Blue Flag Beaches in India

Golden Beach which stretches along the Bay of Bengal is located along the Puri coast on the eastern side of Odisha. This exemplifies tranquility and charm. The Golden Beach stands true to its name as it is filled with sparkling golden sand and azure water. Famous for its breathtaking sunrises and picturesque sunsets, this pristine beach is a perfect retreat for all nature lovers. 

Nestled 12 km from Dwarka along the Dwarka-Okha Highway in Gujarat, Shivrajpur Beach is one of the most renowned beaches in the state. It is a white sand beach with azure blue waters that received the prestigious Blue Flag Beach certification in October 2020. Visitors might catch a sight of dolphins or beautiful birds here.

Kappad Beach, located in Kozhikode, Kerala, holds historical significance as the landing place of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498. This serene stretch of coastline is renowned for its golden sands, gently lapping waves, and lush greenery. Visitors to Kappad Beach can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, take leisurely walks along the shore, and explore the nearby historic sites. 

One of the most attractive places in Diu is the Ghoghla beach. Located in the north of Diu town with not many people, it catches the attention of the tourists who prefer to stay aloof and not with the crowd. With standard restaurants around the place along with water sports, this beach stands complete. Lesser tourists are the reason for a much cleaner Ghoghla beach compared to the other beaches in the town.

Awarded with the title of 'Asia's Best Beach' by the TIMES magazine in 2004, Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island with its turquoise blue waters and powdery white sands lives up to the moniker. Its vast shores of endless white grains stretch across 2 kilometres, making it a prime attraction of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Snuggled in the Honnavar Taluk of Uttara Kannada District, Kasarkod Beach is certified as a Blue Flag beach in Karnataka. The Kasarkod Beach is encircled by a thick forest of Casuarinas and is the most popular & pristine beach on the Konkan coast. Notably, Kasarkod beach has attained the status of the first Eco-themed beach in Karnataka.

The Rushikonda Beach is a stunning shore located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal in Vishakhapatnam, in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. APTDC, which is in charge of this natural beauty, has done a great job in the upkeep of the beach and ensured that this natural attraction remains unspoiled. Rushikonda Beach is thus rightly named the 'Jewel of the East Coast,' owing to its essential and intact beauty. The serene golden sands of the beach are located in the bosom of Rushikonda hill. 

Kovalam Beach, nestled in the historic town of Mahabalipuram near Chennai, is renowned for its golden sands and cultural significance. Recently awarded the Blue Flag certification, Kovalam is not only a picturesque destination but also upholds international standards of cleanliness and environmental sustainability. The beach's highlights include ancient shore temples, a vibrant arts scene, and the tranquil ambiance that makes it a sought-after retreat along the Bay of Bengal.

Flaunting super clean surroundings with sparkling white sand, Eden Beach in Chinna Veerampattinam is a proud blue flag-certified beach in Pondicherry. It is located almost 7 km from the White Town area and the Promenade beach of this city. Also, the well-known Paradise Beach is just 1 km south of this beach. Lying on the east coast of India, Eden Beach offers some mesmerizing sunrise views.

Kadmat Beach, a gem in the Lakshadweep archipelago, is renowned for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. This picturesque beach, a part of the Kavaratti group of islands, has gained recognition as a Blue Flag Certified destination, ensuring high standards of environmental sustainability and safety. Visitors to Kadmat Beach can indulge in water sports, explore the rich marine life through snorkeling, and relax amidst the serene beauty of this paradisiacal island.

Minicoy Thundi Beach, nestled in the pristine archipelago of Lakshadweep, is a mesmerizing coastal gem boasting Blue Flag certification. With its powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, this beach exemplifies the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental conservation. Visitors can revel in the breathtaking beauty of the Arabian Sea, engage in water sports, and witness the rich marine biodiversity that makes Minicoy Thundi Beach a standout destination in the Lakshadweep Islands.

Padubidri Beach in Karnataka, nestled along the Arabian Sea, is a coastal gem known for its serene shores and scenic beauty. While not currently holding the Blue Flag certification, the beach is recognized for its environmental conservation efforts and cleanliness initiatives. Visitors can revel in the tranquil atmosphere, enjoy water activities, and explore the nearby attractions, making Padubidri Beach a delightful destination along Karnataka's coastline.