Yes, it’s that time of the year. The perfect time to reminisce about the year gone by and to make fresh new year resolutions. It’s time to celebrate, to let out (and satiate) the party animal in you. This holiday season if you’re looking to unwind with a beach escapade, then this list has some wonderful unexplored sandy delights for you. Read on to know where these astounding beach parties are happening.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry, the French capital of the nation is popular for its lovely beaches, the French-colonial style architecture, blossoming bougainvillea, and ancient cathedrals on leafy boulevards. While Pondy may seem like a serene place to be, it is an underrated beach party destination. If you’re looking for a different experience, then this beach town has a lot to offer. Head to the Island Party at Paradise Beach Island for a fun-filled extravaganza. The tax exemption on liquor in Pondicherry is a neat bonus. You could also visit bars like Paradise Lounge Bar, Kofi Bar, Toxic and many more. Drink like a fish but do ensure that you don’t drink and drive!
Nearest popular city: Chennai (155 km)
Drive time: 3 hours and 10 minutes
Mangalore
Mangalore, the port city of Karnataka, is yet another unexplored beach party destination. Enjoy the sun-kissed and sparkling sands at Panambur Beach. Well-known for its cleanliness and safety, this beach hosts private parties. You will be thoroughly entertained here as there are myriad activities for you – from jet ski rides and camel rides to dolphin viewing. Don’t miss the Beach Festival of Panambur that is held around New Year’s Eve.
Nearest popular city: Bangalore (351 km)
Drive time: 7 hours and 20 minutes
Diu
Enjoy the vibrant yet diverse nightlife in Diu island. This is a paradise for sea food lovers and barflies. This beach vacation destination hosts Asia’s longest beach festival – the ‘Fiesta De Diu’. The 70-day beach festival is held near the Nagoa beach. Delight in the festival’s live music recitals, extravagant tents, and adventure sports. You can just sit back, enjoy the picturesque sun-bathed beaches, and watch artists perform.
Nearest popular city: Ahmedabad (353 km)
Drive time: 7 hours 33 mins
Gokarna
This one might be a shocker, but Gokarna, a popular pilgrimage site, has also earned the distinction of becoming a popular beach party destination. Gokarna’s beaches are alive with drums, guitar, singing and dancing. Being a town of contrasts, Gokarna offers a unique nightlife experience. However, since it’s a temple town, partying and alcohol are strictly monitored.
Nearest popular city: Mangalore (231.7 kms)
Drive time: 4 hours and 40 minutes
Kovalam
Kovalam is a small coastal town in God’s Own Country, Kerala. This beach town in Thiruvananthapuram is also known to be a hippie surf destination. Let your hair down, and head to the bars and restaurants lined along the beach for a fun evening. You could also bask in the sun and relax on the golden sands. When in Kovalam, don’t miss the rejuvenating traditional Ayurvedic massage or the delicious Kerala cuisine.
Nearest popular city: Kochi (211 kms)
Drive time: 4 hours and 17 minutes
With such clean and beautiful beaches to pick from, you can plan a new year getaway that would be perfect for yourself and your friends. Forego the option of depending on cabs during new year as the demand may hike pricing and affect availability, and instead drive down with your friends to these sunny havens. Don’t forget to book your Zoomcar beforehand and bid adieu to 2017 in style!
This New Year, be kind to your pocket, ditch the cabs and drive down to one of these stunning beach destinations!