12 Best Beaches In Pondicherry To Get Your Dose Of Vitamin Sea

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If you are looking for some sun, sand, and serenity, then the beaches in Pondicherry will have you covered. This French colonial settlement in India should really be on your travel bucket list because the colonial history will blow your mind while the beaches will take your breath away. So whether you just want to lay down and get those sexy tan lines or want to enjoy the thrilling water activities amidst the high tides, we have listed down the 12 top beaches in Pondi for the Vitamin sea you need!

Best Time To Visit: November To March

How To Reach: There are three ways by which you can easily reach Pondicherry:

- By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport which is 135 km away from Pondicherry. Taxis are easily available around the airport.

- By Road: You can go to Pondicherry via bus or car. There are multiple buses that ply daily between Chennai and Bangalore. There is an extensive network of expressways and highways to reach here easily.

- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Villupuram which is 35 km away. There are regular train services to Villupuram from Chennai, Madurai, and Trichy.

Auroville Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Pondicherry, Auro Beach is a hype among the locals as well as tourists for its tranquil mix of sun, sea, and sand. Being one of the untouched beaches in Pondicherry, the crystal clear shallow waters are perfect for taking a dip or clicking perfect vacay pictures for your Instagram. Don't miss the sunsets on this beach by any chance, the blazing sun setting against serene blue water is a sight to behold.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Swimming, surfing, boat riding (in Kottakuppam backwaters)

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Cafe 37, Auroville Bakery, Serenity Beach Bazaar, Goubert Market

Paradise Beach

Perhaps one of the most happening beaches in Pondicherry, Paradise Beach is a must-visit! You can spend hours sitting on the beach and enjoying the waves, or if you are adventurous, you can try your hand at fishing, or go jet skiing, canoeing, or kayaking. This beach offers several things to keep you engaged all the time, so whether you are looking to lay back and relax or do adventure sports, this beach is the place to be.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: 150 INR per person

Activities To Try: Jet skiing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Hope Cafe, Crêpe In Touch, Chitras Pub and Kitchen

Promenade Beach

For a fun day at the beach, Promenade Beach makes for the best choice. Although quite crowded, Promenade Beach is a hotspot for travellers looking to experience history, fun, and food in one place. Visit the popular Le Café restaurant to enjoy a great cup of coffee and a variety of seafood dishes. You can also visit the nearby historical monuments such as the War Memorial, the statue of Joan of Arc, and the heritage Town Hall, or simply sit near the shoreline to chill and relax in peace.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Yoga, jogging, strolling

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Le Café, Coromandel Cafe, Hidesign Flagship Store

Serenity Beach

The name itself is quite fitting for this low-key beach which is a gorgeous getaway from the city lapped by the sparkling waters of the scenic Bay of Bengal. If you wanna learn how to surf, then you are in luck as Serenity Beach has a surf school nearby where you can undergo a short training and learn how to ride waves like a pro! However, if surfing is not your thing, you can enjoy dining at the vibrant cafes serving delectable food or exploring the beachside flea markets.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Surfing, swimming, beach volleyball 

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Breezy Cafe, Hidden Cafe, Serenity Beach Bazaar

Karaikal Beach

Karaikal offers you a reason to stay out, away from the bustle of the city, and relax before heading back home to the hustle and bustle. If you are in the mood for some alone time, then head to this quaint beach to avoid crowds and commercialisation. This beach is a painting of tranquillity in the morning which completely switches as the night beckons and transforms Karaikal into a visual and acoustic delight.

Timings: All Day

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Surfing, swimming, beach volleyball 

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Nehru Market, Wild Garden Cafe, K3 - Karai Kaapi Kadai

Mahe Beach

What gives Mahe Beach an edge over the rest is its secluded location which makes it a safe haven for peace-seekers in search of some quiet and picturesque scenery. With no shacks or food vendors, this beach remains spotless with a pristine shoreline perfect for taking a stroll or meditating. Try to visit this beach during the early hours of the morning to catch the breathtaking orange sun rising on the horizon.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM 

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Swimming, strolling, snorkeling

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Rendezvous Cafe, Cafe Ole, Cluny Embroidery Centre

Reppo Beach

Want to go for a picnic on the beach in Pondi? Consider Reppo Beach for an undisturbed day with your family! Escape the rush of the city and lose yourself in the serenity of this relatively lesser-known beach. Take a swim while spectating the beautiful sunset or spend the day learning fishing from the fishermen. This beach's tranquillity is sure to capture your heart.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM 

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Swimming, strolling, paddleboarding

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Satsanga, Cafe Des Arts, Ariyankuppam Market

Quiet Beach

As the name suggests, Quiet Beach is a calm and serene stretch, where you must not miss the scenic views of this hidden gem. With crystal-clear water, golden sand, and rhythmic waves, this beach is a must-visit for tourists looking for some relaxation. Check out the Orly Cafe for some yummy food and other food huts serving authentic rasam, anchovy curry etc.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM 

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Swimming, strolling

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Orly Cafe, Le Café, Serenity Beach Bazaar

Veerampattinam Beach

The best beach in Pondi to walk on the golden sandy shores and sun-bask while lying around, Veerampattinam Beach features the longest shoreline for a beach in South India and is also considered one of the most beautiful beaches in India. Spend your day swimming in the shallow waters or gorging on mouth-watering food served in the nearby cafes and eateries.

Timings: All Day

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Swimming, fishing, sunbathing 

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Nellai Karupatti Coffee, Grand Cafe, Goubert Market

Rock Beach

Located in the heart of the city, near the busy streets of Pondicherry, this beach is lined by large rocks giving it a beautiful outline. The beach is bustling with visitors throughout the day because it is centrally located and falls near amazing restaurants, art galleries, and the famous French War Memorial. Do visit this beach for its enticing ambience and unforgettable views.

Timings: All Day

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Scuba diving, cycling, swimming

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Coromandel Cafe, Writer's Cafe, Pondy Bazaar

Eden Beach

Yet another beach in Pondi that will not fail to mesmerize you with its beauty is Eden Beach. It is a proud blue-flag-certified beach that has a dirt-free shoreline and crystal-clear waters. It is best for eco-conscious travellers who would love to enjoy the golden sand and picture-perfect views.  

Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Kayaking, paramotoring, swimming

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Crêpe In Touch, Eden Garden, Anokhi

Bodhi Beach

Bodhi is one of the most beautiful beaches in Pondicherry where you can go for leisurely strolls. It is mostly calm and serene, so you can even take a book with you and have a good reading session by the beach. The shoreline is all golden, so it would be hard to resist not clicking pictures there. 

Timings: All Day

Entry Fees: Free

Activities To Try: Swimming, cycling, strolling

Nearby Eateries & Markets: Breezy Cafe, Hope Cafe, Coromandel Cafe

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