Wandoor Beach and Marine National Park
Wandoor Beach is a long, quiet shoreline on the southwestern coast of South Andaman, known for its pale sand, casuarina groves and calm waters. Adjacent to it is the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (M.G. Marine NP) — a protected archipelago of coral islands, seagrass beds and rich marine biodiversity. Together they offer easy beach access, island-hopping, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides and opportunities to see vibrant coral reefs and reef fish.
Location
Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor / proximity to Port Blair, India (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
Duration
Typical visits: Half-day (3–5 hours) for beach + glass-bottom boat; Full-day (7–9 hours) for boat trip to islands with snorkeling; Multi-day if combining with Port Blair activities.
Best Time to Visit
October to May (post-monsoon and winter months). Avoid heavy monsoon season: June to September due to rough seas and limited boat operations.
Pricing
- National Park permit/entry: Indian adults approx. INR 30–100; foreign nationals higher (approx. INR 200–500) — exact fees set by Forest Dept.
- Boat transfer to islands (shared/group): INR 800–2500 per person depending on distance and boat type.
- Private boat/tour: INR 4,000–15,000 (varies by size & itinerary).
- Snorkeling (guided + gear): INR 500–1,500 per person.
- Glass-bottom boat ride: INR 300–800 per person.
- Scuba diving (if available nearby): INR 3,000–6,000 per dive.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park islands (examples: Jolly Buoy, Red Skin — access varies seasonally and by permits)
Clear waters with coral reefs and diverse reef fish
Glass-bottom boat for non-swimmers
Snorkeling over shallow coral gardens
Long, quiet Wandoor Beach with casuarina shade
Sunsets and coastal photography
Birdlife and mangrove-fringed shoreline on nearby stretches
Itinerary
Pickup from Port Blair / hotel and drive to Wandoor (approx. 25–45 km depending on starting point)
Start early to catch calmer seas and maximize time at the islands.
Board boat at Wandoor jetty; briefing and safety instructions
Collect permits/entrance passes if not already issued; ensure life jackets are fitted.
Boat transfer and island visit (e.g., Jolly Buoy/Red Skin) — snorkeling/reef viewing
Snorkeling sessions in shallow reef patches; guides will point out corals and fish. Keep to designated spots to protect reefs.
Beach time and packed lunch or picnic on a permitted island/at Wandoor
Avoid bringing plastic; carry out all waste. Respect park regulations about open fires and camping.
Optional glass-bottom boat, short coastal exploration or relaxation at Wandoor Beach
Good time for photos and calm swimming near shore.
Return drive to Port Blair / drop-off
Traffic/road conditions can alter arrival time; consider buffer for connecting travel.
Safety Requirements
Wear life jackets during boat transfers and when snorkeling if not a confident swimmer
Use only reef-safe sunscreen or avoid sunscreen before entering water; follow local guidance
Do not touch, stand on or collect corals, shells or marine life — it’s illegal in the marine park
Follow instructions from licensed guides and boat crew
Avoid alcohol before snorkeling or boating
Carry basic seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness; boats can be bumpy on windy days
Carry ID and any required permits; foreign nationals should carry passport copies if requested
Tips
Book Marine Park permits and island boat trips in advance during peak season (Oct–Mar)
Carry sufficient drinking water, light snacks and sun protection (hat, sunglasses) — prefer reef-safe sunscreen
Wear quick-dry clothing and water shoes or reef shoes for rocky/reef areas
Bring waterproof bag, dry-sack and camera with waterproof housing or snorkel mask camera
Respect park rules: no littering, no anchoring on coral, no feeding fish
If you want to dive, pre-book with a PADI/SSI operator in Port Blair for safety standards and gear
Plan an early start for calmer seas and better visibility for snorkeling
Check weather and sea conditions at the harbor; operators will cancel trips during rough weather
Combine Wandoor visit with a Port Blair sightseeing day (Cellular Jail, Corbyn's Cove) for logistics convenience
