10 Best Coastal Destinations In India To Visit This December, Beyond Goa

December is widely considered one of the best months to explore India's coastline. As much of the northern belt begins to dip into winter chill, the country's shores remain warm, bright, and inviting. They are perfect for visitors seeking sunshine, sea breezes, and festive energy. A December holiday also opens up ideal conditions for water activities such as snorkelling, swimming, scuba diving, and leisurely walks by the sea, all without the discomfort of heavy rainfall. While Goa often tops most winter travel lists, India's coastline is dotted with many other gems that offer serenity, culture, spirituality, and scenic beauty. Here's a curated guide to 10 coastal destinations worth considering this December.

Where To Travel In India This December: Top 10 Coastal Destinations

1. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram sits on the Palk Strait and is connected to mainland India by the iconic Pamban Bridge. Known as one of the country's most sacred pilgrimage centres, it is also a spectacular coastal escape. December's gentle climate makes it easier to explore the area, especially the windswept stretch towards Dhanushkodi, once a ghost town and now a serene spot where the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean meet.

Rameswaram. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Rameswaram:

Along with visiting the grand Ramanathaswamy Temple, wander through the temple corridors that feel cool even in warm weather. Take a scenic drive to Dhanushkodi, stopping at the viewpoint where the waters change colour. Nature lovers can also explore the nearby birding pockets during winter migration. For a calmer pace, visit the fishing villages around Pamban and watch traditional catamaran boats set out at sunrise.

Also Read: 7 Of The Best Places To Visit In India During Winter 2025

2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andamans offer some of the clearest waters in India, and December provides excellent visibility underwater. This is also when the islands experience mild sunshine and low winds, creating perfect conditions for beach exploration, coral viewing, and island hopping without discomfort.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

In addition to the popular Radhanagar Beach, head to Elephant Beach for water sports or Kalapathar Beach for peaceful viewpoints. Divers can explore reefs around Havelock and Neil Islands, which teem with vibrant marine life. On land, visit the Cellular Jail for a slice of history, explore tropical forests, or take boat rides through mangrove creeks. Those seeking quieter escapes can stay in eco-lodges along lesser-visited shores.

3. Puducherry

Puducherry's charm lies in its mix of French-inspired neighbourhoods and local Tamil culture. December brings a gentle sea breeze that makes its promenade, colonial buildings, and cafe-lined streets even more inviting.

Puducherry. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Puducherry:

Start your day with a peaceful walk on the rocky Promenade Beach at sunrise. Explore the White Town, with mustard-yellow facades, art galleries, churches, and boutique stores. Beyond the beaches, December is also ideal for cycling tours, pottery workshops, and short trips to Auroville to discover its distinctive architecture and serene atmosphere. Evenings can be spent at seaside cafes with fresh crepes, seafood grills, and handcrafted desserts.

4. Kochi, Kerala

Kochi is at its cultural best in December. The city hums with activity as it prepares for the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025, drawing artists and travellers from across the world. The combination of crisp mornings, soft winter light, and festive evenings makes it a lively destination for those who enjoy history, art, and coastal scenery.

Kochi. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do in Kochi:

Explore the winding lanes of Fort Kochi filled with mural-lined walls, galleries, and antique shops. Watch fishermen operate the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, an experience that feels particularly scenic at sunset. Visit Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the spice markets that fill the air with the scent of pepper and cardamom. December is also one of the best months to sample Kochi's coastal cuisine, from karimeen fry to prawn curries cooked with coconut and tamarind.

Also Read: Kochi Featured On Global List Of "Must-Visit Places" In 2026 - Why You Must Travel There

5. Kovalam, Kerala

Known for its arc-shaped beaches (Lighthouse, Hawa, and Samudra), Kovalam becomes a soothing retreat in December. The sea remains calm, and the evenings bring cool breezes that make beachside strolls or open-air dining even more enjoyable.

Kovalam. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Kovalam:

Climb the red-and-white striped lighthouse for sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and palm-fringed coastline. Participate in surfing classes, which often run throughout winter due to favourable tides. Ayurvedic resorts offer multi-day wellness therapies, making Kovalam ideal for travellers seeking rejuvenation. For a short trip, visit Vizhinjam Harbour nearby to watch fishermen unload colourful catches at dawn.

6. Diu

Diu offers a rare mix of tranquillity, Portuguese-influenced architecture, and breezy winter weather. Unlike more commercialised beach towns, it retains an old-world charm with empty roads, minimalist beaches, and heritage structures.

Diu. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Diu:

Apart from the Diu Fort and Naida Caves, explore the old churches, which feature whitewashed facades and quiet courtyards. Nagoa Beach is popular for water sports, while Jalandhar Beach is ideal for a peaceful sunset. December is also a good time to cycle around the island or explore its small museums and coastal viewpoints.

7. Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna attracts travellers seeking a simpler, slower version of coastal living. The town is deeply rooted in its temple traditions, while the surrounding beaches offer relaxation and soft adventure.

Gokarna. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Gokarna:

Kudle and Om beaches are great for swimming, reading, or spending unhurried afternoons at beach huts. Beach treks offer glimpses of cliffside paths, secret coves, and sea views. December is also yoga season, with retreats running along the hillsides. For cultural interest, visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple and explore small food joints in the area.

8. Puri, Odisha

Puri is one of India's most respected pilgrimage sites, but it also has a lively beach culture and a strong arts scene in December. The weather is perfect for exploring both spiritual and coastal attractions.

Puri. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Puri:

Visit the Jagannath Temple early in the morning for rituals and architecture. Spend time at Puri Beach, known for its waves and sand art created by local artists. In December, many travellers pair their visit with the Konark Dance Festival, held near the Sun Temple, where classical dance performances take place under the open sky. Nearby villages like Raghurajpur offer traditional crafts, pattachitra art, and cultural workshops.

9. Vizag (Visakhapatnam), Andhra Pradesh

Vizag combines the charm of clean beaches with green hillscapes and friendly coastal neighbourhoods. December's mild weather makes sightseeing, hiking, and long drives particularly appealing.

Visakhapatnam. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Vizag:

Spend your mornings at Ramakrishna or Yarada beaches, where the hills meet the sea. Explore the Submarine Museum to learn about naval history or ride the ropeway up to Kailasagiri for panoramic views. A day trip to Araku Valley offers coffee plantations, waterfalls, and tribal craft markets. Meanwhile, the Borra Caves, known for their natural limestone formations, provide a cool underground escape.

10. Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram's ancient stone carvings and coastal vistas come alive in December, when the weather is perfect for walking tours. Its UNESCO-listed monuments provide a historical depth that pairs beautifully with its sandy shorelines.

Mahabalipuram. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Things To Do In Mahabalipuram:

Visit the Shore Temple at golden hour, wander through the Pancha Rathas complex, and see the famous rock carving of Arjuna's Penance. The town's beaches are ideal for long walks, photography, or simply relaxing under palm trees. December also hosts cultural festivals and traditional craft fairs, making it a good time to explore local stone sculpting workshops and seafood restaurants.

Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended beach vacation, these coastal destinations promise memorable moments and warm winter days by the sea.