Elephant Beach on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) in India's Andamans is one of the archipelago's most popular beginner and family snorkeling spots. A shallow reef flat begins just a few metres off the sand, so you can drift over living coral among butterflyfish, triggerfish and wrasse without swimming far; typical depths of about 1–5 m and provided life jackets make it doable even for weak swimmers. Visibility usually runs 8–20 m and the water is a warm 27–30°C. Be aware that the 2004 tsunami and later reef stress left patches of dead coral, so quality varies a lot by spot and tide — follow a guide to the sections where live coral remains.
A shallow coral reef flat that starts just metres from shore — one of the Andamans' easiest beginner entries
Varied reef fish (butterflyfish, triggerfish, wrasse) over patches of surviving live coral
Knee-to-chest-deep, generally calm water that suits children and non-swimmers wearing life jackets
Two ways in: a jungle trek (roughly 1.2–2.5 km, 20–45 min each way) or a short boat ride (about 15–25 min)
A water-sports hub with snorkel and glass-bottom boat trips; mornings are calmest and best for clear water
Good to know
SafetyEven where it looks shallow and calm, tides and wind can set up currents that push you seaward. Stay inside the marked snorkel zone, wear the life jacket, and never swim off alone.
SafetySnorkel boats, glass-bottom boats and jet-skis share this water. Watch the boat lanes, stay near buoys or a surface float, and keep yourself visible to skippers.
SafetyThe reef flat has sea urchins, sharp coral and rock — even a brush can cut or sting. Wear water shoes, never stand on coral, and beginners should defog the mask and settle their breathing before heading out.
SeasonBest season is October–May (peak December–March) for clear, calm water. During the monsoon (June–September) the forest trek closes, boats are suspended for days, and runoff clouds the water. Jellyfish are uncommon but possible — check with staff on the day.
RulesThis is a marine reef area: don't touch or collect coral or marine life. Use reef-safe sunscreen, carry your trash back out, and always follow the lifeguards and boatmen.
MannersDon't stand or step on the coral, and keep your distance from fish and turtles — no chasing and no feeding.
CautionWatch for unlicensed boats or gear rentals and on-the-spot overcharging. Use recognised, licensed operators and agree the price before you start.
Practical info
Reach Havelock Island by ferry from Port Blair, then get to Elephant Beach from the main jetty by boat (about 15–25 min) or on a guided jungle trek (20–45 min each way). The season runs October–May; access is limited in the monsoon (June–September). Boat round-trip fares, on-site time (often capped at about 3 hours), trek-guide fees and snorkel-tour requirements change with weather, tide and local rules, so confirm the latest details just before you go.
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