6 Best Snorkeling Spots in Andaman for Marine Lovers

Introduction:

When your eyes catch ‘Andaman,’ your mind is full of nature, beauty and pristine beaches. But saying that Andaman is just about beaches, then you are mistaken. Picture this: you are floating in warm, crystal clear waters, surrounded by vibrant coral gardens and a kaleidoscope of colourful fish darting around like a living rainbow. No, it is not a scene from a tropical dream; it is what snorkelling in Andaman and Nicobar Island actually feels like. Tucked away in the Bay of Bengal, this Indian archipelago is one of the country’s best-kept secrets for underwater adventures. With over 500 islands, unspoiled beaches, and coral reefs teeming with life, Andaman is a true paradise for snorkelers of all levels, beginner or expert. So grab your fins, mask, and sense of adventure, as we, Memorable India, will take you on the best Andaman Snorkelling Tour that will leave you stunned:

What Is Snorkeling?

Before learning about where to enjoy snorkelling in Andaman, let us introduce this water sport to first-timers. Snorkelling is a water adventure activity in which you are required to swim on or near the water’s surface while breathing underwater with a tube or snorkel and fins to swim. This activity will amaze you with marine life, coral reefs, and other underwater features from a surface-level perspective. This is an easy water sport that requires less training and fulfills your desire to explore the underwater world. 

What is the Best Time to Do Snorkeling?

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are pleasant year-round with a tropical climate. Here is the season-wise distinction:

• Winter Season: October to February is the golden window and the peak season for snorkelling. The sea is calm, visibility is high (up to 30 meters), and there is less rainfall during this time. It is the best time for underwater photography, as it has high light penetration and multi-dive trips.
• Summer Season: March to May is the shoulder time to enjoy the snorkelling experience in Andaman. The water becomes warmer but has good visibility. This season, experiencing short rain showers leads to fewer tourists and better deals on tour packages. 
• Monsoon Season: Avoid the monsoon months; June to September as the Andamans get heavy rain during this time. This is the season when the sea gets rough, and many islands shut down tourist activities for safety reasons. 

What Are The Best Snorkeling Spots in Andaman?

Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or just willing to enjoy a peaceful water experience, Andaman and Nicobar offer some top snorkelling sites that you absolutely should not miss. Check the below list:

1. Elephant Beach, Havelock Island

When people think of snorkelling in Andaman, Elephant Beach is the superstar. Located on Havelock Island, this beach is hands down the most popular snorkelling destination in the entire archipelago and for a good reason. This beach is famous for its shallow coral reefs, calm waves, and excellent visibility due to crystal clear water. The reef starts just a few metres from the shore, so you don’t even have to go far. Within minutes of dipping your head underwater, you will be greeted by exotic fish, lobsters, sea turtles, sea cucumbers, and coral formations that look straight out of a shy-fy movie. For beginners and families, this is one of the best places for snorkelling in Havelock, and also rewarding for experienced snorkelling enthusiasts. You can even combine it with a guided snorkelling tour for added safety and fun. 

Underwater Highlights:

• Colourful hard and soft corals
• Witness butterflyfish, clownfish, parrotfish, and angelfish
• Starfish, sea cucumbers, and occasionally octopuses and eels will greet you. 
• Clear visibility ranging from 10 to 20 meters 

Tips To Follow:

• Reach early in the morning for less crowd and better visibility. 
• Avoid disturbing marine life and stepping on coral reefs.
• Gear up tightly with all the safety gear. 
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen 

How To Reach: Take a 2 km jungle trek or a 20- 30 minute speedboat ride from Havelock main jetty.
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Average Cost: INR 1,000 per person
Other Activities: You can also enjoy Glass-Bottom Boat Rides and Introductory Scuba Dives on this island. 

2. North Bay Island:

Located near Port Blair, North Bay Island is easily accessible and a great day trip for anyone short on time. The sheer variety and vibrancy of its coral ecosystem make this place one of the top snorkelling sites in Andaman. This is where you will find massive coral structures in striking shapes and colours: pink, purple, and neon greens. The reefs are healthy and close to the surface, and if you are lucky, you might spot clownfish hiding among the anemones or even a sea turtle lazily swimming by. This is one of the ideal Andaman snorkelling places for day-trippers, families, cruise travellers, first-timers and anyone who wants a quick snorkelling fix without heading too far from the capital. 

