Frequent travellers reveal their top beach getaways for April and beyond for the summer

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With temperatures starting to soar, it is time to head to the beach. April is kind of a sweet spot before the peak summer travel season kicks in and temperatures remain temperate, but it is not like you cannot visit the places beyond the month. In fact, you will be able to avoid the initial summer rush too.

With increasing connectivity to neighbouring countries, and ease of travel within India, you can be overwhelmed by vacation planning easily. Fret not. Whether you have a flair for adventure, or you wish to relax with a drink by the sea, there is a beach destination that is ideal for you.

So, where can you escape to? We asked seasoned travellers (and beachgoers) to share their favourite destinations to sink their feet in the sand.

Picture turquoise waters, relaxing massages, indulgent food, and breathtaking views that will melt your stress away. These travel enthusiasts have hand-picked destinations and experiences that will help you plan your next beach getaway.

Koh Samui
If you are looking for beach getaways right out of a dream, you will be spoilt for choices in Koh Samui. Akanksha Prakash and Yash Dadlani are travel enthusiasts who run a food and travel blogging page on Instagram. Full-time professionals based out of Mumbai, the couple shares their love for a beach destination that is a sanctuary for them: Koh Samui. "We felt at peace," recalls Prakash with a relaxed tone. She elaborates, "If you are looking for beach getaways right out of a dream, with soothing massage parlours, offbeat coffee spots, and postcard perfect sunsets, you will be spoilt for choices in Koh Samui." Is April a good time to visit? Dadlani chimes in, "While the place is blessed with decent weather all year round, you may want to skip visiting during the rainy season (October to mid-December). We visited in March 2023 and were blown away!"

Koh Samui

Their advice is practical: rent a two-wheeler, stay near a beach, and explore. He also outlines the unmissable, "You can sip on the best iced Thai coffee at Tree Bridge Zipline, go for sunset horse riding, savour the best lunch and views at the Jungle Club, enjoy a relaxing Thai massage by the beach at Treehouse Silent beach, dine by the majestic fire show at Coco Tam's and party anywhere in the by lanes of Soi Green Mango. If you have more time on your hands, the Angthong Marine Park Boat Tour is a very unique experience, and in case you are willing to take a ferry for roughly two hours, you can snorkel at the Shark Bay in Koh Tao."

When pressed for crowded spots, Prakash reveals, "Ban Ti beach is a nice white sand beach. There's a little hidden beach area at Hinta Hinyai which is ideal for sunrise." So, whether you seek azure waters or adventure, Koh Samui, is a destination that truly delivers.

Kerala
Kerala's beaches offer a variety of experiences. "April is an ideal month to visit beach destinations as the weather is warm but not overly hot, and the peak tourist crowds have significantly reduced. My go-to destination during this time is Goa," says Parumita Pal, co-founder of Raw Diaries (a travel tech company) and creator in the travel space. Now, Goa's a classic, right? But the industry insider points out the hidden gems. "Goa offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. In April, you can enjoy warm days by chilling in a pool villa - affordable at this time - and as the evening sets in, you can explore Goa's vibrant nightlife and beach parties. The community of Goa also offers unique experiences like Feni tasting, spice farm tours, refreshing dips in hidden waterfalls, and relaxing mud baths - activities that are accessible and budget-friendly in April," she explains.

For those seeking calmer shores, beyond the popular beaches of Goa, Pal proposes a visit to God's own country: Kerala. "From Varkala to Alleppey to Kochi, Kerala's beaches offer a variety of experiences. You can start your day with an early morning surf session, then watch the world go by at a cafe or take a dip in the ocean in the evening," shares Pal. She recommends a range of activities in the quaint town of Varkala which offers a blend of lively beach culture and spiritual serenity. "If you are a water baby, Varkala has many options including stand-up paddleboarding, and ocean kayaking. You can also choose to unwind with a host of meditation classes or traditional Ayurvedic spas. To experience the laidback charm and cliffside views, consider going for a leisurely stroll in the North Cliff area while soaking in the local buzz."

Pondicherry
"Where else can you get a perfect dosa and a perfect pain au chocolat?", asks marketer Ishita Gautam as she tells us animatedly about her trip to a former French colony. April's temperate weather makes it the perfect time to explore Pondicherry. "Even though Pondicherry is not some hidden gem, I believe people underestimate the charm (and food) of this sleepy beach town. From the chill vibes of Serenity Beach to crystal clear waters of Paradise Beach, Pondicherry pleasantly surprised us. Two of my favourite memories are catching the sunrise at Rock Beach, and kayaking at Eden Beach," confesses the 23-year-old.

Eden Beach, Pondicherry

Nestled on Coromandel Coast, Pondicherry offers a unique getaway beyond the typical beach experience. "Wandering through the White Town is like exploring a movie set. The cafes, the shops, the architecture and bougainvillea- everything was just so picturesque. We spent hours just wandering, taking photos, and trying all the amazing food. We had everything from seafood to the best crepes ever. Honestly, if you want a beach trip with a twist, Pondy's your place. It's like a little European escape, right here in India." recalls the Bengaluru resident.

A visit to Pondicherry is incomplete without a stop at Auroville, she shares, "Pondicherry is deeply connected to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa, known as ‘The Mother.' From the Auro Experience Store, showcasing their practical philosophies in 'Yoga in Everyday Life,' to the serene Matrimandir, Auroville invites everyone to experience a different way of life. It's this whole other world, so peaceful and unique."