Planning a trip to Havelock Island is a big investment in an experience you’ll never forget.
However, many hotels are on the island, and even little things can turn your dream trip into a nightmare.
That’s why I visited 10+ hotels while I was on Havelock Island and took videos, photos, and notes so you can have more information beyond the reviews from random people.
Here are the top 7 Havelock Island hotels to consider:
- Best Overall: Dolphin Resort
- Budget Pick: Pano Eco Resort
- Best for Scuba: Barefoot Scuba
- Best for Radhanagar Beach Access: Barefoot at Havelock
- Best Insta-Worthy Hotel: Matsya Island Retreat
- Best for Romance: Taj Exotica
- Best for Spa Lovers: Sea Shell Resorts & Spa
Here’s what I found on my tours and stays.
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1. Dolphin Resort – Best Overall
- Price: $70 (6000 INR) per night + tax
- Room Options: Standard rooms with big windows, mini-fridge, and balcony
- Location: Right on Govinda Nagar Beach
- Amenities: Restaurant, bar, huge well-kept grounds
- Wifi Speed: 20 Mbps
- Ben’s Tip: This is the only spot where you can catch a good ocean view from your room. A plus for sea lovers.
Dolphin Resort nails it as the top pick for folks hitting up Havelock Island. It’s tucked away on Govinda Nagar Beach, backed by sprawling grounds shaded by big, old trees—a pretty chill place to unwind. Thanks to those large windows, the rooms let you wake up to killer ocean views, and the vibe is just right for kicking back and soaking it all in. They’ve got a decent restaurant and bar on-site that won’t break the bank, especially compared to pricier spots like Taj Exotica and Barefoot at Havelock.
This place is a solid choice if you’re looking for good value and comfort without all the fancy frills. It’s great for families or couples who just want a cool place to stay, but if you’re all about that pristine, high-end feel, it might fall a bit short. For a slicker setup, you might want to check out Taj Exotica, where they dial up the luxury big time.
2. Pano Eco Resort – Budget Pick
- Price: $26 (2100 INR) per night
- Room Options: Simple cabanas with basic furniture like a table and chair
- Location: Close to Govinda Nagar Beach
- Amenities: Hot water, on-site restaurant
- Wifi Speed: 287 Mbps
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- Ben’s Tip: The cabanas aren’t the fanciest, but hey, the bed’s comfy and the wifi flies. Great for saving some dough while staying connected.
Pano Eco Resort is the go-to for those looking to stretch their dollars without skimping on the essentials. Located just a short stroll from Govinda Nagar Beach, this spot gives you direct access to sandy shores and chill vibes. Sure, the cabanas feel a bit dated and you might wonder about the sturdiness of the floors, but they’re snug enough and get the job done for a budget stay.
The place has a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for digital nomads aiming to keep costs low while still needing solid wifi. They’ve got responsive staff who cranked up my internet speed in no time, which was a real win. There’s an on-site eatery, but I’d recommend hitting up Full Moon Cafe nearby for some seriously good grub that’s worth the extra few bucks. For those who don’t mind a more rustic setup and want to be easy on the wallet, this is your spot. If you’re looking for something a tad nicer though, check out Dolphin Resort for a bit more comfort without going all out.
3. Barefoot Scuba – Best for Scuba
- Price: $70 (6000 INR) per night off-season with a 10% discount
- Room Options: Seafacing cottages with minibars and two-room setups; budget-friendly tents also available
- Location: Close to prime scuba diving spots
- Amenities: On-site cafe, bike rentals (not recommended)
- Wifi Speed: ~20 Mbps
- Contact Number: (Please insert the actual contact number)
- Ben’s Tip: Skip the bike rental here and grab a scooter down the road for 500 INR—it’s a better deal, and the bikes are in top shape for exploring the island.
If diving is your thing, Barefoot Scuba is the spot. Nestled right where the underwater action is, this place offers comfy yet affordable sea-facing cottages perfect for unwinding after a day in the deep blue. They also have super cheap tents for those wanting to save cash and live the scuba life fully.
The community vibe here is spot on. It’s filled with diving enthusiasts, and the on-site cafe is a great hangout spot to meet fellow divers and swap sea stories. While the bike rentals here aren’t the best, you can get a scooty to zip around the island just a short walk away. This place nails the balance between cost and comfort for divers.
However, if you’re not into scuba, you might find it a bit too specialized—check out Pano Eco Resort for a more general budget-friendly option without the dive-centric scene.
4. Barefoot at Havelock – Best for Radhanagar Beach Access
- Price: $150 (12500 INR) per night and up
- Room Options: Tents to cabins nestled in a beautiful forest setting
- Location: Just a 2-minute walk to Radhanagar Beach
- Amenities: On-site bar and restaurant, surrounded by nature
- Wifi Speed: No wifi or mobile service available
- Ben’s Tip: Embrace the seclusion here. Without wifi distractions, it’s the perfect spot to unwind or dive into writing that book you’ve been thinking about.
Barefoot at Havelock offers the ultimate beach access with just a two-minute stroll leading you straight to the stunning Radhanagar Beach. Imagine waking up with no emails to check, just the sound of the waves and a short walk to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to disconnect and enjoy the simpler aspects of island life.
