Coming from Chennai, my perception of Indian beaches is crowd, trashes every where and vendors selling street food. Even though Bheemili beach near Vizag is no exception to that, there is a charm to Bheemili beach that other east coast popular beaches like RK beach in Vizag for example may not offer.
Article Contents
Charming Bheemili Beach
Where is Bheemili Beach ?
Just a 32 KM from Vizag and 27 KM from Vizhianagaram, Bheemili beach is located at Bheemunipatnam, a fishing village. It is located at the mouth of the river Gosthani which merges with Bay of Bengal at Bheemunipatnam.
If you are ever in need of a less crowded beach with some of the best the east coast on India has to offer, Bheemili beach might be your best bet. Even on a weekend, it doesn’t get very crowded.
How to get to Bheemili Beach ?
Driving car is probably the best way to get to Bheemili beach from Vizag or Vizhianagaram.
Another great alternate option in India is taking Auto rickshaws. Although, 30 odd km might be a bit too much and you may not find auto drivers willing to come that far.
Uber / Ola are an option from major cities. However, to get back to Vizag, uber / ola may not work from Bheemili.
So, given the constraints, here are your best bets:
- Rent a car with a driver for a day trip from Vizag to Bheemili
- Take a public bus from Vizag RTC to Bheemunipatnam
- Ride a motor bike
Things to do in Bheemili Beach
Watch Sunrise:
Go early in the morning to witness the local fishermen at work and watch sunrise. You will not regret a trip to this town.
Dutch Cemetery:
The fishing town of Bheemunipatnam, is one of the oldest municipalities in India. You will see cottages and ancient Dutch bungalows that reminds us of its historic past. One of the attractions of this beach is the 17th century ruins of a fort and a dutch cemetery. Also known as pirates cemetery, Hollanders Green has some tombs embossed with the skull and cross bones motif of sea pirates. Being one of the oldest cemeteries, it’s a must visit that will take you back in time.
Statues line up:
A concrete pathway has been laid along the beach to hold statues of Buddha, Five Pandavas and a dinosaur. Even though the beach is considered to be safe for swimmingm bay of bengal is mostly ferocious for a pleasant swim.
Soak in the history:
Pavuralakonda hillock that surrounds the beach is said to have evidences of Buddhism dating back to the second century.
Historians believe the town was a trading center during the Buddhist time in second century. The excavation efforts suggest links to validate the same.
Bheemili Beach Festival:
The tourism department recently started a two day carnival / festival at Bheemili beach to showcase the tourism opportunities in the area and to attract crowd.
This festival truly portrays the colors of the region with cultural processions, music, dance and bullcart / boat races. This event is getting very popular lately, drawing a lot of tourist attraction.
If you happen to visit Vizag or nearby area in November, make it a point to stop by for the festival.
Scuba Diving / Water activities:
Apparently, Vizag and surrounding beaches, including Bheemili beach are becoming popular for water activities.
- Scuba diving
- Snorkeling
- Surfing
are some of the activities you will be able to get out fitters to go with. To find the latest dive shops, check out here.
Other attractions:
- Light house
- Small temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha
- St. Peter’s Church
- Maharaja’s guest house
- Clock tower
Street Food:
Beach side is never without food in India. At Bheemili beach, the vendors stay out of the beach itself and by the paved road to keep the beach as clean as possible.
Don’t forget to relish the local delicacies.
Warning: Not everyone can handle street food in India. Especially the oily or cooked in water stuff. However, things like roasted corn that doesn’t involve water or oil may be fairly safe to eat. That’s about the only thing I enjoy eating when we go to a beach in India.
How to Dress for visiting Bheemili Beach ?
India is not a Bikini friendly country. In fact, not even swim suits. Women go with full clothing and covering the entire body to enter into the water.
I highly recommend respecting the culture and following the same pattern. You never want to be the odd one out.
For men, shorts and shirtless are accepted, however.
Where to stay near Bheemili Beach ?
Unlike Vizag, Bheemili is not that developed to find several accommodations. However, there are some really great options right at the beach side. I’ve been searching for the best accommodation for each budget. Below are my recommendations.
Budget: BAY BREEZE RESORTS – Swimming pool, Airport shuttle, Breakfast, Free WiFi
Mid Budget: SAM’S village homestead – This is a true home stay in the village setup. There is no internet access. But, the place has kitchen that you can access.
Luxury: Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach – A five star resort in front of the beach right at Bheemili beach. Beach front, infinity pool and gym access.
I am sure you will enjoy the quieter and less crowded aspect of Bheemili beach. It’s one of the top 5 beaches in Vizag and absolutely worth the visit.