Merk Bay Beach sits on North Passage Island, a short but scenic boat ride from Long Island, and stays largely off the radar simply because of how much effort it takes to reach. The payoff is a stretch of white sand and clear, shallow water that feels close to untouched, with good snorkelling, the occasional dolphin sighting on the way over, and almost no other visitors in sight.
About Merk Bay Beach of the Andaman Islands
Merk Bay Beach lies on North Passage Island, an uninhabited island close to Long Island in Middle Andaman. The island is partly covered by mangrove forest, with the beach itself making up the rest of the shoreline, a long stretch of soft white sand against clear, calm water.
The only way to reach Merk Bay is by a chartered boat from Long Island Jetty, with the crossing typically taking between 30 minutes and an hour depending on the operator and sea conditions on the day.
Since the island has no permanent population, there is nothing in the way of facilities here. Visitors carry everything they need and head back to Long Island by evening, treating Merk Bay strictly as a day trip.
Quick Facts
- Merk Bay Beach on North Passage Island is accessible only by boat from Long Island.
- The beach is known for white sand, clear turquoise water, and a peaceful setting.
- Snorkelling is popular here, with coral reefs and diverse marine life close to shore.
- Dolphins and tropical birds are often spotted around the island.
- There are no shops or facilities, making it a perfect day-trip destination.
- Entry permits are usually arranged by local boat operators or tour agents.
The History of Merk Bay
- Why So Few People Visit
Merk Bay Beach has kept its untouched character largely because of where it sits. North Passage Island has no settlement, no road access, and no infrastructure of any kind, which means every visit has to be planned and chartered rather than simply walked or driven to.
That logistical effort has kept tourist numbers extremely low compared to islands like Havelock or Neil, and the result is a beach that many travellers compare favourably to Radhanagar Beach, just without the crowds.
Conservation efforts by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration have also helped preserve the area's natural state, with the surrounding mangroves and forest supporting birdlife and marine species that thrive undisturbed.
For travellers willing to put in the planning, Merk Bay remains one of the more genuine offbeat experiences available in the islands, a beach that has stayed close to what it likely looked like decades ago.
Plan Your Long Island Tour with Our Local Andaman ExpertsWhat to See on Merk Bay Beach
Merk Bay rewards the journey with a combination of clear water, marine life, and a scenic boat ride few travellers experience.
White Sand and Clear Water
Relax on a quiet stretch of powdery white sand beside shallow, crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming.
Snorkelling Reefs
Explore coral and marine life just off the shore, though you will need to bring your own snorkelling gear.
Dolphin-Spotting Boat Ride
Keep an eye on the water during the crossing from Long Island, where dolphins are occasionally spotted.
Forest and Birdlife
Spot parakeets, hornbills, and kingfishers in the forest bordering the beach, a good stop for birdwatchers.
Merk Bay Beach
- A Hidden Tropical Escape
Located on North Passage Island, Merk Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful yet least-visited beaches in the Andaman Islands. With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and untouched surroundings, the beach feels like a secluded tropical paradise far away from crowds and commercial activity.
What makes Merk Bay special is its raw natural beauty. The shoreline is lined with tropical vegetation, while the shallow, clear waters provide excellent visibility for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors often spend hours relaxing on the beach, exploring the coastline, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that is increasingly rare to find in popular tourist destinations.
Reaching Merk Bay Beach usually involves a boat journey from Long Island, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an offbeat island experience. The best time to visit is between October and May when sea conditions are calm and the weather is pleasant. Since facilities on the island are limited, visitors should carry drinking water, snacks, and other essentials for a comfortable day trip.
Plan Your Merk Bay Beach VisitTips for Visiting Merk Bay Beach
- Book your boat and any required forest department permission in advance through a Long Island operator.
- Carry your own food, water, and snorkelling gear, since none of these are available at the beach.
- Plan to leave early in the morning and return by evening, since there is no accommodation on North Passage Island.
- Visit between November and April for calmer seas and more pleasant weather for the boat crossing.
- Our team at AndamanVacation.com can help arrange the boat, permissions, and timing for Merk Bay Beach as part of your Long Island itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Merk Bay Beach is on North Passage Island, an uninhabited island close to Long Island in Middle Andaman. It is reached by a chartered boat from Long Island Jetty, with the crossing taking anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on conditions.
Generally yes, since North Passage Island is uninhabited and under forest department oversight. This is usually arranged through a local boat operator or tour agent based on Long Island, so it is worth booking a day or two in advance.
Yes, the clear water and visible coral make it a popular snorkelling spot, but there are no rental shops or guided tours at the beach itself, so visitors need to bring their own snorkelling gear.
No, North Passage Island is uninhabited and has no accommodation. Visitors do Merk Bay as a day trip from Long Island, leaving in the morning and returning by evening before the last boats back.
There are no facilities at all, no shops, restaurants, or restrooms. Visitors should carry their own food, water, and any equipment they plan to use, and take everything back with them.
Yes, if you are looking for one of the most untouched, lightly visited beaches in the Andamans. The boat ride and planning required keep visitor numbers low, which is exactly what gives Merk Bay its appeal.
Include Merk Bay Beach in Your Andaman Itinerary
Merk Bay Beach takes some planning, but it is one of the most rewarding stops for travellers chasing a genuinely untouched beach experience. Our team at Andaman Vacations India has been planning Middle Andaman itineraries for over 25 years and can work Merk Bay into your schedule alongside the other sights around Long Island.
Tell us your travel dates and group size and we will put together a Middle Andaman plan that covers Rangat, Long Island and the surrounding sights in the right order.
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