The journey to get here is a bit of an adventure itself, involving a drive on a bumpy dirt road, which means once you’re here, you’re really here. The on-site restaurant is a bit pricey, especially with limited nearby options, but the food is good, and the views are unbeatable. This place is ideal for beach lovers and those who seek peace away from the digital world. However, if staying connected is important to you, or you crave variety in dining, Dolphin Resort might be a better fit with its amenities and easier access to local spots.
5. Matsya Island Retreat – Best Insta-Worthy Hotel
- Price: Starts at $70 (6000 INR) per night
- Room Options: Unique accommodations with earth-made walls and bespoke furniture
- Location: Centrally located on the island, less than 10 minutes from both Radhanagar and Govinda Nagar beaches
- Amenities: On-site restaurant with reasonably priced, well-rated food
- Wifi Speed: Available, but speeds untested
- Ben’s Tip: Rent a scooter to explore nearby beaches easily; it’s the best way to capture the whole island vibe and snap those perfect shots.
Matsya Island Retreat is your go-to for that perfect Instagram shot. It looks every bit the part of an Indian palace set in the lush fields and jungles of Havelock Island. Its earthy walls and one-of-a-kind benches and beds create a photogenic haven that feels both rustic and royal.
While it’s not directly on the beach, its location strikes a nice balance, making both Radhanagar and Govinda Nagar beaches easily accessible. The on-site restaurant serves up some tasty dishes without the hefty price tag, which is a big plus.
Free Wi-Fi is available, though I couldn’t test out the speeds. Still, it’s nice to know you can share those stunning pics in real-time. Perfect for those looking to immerse in beauty and tranquility, it might not be the spot for beach bums who prefer to wake up right on the sand.
If you’re after beachfront, check out Barefoot at Havelock for nearly immediate beach access.
6. Taj Exotica Resort – Best for Romance
- Price: +$450 (37000 INR) per night
- Room Options: Pond-facing rooms and garden-facing rooms with a space pod-like design
- Location: Just a 3-5 minute walk to Radhanagar Beach with a private beach section
- Amenities: Spa, pool, on-site restaurant, golf cart service
- Wifi Speed: Couldn’t test
- Ben’s Tip: Chat with Rishov (on-site employee) if you’re booking; he’s got the inside scoop on the best deals that aren’t always online.
Taj Exotica isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a full-on romantic escape. Imagine walking into a room that smells of jasmine, where flower petals spell out “Happy Anniversary” on the bed, and there’s a celebratory cake waiting for you. This resort nails the romantic vibe with such personalized touches.
Nestled among large, beautiful trees and just a short stroll from a private section of Radhanagar Beach, the resort offers luxurious pond and garden-facing rooms shaped like space pods, adding a unique flair to your stay. They’ve got all the amenities you’d hope for—a spa where you can book treatments, a pool to relax by, and even a golf cart service to zip around the property. It’s ideal for couples looking to make their getaway extra special.
However, if you’re more about the rugged outdoors than luxe comfort, you might find it a bit too polished. In that case, Barefoot at Havelock, with its closer-to-nature feel, might be up your alley.
7. Sea Shell Resort and Spa – Best for Spa Lovers
- Price: +$250 (20000 INR) per night
- Room Options: Comfortable bungalows on a spacious property
- Location: Good location near other restaurants, close to the jetty and Govinda Nagar Beach
- Amenities: Full-service spa offering massages, facials, and wellness packages
- Wifi Speed: Unsure
- Ben’s Tip: Ask for lime water while you wait; the attentive staff keeps guests refreshed and comfortable.
Sea Shell Resort and Spa is your go-to for a top-notch spa getaway. Relaxation isn’t just an option—it’s the whole point. The Sea Shell spa offers various services, including massages that melt away stress, rejuvenating facials, and wellness packages designed to refresh your body and mind.
The bungalows are nestled on a large property adorned with beautiful trees, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the spa experience. Though you might not catch ocean views from your room, the comfort and tranquility of the setting more than makeup for it. It’s conveniently located for when you want to explore, with easy access to local dining and beach spots. This place is perfect for those looking to unwind and indulge in serious pampering. However, if you’re craving ocean views right from your window, you might want to check out Dolphin Resort, where the sea is just a glance away.
FAQ
Is it better to stay in Port Blair or Havelock?
Stay in Port Blair if you want more options for attractions, such as the Cellular Jail and various islands. You should stay on Havelock to experience Radhanagar Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Is it better to stay at Neil Island or Havelock?
Neil Island will make a better stay if you want to go further off the grid since there are fewer restaurants and more quiet beaches. However, Havelock Island has Radhanagar Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. You can stay at both by starting at Havelock and then taking a ferry to stay a night on Neil Island (one night is enough for you to get a sunset and sunrise here).
How many days are enough for Havelock Island?
You can see everything on Havelock Island in two nights and three days. However, you’ll want to stay longer if you can so you can add in quiet days sitting on Radhanagar Beach, one of the best beaches in the world, or exploring lesser-known beaches like Govinda Nagar Beach.