With its chain of coral-fringed islands floating in the Bay of Bengal. The Andaman Snorkeling & Diving archipelago is often considered India’s ultimate underwater destination. Unlike most parts of the Indian coastline, which can be murky or overrun by tourism, the waters around Andaman remain largely unspoiled, offering a window into a vibrant marine world that feels almost otherworldly.
Why Andaman is India’s Snorkeling & Diving Paradise
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler, an advanced scuba diver, or someone simply curious about life beneath the waves, Andaman offers an experience that’s both accessible and unforgettable. Its underwater ecosystems are home to more than 500 species of coral, hundreds of types of reef fish, turtles, rays, sea cucumbers, and even elusive dugongs in some parts.
What truly sets the Andamans apart is the sheer variety of dive and snorkel sites. From shallow reef flats just meters offshore to steep underwater cliffs teeming with pelagic life, there’s something for everyone here — whether you’re traveling with family, on your honeymoon, or visiting solo.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal months for snorkeling and diving are October through May. This is the dry season when the seas are calm, visibility is excellent (ranging from 10 to 30 meters), and the weather is generally sunny with occasional cloud cover. Monsoon season, which typically runs from June to September, is best avoided for underwater activities due to rough seas and limited visibility.
Permits & Safety:
Indian nationals generally do not need special permits for common snorkeling spots, though certain areas like Jolly Buoy and marine national parks require day permits. Foreign travelers will need to register their presence at designated immigration checkpoints. When it comes to safety, it’s essential to go through certified operators and never dive or snorkel unsupervised unless you’re fully trained.
In this blog, we’ll explore six of the best snorkeling and diving destinations in the Andaman Islands — chosen for their accessibility, marine diversity, and unique character. Each location is described in detail with practical travel information, making this your go-to guide for planning an underwater adventure.
1. Elephant Beach, Havelock Island
Location: Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Best For: Beginner snorkelers, families, short underwater excursions
Activity Type: Guided snorkeling, introductory scuba diving (DSD), glass-bottom boat tours
Accessibility: 20-minute speedboat ride or 2 km jungle trek from Havelock main jetty
Elephant Beach is one of the most popular and accessible snorkeling spots in the Andaman Islands. Located on the northwest coast of Havelock Island, this beach draws travelers with its white sands, turquoise waters, and shallow coral reefs that begin just a few meters from the shoreline.
For those new to snorkeling or diving, this is often the first introduction to the Andaman’s vibrant marine life. The experience is calm, safe, and visually stunning — making it a top choice for families, honeymooners, and first-time underwater explorers.
Read also: 50 Unique Experiences in Andaman
Underwater Highlights:
What makes Elephant Beach exceptional is its extensive reef shelf — a shallow coral garden that begins close to the shore and slopes gently into deeper water. This reef is home to:
- Colorful hard and soft corals
- Reef fish like butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish
- Sea cucumbers, starfish, and occasional sightings of octopuses and eels
- Clear visibility ranging from 10 to 20 meters on a good day
Because of the gentle conditions and easy access, Elephant Beach is ideal for guided snorkeling. You don’t have to swim out far, and you’ll still witness a surprising amount of underwater life.
Activities Available:
Snorkeling: Guided snorkeling packages are widely available from licensed operators. These typically include a life jacket, snorkel mask, fins, and safety instruction. The guided session usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes, though longer experiences are available on request.
Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: For those who aren’t confident swimmers, glass-bottom boat rides offer a dry way to explore the reefs. Boats with transparent hulls cruise over coral beds, giving you a real-time view of the underwater world below.
Introductory Scuba Dives (Discover Scuba Diving): Elephant Beach is also a good location for first-time divers to experience scuba with PADI-certified instructors. These are shallow, controlled dives ideal for beginners who want a taste of diving without enrolling in a full course.
How to Reach:
From Havelock’s main jetty, most travelers take a 20-minute speedboat ride operated by the local tourism cooperative. Boats depart in the morning and typically return by early afternoon.
Alternatively, there’s a scenic jungle trail (approx. 2 km) that leads from the road near Radhanagar Beach to Elephant Beach. While the trail is beautiful, it’s not recommended during monsoon or without a local guide.
