8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry with Activities list, Timings 2024

Pondicherry, the French Capital of India, has a lot to offer to its visitors. The quaint French and Portuguese architecture of the houses, the hotels in Pondicherry, the quiet beaches and the delicious seafood are reasons enough to head there for those looking for an offbeat holiday. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous vacation with friends and family, a quiet romantic getaway with your partner or a spiritual holiday, Pondicherry has something for everyone. One thing is for sure…there’s something different about this place that makes you fall in love with it! One of the key attractions in Pondicherry is its beautiful and pristine beaches. The magical sound of the waves hitting the shore, the soft shimmering golden sand and the serene view out on the horizon, the beaches definitely do leave you mesmerized. For tourists who wish to escape the boredom of day-to-day life and are looking for a breezy trip, look no further than Pondicherry or ‘Pondy’ as people lovingly call the city, for your next travel destination. Here are some of the best beaches to visit on your getaway in Pondicherry.

Beaches in and around Pondicherry:

1. Serenity Beach

Serenity Beach | #1 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

If you’ve ever had the dream of learning surfing, Serenity Beach is the place to make that dream come true. There is a surfing school located close to the beach that offers certified surfing classes by trained professionals. The beach is quite secluded, leaving your mind, body, and soul rejuvenated. If you feel hungry, there are a couple of cafes and shacks where you can indulge in some delicious food.

• Activities: Surfing (of course), boating, sunbathing and beach volleyball
• Timings: Till 6:30 pm

2. Auroville Beach

Auroville Beach | #2 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

The beautiful shoreline at Auroville or Auro Beach is lined with seashells and the glistening sand there reflects the golden rays of the sun. You will be amazed at how clear the waters are at this beach, and it is one the best beaches in Pondicherry for surfing. You will find a lot of surfers, both amateurs, and skilled professionals, fighting the waves. You can also enjoy the view of the iconic Pondicherry lighthouse in the evening.

• Activities: Swimming, strolling, surfing (also beginners) and observing the sunset.
• Timings: Beach closes at 6:30 pm

3. Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach | #3 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

True to its name, Paradise Beach is undoubtedly magical. This must-visit attraction on a Pondicherry Trip is little remote and can only be accessed by a boat ride through the tranquil backwaters. If you’re looking for some quiet time away from the crowd and the noise, this white sand beach is the perfect place. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for a swim to cool off during the warm summers. The adrenaline junkie in you will be pleased with the choice of water sports activities available here.

• Activities: Jet-skiing, canoeing, and kayaking.
• Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

4. Reppo Beach

Reppo Beach | #4 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

Another place that’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city is Reppo Beach. It is famous for the fisherman boats that sail along the horizons in the golden hour light during the evenings, making the view look almost like a surreal painting. This beach is the perfect place to unwind, letting the wind brush against your skin and the cold waves run through your feet. This is the perfect place to escape to with your loved ones.

• Activities: Swimming and strolling
• Timings: Morning till evening

5. Promenade Beach

Promenade Beach | #5 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

Promenade Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Pondicherry, stretching to a length of 1.5 km and bordered by a walkway. In the mornings, you will see both tourists and locals either just enjoying the sunrise or going on their morning jog. Vehicles are banned here so that people can walk in peace without the disturbance of cars. The beach is comfortably located in the city and you will find no trouble finding budget hotels near Promenade Beach.

• Activities: Watching the sunrise and sunset.
• Timings: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm

6. Veerampattinam Beach

Veerampattinam Beach | #6 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

Another popular beach in Pondi, Veerampattinam is on the list of avid photographers and peace seekers. It is among the longest beaches in South India and definitely one of the most beautiful ones. The surrounding village is covered in green throughout the year making the scenery all the more photogenic.

• Activities: Photography, fishing and swimming
• Timings: Morning till evening

7. Karaikal Beach

Karaikal Beach | #7 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

This is an action-packed beach that provides entertainment for the whole family. There are a number of hotels, restaurants and small cafes for your family to stay and enjoy a hearty meal. You can also indulge in a wide range of water sports. If you’re just looking for some quiet time, you won’t be disappointed either, as you can read a book by the shore or just get lost in the beauty of nature. The beach is located at Karaikal, around 130 km from Pondicherry.

• Activities: Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating
• Timings: Morning till evening

8. Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram Beach | #8 of 8 Best Beaches in Pondicherry

Mahabalipuram has a storied past about which can be learned at its top attractions like Pancha Rathas and the Shore Temple. Mahabalipuram Beach is another significant place of interest in the holy town. At this scenic beach, you can marvel at the sight of the waves hitting the rocks. You can also enjoy freshly caught seafood from one of the restaurants by the beach. It is around 97 kilometers from Pondicherry city.

• Activities: Motor-boating, scuba diving and windsurfing
• Timings: Morning till evening A trip to beaches is the perfect way to soothe your mind and soul and there’s no best time to visit Pondicherry, as the weather here is pleasant all year round. So pack your bags, book one of the many beautiful hotels in Pondicherry, and get started on your perfect beach holiday!