Elephant Beach

एलीफेंट बीच

Located on Havelock Island, this beach is known for excellent water sports including parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and snorkeling. It combines adventure activities with beautiful natural scenery.

Things to do

• Parasailing — Soar above the turquoise waters of Elephant Beach while tethered to a speedboat for panoramic views of Havelock Island and the surrounding Andaman Sea.
• Jet Skiing — Rent a jet ski and experience high-speed thrills across the crystal-clear waters, with operators available directly on the beach during peak tourist season.
• Snorkeling — Explore shallow coral reefs and tropical fish species just offshore, with equipment rentals and guided snorkeling trips available from beach vendors.
• Banana Boat Rides — Experience a fun group water activity where up to eight people ride an inflatable banana-shaped boat pulled by a speedboat, offering splashes and laughter.
• Beach Photography at Sunset — Capture the golden hour as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink behind the white sand beach.
• Swimming and Sunbathing — Enjoy the pristine waters and soft sand in this sheltered bay, ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed beach experience.

Food to try

• Grilled Fish Curry — Fresh catch of the day seasoned with local spices and coconut milk, grilled over charcoal at beachside shacks for authentic island flavors.
• Crab Masala — Large crabs cooked in a rich onion and tomato-based masala with traditional Andamanese spices, a signature seafood preparation found at local restaurants.
• Coconut Prawn Curry — Succulent prawns simmered in fresh coconut milk with turmeric and curry leaves, reflecting the region's reliance on fresh seafood and coconut.
• Bamboo Shoot Fry — Locally harvested bamboo shoots fried with mustard seeds and green chilies, a traditional Andamanese vegetable dish found at casual beach eateries.
• Fresh Coconut Water — Refreshing straight from the coconut and served ice-cold by vendors on the beach, the perfect hydration drink after water sports activities.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Beach Operating Hours — Water sports operators typically cease activities at dusk due to safety regulations and tidal conditions, so plan water activities for daylight hours.
• Bargain Respectfully for Services — Prices for water sports and meals are often negotiable with local vendors, but approach negotiations politely and understand that operators depend on these earnings.
• Carry Cash and Small Notes — Many small beachside vendors and water sports operators prefer cash payments; bring Indian rupees in small denominations as ATMs may not be immediately accessible.
• Sun Protection is Essential — The tropical sun near the equator is intense; wear high SPF sunscreen, reapply frequently, and consider a rashguard while snorkeling to prevent severe sunburn.