Local Tips:
- Arrive early in the morning (around 8:30–9:00 AM) for the best visibility and to avoid crowds.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreens can harm coral.
- Book your snorkeling session through licensed agencies like Barefoot Scuba, Andaman Bubbles, or through your resort to ensure proper safety standards.
- Avoid stepping on coral or disturbing marine life — even the smallest contact can cause damage.
Why It’s Special:
Elephant Beach offers the ideal blend of accessibility, safety, and spectacle. It allows even non-swimmers to witness the beauty of Andaman’s coral reefs with confidence and comfort. Whether you’re floating over coral beds with a snorkel or dipping into the shallows with a diving tank, this beach provides a gentle, awe-inspiring introduction to underwater exploration.
It’s also a great place to build confidence before venturing to deeper or more advanced diving sites around Havelock and Neil.
2. North Bay Island- Snorkeling & Diving in Andaman
Location: North Bay Island, near Port Blair
Best For: Day-trippers, cruise passengers, first-time snorkelers
Activity Type: Snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, semi-submarine tours, sea walking
Accessibility: 20–25-minute boat ride from Aberdeen Jetty, Port Blair
Just off the coast of Port Blair, North Bay Island is one of the most visited snorkeling spots in the Andaman Islands — and for good reason. It’s close, convenient, and packed with marine activity, making it an excellent option for travelers who are short on time or prefer staying near the capital.
Though the island is small and uninhabited, it attracts thousands of visitors during the high season who come to explore its coral-rich shallows and clear blue waters. It’s particularly ideal for families, cruise travelers, and beginners who want a taste of the Andaman’s underwater life without committing to longer inter-island travel.
Underwater Highlights:
North Bay’s coral reef starts almost immediately from the shore and spreads across a broad reef flat. The underwater environment here is vibrant and diverse, especially in the designated snorkeling zones. Marine life includes:
- Staghorn, brain, and mushroom corals
- Reef fish such as damselfish, wrasse, clownfish, and moorish idols
- Crustaceans like crabs and shrimp
- Frequent sightings of sea cucumbers and nudibranchs
- Sandy-bottom patches with seagrass beds
The visibility here ranges between 5 to 15 meters, depending on weather and tide, and the water remains generally calm due to the island’s protective reef barrier.
Activities Available:
Snorkeling: Guided snorkeling tours are available on the island itself, lasting around 20–30 minutes. Life jackets, masks, and snorkels are provided, and a local guide will accompany you into the water.
Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: A favorite with non-swimmers and families with children, these boats allow you to view coral reefs and fish without getting wet. It’s an easy, comfortable way to enjoy the reef without any physical effort.
Semi-Submarine Experience: North Bay is one of the few islands offering semi-submarine rides — a unique way to explore marine life from a submerged cabin with glass panels.
Sea Walking: For those curious about diving but unsure of scuba, sea walking here is a memorable option. You wear a helmet connected to an air supply and walk on the sea floor while surrounded by tropical fish. No swimming skill is required.
How to Reach:
Regular ferry services operate from Aberdeen Jetty (also called Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex) in Port Blair. Boats leave every hour or so during peak tourist season (October to May) and return by afternoon. The journey takes about 20 to 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the harbor and nearby islands.
It’s possible to visit North Bay as part of a combined day trip that also includes Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island).
Local Tips:
- Book early during peak season as North Bay tours sell out quickly.
- Bring your own towel, dry clothes, and waterproof bag — there are basic changing rooms but no luxury facilities.
- Reef shoes can be helpful if walking in shallow areas.
- Carry cash — vendors on the island may not accept digital payments or cards.
Why It’s Special:
North Bay is a perfect introduction to Andaman’s marine life, especially for travelers who don’t have the time to visit Havelock or Neil. It offers a range of water activities in a compact, well-organized setting and is one of the few places in India where you can try sea walking with safe, licensed operators.
It’s also one of the most photographed locations in the Andamans — the view of the North Bay Lighthouse appears on the back of the Indian ₹20 currency note.