Underwater Highlights:

• Staghorn, mushroom, and brain corals.
• Spot clownfish, Moorish idols, wrasse, and damselfish
• Chances to witness nudibranchs, sea cucumbers, and sea turtles.
• Crustaceans like crabs and shrimp are also visible.
• Visibility ranges from 5 to 15 meters.
• Sandy-bottom patches with seagrass beds

Tips To Follow:

• During peak season, book early for a more personalized experience.
• Carry reef shoes that help you walk in shallow water.
• Carry cash, as vendors do not accept cards and UPI.
• Follow the instructions given by the instructors, and don’t disturb marine life.

How to Reach: 20 to 30 minutes ferry ride from Aberdeen Jetty, Port Blair
Best Time To Visit: December to March
Average Cost: INR 500 per person
Other Activities: You can also enjoy Glass-Bottom Boat Rides, Semi-Submarine Experience, Sea Walking here apart from snorkeling. 

3. Bharatpur Beach, Neil Island:

Neil Island is a chilled-out cousin of Havelock. Less crowded, more laidback, and incredibly picturesque, Bharatpur Beach here is a hidden gem for snorkellers. The reef at this beach is closed to shore, shallow, and extremely photogenic. It is the place that gives you the experience of glass-like water with tropical fish gliding to feel soft corals. The currents here are gentle, which makes it perfect for lazy and long snorkelling sessions while spotting diverse marine life and extensive coral reefs. This is the perfect place for snorkelling in Neil Island Andaman for couples, solo travellers, and anyone looking to avoid the hustle and bustle. It is also a great spot for underwater photography, thanks to the calm conditions and stunning visibility. 

Underwater Highlights:

• Soft coral beds in colours like orange, blue, and purple.
• Find brain and table corals in the shallows.
• Spot Clownfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and gobies.
• High chances to witness Turtles and rays ( especially in the morning)
• Visibility ranges from 10 to 20 meters

Tips To Follow:

• Snorkel early morning and late afternoon for golden-hour lighting and fewer tourist
• Wear reef shoes to avoid injury from sharp fragments.
• Avoid disturbing tide pools or collecting coral pieces (illegal and ecologically harmful)
• Pre-book your diving slot during the peak season to avoid the last-minute hassle.

How to Reach: Take a 1.5 to 2 hours ferry ride from Port Blair or 1 hour ride from Havelock. 
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Average Cost: INR 1,000- 1,500
Other Activities: Beachside reef walks and scuba diving are some other activities that make this beach the best destination for Andaman underwater activities.

4. Jolly Buoy Island

Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island is a protected, eco-sensitive zone that takes preservation very seriously. There is no overnight stay allowed, and single-use plastic is banned, but what it offers underwater is absolutely worth the rules. Being a protected area, the reef here is in pristine condition. You will swim alongside parrotfish, starfish, and massive brain corals that seem to go on forever. The water is crystal clear and offers a stunning snorkelling experience in Andaman. Perfect for eco-conscious travellers, nature lovers, or anyone who wants to see untouched marine life. You will need a permit, but do not worry; we, Memorable India, will handle this for you. 

Underwater Highlights:

• Diverse, healthy, and untouched coral reefs. 
• Witness staghorn, finger, and brain corals.
• Fish like starfish, clownfish, parrotfish, damselfish, and angelfish.
• Spot sea anemones, urchins, giant clams, colourful wrasse.
• Chances to sight sea cucumbers, rays, and baby reef sharks.
• Visibility ranges from 15 to 30 meters.

Tips To Follow:

• Avoid carrying any plastic items as it is a Plastic-Free Zone. 
• Bring drinking water and food as there is no shop or stall. 
• Don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen
• Pack sunglasses, a towel, a waterproof bag and dry clothes. 
• Arrive early to enjoy the best snorkelling experience.

How To Reach: Travel by road to Wandoor Jetty (25 km away) from Port Blair. Then, take a government-operated 30-45 minute boat ride to Jolly Buoy Island.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Average Cost: INR 500- 1,000
Other Activities: Glass-Bottom Boat Tours and Reef Walks are other water activities to enjoy here apart from guided snorkeling. 

5. Red Skin Island

If Jolly Buoy is full or closed for the season, Red Skin Island is your next best bet. Also part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, this island offers a quieter but equally colourful snorkelling experience. Though not as popular as Jolly Buoy, Red Skin has some of the clearest waters and densest coral patches in the park. Expect to see butterflyfish, damselfish, and vibrant coral beds that seem untouched by human activity. This is the perfect spot for activities for marine lovers in Andaman and those who want the national park experience without the crowd. Since it is less touristy, it feels more authentic and raw.

