Puri’s beaches offer a rich mix of experiences, from the bustling atmosphere of Puri Beach and Swargadwar Beach to the serene, offbeat charm of Balighai and Baliharachandi. Solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a couple seeking some tranquility, Puri has a beach that’s perfect for you. So pack your sunscreen, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to explore some of the finest beaches that the east coast of India has to offer!
1. Puri Beach (Golden Beach)
Rating: 4.2/5
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Puri Beach, also known as Golden Beach, is a hotspot for both tourists and devotees. Beach is often filled with people visiting Puri for a dip in the holy waters and to pay homage to Lord Jagannath at the nearby Jagannath Temple. Puri Beach is renowned for its golden sands and calming atmosphere, but what truly sets it apart are the stunning sand sculptures made by internationally acclaimed artist Sudarshan Patnaik.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
Things to Do: Camel rides, horse rides, sunbathing on the warm sand, and shopping for knick-knacks from local vendors. Don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll along the shore and enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise or sunset.
Eating Options: Find numerous food stalls and shacks selling local snacks, fresh coconut water, and street food like samosas and seafood. There are also small cafes nearby.
Location: Close to Puri city center, making it easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, bus, or taxi.
Puri for religious reasons or just a casual beach vacation, Puri Beach offers the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea.
2. Balighai Beach
Rating: 4/5
If you’re looking for a quieter and cleaner beach, Balighai Beach is your go-to destination. Located 17 kilometers from central Puri, this beach is far from the usual hustle and bustle, making it perfect for families and couples looking for a peaceful escape. Casuarina, eucalyptus, and Alaska trees lining the shore offer lovely shaded areas for picnics.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
Things to Do: Relax on the soft sand, play beach games, or enjoy a day of picnicking under the cool shade of the trees. There are also nearby resorts where you can extend your stay for a weekend getaway.
Eating Options: Though food stalls are fewer, you can pack your own picnic basket or grab light snacks from nearby vendors.
Location: Balighai Beach is about a 30-minute drive from Puri and is best accessed via private cars, taxis, or auto-rickshaws.
This beach is a perfect retreat for those who wish to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature.
3. Baliharachandi Beach
Rating: 4.5/5
Want to experience something truly off the beaten path? Baliharachandi Beach offers a more secluded and rustic experience compared to Puri Beach. Located just 10 kilometers from the heart of Puri, this beach is quieter, with fewer visitors and minimal commercialization. Main crowd here consists of locals who come for picnics, making it the ideal place if you prefer calm surroundings.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
Things to Do: Relax on the sandy shores, have a picnic, or take a hike through the nearby forest. The beach is known for its small crabs, scattered seashells, and long stretches of pristine coastline.
Eating Options: While you won’t find many food stalls, small vendors sell fresh fruits and snacks that you can enjoy while relaxing on the beach.
Location: Baliharachandi Beach is a short drive from central Puri and is accessible by auto-rickshaw, private car, or taxi.
If you’re a nature lover, this beach is an excellent spot to reconnect with the raw beauty of the sea and the surrounding wilderness.
4. Chandrabhaga Beach
Rating: 3.5/5
Located near the famous Sun Temple in Konark, Chandrabhaga Beach is one of the best-kept secrets on the east coast of India. Beach is pristine, with its long stretches of golden sand and towering trees providing plenty of shade for beachgoers. It’s also the venue for the renowned Chandrabhaga Mela, a vibrant cultural festival that attracts visitors from all over the country.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
Things to Do: If you love adventure, Chandrabhaga Beach is the place for you. From jet skiing and paragliding to motorboat rides, this beach offers plenty of exciting water sports. It’s also a great place for a relaxing day of picnicking, sunbathing, and shopping for souvenirs.
Eating Options: Small stalls and cafes near the beach serve local snacks and drinks.
Location: 30 kilometers from Puri, this beach is easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
For those looking to combine culture with beach relaxation, Chandrabhaga Beach offers a perfect blend of both.
5. Swargadwar Beach
Rating: 4/5
Running along the famous Marine Drive of Puri, Swargadwar Beach is one of the liveliest spots in the city. It’s particularly known for its proximity to the Swargadwar Crematorium, a sacred site for Hindus. Despite this, the beach bustles with energy and life, offering a variety of stalls, vendors, and activities for visitors.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
Things to Do: Sunbathe on the beach, enjoy horse and camel rides, or explore the lively evening market, where you can buy everything from seashell jewelry to local handicrafts.
Eating Options: Beach is dotted with food stalls and small cafes offering a wide variety of snacks, from quick street food to traditional Odia dishes.
Location: Just 4 kilometers from central Puri, Swargadwar Beach is very easy to access by any mode of transportation.
If you’re looking for a lively beach experience with plenty of local flavor, Swargadwar Beach should definitely be on your list.
6. Astaranga Beach
Rating: 4/5
For a truly offbeat experience, Astaranga Beach is a must-visit. Located 60 kilometers from Puri, this quiet beach is known for its vibrant fishing community. Every morning, a bustling fish market springs up on the beach, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local fishermen. The name “Astaranga” itself means “colored sunset,” and visitors are treated to breathtaking views as the sun sets over the horizon.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
Things to Do: Relax on the beach, enjoy a quiet picnic, or explore the local fish market in the early morning.
Eating Options: There are a few food stalls and cafes near the beach where you can grab a quick bite.
Location: Astaranga Beach is about 67 kilometers from Puri, and the best way to reach it is by private car or taxi.
For those seeking a peaceful day trip, Astaranga Beach offers a serene and picturesque escape from the busier beaches closer to Puri.
Puri, a city on the eastern coast of India, is famous for its serene beaches and vibrant culture. Located in the state of Odisha and washed by the Bay of Bengal, Puri offers visitors a mix of spiritual sanctity and beachside relaxation. With golden sands and gentle waves, the beaches here are perfect for every type of traveler whether you’re looking to unwind, enjoy water sports, or indulge in local culture. Take you through the best beaches in Puri that you simply cannot miss!