If you’re looking for a convenient, beginner-friendly snorkeling or semi-submerged sea experience, North Bay is a must-do.
3. Neil Island – Tranquil Waters Snorkeling & Diving
Location: Neil Island (officially known as Shaheed Dweep)
Best For: Both snorkeling and diving, offbeat experiences, relaxed marine exploration
Activity Type: Shore snorkeling, guided scuba diving (including courses), beachside reef walks
Accessibility: 1.5–2 hour ferry ride from Port Blair or Havelock Islan
Far quieter than its more famous neighbor, Havelock, Neil Island offers a slower pace of life, unspoiled beaches, and some of the most peaceful snorkeling and diving spots in the Andaman Islands. It’s an island that invites you to stay longer, explore slowly, and dive deeper — both metaphorically and literally.
With its shallow reef beds, gently sloping shores, and low tourist traffic, Neil Island is often described as a hidden gem for marine lovers. The waters around the island are calm, clear, and home to vibrant coral formations and fish life, making it an excellent destination for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a more relaxed underwater adventure.
Underwater Highlights:
Neil’s coral reefs are accessible from shore, which makes snorkeling easier and more spontaneous than in many other destinations. Visibility ranges from 10 to 20 meters depending on the tide and weather. Marine life you’re likely to encounter includes:
- Clownfish, butterflyfish, lionfish, and gobies
- Soft coral beds in shades of purple, blue, and orange
- Table corals and brain corals in the shallows
- Turtles and rays (especially during early morning dives)
- Macro life for diving enthusiasts — nudibranchs, crabs, and shrimp
Top Snorkeling and Diving Spots on Neil Island:
Bharatpur Beach:
Located close to the jetty, this is the most accessible and popular snorkeling site on Neil. The water here is shallow and calm, with good coral visibility just a few meters offshore. Guided snorkeling, sea walking, and introductory scuba sessions are available on the beach.
Laxmanpur Beach II:
While known more for its sunset views and limestone rock formations, Laxmanpur Beach also offers natural coral pools and reef formations that are best explored during low tide. This spot is better suited for reef walks and guided snorkel sessions with local experts.
Margherita’s Mischief (Diving Site):
Located a short boat ride from Neil Island, this is a scuba diver’s paradise with gentle slopes, large table corals, and sightings of stingrays, Napoleon wrasses, and garden eels. It’s ideal for beginner and intermediate divers.
Bus Stop (Diving Site):
Another scenic dive site near Neil, known for its sandy-bottom topography and rich coral gardens. Ideal for underwater photographers and those looking for a calm, scenic experience.
Dive Shops and Operators:
Neil Island has a few highly rated dive centers that provide PADI-certified courses and fun dives:
- India Scuba Explorers: Known for their experienced instructors and relaxed diving style.
- Scubalov: Offers structured courses and short sessions for beginners.
- Dive India (also based on Havelock): Runs dives on Neil through cross-island packages.
All operators follow strict safety protocols and provide all necessary equipment. Introductory scuba dives (Discover Scuba Diving) are conducted in shallow waters under close supervision, with no prior experience needed.
How to Reach:
Neil Island is well connected by government and private ferries from both Port Blair (Phoenix Bay Jetty) and Havelock Island. The ferry journey from Port Blair takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and from Havelock, it takes 1 hour.
Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to boutique resorts, many of which are within walking distance of beaches and dive centers.
Local Tips:
- Stay overnight to experience both sunrise and sunset, as well as morning dives when visibility is best.
- Reef shoes are useful on coral beaches to avoid injury from sharp fragments.
- Avoid disturbing tide pools or collecting coral pieces — it’s illegal and ecologically harmful.
- Pre-book diving slots in peak season (December to February) to ensure availability.
Why It’s Special:
Neil Island provides a refreshingly quiet and personal underwater experience. Unlike the more commercialized dive spots, Neil’s reefs feel alive and intimate. It’s a place where you’re more likely to hear your own breath underwater than a boat engine above — ideal for those who want to feel truly connected to the ocean.
If you’re looking for a blend of simplicity, authenticity, and marine beauty, Neil Island offers the perfect setting for your snorkeling or scuba journey.
