back end to a culture-crammed India trip, head for the beaches. You certainly won’t be sorry.
Mystical Keralan beaches
Kerala is a pretty irresistible province with a slow pace and stacks of tropical sunshine. The beaches are breezy, wild and exotic, with caramel sands slipping into crystal clear waves. While Kovalam itself has been slightly overrun by tourism, there are several small and beautiful bays just begging to be explored. Try an Ayurvedic massage overlooking the ocean and eat deliciously spiced seafood.
Get tropical on Goa’s beaches
Goa is a tiny Portuguese-influenced pocket of paradise that’s easy to fall for and tricky to leave. The sun-kissed beaches give way to the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, cows patrol the shoreline at sunset and the spiced seafood is simply to die for. Behind the beaches, you’ll find romantic colonial mansions buried between banana plantations and sparkling blue lagoons. Stay in a quirky dome hut, a boutique resort or a heritage hotel.
Relax on idyllic Marari beach
Marari is a charming fishing village with an idyllic and tranquil beach, the perfect place to end your India trip. You’ll stay in a peaceful bungalow on the beach, set amongst tropical gardens where you can kick back in your hammock reading a book, take a dip in the sea or sunbathe by the pool. Pure bliss!
Escape to the Andaman Islands
Located off India’s east coast, the idyllic Andaman Islands boast unspoilt white sand beaches, pristine jungle interiors and fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. Yet they’re little-visited by tourists. It’s a lengthy journey to get there but it’s worth the effort.
Take a peek at our favourite South India trips
