Surfing in the Andaman Islands: Best surf spots + eco-friendly stays
Planning a surf trip to the Andaman Islands? Discover everything you need to know about surfing in the Andaman Islands, including the best places to surf in Little Andaman, Havelock and Neil.
Tucked away in the far-flung reaches of the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are (in our opinion) a hidden paradise, surrounded by the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
While technically part of India, this remote archipelago is actually closer to Myanmar (it’s 130 kilometres southwest of the Ayeyarwady Region).
Dubbed “The Land of the Head-Hunters” by the legendary explorer Marco Polo, the Andamans is a place of intrigue. In recent years, it has gradually earned a reputation as an adventure-fuelled surf destination.
Comprising a chain of 572 islands, islets and rocky outcroppings, the Andaman and Nicobars are geographically isolated. The archipelago’s centuries-old culture remains largely untouched by the outside world, with travel here heavily restricted.
While foreign tourists are permitted to visit the Andaman Islands, the Nicobar group is accessible only to Indian nationals and many tribal areas remain strictly off-limits.
For surfers, the Andaman Islands offer a tantalising, if elusive, prize – uncrowded waves. That being said, the wave window is short (March to May) and the accessibility challenges make it only for those who don’t mind putting in the effort to get there.
But we think the rewards are worth it, with the opportunity to carve pristine lines through some of the most untouched lineups on the planet. Plus, you get to do all this while exploring a little-visited yet fascinating corner of the globe.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about surfing in the Andaman Islands, from the best surf spots to eco-friendly accommodation and the ideal time to visit.
Planning a surf trip to Sri Lanka? Discover all of the best surf breaks in our detailed guide here or hit up these sustainable surf camps in Sri Lanka.
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Surfing in the Andaman Islands
There are hundreds of islands in the Andamans. But only a handful are populated and with known surf breaks.
If you really want to embark on the surf adventure of a lifetime, it’s best to charter a boat in Port Blair and head out to explore, ideally with a local surfer who can point you in the right direction.
For a land-based surf vacation, there are three main islands we recommend you consider – Little Andaman, Havelock and Neil. While Little Andaman has the best wave, its accommodation options are limited and you won’t find luxury here.
For a more upmarket stay, consider Havelock or Neil. Both have a good choice of resorts and plenty of activities for non-surfing family members.
Most surf spots in the Andaman Islands are reef breaks and suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Port Blair has a beach break at Corbyn’s Cove where beginners can practice their skills in a picturesque setting, although it’s often just small close-outs.
Surfing Little Andaman
Best place to surf in the Andaman Islands overall
Perched at the southern end of the archipelago, Little Andaman is the fourth-largest island in the group. It’s blanketed in dense jungle peppered with waterfalls and traditional villages where life beats at a blissful pace.
Aside from boasting some really long beaches, this little island also delivers some of the best surf in the Andamans, namely at Kumari Point.
Best surf spots on Little Andaman
Kumari Point
Located near the southwestern tip of Little Andaman, Kumari Point is the best wave in the Andaman Islands. That being said, it is a bit of a mission to get to (we recommend you charter a boat).
This long right-hander breaks over a reef and delivers plenty of speed, with the barrels making it more than worth the adventure.
Butler Bay
A short drive north of Hut Bay, this reliable left-hander breaks over a reef at Jarawa Point. In our opinion, it’s one of the best places to surf in the Andaman Islands for goofy footers.
Jackson Creek
On the northwest coast of Little Andaman, this left-hand reef break works best on high tide. It’s ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers and is an Andaman surf spot you’ll likely have all to yourself.
Eco-friendly places to stay on Little Andaman
Ieshika Resort
One of the few places to stay on Little Andaman, this beachfront resort offers air-conditioned rooms with all the comforts you need. The owner goes above and beyond to make everyone’s stay incredible and the home-cooked meals are just what you need after a long day in the water.
“Perfect location in the middle of the island on the edge of the sea.” – Frederic (read more reviews here)
Havelock Island
Best place for a luxury surf vacation in the Andaman Islands
Also known as Swaraj Dweep, Havelock lies to the east of Great Andaman, within a cluster of islands known as Ritchie’s Archipelago.
It’s a flourishing eco-tourism destination. Birdwatchers flock to the forested interior to spot rare Andaman woodpeckers and golden orioles while divers descend to explore the healthy coral reefs.
For surfers, the North Bay Area delivers the best waves. But it really is reserved for experienced board riders.
