Clear Water Beaches In India

[Daira]

Is the water pretty clear in most coastal locations? I'm looking forward to some beach time while we're there, but I have a problem swimming in cloudy water.

 

[Andre]

I think when you take a tour to go snorkeling or diving they take you to the best locations in India. There you will always find nice clean water to swim in. If you stay on the shore and near the ocean then it might not be as easy to find. In the ocean the waves will turn up the sand and the water isn't always clear.

 

[MarilynB]

I bet there are lagoons or bays that have lovely beaches with clean water. I don't mind if the water is cloudy because of sand as long as it is clean.

 

[Barbiebarbie73]

Personally I think that is best if you arrange something with a travel company because they tend to know the best location. This is the best option if you going somewhere for the first time and are looking for something specific

 

[Chahal]

If you want crystal clear water and white sand, you should go to Andaman and Nicobar islands where you will find some of the world's best beaches, and it is not crowded like beaches on the mainland.

 

[George]

I know what you mean about swimming in dirty water. I have swam in some lagoons that were so clear it was amazing. You could see all the way to the bottom. It was amazing in the boat. You couldn't keep your eyes off the water and looking down.

 

[Maple]

I don't mind sandy water, but I can't stand swimming where there are tons of weeds and rocks.

Chahal, those islands look stunning! I would love to go there, but then I'd probably never want to leave!

 

[jnorth88]

I would try the beaches in Goa. The further South, the more pristine they are, with clear waters and beautiful sand. Try staying in a place like the Taj Exotica. They can provide everything you need, including a nearly private beach. Of course, there is no such thing as private beaches, but so few outsiders make it that far that you will seldom encounter others.

 

[briannagodess]

Hello, @Daira! Welcome to the forum!

Here are some beaches in India with crystal, clear water:

• Marari Beach in Kerala - This can be found in the Alappuzha District of Kerala. Its name is derived from Mararikulum, a fisherman's village in the city. It is about 10 kms away from Alleppey so it's easily accessible. However, not many people know about this gem in the region. Since it's not that commercialised, you won't find many accommodation options nearby except for a few resorts, guest houses and home stays. But that's the best part, it's secluded and untouched by civilisation. The water of the beach is very clear and bluish. The sands here are quite powdery and fine. It's the best place to relax and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.

• Bangaram Beach in Lakshadweep Islands - The Bangaram Island itself is an uninhabited region in the Lakshadweep Islands. It is about a 20-minute speed boat ride from Agatti. It is surrounded by a lagoon enclosed with coral reefs. Because it's away from the city, it's unpolluted, less commercialised and very pure. The water in the Bangaram Beach is crystal clear and the sands are silvery in colour. You can even do some water sports here like snorkelling and scuba diving. Since the island is in a litigation over the resort, it's not open for tourists that are not staying the night there. So you would need to obtain a confirmed booking receipt in order to visit the islands.

• Ranpar Beach in Maharashtra - This is located in the Konkan Coast. Apart from a few fishermen and their boats, you won't find tourists as much here. You might be able to find some locals though during the weekend. But tourists don't usually flock to this beach, despite its beautiful shores and clear waters. It would appear like there's a never-ending shore and water when you're here. There's literally nothing to do but enjoy the beach. You won't find accommodations or shacks nearby. It's best to bring your own food and a tent, if you're planning to stay the night.

• Paradise Beach in Pondicherry - This beach is also known as Chunnambar. Its name Paradise Beach was derived from the serenity of the beach and from the fact that it's only accessible via boat ride. The sands of the beach are very fine and powdery. You can easily see the sands in the clear, blue waters of the beach. There are no accommodations in the area though, the last boat leaves at 6:30 pm. There are a couple of beach shacks that offer some snacks though.

• Yarada Beach in Andhra Pradesh - This is located in the West Coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is about 15 kms from Visakhapatnam. The water here is very clear and clean. Not a lot of tourists go to the beach because it requires a half day to visit. But that adds to the charm of the beach, it's very much secluded and provides some privacy to families and couples. It's not advisable to swim in the water though because of the strong undercurrents. You can enjoy walking on the shore, building sand castles or just basking in the nearby waters.

• Tarkarli Beach in Maharashtra - This is located in the Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra. This beach is in the confluence of the Karli River and the Arabian Sea. It has not only clear blue water, but white sands as well. You can also enjoy water sports like diving, snorkelling and jet skiing here. The water here is also safe for swimming. You can even see the bed depths of until 20 feet, on a clear day, that is. If you're lucky, you might even be able to spot dolphins swimming here.

• St. Mary's Island in Karnataka - This is also known as Coconut Island. These are four small islands in the Udupi District of Karnataka. It is a 20-minute boat ride from Malpe Beach. The basalt on this island is believed to have been formed by volcanic activity. This is a rare occurrence and is one evidence that India was once attached to Madagascar. It is crowded with tourists as well especially during peak season. Despite this, you can still enjoy the clear blue waters, sandy shores and rock formations in the beach. You can also have many options for resorts and hotels nearby the beach.

• Neil Island in Andaman - For the most part, the beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are beautiful and has clear waters. It's a tiny island teeming with beautiful marine life, virgin beaches and waters. You can explore the whole island in under two hours. Unlike the other beaches in the Andaman Islands, Neil Island is deserted and away from the noise.

I hope this helps.

 

[Admin]

Best Clear Water Beaches in India (2025 Updated Guide)​

India is home to some of the most breathtaking clear-water beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. If you are looking for crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, here are some of the top options:

Radhanagar Beach, Andaman & Nicobar​

️ Why Visit? Ranked among the best beaches in Asia, Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island offers powdery white sand and turquoise waters, making it ideal for honeymooners and nature lovers.
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, sunset viewing

Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep​

️ Why Visit? One of India's most untouched islands, Bangaram boasts pristine blue waters, coral reefs, and abundant marine biodiversity.
Activities: Kayaking, deep-sea diving, coral reef exploration

Palolem Beach, Goa​

️ Why Visit? Unlike the crowded beaches of North Goa, Palolem in South Goa is known for its calm blue waters, scenic coastline, and laid-back vibe.
Activities: Dolphin spotting, boat rides, yoga retreats

Agatti Island, Lakshadweep​

️ Why Visit? One of the few inhabited islands in Lakshadweep, Agatti has sparkling blue waters and a thriving coral reef system.
Activities: Snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides

Tarkarli Beach, Maharashtra​

️ Why Visit? Often called Maharashtra’s Maldives, Tarkarli has unbelievably clear waters and a rich marine ecosystem.
Activities: Scuba diving, houseboat stays, snorkeling

Comparison Table: Clear Water Beaches in India​

Beach Name	Location	Best Time to Visit	Water Clarity	Activities
Radhanagar Beach	Andaman & Nicobar	October - April	Excellent (5/5)	Scuba diving, snorkeling
Bangaram Island	Lakshadweep	October - May	Crystal Clear (5/5)	Kayaking, coral viewing
Palolem Beach	Goa	November - March	Very Clear (4/5)	Dolphin spotting, boat rides
Agatti Island	Lakshadweep	October - May	Outstanding (5/5)	Glass-bottom boat rides
Tarkarli Beach	Maharashtra	October - March	Clear (4/5)	Scuba diving, houseboats

Pro Travel Tips for Visiting These Beaches​

Best Time to Visit: Most of these beaches are best enjoyed between October and April when the waters are clearest.
Entry Permits: Foreigners need a special permit for Lakshadweep and Andaman Islands.
Budget Tip: Book ferries and flights to Andaman and Lakshadweep in advance for better deals.
Which of these clear water beaches in India have you visited? Let us know your experiences below!