
Everything you need for Havelock in one place: which beaches are worth it, how the ferries work, where to stay, and the local advice that saves you time on the island.
Havelock, officially Swaraj Dweep, is the island most people picture when they think of the Andamans: long white beaches, clear water and thick forest right behind the sand.
It is also the easiest island to enjoy. There are stays for every budget, plenty of cafes, and most of the dive schools in the Andamans. Yet it still feels relaxed once you step away from the jetty area.
There is no airport or bridge, so everyone arrives by sea from Port Blair, or from Neil if you are island hopping. You have two kinds of ferry to choose from.
Plan your hotel check-in around the ferry, not the other way round. Morning sailings give you a full first afternoon on the island.
Havelock's beaches are numbered as well as named, which is handy when talking to drivers. These are the ones worth your time.
A wide curve of fine sand backed by tall trees, and often ranked among the best beaches in Asia. Come in the late afternoon and stay for sunset.
Shallow reef close to shore makes this the easy spot for snorkelling, sea walking and other water activities.
Named after its black rocks, with turquoise water and a quiet road running alongside. One of the best places for sunrise.
A calm stretch lined with resorts, good for slow mornings and long walks when the tide is out.

Mix one or two water activities with lazy time. Havelock is best enjoyed without an overpacked schedule.
Beginner try dives with an instructor are common, and no prior experience is needed.
Elephant Beach is the simplest option, with gear and guides available on site.
Guided kayak trips paddle through calm mangrove creeks, some timed for sunrise.
Rent a scooter or cycle and explore the island's small cafes and quiet roads.
The island is small, but where you stay changes how your days feel.
Most convenient for ferries, with more cafes, shops and budget stays close by.
Calmer, with many beachfront resorts. A good middle ground for couples and families.
Quietest and closest to the famous beach, with fewer places to eat nearby.
A relaxed plan that works for most first-time visitors. Swap days around your ferry times.
Sea conditions change. Swim only in marked areas, follow lifeguard flags and instructions, and avoid swimming at dusk or after dark.
Havelock, officially Swaraj Dweep, is the island most people picture when they think of the Andamans: long white beaches, clear water and thick forest right behind the sand.
It is also the easiest island to enjoy. There are stays for every budget, plenty of cafes, and most of the dive schools in the Andamans. Yet it still feels relaxed once you step away from the jetty area.
There is no airport or bridge, so everyone arrives by sea from Port Blair, or from Neil if you are island hopping. You have two kinds of ferry to choose from.
Plan your hotel check-in around the ferry, not the other way round. Morning sailings give you a full first afternoon on the island.
Havelock's beaches are numbered as well as named, which is handy when talking to drivers. These are the ones worth your time.
A wide curve of fine sand backed by tall trees, and often ranked among the best beaches in Asia. Come in the late afternoon and stay for sunset.
Shallow reef close to shore makes this the easy spot for snorkelling, sea walking and other water activities.
Named after its black rocks, with turquoise water and a quiet road running alongside. One of the best places for sunrise.
A calm stretch lined with resorts, good for slow mornings and long walks when the tide is out.

Mix one or two water activities with lazy time. Havelock is best enjoyed without an overpacked schedule.
Beginner try dives with an instructor are common, and no prior experience is needed.
Elephant Beach is the simplest option, with gear and guides available on site.
Guided kayak trips paddle through calm mangrove creeks, some timed for sunrise.
Rent a scooter or cycle and explore the island's small cafes and quiet roads.
The island is small, but where you stay changes how your days feel.
Most convenient for ferries, with more cafes, shops and budget stays close by.
Calmer, with many beachfront resorts. A good middle ground for couples and families.
Quietest and closest to the famous beach, with fewer places to eat nearby.
A relaxed plan that works for most first-time visitors. Swap days around your ferry times.
Sea conditions change. Swim only in marked areas, follow lifeguard flags and instructions, and avoid swimming at dusk or after dark.
Seasons, islands, ferries and local tips for planning the whole trip.
Airport and jetty transfers, sightseeing and full-day car hire.
Meet the Port Blair team behind these guides.
Tell us your dates. We line up ferries, a stay in the right part of the island and the activities you actually want.