Underwater Highlights:

• Vibrant hard and soft reddish-hued corals. 
• Spot colourful parrotfish, clownfish, and sea anemones.
• Wide range of exotic corals and marine life.
• Visibility ranges from 10 to 20 meters. 

Tips To Follow:

• Avoid visiting during monsoon months. Even when open, always check the weather and water conditions.
• Plastic items are strictly prohibited on the island.
• Avoid disturbing and touching coral reefs and other marine species. 
• Pack enough snacks, as the island does not have any food stalls. 
• Book your water sports adventure in advance. 
• No changing room is available, so keep dry clothes accordingly. 

How To Reach: Firstly, take a boat for Wandoor Jetty (25 km away) from Port Blair, and then a shared boat of 35 minute ride from Wandoor Jetty.
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Average Cost: INR 550 per person
Other Activities: You can also enjoy Glass Bottom Boat Rides, Jet Skiing, and Banana Boat Rides at this beach. 

6. South Button Island:

Last on the list, but definitely not least, is South Button Island. This remote spot is ideal for adventurous snorkellers who want something beyond the typical beachside snorkel sessions. This island is known for its deeper reefs, making it a dream come true for experienced snorkelers. The marine biodiversity here is off the charts. Reef sharks, giant trevallies, barracuda, and more, you name it, and it just glides past you. It is the perfect island for intermediate to expert snorkelers. If you are not confident swimming in deeper water, this one might not be for you, but if you are, it is pure magic. This is one of the top snorkelling sites in Andaman for underwater photography, and it has excellent light penetration.

Underwater Highlight:

• Hawksbill and green sea turtles gliding through reefs. 
• Kaleidoscope of reef fish; angelfish, butterflyfish, and batfish.
• Spot barracuda, trevally, snappers, anthias, and wrasses.
• For macro enthusiasts, see ribbon eels, nudibranchs, and mantis shrimp.
• Occasionally, go along the reef sharks and eagle rays.

Tips To Follow:

• Avoid disturbing or standing on corals (prohibited, and fines may be imposed)
• Book your in advance as slots are limited due to conservation policy. 
• Pack motion sickness medication if you are prone to it. 
• Prioritize obtaining permits and follow local guidelines.

How To Reach: Take a ferry or hire a private boat from Port Blair (73km) and Havelok Island (24 km). 
Best Time To Visit: December to April
Average Cost: INR 3,500-4,000 per person (including boat cost)
Other Activities: You can also enjoy sea walks, parasailing, scuba diving, underwater photography, and beach relaxation at South Button Island. 

What Are The Tips For First-Time Snorkelers?

For those who are trying this mesmerizing thill for the first time, here are some tips they should follow: 

1. Choose our guided snorkelling tour for step-by-step instructions, and feel comfortable and safer throughout your experience. 
2. Get comfortable with the gears and techniques initially with calm and shallow water before trying deeper. 
3. Practice breathing through your snorkel at the surface before going deep down in the sea for safety considerations. 
4. Always check the weather conditions, like strong currents and high tides, before booking your snorkelling session. 
5. Listen to the safety instructions properly, wear a life jacket for extra safety, learn how to clear water from your mask, etc.
6. It is recommended to avoid standing or touching the coral reefs as they are fragile and slow-grown. 
7. Always use reef-safe sunscreen on your face and body to avoid any harm to marine life. 

What To Pack For Snorkeling In Andaman?

When you are up for the challenge and want to enjoy thrilling water Andaman underwater activities, especially snorkelling, you might be unaware of what to pack. This guide will give an answer to this confusion:

Clothing Essentials:

• Pack lightweight clothes with breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, especially if you are travelling during hot and humid weather. 
• Pack at least three to four pairs of swimming suits for snorkelling, beach days and other activities. 
• Don’t forget to carry cover-ups and rash guards to protect yourself from sun and jellyfish stings. 
• Take comfortable walking shoes for hiking, flip-flops for beaches, and water shoes for snorkelling. 
• If you are planning your trip during the rainy season, don’t forget to carry a rain coat or jacket. 
• Carry a lightweight jacket or shawl for cool evenings or air-conditioning places. 
• Carry a microfiber lightweight and quick-drying towel along with a beach bag/backpack.

