Jolly Buoy Island at Andaman Islands
– Dive into Nature’s Hidden Aquarium
Jolly Buoy Island is one of the most untouched and well-preserved islands in the Andaman and Nicobar group — a destination known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and strong conservation rules. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Jolly Buoy offers a peaceful escape ideal for nature lovers and snorkelers. This island provides an uninterrupted, eco-friendly experience focused entirely on its natural surroundings.
Located about 30 kilometers from Port Blair within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, the island is reached via a 1 to 1.5-hour ferry ride from Wandoor Beach. The route takes visitors through mangrove creeks and open sea, offering scenic views along the way. Access is limited and seasonal, so permits and early planning are essential. But the reward is a quiet, well-managed island that feels far removed from busy travel circuits.
Once ashore, activities include snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and simply enjoying the white- sand beach. Coral reefs sit just below the surface, making marine life easy to spot. Facilities are basic, with a few changing rooms and shaded areas, helping preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem. Jolly Buoy may not have modern luxuries, but it offers something better — a rare glimpse of nature left untouched and thriving.
Basic Information
Jolly Buoy Island is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and strict eco- conservation. It's one of the best spots in Andaman for snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and experiencing marine biodiversity without tourist crowding or pollution.
Applicable.
November to April (Closed during the monsoon for conservation)
9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Entry only via authorized ferry from Wandoor Beach)
Around 4 to 5 hours (Half-day trip with return by afternoon)
Interesting Facts
- Jolly Buoy Island is one of the few plastic-free zones in India, allowing only biodegradable items — a rare example of strict eco-tourism that actually works.
Things to DO
- Snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs
- Glass-bottom boat rides
- Underwater photography
- Relaxing at the scenic shoreline
- Nature walk through designated trails
Traveller Tips
- Carry your own food and water (plastic bottles are not allowed)
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen
- Book permits and ferry tickets in advance from the tourism office in Port Blair
- Wear comfortable footwear and swimwear
Nearby Attractions
Chidiya Tapu
Red Skin Island
Chidiya Tapu
Chidiya Tapu is located about 25 kms from main Port Blair city and is well connected by road. It is the southernmost point of South Andaman district. Port Blair. From Port Blair, the journey would take around one hour to reach Chidiya tapu. It is a very famous for sunset view and for bird watching. One can easily reach here by hiring a cab. The best time to visit is in summers as that is when you have clear sky and a lovely myriad of sunset colors in the sky.
For adventure lovers Chidiya Tapu has a little more to offer. A trekking trail, which passes through forest and beautiful coast line to reach the Munda Pahad (Black Mountain).
Red Skin Island
Red Skin is a part of Mahatma Gandhi National Park having underwater garden and unspoiled beaches. The sea also has dolphins playing in the water. It has a nice beach and offers spectacular view of corals, fishes and marine life. An island in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park offers wide range of Exotic corals and marine life which can be viewed via Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkelling. It is an ideal place for Snorkelling, sea bathing and basking on the sun kissed beach.
Restaurants Facility
- Ananda Restaurant
- New Lighthouse Restaurant
- Adi Bengali Hotel
- Waves
- Paradise Cafe
- Blue Marline
Places to stay near Jolly Buoy Island
- Sea Princess Beach Resort, Wandoor, Port Blair
- Anugama Resort
- White Coral, Port Blair
- Wild Grass Resort Andaman, Port Blair
- F Hotel, Port Blair
- Hotel Park, Port Blair
Frequently Asked Questions
Red Skin Island
- Ananda Restaurant
- New Lighthouse Restaurant
- Adi Bengali Hotel
- Waves
- Paradise Cafe
- Blue Marline