The first thing many visitors do after reaching Puri is head towards the sea. Some prefer the busy shoreline near the town, while others drive a little farther to find a quieter stretch of sand. Having explored Puri’s coastline, we know that each beach suits a different kind of outing, and choosing the right one can make your day more enjoyable.
Puri Beach is convenient for a first visit, while Balighai and Baliharachandi are better suited to travellers looking for a quieter coastal break. If you are travelling towards Konark, Chandrabhaga Beach is an easy addition to your route. Astaranga, on the other hand, is worth considering when you have extra time for a longer drive. We share the best beaches in Puri and around Puri, along with what to expect at each location and how to fit them into your travel plans.
1. Puri Beach (Golden Beach)
Puri Beach is the natural starting point for anyone visiting Puri for the first time. Also known as Golden Beach, it is located along the Bay of Bengal near the main town, making it easy to include in a sightseeing itinerary. The beach has a lively atmosphere, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
We usually prefer the early morning for a walk, when the shore is relatively calm and local fishermen, residents, and visitors begin their day. The evening brings a different atmosphere, with families, tourists, and vendors gathering near the beachfront. Puri Beach is also known for its sand art. Artists create sculptures along the shore, and the work of internationally recognised sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has helped bring attention to Puri’s sand art tradition. The displays you see may change depending on the day and local activities.
Food is readily available around the beach and nearby streets. You will find stalls selling snacks and coconut water, along with local eateries and restaurants serving more substantial meals. If you are travelling with children, stay close to them near the water and follow local safety instructions.
Type of Beach: Public Beach
2. Balighai Beach
Located approximately 17 km from central Puri, Balighai Beach is a useful option when you want to spend a few hours away from the busy town shoreline. The coastal area has sandy stretches and casuarina trees, giving it a different setting from the more developed parts of Puri.
A visit to Balighai works well when you have some free time and do not want to follow a packed sightseeing schedule. You can walk along the coast, sit beneath the trees, or combine the outing with nearby attractions. Families and couples may enjoy the quieter surroundings, although it is worth carrying drinking water and snacks. Unlike Puri Beach, Balighai does not have the same concentration of shops, restaurants, and other visitor facilities. Plan accordingly, particularly if you are travelling with children or older family members.
3. Baliharachandi Beach
Baliharachandi Beach is worth considering if you prefer a less commercial coastal setting. Compared with the main beaches in Puri, the area generally feels more open and less focused on tourist activity. It is better suited to spending time at your own pace than making a quick stop between several attractions.
The beach is also associated with the Baliharachandi shrine, which adds a religious aspect to the visit. Local visitors come to the area for outings and picnics, while travellers may enjoy walking along the sand, taking photographs, or sitting near the shore. Facilities can be more limited than in central Puri, so carry water and other essentials. If you visit the shrine, dress appropriately and respect the local customs. As with other beaches, check the sea conditions before going near the water.
4. Chandrabhaga Beach
Chandrabhaga Beach is a natural addition to a Puri–Konark sightseeing trip. Located near Konark, it can be visited along with the Konark Sun Temple and other attractions on the coastal route. The beach has a broad sandy shoreline and a strong connection with the religious traditions of the region. Chandrabhaga Mela brings pilgrims and visitors to the area for an annual religious observance. Outside major events, it can be a pleasant place to stop during a coastal drive.
From our experience travelling along the Puri–Konark route, we find it more practical to combine Chandrabhaga with Konark sightseeing rather than arrange a separate journey only for the beach. Early morning and late afternoon are popular times for coastal visits, although your schedule and weather conditions should guide your plans.
5. Swargadwar Beach
Swargadwar Beach is located near the well-known Swargadwar area of Puri and is one of the most active parts of the city’s coastline. Shops, food stalls, small restaurants, and local businesses surround the area, making it convenient for visitors who want to combine a beach visit with shopping or refreshments. The beach is particularly suitable for travellers who enjoy being close to the activity of the town. Pilgrims, local families, and tourists visit throughout the day, and the surrounding streets can become busy during peak periods.
Swargadwar also has religious importance because of the nearby cremation ground. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and avoid treating the area as an ordinary sightseeing attraction. This is especially important when funeral-related activities are taking place. If you are staying near Swargadwar, the beach may be easy to reach on foot, depending on your hotel’s exact location. During busy periods, however, traffic and parking can take longer than expected.
6. Astaranga Beach
Astaranga Beach is farther from Puri and is a good option for travellers who want to explore more of Odisha’s coastal countryside. The area is associated with fishing activity, local village life, and the coastline around Astaranga. Visiting here feels different from spending time at the busy beaches near Puri town.
The name Astaranga is commonly associated with the colours of the setting sun. A late-afternoon visit may offer attractive views of the changing light over the coast, although the experience depends on weather and local conditions. Astaranga is better suited to a planned day trip than a quick beach visit. Food and other facilities are less readily available than in central Puri, so carry drinking water, snacks, and other essentials. A private vehicle or arranged taxi is generally more convenient for managing the journey.
Puri’s coastline offers much more than one famous beach. During a Puri trip, you can start your morning with a peaceful walk at Puri Beach, escape the crowds at Balighai or Baliharachandi, combine Chandrabhaga with Konark, or drive farther to Astaranga for a glimpse of coastal life. At MyPuriTour, we believe the best beach is the one that matches the kind of day you want to have. So, instead of rushing through every spot, choose one or two beaches that fit your itinerary, carry your essentials, respect the local surroundings, and give yourself time to enjoy the sea.
Planning your Puri trip? Explore MyPuriTour for Puri sightseeing, local travel information, and tour planning ideas to make your Odisha holiday easier and more enjoyable. Enjoy the beauty of Puri Beach—book an authorized Puri Beach hotel approved by Puri Tourism for a memorable stay. Contact us Today!