While many tourists flock to the Indian coast in summer, not all the beaches are safe for a swim. No wonder the newspapers flash news of lives lost in rough water. While it good fun to swim in sea, one must not challenge the forces of nature. Good precaution is better than being sorry. Even the scanty coast guard along the beaches cannot control unruly crowds.
Vibhas Sen, a national swimmer and India’s representative to Paralympian fencing says that, “Although it is basic, most swimmers ignore the tides and currents in the sea. It is also important to not panic and swallow a lot of sea-water as it dehydrates the body” He also urges swimmers not to challenge the ocean if you are not trained professionally. He is an inspiration to swimmers as he works as a Senior Manager in Digital Marketing while moonlighting as a national swimmer, with experience in the Arabian Ocean.
Here are few perfect destinations to have a safe swim in Indian waters.
Palolem, Goa
This white sand beach is a world of its own. Little known among tourists, this hidden treasure awaits only those with true wanderlust. Located in the southernmost tip of the tine state, it is perfect for swimming. A narrow rivulet at the right end of the beach leads to a recluse of a small pond. The local fishermen also offer to take you for a boat ride to a small island where you can catch dolphins jumping against a serene sunset.
Kovalam, Kerala
While the Lighthouse beach is most visited in this vicinity, this beach with its blue waters is perfect for swimming and other water sports. Those with an inclination for photography can get some awesome shots around here.
Paradise, Puducherry
While Puducherry is known for its French boulevards and the Aurobindo Ashram, Paradise beach is great for swimming, surfing and paragliding. So head here for a complete travel experience.
Bangaram, Lakshadeep
This beach will make you forget the travails of daily life. The crystal clear water is studded with corals, and makes for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Turtle watching, Kayaking and snorkelling are some adventures that await here.
Bheemunipatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Located near Vishakhapatnam, the beach has perfect tides for a safe swim. There is also a 13th century temple near the beach, and the sparse visitors along the beach make it a great experience for any traveller.
A little known fact is that shark attacks happen in India too. The Gangetic river-water sharks are endemic in India. Shark attacks, though rare, are a danger to swimmers on the Eastern Indian coast.
So, head to these beaches for a perfect swim in the sea.
