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Do you also dream of a beach vacation in Hawaii or Thailand? Engulfed with thick, dense forests, in the lap of nature with turquoise-blue waters, scenic sandy shores and sweeping sunsets? If yes, these breathtaking Blue Flag beaches in India are going to leave you stunned! A Blue Flag beach refers to a beach that is labelled as an ec-beach that meets certain environmental, safety and cleanliness standards. They are set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). These beaches are renowned around the globe for their sustainable practices, eco-friendly approach and environmental management. In this article, we bring forth a dedicated list of 12 best Blue Flag beaches in India that rightfully deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Golden Beach
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The next time people say, "There are no good beaches in India," tell them they are highly mistaken. The Golden Beach in Puri, Odisha, was Asia’s first-ever certified Blue Flag beach. Golden Beach, also widely referred to as Paradise Beach, is the right choice for those who prefer privacy. The secluded location, clear crystal waters and sandy shores are what make it a Blue Flag beach. It is popularly known as a plastic-free beach which features an outstanding waste management system, and also has solar-powered facilities. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Odisha. Before this beach becomes a popular tourist destination and viral destination on Instagram, visit this destination with your friends and family for the perfect beach experience in India. The beach is also a famous site for the annual Puri Beach Festival. The Golden Beach at Puri was awarded the prestigious 'Blue Flag' tag on October 11, 2020, by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE), Denmark.
Where: Puri, Odisha
Shivrajpur Beach
When we talk about beaches, the first thing that comes to our mind is the beautiful palm-adorned groves, with blue water and extensive sandy shores. But, what if I tell you, this beach in Gujarat looks nothing less than a tropical paradise? Yes, the Shivrajpur Beach in Gujarat, located near the Dwarka District, is a white-sand beach that looks like it’s out of a postcard. The azure white sands dunes with the blue, crystal clear waters are a serene escape from the chaos of city life. One of the best Blue Flag beaches in India, it is popularly known for its cleanliness and environmentally conscious approach. This pristine beach is the perfect place to relax while you soak in the beauty of an unexplored region of Gujarat. If you are planning your next vacation in Gujarat, don’t miss out on this breathtaking beach.
Where: Devbhumi, Dwarka District, Gujarat
Kappad Beach
Kappad Beach in Kerala is one for the books! It may look like something you see on a photo calendar. It is a historically significant beach, as it was here where Vasco Da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, reached the coast of India on May 20, 1498. This is an ecologically and culturally sacred beach as it's also home to Olive Ridley turtles. As the beach has very little human interaction, it is also a nesting ground for these turtles. It is a perfect way to take a break from the traditional tourist spots in Kerala and get lost in its scenic beauty. The salty air, the clashing of the tides and the sweeping sunsets make it a loved tourist destination for visitors. The beach is spick and span with no sight of litter anywhere, making it one of India’s cleanest beaches. Surrounded by backwaters, lush greenery and absolutely no crowds, truly makes it a hidden gem in Kerala. Visitors can also engage in various water sports like kayaking, swimming and boating in calm waters. Other than this, the beach also features a few shacks and local tourist shops where visitors can shop.
Where: Kozhikode, Kerala
Ghoghla Beach
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Do you want to explore the scenic coastline of India but don’t want to visit the same old crowded beaches in Goa and Kerala? Then Goghla Beach in Diu will leave you in awe. The breathtaking shores with pristine blue waters and a tranquil atmosphere make it a treasured destination for beach lovers. Renowned for its quiet, untouched beauty and clear blue waters, this offbeat beach is also extremely clean. This beach surely lives up to its Blue Flag beach title, as it is safe for tourists. The clear waters make it a favoured spot for activities like swimming, parasailing, banana boat rides, and more. Feel refreshed with a dip in the Arabian Sea, accompanied by palm groves and a soothing atmosphere. Located approximately 15 km from the heart of Diu, this beach is definitely worth visiting.
Where: Diu, near Gujarat
Radhanagar Beach
A trending destination amongst tourists, as content creators and influencers are flocking to the breathtaking Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an archipelago of roughly 500 islands and islets, of which only 39 are inhabited by humans. Initially regarded as the seventh most beautiful beach in the world in 2009, unfortunately, the Radhanagar Beach has fallen prey to large tourist crowds. This was followed by littering and harming the environment. However, in 2021, this tropical paradise was named a Blue Flag Beach by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark. This certification is based on water quality monitoring. Located on Havelock Island, the Radhanagar Beach is a gem in the Bay of Bengal. Though this beach is not as secluded as others, the lush greenery, turquoise blue waters, and white sandy shores make it no less than a treasure trove. The beach boasts a variety of water sports, like diving, parasailing, banana boat rides and more. But if one wishes to make the most out of this destination, then snorkelling or scuba diving has to be on their beach vacation bucket list. Behold, as you’ll be transported to another world, a shoal of fish, corals, and the vibrant aquatic life will make you fall in love with Radhanagar Beach. The best time to visit this spot would be after the Monsoon season ends.
