Neil Island's best swimming beach, though its proximity to the jetty (just west) is a turn-off, as is the rowdy day-trip scene packed with motorised boats, jet skis and banana-boat rides.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Beach 3

1.17 MILES

This secluded rock-studded cove with powdery sand and good snorkelling sits on Neil's south coast and is one of the better beaches for lazing around.

2. Beach 2

1.45 MILES

On the southwest side of the island, signposted from Neil Kendra (1.5km), this rocky cove is famous for its striking Natural Bridge rock formation,…

3. Beach 1

1.66 MILES

A long sweep of sandy white coastline and mangroves wrapping around the northwest end of the island, 2km from the jetty, and gazing across to Havelock …

4. Beach 5

2.03 MILES

On the far eastern side of the island, 5km southeast of the jetty, Sitapur is a rugged sweep of silver-white sand, with small limestone caves accessible…

5. Kalapathar

9.85 MILES

Pristine Kalapathar is a salt-white swathe of sand lapped by clear turquoise water. It's a favourite sunrise-gazing spot, and you may have to walk a bit…

6. Radhanagar Beach

11.63 MILES

One of India’s (and indeed Asia's) most fabulous and famous stretches of sand: a beautiful bleach-blonde curve of powdery sugar fronted by perfectly…

7. Neil's Cove

12.21 MILES

With its gorgeous teal ‘lagoon’, Neil's Cove is a gem of sheltered sand and crystalline water. Swimming is prohibited at dusk and dawn; take heed of any…

8. Beach 5

12.87 MILES

On Havelock's eastern coast, palm-ringed Beach 5 has your classic tropical vibe with cream-coloured sand, cerulean sea, shady patches and few sandflies…