Nestled between rolling hills and the sparkling blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, Rushikonda Beach is a pristine coastal paradise that truly lives up to its nickname, "Jewel of the East Coast." Located a short drive from Visakhapatnam, this beach is a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling adventure.

With its golden sands, clear waters, and picturesque surroundings, it offers a serene escape for those seeking relaxation and an exciting playground for water sports enthusiasts. Unlike some of the more crowded beaches, Rushikonda Beach maintains a clean and well-maintained environment, making it a popular choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

My first visit to Rushikonda Beach was during the monsoon, and I was mesmerized. The lush green hills seemed to touch the sky, and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore created a symphony of nature that was both calming and invigorating.

How to Reach Rushikonda Beach:

Rushikonda Beach is easily accessible from Visakhapatnam.

• By Road: The beach is approximately 12 km from the city center. You can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or a local bus to get there. The drive along the scenic Beach Road is a beautiful experience in itself.
• From Visakhapatnam Railway Station/Airport: It's a short 30-40 minute drive from both the railway station and the airport.
• Local Transport: The city's extensive bus service (APSRTC) has frequent buses that ply on the Beach Road, with stops near Rushikonda.

History of Rushikonda Beach:

The history of the area around Rushikonda Beach is ancient and significant. The name "Rushikonda" itself means "Hill of the Sages," and it's believed that Hindu sages once performed penance and meditation here. The region is also rich in Buddhist heritage, with ancient sites like Thotlakonda and Bavikonda located on nearby hills.

These sites, which were once thriving monasteries, indicate that the area was an important center for Buddhism and a stop on ancient trade routes. Today, the beach is a modern tourist hub, but the surrounding hills and the nearby temples still hold echoes of this deep historical and spiritual past.

Things to Do:

Rushikonda Beach offers a perfect mix of leisure and adventure:

• Water Sports: It's famous for its water sports activities. You can enjoy jet-skiing, windsurfing, speed boating, and even parasailing here.
• Swimming and Sunbathing: The clean and safe waters make it an ideal spot for swimming. The wide, sandy shoreline is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
• Explore the Hills: The lush green hills surrounding the beach are great for short treks and offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
• Local Cuisine: There are several beachside shacks and restaurants that serve fresh, delicious seafood and local Andhra delicacies.
• Photography: The picturesque landscape, with the hills meeting the sea, makes it a perfect spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Visit the Sapta Rusheswara Temple: Located nearby is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is believed to have been installed by the seven sages.

Nearest Tourist Places:

Rushikonda Beach is a great base for exploring other attractions in Visakhapatnam:

• Thotlakonda and Bavikonda: These ancient Buddhist sites on the nearby hills are a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Kailasagiri: A beautiful hilltop park offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. You can take a scenic ropeway ride to the top.
• Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach): Visakhapatnam's most famous beach, known for its submarine museum and war memorial.
• Dolphin's Nose: A massive rocky headland that provides a stunning viewpoint and a lighthouse.
• Indira Gandhi Zoological Park: A large zoo located in a natural forest setting.

Significance:

Rushikonda Beach's significance lies in its unique combination of natural beauty, adventure, and history. It's a premier tourist destination, not just for its stunning landscapes, but also for its well-developed infrastructure for water sports and its proximity to ancient Buddhist sites. The beach has been awarded the "Blue Flag" certification, an international recognition for its environmental quality, safety, and cleanliness. This prestigious status highlights its importance as a model for sustainable coastal tourism in India. For the people of Visakhapatnam, it is a cherished public space and a source of pride, representing the city's modern, yet historically rich, identity.

Some FAQs:

• Is there an entry fee for Rushikonda Beach? No, there is no entry fee to visit the beach.
• What is the best time to visit? The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
• Is the beach safe for swimming? Yes, the beach is generally considered safe for swimming. There are also lifeguards on duty.
• Are there food options and restrooms available? Yes, there are numerous food stalls and restaurants, as well as public restrooms, available at the beach.
• Can I go paragliding at Rushikonda Beach? Yes, paragliding is one of the popular water sports available here, especially at the nearby Rishikonda Hill.