Kasarkod Beach
Tucked away in the Honnavar district of Karnataka is a treasure trove of coconut groves, salty air, dunes and serenity. The pristine blue waters and the soothing atmosphere offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. A renowned destination, known for its exemplary cleanliness, waste management and hospitality, this beach is for those who crave a slice of silence away from the crowded tourist attractions. The Kasarkod beach is surrounded by a thick, dense forest of Casuarinas and was the first beach in India to bag the status of an Eco-themed beach in Karnataka. The beach features a few notable factors like a greywater treatment plant, solid waste management system, clean drinking water facilities, and the cherry on top would be the well-maintained washrooms and changing rooms. The beach stretches over 5 km and is a destination for those who seek calmness and relaxation. If you are looking for the perfect beach escape, visit Kasarkod right away!
Where: Karnataka
Padubidri Beach
Once you visit the Padubidri Beach in Karnataka, beach destinations like Hawaii, the Maldives and Mauritius won't be the only destinations you'll have on your bucket list. A beach in India, surrounded by clean and clear waters, ecologically rich as it's the humble abode of the Olive Ridley Turtles and the quiet shores with minimal crowds, will surely steal your heart. A pristine beach tucked between Udupi and Mangalore is a haven for those who want to relax by the beach and admire the nature and wildlife around them. Certified Blue Flag beach, the Padubidri Beach is known for its clean environment, water activities like kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing. It also boasts amenities like changing rooms, lifeguards, and a distinguished area for kids. If you, too, are a bookworm, you can spend a nice afternoon reading a book by the benches placed on the beaches at frequent intervals.
Where: Near Udipi, Karnataka
Rushikonda Beach
Popular for its golden sands and water sports, the Rushikonda Beach is a must-visit beach in India. A certified Blue Flag beach, it offers a unique blend of quiet shores, greenery and calming waters. This beach attracts tourists from all over the country. Located 8 km away from the city of Vizag, it is popular for its blue waters, adventurous water sport activities and a picturesque view to die for. This beach is a popular spot for water sports like water skiing and windsurfing. The beach is looked after by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department. The best time to visit the Rushikonda Beach is from October to March, as guests can make the most out of their visit. If you’re tired of visiting the same old beaches in Goa, then step away from paradise for your next beach vacation.
Where: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Kovalam Beach
A lesser-known Kovalam Beach near Chennai with soft sands and calm waves. This beach is a haven for those who love to relax, unwind and enjoy a laid-back beach vacation. It is popular for its three crescent-shaped beaches and soothing waters, which are the highlight of this beach. This Blue Flag beach is for those who wish to enjoy a secluded beach, away from the crowds. It is a well-maintained beach, with three other famous beaches - the Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach and the Samudra Beach. People can also visit various landmarks near the beach, such as the famous lighthouse, Vellayani Lake, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, Kovalam Art Gallery, the Kerala Art and Craft Village and many more such spots. Kovalam Beach was granted the Blue Flag beach certification in September 2021.
Where: Thiruvanantapuram, Kerala
Eden Beach
This is the perfect place to lie down and read a book by the beach, as the cool breeze fills the air. Eden Beach was the first ever beach in Pondicherry to get recognised as a Blue Flag Beach. The sparkling white sand and the clean blue waters make this beach destination nothing less than a paradise. Eden Beach is located around 7 km from the White Town area and the Promenade beach of this city, too. The popular Paradise Beach is just 1 km away from Eden Beach. It is the best place to catch beautiful sunrises as the sky is awash in hues of orange and red. The Chunnambar River and the thick palm groves offer a panoramic view, which is absolutely breathtaking. If you plan on visiting Pondicherry soon, this Blue Flag beach in India, the Eden Beach, should be on your itinerary.
Where: Pondicherry
Minicoy Thundi Beach
Minicoy Thundi Beach features pristine white sands and turquoise waters. If you are a beach lover, then Minicoy Thundi Beach needs to be on your beach destination bucket list. Secluded, away from civilisation and the chaos, is a serene spot for those who wish to unwind, relax and refresh in this coastal paradise. The azure shores, turquoise waters and the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the beach are some compelling reasons why you should visit this destination. If you are a sport and love to try different types of water sports, then you won’t be disappointed. This beach offers various water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, parasailing and more. It is one of the cleanest, well-maintained beaches in India. One can also visit the lighthouse located near the beach, at a short distance, which was constructed in the 18th century. The beaches also have bathing facilities with huts and bathrooms for people to change in. It is also a heavenly place for those who enjoy swimming.
Where: Lakshadweep Island
Kadmat Beach
This article will be incomplete if we don't mention Kadmat Beach in Lakshadweep. A treasure trove of palm-fringed trees, sandy shores, turquoise water beaches and a calming atmosphere make it a perfect spot. Kadmat Beach, a blue flag beach in Lakshadweep, is a popular tourist spot amongst budding travellers. It is the ideal place to travel to, away from the maddening crowds. With a long coastline of 8 km, the shallow lagoon located near the island is also a popular spot among tourists. The best time to visit this island is from October to April. The next time you plan on visiting beach destinations abroad, give these Blue Flag Beaches in India a look and visit them for a perfect getaway.
Where: Lakshadweep Island