Radhanagar’s Golden Glow
Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) is a clear favourite among photography enthusiasts, celebrated for its expansive stretch of white sand and an uninterrupted, crystal-clear horizon. Framed by gently swaying palm trees, the beach offers naturally composed backdrops—perfect for travel-with-me Instagram content and timeless coastal photography.
If you’re chasing golden hues, arrive by 4:00 PM, when the sun begins its slow descent. The soft, warm light beautifully flatters portraits and creates striking silhouettes against the open sea. For drone photographers, the sweeping curves of Radhanagar’s shoreline make for breathtaking aerial shots; however, flying a drone here requires prior permissions and adherence to local regulations.
Beach Timings:
- 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM (The beach typically closes after 5:00 PM, depending on high-tide conditions.)
Golden Hours:
- Sunrise: Around 5:30 AM–6:00 AM (varies slightly by season)
- Sunset: Around 5:00 PM–5:30 PM (varies slightly by season)
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Carry sunscreen to protect yourself from the tropical sun.
- Do not litter, as Radhanagar Beach is a Blue Flag–certified beach.
- Obtain the required permits if you plan to capture drone footage.
Chasing Light at Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar Beach takes its name from the striking black rocks that line its shore—natural elements that lend themselves effortlessly to bold, creative compositions. When waves crash against these rocks, the resulting splashes, if timed right, rival frames straight out of a film. The beach’s relatively crowd-free setting further allows for peaceful, uninterrupted photoshoots, free from background distractions.
If you’re lucky, you may also spot weathered driftwood formations resting on the wet sands. As they catch and reflect the sun’s light, they add texture, contrast, and an extra layer of drama to your photographs.
Come evening, the sun begins to dip into the seemingly endless horizon, creating a breathtaking backdrop for silhouettes and golden-hour portraits. On select nights, Kalapathar Beach is also known for its bioluminescent waters, offering a rare and magical setting for night photography.
Beach Timings:
- Open 24/7 (Please exercise caution, especially if travelling alone. The terrain is rocky and uneven.)
Golden Hours:
- Sunrise: Around 4:30 AM–5:00 AM (varies slightly by season)
- Sunset: Around 4:30 PM–5:00 PM (varies slightly by season)
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Carry sunscreen, water, and light snacks, as shacks are limited.
- Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to rough sea conditions.
- Be cautious while swimming, as the seabed contains rocks and uneven surfaces.
Crystal-clear Adventures at Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is the place to be if your Instagram boards are filled with underwater shots of swimmers surrounded by colourful fish. With its crystal-clear waters and shallow coral reefs close to the shore, this beach is ideal for capturing snorkelling shots and vibrant marine life without venturing too far into the sea.
The calm, reef-lined waters make it easy to photograph coral formations, tropical fish, and snorkelling moments in natural light. For a more high-energy vibe, Elephant Beach also offers jet skiing, perfect for capturing dynamic, adventure-filled candid shots.
If a slower pace appeals to you, head to the quieter side of the beach for kayaking with friends. The calmer waters here are also popular for sea walking, offering yet another unique perspective for photos and videos, and adding to the variety of Instagrammable pictures in Havelock you can capture in a single visit.
Beach Timings
- 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Adventure Activity Timings
- 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Timings may vary depending on the operator and the activity.)
Golden Hours:
- Sunrise: Around 4:30 AM–5:00 AM (varies slightly by season)
- Sunset: Around 3:30 PM–4:00 PM (varies slightly by season)
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Carry your own snorkelling equipment if you have it.
- Carry a waterproof camera if you plan to go snorkelling.
- If travelling from Havelock, check jetty timings in advance, as the jetty usually closes by 2:00 PM.
- Always confirm activity timings before planning your visit.
The Effortless & Photogenic Govind Nagar Beach
For families, couples, or travellers who prefer a relaxed beach experience without the hustle, Govind Nagar Beach is a must-visit. Its long shoreline, framed by gently swaying palms, creates a soothing backdrop that feels effortlessly inviting—perfect for capturing candid family moments and unhurried beachside memories.
As the tide recedes in the late afternoons, sections of the beach naturally form shallow pools, offering beautiful opportunities for playful, dive-in-style photo captures. Close by, Nemo Reef is ideal for activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving. The clear waters allow you to double down on content—capturing vibrant underwater shots alongside natural, free-flowing moments of swimming with marine life.
Beach Timings
- Open 24/7
Golden Hours:
- Sunrise: Around 5:30 AM–6:00 AM (varies slightly by season)
- Sunset: Around 5:30 PM–6:00 PM (varies slightly by season)
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Carry snorkelling equipment and a waterproof camera for underwater shots.
- Arrange a high-quality camera if you’re planning pre-wedding or professional photography.
- Pack sunscreen, food, and beverages, especially when travelling with family.
An Island Made for the Camera
Across Havelock Island, coral textures, palm-cast shadows, and jetty lines dotted with wooden boats shape naturally striking compositions. Island details—coconut stalls, native flora, and sun-bleached paths—add an effortless, Instagram-worthy charm to every frame. The pre-wedding and couple photoshoots in Havelock are also steadily growing in popularity, with beachside villas and open decks offering cinematic, picture-perfect backdrops.
Golden hour—early morning between 5:45–6:30 AM and evening between 4:45–5:45 PM—bathes the island in soft light and warm tones, ideal for portraits and silhouettes. While midday light can be harsher, it works beautifully for drone photography, highlighting the crystal clarity of the waters and aligning well with ferry schedules.
As night falls, Havelock Island transforms into a haven for night photography, where bioluminescent shores and long-exposure shots of star-filled skies bring the day to a luminous, unforgettable close.