Read also: What Are the Best Beaches to Visit in Andaman?
4. Dixon’s Pinnacle – Deepwater Snorkeling & Diving
Location: Offshore from Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Best For: Experienced and certified scuba divers
Activity Type: Deep-sea diving, multi-level drift diving
Accessibility: 40–50 minutes by dive boat from Havelock jetty
For certified divers seeking adventure beyond the reef flats and shallow coral gardens, Dixon’s Pinnacle stands out as one of the most spectacular dive sites in the entire Andaman archipelago. This site is not for beginners — it’s a deepwater dive spot that offers strong currents, towering underwater rock formations, and encounters with large pelagic species that are rarely seen in near-shore diving.
Discovered and named by local divers, Dixon’s Pinnacle is a place that serious divers return to again and again. It combines geological beauty with biological richness, offering an unforgettable underwater experience.
Dive Profile and Topography:
Dixon’s is made up of three large submerged pinnacles that rise from a sandy seabed at about 25 to 30 meters depth and reach up to around 18 meters below the surface. The pinnacle tops are covered with soft corals, gorgonian fans, and sea anemones, making them a magnet for both small and large marine species.
Currents can be strong and unpredictable, which makes this site suitable only for advanced open water divers or those with recent diving experience. Dive plans typically include multiple levels to explore different species at varying depths.
Marine Life Highlights:
Dixon’s Pinnacle is known for large schools of barracuda, giant trevallies, and tuna, as well as big eye jacks swirling around the rock formations. On lucky days, you might encounter:
- White-tip reef sharks resting on the sand below
- Napoleon wrasse or humphead parrotfish patrolling the pinnacles
- Manta rays and eagle rays during peak seasons
- Scorpionfish, stonefish, and moray eels nestled in the crevices
- Cleaner shrimps, nudibranchs, and other macro life hiding on the coral shelves
The mix of macro and mega fauna, paired with dramatic rock formations, makes Dixon’s both a photographer’s dream and a thrill-seeker’s paradise.
Who It’s For:
- Certified advanced divers (minimum Advanced Open Water certification required)
- Divers with experience in drift diving and handling variable currents
- Underwater photographers with interest in both large and small marine life
Beginners are generally not permitted here unless they’ve completed multiple supervised dives and have advanced certification.
Dive Operators and Safety:
Only a few licensed dive centers offer trips to Dixon’s due to its technical nature. Top-rated operators include:
- Dive India – Offers regular trips with certified instructors and full safety briefings.
- Barefoot Scuba – Known for quality gear and experienced dive masters.
- Andaman Bubbles – Offers private and small group dive experiences.
All operators maintain international diving standards, including depth limits, surface support, oxygen kits, and post-dive decompression planning.
How to Reach:
Dixon’s Pinnacle is reached via a 45 to 60-minute boat ride from the main Havelock jetty. Dive trips typically depart early in the morning and include two-tank dives, with surface intervals and refreshments onboard.
Most operators run boats that are fully equipped with GPS, dive ladders, and first aid, and trips include professional guides, rental gear, and dive briefings before entry.
Local Tips:
- Schedule your dive at the beginning of your Andaman trip — weather conditions can change and trips to Dixon’s may be cancelled if the sea is rough.
- Inform the operator of your recent dive history and any health conditions.
- Consider renting or bringing a dive computer if you plan to do multi-level dives here.
- Book at least 48 hours in advance — trips fill quickly during high season.
Why It’s Special:
Dixon’s Pinnacle is more than just a dive site — it’s a marine cathedral beneath the sea. The pinnacles rise like towers from the deep, and the surrounding ocean teems with life that is both exhilarating and humbling to witness. It’s the kind of place that reminds divers why they fell in love with the ocean in the first place.
For certified divers looking for a world-class, adrenaline-rich underwater adventure, Dixon’s Pinnacle is the crown jewel of diving in the Andaman Islands.
