How to Reach Radhanagar Beach from Port Blair – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Radhanagar Beach from Port Blair by ferry and road with practical tips on timings, fares, and local transport for a smooth trip.
Radhanagar Beach is located on Havelock Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal. Port Blair, the capital city of the islands, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to Radhanagar Beach. This route is popular among tourists seeking the pristine white sands and clear waters of one of Asia's best beaches.
This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Port Blair to Radhanagar Beach. You will learn about ferry options, road travel on Havelock Island, and practical tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.
Getting from Port Blair to Radhanagar Beach – Main Options
Ferry
Ferry travel is the primary and most popular mode to reach Havelock Island from Port Blair. It offers scenic views and multiple daily departures, making it suitable for most travelers.
The government-run ferry departs from Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair and takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach Havelock Island, depending on the vessel type and sea conditions.
Private ferries and cruise services also operate on this route, often providing faster travel times but at higher fares, ranging from INR 500 to INR 1500 per person.
Ferry services are frequent, with early morning and afternoon options; however, booking tickets in advance via the official Andaman Tourism website or authorized agents is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
During the monsoon months (June to September), rough seas may cause delays or cancellations, so check weather updates before planning your trip.
Boarding requires arriving at the jetty at least 30 minutes before departure; facilities at Phoenix Bay Jetty include basic waiting areas and food stalls.
Bus
There are no direct bus services from Port Blair to Radhanagar Beach, as the journey involves sea travel and island roads. However, local buses operate on Havelock Island for internal transport.
From Port Blair, you cannot take a bus to Radhanagar Beach due to the island separation; the first leg must be by ferry.
On Havelock Island, local buses and shared jeeps run between the ferry jetty and various beaches, including Radhanagar Beach, with fares around INR 50 to INR 100.
Bus frequency on Havelock is limited, so travelers often prefer taxis or rented scooters for flexibility and comfort.
During peak tourist seasons, buses can get crowded, so plan accordingly or consider private transport options.
Car / Self-Drive
Self-driving is possible only on Havelock Island after reaching by ferry. Renting a scooter or car is popular for exploring the island and reaching Radhanagar Beach at your own pace.
Port Blair does not allow private vehicles on Havelock Island; you must leave your vehicle in Port Blair and rent on Havelock.
On Havelock, scooter rentals cost around INR 300 to INR 600 per day, while car rentals range from INR 1500 to INR 2500 per day, depending on the season and vehicle type.
The road from the Havelock jetty to Radhanagar Beach is about 12 km and takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes by vehicle, mostly on well-maintained roads.
Fuel stations are limited on the island, so plan your fuel needs in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
Driving during early mornings or late evenings is advisable to avoid traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Flight
There are no direct flights from Port Blair to Havelock Island or Radhanagar Beach. All air travel ends at Port Blair Airport, so ferry and road travel remain the only options.
Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport connects the islands to mainland India but does not serve inter-island flights to Havelock.
Travelers must take a ferry from Port Blair to Havelock Island after arriving by air.
Helicopter services are occasionally available for private or emergency travel but are costly and not regular.
Plan your itinerary considering the ferry schedule after your flight arrival to avoid long waiting times.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Port Blair to Radhanagar Beach, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Book your ferry ticket online in advance through the official Andaman Tourism website or authorized agents to secure your preferred departure time and avoid last-minute hassles.
Arrive at Phoenix Bay Jetty at least 30 minutes before your ferry departure to complete boarding formalities and find comfortable seating.
Carry light luggage and water, as ferry journeys can be long and food options on board are limited or basic.
Upon arrival at Havelock Island jetty, rent a scooter or hire a taxi from the authorized counters to reach Radhanagar Beach efficiently.
Follow the main road from the jetty to Radhanagar Beach, which is well signposted; the journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes by vehicle.
Carry cash in small denominations for local transport payments and any entry fees or parking charges at the beach.
Practical Travel Tips
Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water on the islands to prevent stomach issues common among travelers unfamiliar with local water quality.
Book ferry tickets early, especially during holidays and weekends, as ferries often sell out quickly and prices may surge.
Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber where available on Havelock Island for safer and transparent fares.
Pack sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from strong sun exposure during the ferry and beach visits.
Be cautious with your luggage on ferries; keep valuables close and avoid leaving bags unattended during boarding and disembarking.
During monsoon season, check weather forecasts and ferry status updates regularly to avoid cancellations or delays.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Radhanagar Beach is between November and April when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. This period offers clear skies and ideal beach weather.
Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains and rough seas, often causing ferry cancellations and travel disruptions. Planning outside this season is advisable for a hassle-free trip.
Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Christmas when ferry and accommodation demand spikes, leading to higher prices and crowded conditions.
Early morning ferry departures are generally smoother with less crowd and calmer seas compared to afternoon trips.
Fog and rain during monsoon can reduce visibility and increase travel time, so plan extra buffer time if traveling in these months.
Peak tourist season from December to February sees the highest traffic; book transport and stay well in advance.
Arrival at Radhanagar Beach & What to Expect
Upon arriving at Havelock Island jetty, you will find several transport options to reach Radhanagar Beach. Local taxis, scooter rentals, and shared jeeps are readily available near the jetty exit.
Radhanagar Beach is about 12 km from the jetty, and the road is well maintained. The beach area has basic amenities, including small eateries and restrooms. Popular accommodation options are located near the beach and in nearby villages, offering a range of budget to mid-range stays.
Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs provide reliable and safe transport. It is advisable to agree on fares before starting your journey or use official prepaid counters to avoid overcharging.
Conclusion
Traveling from Port Blair to Radhanagar Beach is straightforward with the right planning. The ferry from Phoenix Bay Jetty to Havelock Island is the most efficient and scenic way to start your journey, followed by a short ride on the island’s roads to the beach.
Booking ferry tickets early, choosing suitable transport on Havelock, and considering seasonal weather will make your trip comfortable and enjoyable. With these practical tips and clear steps, you can confidently plan your visit to one of India’s most beautiful beaches.