Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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7 Days in Long Island for a Relaxed Island Getaway
Long Island is one of those hidden gems in the Andamans where time slows down. It's perfect if you want to escape the crowds and just soak in the quiet beauty of untouched beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. I spent a week here last year, and it was the perfect mix of lazy beach days and gentle exploration. The locals are warm, the seafood is fresh, and the sunsets are unreal.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Long Island
Start your Andaman adventure with the untouched beauty of Long Island, where pristine beaches and lush forests set the tone for a peaceful getaway.
Activities
Lalaji Bay Beach
Kick off your trip with a visit to Lalaji Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in the Andamans. The turquoise waters and white sands are perfect for a lazy morning swim or just soaking in the views. The beach is accessible via a short boat ride or a trek through dense forests, adding a bit of adventure to your day.
- Wear comfortable shoes if trekking—the path can be uneven.
- Carry snacks and water; there are no shops nearby.
Long Island Village Walk
Take a stroll through the quaint villages of Long Island to get a feel for the local way of life. The friendly villagers, mostly fishermen and farmers, are happy to share stories about their island. You’ll pass by small coconut groves, rustic homes, and maybe even spot some traditional handicrafts being made.
- Ask before taking photos of locals—it’s polite.
- Try fresh coconut water from roadside vendors.
Sunset at Merk Bay
End your day with the breathtaking sunset at Merk Bay, another hidden gem. The calm waters and golden skies make it a perfect spot to unwind. You might even spot dolphins if you’re lucky! The bay is accessible by a short boat ride from the jetty.
- Bring a light jacket—it can get breezy.
- Pack a picnic if you want to enjoy the sunset with snacks.
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Day 2
Day 2 in Long Island
A mix of nature and local life, exploring hidden beaches and village culture
Activities
Morning at Guitar Island
Hop on a short boat ride to Guitar Island, a serene, uninhabited spot with powdery white sand and clear waters. Perfect for a quiet morning swim or just lounging under the palms. The island gets its name from its guitar-like shape when viewed from above.
- Carry snacks and water—no shops on the island
- Wear reef shoes—the coral can be sharp
Lunch at a Local Home Kitchen
Head back to the village for an authentic Nicobari meal at a local home kitchen. Think fresh coconut-based curries, grilled fish, and sticky rice steamed in banana leaves. The hosts often share stories about island life while you eat.
- Try the 'tuno' (local fermented fish)—it’s an acquired taste but worth sampling
- Cash only—no ATMs on the island
Afternoon Mangrove Kayaking
Paddle through the narrow creeks of Long Island’s mangrove forests with a local guide. Spot fiddler crabs, monitor lizards, and maybe even a saltwater crocodile (from a safe distance!). The quiet waterways feel like a hidden world.
- Wear quick-dry clothes—you might get splashed
- Binoculars will help spot birds in the canopy
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Long Island
A slower-paced day diving into local culture and lesser-known spots, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the island's charm.
Activities
Morning at Blue Planet Aquarium
Start your day at this small but fascinating aquarium run by a local marine enthusiast. It's a great way to learn about the unique aquatic life around the Andamans, including colorful reef fish and rare species found only in these waters. The owner often shares personal stories about marine conservation efforts in the area.
- Ask the owner about current marine sightings around the island - he might tip you off on good snorkeling spots
- Bring small change as they may not have change for large bills
Village Craft Walk & Coconut Workshop
Wander through the quieter lanes of the village where locals demonstrate traditional crafts like mat weaving and wood carving. Don't miss the coconut workshop where you'll learn how every part of the coconut is used - from husk rope-making to tasting fresh coconut jaggery sweets.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven village paths
- Carry small notes if you want to buy handmade souvenirs directly from artisans
Afternoon at Secret Cove
Locals will point you to this unnamed crescent of white sand tucked between rocky outcrops - accessible only during low tide. Bring snacks and spend a lazy afternoon swimming in the calm, shallow waters perfect for first-time snorkelers to spot parrotfish and clownfish.
- Carry water shoes - some coral fragments near shore
- Pack a trash bag - help keep this spot pristine
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 4
Day 4 in Long Island
A day of slow-paced exploration, blending nature walks with local flavors and a quiet beach escape.