Read also: 15 Best Beach Destinations in India – From Goa to Andaman
5. South Button Island
Location: South Button Island, part of the Rani Jhansi Marine National Park
Best For: Intermediate to experienced divers, underwater photographers, marine enthusiasts
Activity Type: Boat diving, drift diving, reef exploration
Accessibility: 60–90 minutes by boat from Havelock Island
Among the trio of Button Islands located west of Havelock, South Button Island stands out as one of the most breathtaking dive sites in the entire Andaman region. Despite being India’s smallest national park by area, South Button offers some of the richest coral biodiversity in the country. It’s not just a diving location — it’s a living, breathing underwater sanctuary that balances ecological preservation with recreational exploration.
Protected by marine park regulations, the waters around South Button are clear, healthy, and full of life. It’s a destination that appeals equally to intermediate divers looking for adventure and marine biologists studying reef systems.
Dive Profile and Topography:
Dives around South Button typically begin at 12 to 15 meters depth, descending along coral-covered walls that drop to about 25 meters. These walls are decorated with large sea fans, soft corals, and sponges, making them ideal for drift dives in light to moderate current conditions.
The site is particularly well-suited for underwater photography, with excellent light penetration, diverse color palettes, and macro and wide-angle subjects.
Marine Life Highlights:
What sets South Button apart is the density and diversity of marine species packed into a relatively small area. Expect to encounter:
- Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles gliding through the reef
- Batfish, barracuda, trevally, and snappers in open water
- A kaleidoscope of reef fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, anthias, and wrasses
- Healthy patches of table corals, brain corals, and mushroom corals
- Ribbon eels, mantis shrimp, and nudibranchs for macro enthusiasts
- Occasional sightings of reef sharks and eagle rays, depending on the season
The coral cover here is exceptionally vibrant, with little to no bleaching — a testament to the area’s protected status and limited tourism pressure.
Who It’s For:
- Certified open water divers with at least moderate experience
- Underwater photographers looking for colorful coral landscapes and clear visibility
- Divers seeking a calm but biologically rich environment — South Button is not as physically demanding as Dixon’s Pinnacle but equally rewarding
Due to park restrictions and its distance from the mainland, snorkeling here is limited, and the site is generally reserved for scuba diving trips.
Dive Operators and Safety:
Only a handful of experienced dive operators offer trips to South Button, including:
- Dive India – Offers full-day dive safaris including South Button and nearby sites like Johnny’s Gorge
- Barefoot Scuba – Conducts PADI-certified dives here as part of multi-day packages
- Scubalov – Caters to small groups and eco-conscious divers with customized dive plans
All operators follow park rules, including no-touch diving, limited group sizes, and mandatory dive briefings.
How to Reach:
The island is reachable only by boat, typically as part of a two-dive day trip from Havelock. Travel time ranges from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Dive boats leave early in the morning and return by late afternoon.
Permits to enter the Rani Jhansi Marine National Park (which includes South Button) are handled by the dive operators and included in most dive packages.
Local Tips:
- Combine South Button with a second dive at Johnny’s Gorge or Minerva Ledge for a diverse day of diving
- Avoid touching or standing on coral — fines apply under marine park regulations
- Book well in advance during high season (Dec–Feb) — trips have limited slots due to conservation policies
- Pack seasickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness — the journey can be bumpy
Why It’s Special:
South Button Island offers an immersive, almost meditative diving experience. It’s not just about seeing marine life — it’s about feeling the rhythm of the reef, drifting along coral walls while watching turtles navigate their home. The protected status ensures that the reef remains pristine, making this one of the most eco-rich and visually stunning dive environments in India.
If you want to dive in a place where conservation and adventure coexist, South Button should be at the top of your list.
Read also: Tourist Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
6. Jolly Buoy Island – Crystal-Clear Snorkeling
Location: Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, South Andaman
Best For: Snorkeling, non-swimmers, families, eco-conscious travelers
Activity Type: Guided snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, coral viewing
Accessibility: 1.5-hour journey from Port Blair (road + boat), permit required
Located within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island is a no-compromise destination for those who want to experience snorkeling in its purest and most ecologically protected form. Unlike many of the more commercialized spots, Jolly Buoy is part of a government-regulated conservation zone — meaning no plastic, no overnight stays, and strict daily visitor limits.
