Sun, Sand and Solitude: India’s Underrated Coastal Gems and Must-Visit Beach Towns

While popular destinations like Goa, Kerala and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands often steal the spotlight, many lesser-known coastal gems await discovery. 

17 May 2024

By Ishika Kumar

India’s vast coastline, spanning over 7,500 km, is dotted with bustling fishing villages, serene beach towns and pristine waters of beaches that promise a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. While popular destinations like Goa, Kerala and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands often steal the spotlight, many lesser-known coastal gems await discovery. 

Here’s a curated list of the top coastal towns in India, understated and frequently visited, that are a must-visit for travellers seeking sun, sand and the sea.

1.     Goa: The Quintessential Beach Destination

No list of coastal towns in India would be complete without mentioning Goa. Known as the crown jewel of India’s beach destinations, Goa attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year. Its vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches and Portuguese colonial architecture offer a diverse range of experiences. 

Goa caters to all tastes — a laid-back experience in Arambol, North Goa, which is a hidden paradise adorned with magnificent cliffs, a freshwater lake and vibrant flea markets or lounging on the golden sands of Baga Beach and exploring the historic churches of Old Goa, or partying the night away in Anjuna.

2.     Tarkarli, Maharashtra: Marine Life and Water Sports

Tarkarli, a small town in Maharashtra’s Konkan region, is famed for its rich marine life, crystal-clear turquoise waters and spotless white sand beaches. It is a must-visit for scuba diving, snorkelling and other water sports activities for enthusiasts of all thrills. The region will leave you amused with its delectable and local seafood flavours along with jackfruit and kokum as seasonal favourites.

3.     Mandvi, Gujarat: White Sand Beaches and Heritage

Mandvi, a coastal town in Gujarat, is renowned for its magnificent white sand beaches and the historic Vijay Vilas Palace. Visitors can explore lively local markets and shop for beautiful handicrafts, generationally artistic cloth and textiles, indulge in water sports and soak in the exquisite views of Mandvi’s serene beaches as they offer a pillow of beauty and comfort.

4.     Puducherry: A Blend of French and Indian Charm

Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry) is a coastal town steeped in history and charm. This quaint union territory showcases a unique blend of Indian and French influences. They have nature trails and camping too, as a major self-exploratory adventure which hits just the right spots.

Stroll along the picturesque promenade, explore the colourful streets of the French Quarter, sip the most artisanal coffee, try vegan or organic farm-to-table food and baked goods from Parisian-like cafes or relax on the tranquil beaches of Auroville and Paradise Beach. 

Puducherry’s slow-paced vibe, appealing cuisine, nature trails, camping experiences and rich cultural heritage make it a favourite destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea. It is a place for people who are in a coastal town but looking for more. 

5.     Chidiya Tapu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Bird Watcher’s Paradise

While Havelock and Neil Islands are well-known, Chidiya Tapu offers a serene coastal experience off the beaten path. Known for its stunning sunset views, mangrove forests and rich birdlife as the name suggests, Chidiya Tapu is a hidden gem which is a hard miss if not on your bucket list.

6.     Marari, Kerala: An Untouched Seaside Experience

Marari is a secret spot offering a tranquil and untouched seaside experience. Known for its palm-fringed beaches, backwater canals and genuine fishing villages, Marari is a sanctuary for those seeking a peaceful and authentic coastal vacation locked away from noisy city life and the daily hustle and bustle of metros.

7.     Kochi, Kerala: A Historic Port City

Kochi, a historic port city, offers a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s maritime heritage. The bustling streets of Fort Kochi are lined with colonial-era buildings that stand in stark contrast to the traditional Chinese fishing nets. Key attractions include the iconic Mattancherry Palace and the fragrant spice markets. A scenic boat ride along the backwaters provides a tranquil escape and showcases the timeless beauty of this coastal gem. It is where you can embrace city life and the seaside, perfect for a staycation.

8.     Varkala, Kerala: Clifftop Views and Spirituality

Perched atop majestic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, Varkala in Kerala is renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. A stroll along the cliffside promenade offers panoramic views of the ocean. Varkala is also known for its wellness centres, where you can indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and treatments. 

The serene beaches and relaxed atmosphere make this place a blissful retreat for travellers seeking solace by the sea. The Papanasham beach here is known to wash away all your sins or ‘papam’ with its waters. It is believed that this sea is a religious entity with powerful waters; hence, ashes of the dead from the crematorium are immersed here, symbolising the attainment of ‘moksha’ or eternal salvation by purifying the soul of the deceased.

9.     Gokarna, Karnataka: A Seaside Hideaway

Tucked away on Karnataka’s western coast, Gokarna offers a calm and rich beach experience. This understated tourist destination provides an alternative to the bustling beaches of Goa. With its vast expanses of sandy shoreline, historic temples and easy-breezy atmosphere, Gokarna is perfect for travellers seeking a peaceful escape. Whether you’re trekking to the secluded beaches of Om and Half Moon, practising yoga on Kudle Beach or simply unwinding in a beachside shack, Gokarna promises an unforgettable coastal experience.

10.   Digha, West Bengal: A Local Favourite

Situated on the Bay of Bengal and 187 km from Kolkata, Digha is a popular weekend getaway for locals yet remains largely unexplored by foreign tourists. Its extensive golden beaches extending to 7 km in length, calm waters and active fishing settlements make Digha a fascinating coastal destination with top-quality fish and a wide variety of seafood. It is also called the ‘Brighton of the East’. 

11.   Yarada Beach, Andhra Pradesh: A Scenic Escape

Close to Visakhapatnam or Vizag, Yarada Beach offers a picturesque seaside escape competing with beaches abroad. It is surrounded by verdant hills and a hill road leading to it with sweeping views of the Bay of Bengal. This beach is ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty but especially with scarce crowds.

12.   Talasari Beach, Odisha: Golden Sands and Tranquility

Talasari Beach along the coast of Odisha is the last beach on the northeastern coast of India, it is renowned for its fine golden sand, placid waters and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The serene setting and nearby fishing villages offer a fascinating glimpse into local life. They even have dunes and palm trees.

13.  Gahirmatha Beach, Odisha: Turtle Nesting Haven

Located in the Bhitarkanika National Park, Gahirmatha Beach is famous for being the world’s largest nesting site for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles. In the hatching season, people here gather to witness the turtles and their babies. It also has a sanctuary for turtles called the Gahirmata Turtle Sanctuary. Visiting this pristine beach to witness the nesting and hatching of these endangered turtles is a truly unique and memorable coastal experience. You can also plan a picnic here.

These coastal towns, each with its unique charm and attractions, offer a diverse range of experiences for travellers. Whether you seek vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, rich cultural heritage or adventurous water sports, India’s coastline has something to offer every traveller.