6 offbeat beaches in India for a crowd-free dip

These six secret beaches of India are ideal for a tranquil swim, scenic views, and interesting coastal activities off the tourist map. Avoid the crowds and find bliss there.

Varkala provides a rare, elevated sunset over the towering Arabian Sea. While golden shades colour the horizon, waves break below and caress the beach, making a perfect coastal experience. The swaying palm trees so gently swaying are a bonus! The horizon glows like a colourised postcard. Local coffee shops come to life as the sun dips, casting shadows of lovers and visitors. Varkala, its blend of spirituality and beach, is renowned for cliffs facing the Arabian Sea. Visit Janardana Swami Temple, Papanasam Beach, and the lovely Varkala Cliff with eating places.

In South Goa lies Cola Beach, or rather Khola Beach, a lesser-known gem. It is an uncommon freshwater lagoon where a rivulet flows to meet the Arabian Sea, framed by beautiful sand and palm-shaded hills. A piece of rock comes between North Cola and South Cola, but the beach still lies untouched and serene. It's best for kayaking, swimming, or camping eco-style away from tourists.

Cherai Beach, a peaceful coastal retreat renowned for its golden sands, calm waves, and peaceful backwaters, lies on Vypin Island off Kochi in Kerala. The roughly 10 to 15 kilometre-long beach has the ideal combination of backwaters and sea, which tend to be a few meters apart. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, visitors can occasionally catch sight of dolphins. The area's unique charm is also augmented by its popularity for having beautiful sunsets and the existence of traditional Chinese fishing nets.

Gopalpur Beach, in Odisha's Ganjam district, is a serene seaside haven on the Bay of Bengal. It was once a busy seaport during British days, but now is a serene retreat with its golden sand, gentle waves, and thick casuarina groves. Walking, sunbathing, and grand sunrises and sunsets are the tourist delights. The beach is also renowned for its ancient lighthouse and the Gopalpur Beach Festival conducted annually, depicting local culture and tradition.

Mandvi Beach, a tranquil seashore resort renowned for golden sand and peaceful waves, is located in Gujarat's Kutch. Mandvi is a rich seaport town since 1580, which has a historic maritime history and flaunts this through its shipbuilding industries, old-fashioned in approach, which are still operational and use vintage methods to create wooden dhows. Tourists along the beach can experience camel and horse rides, water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides, or just lounge about while witnessing the stunning sunsets. Mandvi Beach, at about 58 km from here and reached by way of Bhuj, presents the perfect mixture of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Malpe Beach is a quiet and picturesque seaside spot in Karnataka close to Udupi, known for its golden sands and tranquil waves. It provides a boat ride to St. Mary's Island and is renowned for water activities such as parasailing and jet skiing. It is ideal for recreation and adventure as it has a sea promenade, local seafood markets, and glorious sunsets.