This is a place where marine life thrives naturally, the reefs remain undisturbed, and the waters are so clear that you can often see coral formations from the boat before even entering the water.
Because of its protected status and tight regulations, Jolly Buoy Island is often regarded as the best snorkeling experience near Port Blair, particularly for families and first-time visitors who want a safe yet stunning underwater encounter.
Underwater Highlights:
Jolly Buoy Island features an expansive reef that begins just a few meters from shore and fans out into layers of vibrant coral gardens. The snorkeling zone is marked and patrolled, ensuring visitors only access designated areas to prevent damage.
Marine life here is diverse and healthy, with species commonly sighted including:
- Staghorn, finger, and brain corals
- Clownfish, damselfish, and angelfish
- Sea anemones, urchins, and starfish
- Giant clams, parrotfish, and colorful wrasse
- Occasional sightings of sea cucumbers, rays, and baby reef sharks in deeper areas
The visibility ranges from 15 to 30 meters on clear days, making this one of the clearest snorkeling sites in the Andamans.
Activities Available:
Snorkeling (Guided): The primary activity on Jolly Buoy is snorkeling. Certified local guides accompany visitors into the water, ensuring safety and providing equipment (mask, snorkel, and life jackets). Sessions usually last 20–30 minutes per group, with options for extended time available on request.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat rides offer an excellent way to observe coral reefs and fish life in the shallows. These rides are operated by licensed park guides.
Reef Walks (Tide-Dependent): When the tide is low, visitors can walk along sandy stretches near the reef edge under supervision, observing coral from above.
How to Reach:
To reach Jolly Buoy, visitors must:
- Travel by road (around 40 minutes) from Port Blair to Wandoor Jetty.
- Take a government-operated boat (30–45 minutes) to Jolly Buoy Island.
Access is strictly controlled, and the number of visitors per day is limited. The island is open only for part of the year (usually October to May) and is closed during monsoon and alternating months with Red Skin Island to allow reef regeneration.
Permits are required and must be obtained at least a day in advance from the tourism office in Port Blair. Most local tour operators can arrange permits and transportation as part of a package.
Local Tips:
- Plastic-free zone: Visitors must leave all plastic items (including water bottles, snacks in wrappers, etc.) at Wandoor Jetty. Cloth bags and reusable bottles are allowed.
- No shops or food stalls: Bring drinking water and food in eco-friendly containers. Take everything back with you.
- Arrive early: First boats leave Wandoor Jetty by 8:00–8:30 AM.
- Pack essentials: Sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, towel, and waterproof dry bag.
Why It’s Special:
Jolly Buoy Island is not just a snorkeling destination — it’s a model of sustainable marine tourism. Every aspect of the visitor experience is designed to protect the coral ecosystem, from daily access limits to the ban on plastic. The result is an underwater environment that remains pristine, vibrant, and thriving.
For travelers seeking a safe, educational, and awe-inspiring snorkeling experience in the Andamans, Jolly Buoy offers an unmatched opportunity. Its calm waters, biodiversity, and ecological integrity make it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates nature at its finest.
Check out: Andaman Honeymoon Tour Itinerary For 5 Nights 6 Days
Best Snorkeling and Diving Spots in Andaman
For travelers choosing between the islands, this comparison chart offers a helpful overview based on type, difficulty, and experience offered at each site.
