Step through a lush forest canopy onto the pristine, powdery shores of Radhanagar Beach, a globally celebrated Indian eco-paradise. Boasting the prestigious Blue Flag certification, this breathtaking haven sets the international gold standard for clean sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
India is home to some of the most beautiful beaches surrounded by tropical forests but also the some of the cleanest. One beach in particular, backed by the dense canopy of ancient mahua trees on Havelock Island, you’ll trade green trees for perfect turquoise waters and powdery white sand. You have reached Radhanagar Beach—locally known as Beach Number 7—the crown jewel of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and globally celebrated as a masterclass in eco-preservation.
Radhanagar Beach is known for its beauty, and it was even named the 'Best Beach in Asia' by Time Magazine. It regularly ranks in the top ten most beautiful beaches around the world. But what sets this beach apart from other Indian shores is its dedication to preservation and cleanliness.
In fact, Radhanagar Beach was awarded a Blue Flag certification. This international eco-label, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Denmark, is granted only to beaches that meet 33 stringent criteria regarding environmental management, safety, and immaculate water and sand quality.
A beach free of pollution
Local authorities work tirelessly to ensure the shores of this beautiful beach remain free of pollution. So much so that as you walk along the two-kilometre stretch of sand, you won’t find anything on the floor apart from seashells, sand and nature.
To maintain its status, local authorities have banned motorised water sports. The waters are free of jet skis and parasailing boats, so as not to disturb marine life and to keep the crystal clear waters free of oil.
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This allows the beach to belong to its natural rhythm. Thanks to its efforts, the waters of Radhanagar are so clear that you can wade waist-deep and watch small schools of fish swim across your feet, unbothered.
Moreover, on land, single-use plastic is banned, allowing the beach to remain picture-perfect at all times. Those who visit are encouraged to use reusable water bottles and such, pushing for an eco-conscious mindset. A dedicated team of local handlers works alongside the Beach Management Committee to ensure that not a single piece of debris compromises the shoreline.
Spend a day in paradise
Planning a trip to Radhanagar Beach is the best way to slow down in life and to take a step back to appreciate Mother Nature. As the ocean floor naturally slopes away from the shore, it offers calm, shallow waters, creating a natural, safe swimming pool that extends for nearly 50 meters. The waters are surveilled by lifeguards in the marked safe areas, to allow peace of mind for both families and solo travellers.
Another way local authorities keep the landscape looking so natural is by keeping the infrastructure out of sight! Restrooms, changing cubicles, and eco-friendly wooden seating areas are hidden back within the shade of the forest border, maintaining the beach’s wild, uninterrupted profile.
The highlight of this Indian gem is the fact that the beach faces due west across the Bay of Bengal. If you stay until the late afternoon, you’ll experience one of the most spectacular sunsets. As the sun dips toward the water, the pristine white sand acts as a mirror, catching brilliant reflections of crimson, violet, and molten gold.
Discover all Blue Flag beaches here.
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