Activities
Morning at North Button Island
Take a short boat ride to North Button Island, a tiny uninhabited paradise known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs. The island is part of the Rani Jhansi Marine National Park, so expect crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Perfect for a quiet morning of beachcombing or just soaking in the solitude.
- Carry snorkeling gear if you have your own—rentals aren’t always available here.
- Pack light snacks and water; there are no shops on the island.
Lunch at a Beachside Shacks
Head back to Long Island and stop by one of the simple beachside shacks near the jetty. These no-frills spots serve fresh seafood straight from the catch of the day—think grilled fish, prawns, and crab cooked with local spices. The vibe is rustic, and the flavors are unbeatable.
- Ask for the 'catch of the day'—it’s always the freshest option.
- Try the spicy coconut chutney served with meals—it’s a local staple.
Afternoon at Coral Point
A lesser-known spot on Long Island, Coral Point is a rocky outcrop with tide pools and shallow reefs. It’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon of wading, spotting small fish, and admiring the coral formations. The views of the open sea from here are stunning, especially as the light shifts toward evening.
- Wear sturdy sandals—the rocks can be slippery.
- Bring a small bag for any litter; the area is kept clean by locals.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 5
Day 5 in Long Island
A laid-back day exploring hidden beaches and local fishing culture, with plenty of time to soak in the island's slow pace.
Activities
Morning at Turtle Beach
Head to this lesser-known beach, named for the occasional turtle sightings. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for a quiet swim or just lounging on the soft sand. Locals often come here to fish, so you might see traditional techniques in action.
- Bring snorkeling gear - the rocky edges have interesting marine life
- Ask fishermen about their catch - they're usually happy to chat
Afternoon with the Lighthouse Keeper
Visit Long Island's modest but charming lighthouse, where the keeper often shares stories of ships and storms over sweet milky chai. The climb up offers panoramic views of the island chain that most visitors miss.
- Wear sturdy shoes - the path is rocky
- Time your visit with high tide for the best water views
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 6
Day 6 in Long Island
A laid-back day exploring hidden corners of Long Island, from serene forest walks to a quiet beach picnic and a glimpse into local island life.
Activities
Morning at Long Island Forest Trail
Start your day with a peaceful walk through the dense tropical forest of Long Island. The trail is shaded and full of bird calls, with occasional glimpses of the island's unique wildlife. It's a quiet, less-trodden path that feels worlds away from the beaches.
- Wear sturdy shoes - the trail can be uneven
- Bring water and mosquito repellent
Picnic at Whispering Sands Beach
Head to this secluded beach with a packed lunch from a local kitchen. The beach gets its name from the soft, almost musical sound the sand makes when walked on. It's perfect for a lazy afternoon of swimming and sunbathing without crowds.
- Ask your guesthouse to pack a local-style picnic
- The beach has no shade - bring a umbrella or sarong for cover
Evening with Local Fishermen
Spend the late afternoon at the small fishing harbor watching boats come in. The fishermen are usually happy to show their catch and share stories about island life. It's a great way to see the rhythm of daily life here.
- Don't get in the way of their work
- Sunset views from the harbor are spectacular
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 7
Day 7 in Long Island
A laid-back final day soaking in the island’s quiet charm, with a mix of relaxation and light exploration.
Activities
Morning at Long Island’s Hidden Lagoon
Start your day at a secluded lagoon tucked away from the usual tourist trails. The water here is crystal-clear and perfect for a peaceful swim. It’s a great spot to unwind, listen to the rustling palms, and maybe even spot some colorful fish darting around the shallow waters.
- Wear sturdy sandals for the short walk through the jungle
- Bring a waterproof bag for your belongings
Visit the Long Island Bamboo Workshop
Drop by a small, family-run workshop where locals craft everything from baskets to furniture using bamboo. You’ll see how the bamboo is treated, bent, and woven into practical items—and maybe even try your hand at making something simple. It’s a great way to support the community and take home a unique souvenir.
- Ask about the different types of bamboo used—some are surprisingly flexible
- Cash is preferred if you buy anything
Farewell Lunch at a Beachside Café
Wrap up your trip with a leisurely lunch at a cozy beachside café, where the catch of the day is always fresh. Think grilled fish, coconut rice, and maybe a tangy mango salad. The vibe here is pure island relaxation—barefoot dining with your toes in the sand.
- Try the 'fish curry with local spices'—it’s a house specialty
- They sometimes run out of popular dishes, so go early