| Spot | Island | Best For | Type | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elephant Beach | Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) | Beginners, families | Snorkeling & Intro Diving | Easy | Shallow coral reefs, guided snorkeling |
| North Bay Island | Near Port Blair | Day trips, cruise passengers | Snorkeling & Sea Walking | Easy | Glass-bottom boats, close to mainland |
| Neil Island | Shaheed Dweep | Quiet experience, both activities | Snorkeling & Scuba | Easy to Moderate | Calm waters, soft corals, reef fish |
| Dixon’s Pinnacle | Off Havelock | Experienced divers | Scuba Diving | Advanced | Large pelagics, deep rock formations |
| South Button Island | Marine National Park | Intermediate divers, photography | Scuba Diving | Moderate | Coral walls, sea turtles, reef sharks |
| Jolly Buoy Island | Near Wandoor | Eco-conscious travelers | Snorkeling | Easy | Crystal-clear water, marine park regulations |
Best Time to Visit for Snorkeling and Diving in Andaman
The Andaman Islands have a tropical climate and offer year-round marine experiences, but the dry season from October to May is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Here’s why:
October to February (Peak Season):
- Calm seas, excellent visibility (up to 30 meters)
- Ideal for both snorkelers and divers
- Pleasant daytime temperatures (24°C to 30°C)
- Perfect for underwater photography and multi-dive trips
March to May (Shoulder Season):
- Warmer waters, good visibility
- Fewer tourists, better deals on dive packages
- Occasional short rain spells, but diving remains largely uninterrupted
June to September (Monsoon Season):
- Heavy rainfall, rough seas
- Most diving activities suspended
- Marine parks like Jolly Buoy are closed for reef recovery
- Not recommended for marine tours or inter-island travel
If diving or snorkeling is your main goal, avoid monsoon months entirely. Many operators close during this time for safety and conservation reasons.
Check out: 7 Days Andaman Island Trip Itinerary
Tips for First-Time Divers and Snorkelers
Whether you’re putting on fins for the first time or ready to descend into the deep blue, a few key tips can make your experience safe and enjoyable:
For Snorkelers:
- Choose guided snorkeling for your first time — you’ll feel more comfortable and safer.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid damaging coral ecosystems.
- Practice breathing through the snorkel at the surface before heading into deeper water.
- Never stand on or touch corals — they are fragile and slow-growing.
For Scuba Divers:
- Ensure you are diving with a PADI-certified operator with a strong safety record.
- If you’re not certified, try a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) session first.
- Bring or rent a dive computer if you plan to dive multiple times.
- Stay hydrated, rest well before your dive day, and avoid alcohol.
Packing Essentials:
- Quick-dry towel, change of clothes
- Waterproof bag for electronics and valuables
- GoPro or underwater camera with red filter for true color capture
- Personal snorkeling mask (optional but useful for hygiene and comfort)
Trusted Dive Operators in Andaman
Working with a responsible, experienced dive operator can make all the difference. Below are some of the most reputable providers in the islands:
- Dive India (Havelock, Neil): Longest-running dive center with top-notch instructors, courses, and custom dive trips.
- Barefoot Scuba (Havelock): Eco-conscious PADI center offering full certification and guided dives.
- Scubalov (Havelock & Neil): Great for personalized diving experiences and small groups.
- Andaman Bubbles (Havelock): Known for fun dives and Discover Scuba experiences.
- Local Government Tours (Port Blair): Ideal for Jolly Buoy and North Bay with certified guides.
Be sure to check reviews, ask about group sizes, and confirm safety procedures before booking.
Final Thoughts:
From the coral-covered cliffs of South Button to the shallow, fish-filled waters of Elephant Beach, the Andaman Islands offer a rich underwater tapestry unmatched by any other region in India. Whether you’re floating on the surface with a snorkel or diving 30 meters below into a world of sea fans, turtles, and barracuda, each site offers its own magic.
These six locations combine accessibility, biodiversity, and memorable experiences for Snorkeling & Diving. Making them essential stops on any marine traveler’s itinerary. Just as the islands themselves are remote and protected, so too is their underwater world — full of life, yet in need of care and respect.
By diving responsibly and choosing the right operators, you’re not only opening a window into an incredible part of the planet — you’re helping preserve it for generations to come.
Continue Your Journey Here:
- May Weather Guide for Andaman & Nicobar
- Andaman Trip Cost from Mumbai – Full Breakdown
- Top 50 Must-Try Experiences in Andaman
- Best Beaches in Andaman You Should Visit
- March 2025 Travel Tips for Andaman Islands
- Lakshadweep vs Andaman – Which is Better?
- Travel Guide: Delhi to Andaman & Nicobar
- Andaman or Goa for Honeymoon – What to Choose?
- Andaman Islands Travel Guide – January 2025
- Top 10 Places to Visit in Andaman & Nicobar
- India’s 15 Best Beaches – Goa to Andaman
- 6 Best Places for Sunset Views in Andaman