Best surf spots on Havelock Island
North Bay
The reef breaks around North Bay are the best place to surf on Havelock Island. But only if you’ve got a fair bit of experience under your belt. The waves here can be exhilarating when the conditions align.
Eco-friendly places to stay on Havelock Island
Tilar Siro Andamans
Overlooking the white sands of Vijaynagar Beach is this luxury Andaman Islands eco-resort. It features a handful of contemporary stilted rooms surrounded by tropical foliage.
When you’re not out surfing and diving, you can kick back beside the swimming pool or feast on incredible fish curries at the onsite restaurant.
“We loved everything about this place. Especially how caring and helpful all the staff were.” – Vishal (read more reviews here)
The Barefoot At Havelock
This eco-friendly Andaman Islands resort occupies a former banana plantation, just steps from Radhanagar Beach. It’s slowly being revegetated with endemic species, creating a lush canopy around its sustainably built cottages and villas.
Guests rave about the quality of the food and the holistic living workshops are an added bonus.
“Beautiful property tucked into the jungle just a minute walk to pristine area of Radhanagar Beach.” (read more reviews here)
Neil Island
Best place for a laid-back surf trip to the Andaman Islands
Also located within Ritchie’s Archipelago, Neil Island (officially known as Shaheed Dweep) is a relatively flat island known for its natural rock bridge and gorgeous beaches. It’s not as busy as Havelock Island and the tourist development is more low key.
Ramnagar Beach at the southern tip of the island is the best place to surf on Neil Island. On lay days, there are opportunities for diving, snorkelling and kayaking.
Best surf spots on Neil Island
Ramnagar Beach
Depending on the conditions, this beautiful beach can deliver waves for all levels and the views back towards the palm-fringed sands are simply magic.
Eco-friendly places to stay on Neil Island
Sea Shell Samssara
Located just a stone’s throw from the Natural Bridge, this luxury Andaman Islands resort features well-appointed rooms centred around a swimming pool. The onsite restaurant, Malacca, specialises in locally caught seafood and a buffet breakfast is included in stays.
If you’re travelling on a budget, check out their sister property Sea Shell Neil.
“Perfect location to chill out on Neil.” – Daniel (read more reviews here)
Elephant and Four Wise Men Resort
Within walking distance of the surf, this budget resort on Neil Island is located just behind Ramnagar Beach. It’s perfect if you just need a roof over your head…and good vibes!
Built using local, natural materials, the huts are clean and come with access to shared bathroom facilities. The onsite meals are good too.
“Cool, peaceful and budget stay!” – Rakesh (read more reviews here)
Best time to surf the Andaman Islands
While there’s a chance of waves throughout the year, the best time to surf in the Andaman Islands is between March and mid-May. This is when the typically strong winds in the region finally begin to subside, transitioning from a southerly direction to a more northerly flow and leading to clean, glassy conditions.
The strong monsoonal winds that buffet the islands from late-May through October can make for unrideable conditions. Meanwhile, the flat spells from November to February are less than ideal for surfing in the Andaman Islands.
How to get to the Andaman Islands
The best way to get to the Andaman Islands is to take a flight from Kolkata, Delhi or Chennai to Port Blair, the capital of the archipelago.
Officially known as Sri Vijaya Puram, Port Blair is located on South Andaman Island and is well connected to the other islands in the archipelago by ferry. It’s also possible to charter a boat in Port Blair to discover some of the Andamans’ hidden breaks.
Once you’re on the islands, there are local buses for getting around. That being said, renting a motorbike or rickshaw is usually more convenient with a board in tow.
FAQs about surfing in the Andaman Islands
Is there surfing in Port Blair?
Port Blair has a beach break at Corbyn’s Cove, perfect for beginners looking to hone their skills. That being said, the waves are usually just small close-outs and experienced surfers should head elsewhere.
When is the surf season in the Andaman Islands?
The Andaman Islands offer surfable waves year-round. But the prime time to catch them is from March to mid-May. During this time, the winds tend to calm down, shifting from the south to the north and creating smooth, glassy waves.
From late-May to October, the monsoon winds can turn the waters choppy, making it tough to ride. Then, from November to February, conditions are usually flat.
Can you rent surfboards in the Andaman Islands?
Surf infrastructure in the Andaman Islands is incredibly limited and finding boards (decent ones at least) is tricky. It’s best to bring your own.
If that’s not possible, there’s a local surfer on Little Andaman, Muthu, who rents out a few boards – ask around on arrival to get in touch with him.
It’s also a good idea to bring all your own accessories, from wax and spare fins/leashes to a repair kit and first aid supplies.
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About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.
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