3 Days in Long Island - Cultural Trip

A relaxed introduction to Long Island's natural beauty and local culture, starting with its famous beaches and ending with a taste of island life.

Activities

Lalaji Bay Beach

Begin your day at Lalaji Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in the Andamans. The white sand and clear turquoise water are perfect for swimming or just lounging. The beach is accessible by a short boat ride or a trek through the forest, adding a bit of adventure to the visit.

Lalaji Bay, Long IslandMorning (8-11 AM) to avoid the midday heatBoat ride: ~INR 500-800 per person (round trip)

Tips:

• Carry water and snacks-there are no shops nearby
• Wear sturdy shoes if trekking

Long Island Village Walk

Take a stroll through the island's only village, where you’ll see simple wooden houses, small gardens, and friendly locals. It’s a great way to get a feel for the slow-paced island life. Stop by the local market for fresh coconuts or handmade souvenirs.

Long Island VillageLate afternoon (4-6 PM) when it's coolerFree (small purchases optional)

Tips:

• Greet locals with a smile-they’re often happy to chat
• Try fresh coconut water from a roadside vendor

Sunset at Merk Bay

End the day with a boat ride to Merk Bay, another pristine beach known for its peaceful vibe and stunning sunsets. The shallow waters are great for a quick dip, and the quiet surroundings make it ideal for unwinding.

Merk Bay, Long IslandEvening (5-7 PM) for sunset viewsBoat ride: ~INR 600-1000 per person (round trip)

Tips:

• Bring a light jacket-it can get breezy
• Pack a flashlight for the return trip if it gets dark

Must Try Foods

A mix of nature and local culture, with a visit to stunning beaches and a peek into island life.

Activities

Lalaji Bay Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in the Andamans, Lalaji Bay is a hidden gem with white sands and clear blue waters. The boat ride to get here through mangrove creeks is an experience in itself. Pack a picnic and spend the morning soaking in the serene vibes.

Lalaji Bay, Long IslandMorning, around 8 AM to 12 PM (best light and calm waters)INR 500-1000 per person (includes boat ride)

Tips:

• Carry snorkeling gear if you have it-the coral here is vibrant.
• Wear sturdy shoes for the short jungle walk from the boat drop-off point.

Long Island Village Walk

Take a leisurely stroll through the local village to see how islanders live. You’ll pass by small shops, coconut groves, and maybe even a game of cricket. Stop by the local market for fresh tropical fruits or handmade souvenirs.

Long Island VillageLate afternoon, around 4 PM (when the heat eases)Free (unless you buy something)

Tips:

• Ask before taking photos of locals-some may prefer privacy.
• Try bargaining gently at the market-it’s part of the fun.

Sunset at Merk Bay

End the day with a short boat ride to Merk Bay, another pristine beach known for its golden sunsets. The shallow waters are perfect for a quick dip, and the quiet surroundings make it ideal for unwinding.

Merk Bay, Long IslandEvening, around 5 PM to 7 PMINR 500-800 per person (includes boat ride)

Tips:

• Carry a light jacket-it can get breezy.
• Pack snacks-there are no shops here.

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local culture, with plenty of time to soak in the island's natural beauty and slow-paced life.

Activities

Lalaji Bay Beach

A secluded beach accessible by a short boat ride or a trek through dense mangroves. The white sand and clear blue waters make it perfect for a quiet morning swim or just lounging under the palms. Few tourists make it here, so you'll often have the place to yourself.

Lalaji Bay, Long IslandMorning (8-11 AM) to avoid afternoon heatBoat ride: ₹500-800 per person round trip (or free if trekking)

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes if trekking – the path can be muddy
• Pack snacks/water as there are no shops nearby

Village Walk in Long Island

Stroll through the main village area to see daily island life. Watch fishermen mend nets, visit the tiny local market selling fresh catch and island-grown produce, and chat with friendly locals who move at the island's unhurried pace. The wooden houses on stilts and coconut groves give it a timeless feel.

Long Island VillageLate afternoon (4-6 PM) when the village is most activeFree

Tips:

• Ask before photographing people
• Try buying fresh coconuts from roadside vendors

Sunset at Guitar Island

Take an evening boat to this tiny, uninhabited island shaped like a guitar (best visible from above). Walk the entire perimeter in 20 minutes as the sky turns golden. The shallow waters glow during low tide, creating perfect reflections.

Guitar Island, 15 min boat ride from Long Island jettyDepart by 4:30 PM to catch sunset around 5:30 PM₹600-1000 for private boat round trip (can be shared with others)

Tips:

• Carry a torch for the return trip
• Wear sandals – the coral pieces can be sharp

Must Try Foods