Health and Personal Care:

• Don’t miss your waterproof and reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, water bottle, and face wipes. 
• Pack a small emergency kit with bandages, antiseptic, antiseptic wipes, pain relief spray, and basic medicine. 
• Carry your essential toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, shower gel, makeup, etc. 
• Don’t miss the insect repellent, as mosquitos can be a nuisance. 
• Always carry an aloe vera gel that soothes sunburns and keeps your skin feeling cool and hydrated. 

Electronics and Gadgets

• Carry a digital or waterproof camera and its charger. 
• Keep a waterproof phone case, phone charger, power bank, and universal adaptor, and keep your devices charged. 
• Consider bringing your underwater gear if you have one for snorkelling. 
• Carry a portable speaker to enjoy soothing music during beach relaxation. 

Documentations and Essentials:

• Carry your passport, visa ( if applicable), travel insurance, flight tickets, and hotel reservations. 
• Keep digital and hard copies of your travel documents in case of loss and theft. 
• Carry a valid ID card and a passport-sized photograph. 
• It is recommended to carry cash for small purchases (ATMs are available on some islands).

What Are The Things to Avoid in the Andaman Islands?

Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a beautiful place that is untouched from commercialization, so it is our responsibility as tourists not to disrupt the natural behaviour. Here are a few things that you should avoid in Andaman and Nicobar:

Environmental Responsibility:

• Plastic Bags and Bottles: The island has banned single-use plastic bags, and some parts are plastic-free zones, so avoid carrying plastic bags to support sustainable tourism practices. Use reusable bags and water bottles to prevent the marine environment. 
• Waste Disposal and Littering: Always dispose of your waste properly. Don’t dispose of plastic bags or other water improperly, as it may harm marine life. Avoid leaving any litter behind. It helps to keep the beach’s environment and natural areas clean and untouched. 
• Disturbing Marine Life: As a tourist it is our foremost responsibility to only enjoy not disturbing marine life by touching or standing while snorkeling and scuba diving. Do not collect shells or corals as it is prohibited and fines may be imposed. 

Respect Local Culture and Wildlife:

• Feeding Wildlife: Don’t feed fish or other marine animals as it may disrupt the natural behaviour and make them dependent on humans. Your one mistake can cause a big harm to the natural environment of marine life, so avoid feeding. 
• Entering Restricted Zones: It is suggested that you do not visit the restricted areas in the islands. Avoid visiting tribal reserves or interacting with indigenous tribes without a permit. This may lead to both respect and illegality. 
• Disrespecting Local Customs:
• When you are visiting Andaman, be mindful of the local culture, customs, and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting local villages and religious sites. Avoid any offensive or disrespectful behaviour or tone. Showing respect for the local culture is appreciated.

Safety and Regulations:

• Excessive Sun Expose: Don’t expose your skin too much in the sun otherwise it causes sunburns. Always protect yourself with a layer of sunscreen as the tropical climate can be harsh.
• Necessary Permits: Never avoid taking permits while visiting restricted areas and national parks. Also, do not overstay your permit, as it is against the rules and can cause trouble. 
• Photography of Tribal Groups: This is specific to photography lovers, don’t take the photographs or videos of indigenous tribes without their permission. This is considered as a punishable offense. 
• Hunting: Hunting and poaching is strictly prohibited in the Andaman region. Don’t try to hunt birds, animals, or marine species. 
• Swimming in Unsafe Areas: The sea is beautiful yet dangerous. Do not go swimming in unsafe zones or areas where the water current is too strong. This may risk your life. 
• Disregarding Guidelines: Enjoying water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving is one thing, but following the safety guidelines is a must. Don’t disregard or violate the safety guidelines or instructions given by your instructor for a safe and enjoyable experience. 

Final Thoughts:

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a snorkelling experience like nowhere else in India. With unspoiled coral reefs, rich biodiversity, and relatively less commercial exploitation (at least for now), these islands are a window into the kind of underwater beauty most people only see in documentaries. From the popular Elephant Beach to the remote South Button Island, every place falls in the list of the best snorkelling spots in Andaman, offering something unique. This extravagant snorkelling experience in Andaman covers jaw-dropping coral formations, elusive marine creatures, and that surreal feeling of floating above an alien world. So, the next time you are planning a tropical getaway, skip the mainstream beaches and dive into the underwater magic of the Andamans. Trust us, snorkelling here is an experience you will never forget. Got questions or need help for Andaman and Nicobar Tours?  Call us, we are happy to help!