India’s Best Coastal Destinations for December Holidays

India’s Best Coastal Destinations for December Holidays

December is one of the most magical months to explore India’s coastlines. With clear blue skies, cool breezes, festive celebrations, and a vacation-ready mood everywhere, this is the perfect time to enjoy sun, sand, culture, and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer lively beaches or calm coastal towns, December unlocks India at its best.

Here’s your curated list of India’s top five coastal destinations for December holidays — plus a bonus non-coastal escape for those who prefer misty hills over sandy shores.

1. Goa – India’s Most Iconic December Beach Escape

Goa remains the ultimate December vacation spot. From Christmas festivities and New Year parties to serene beaches and charming villages, the energy is unmatched during this month.

Why Goa Is Perfect for December

  • Ideal beach weather
  • Festive markets, events, and music nights
  • Buzzing café culture in Anjuna, Assagaon, Vagator, Siolim
  • Beautiful beaches ranging from lively to quiet

Where to Stay

Nothing elevates a December holiday like a private villa. Explore luxury villas in Goa for a private-pool, high-amenity festive stay.

If you’re planning a beachfront holiday, here’s a curated guide to the best beachside villas in Goa.

Best For

  • Couples
  • Groups looking for nightlife
  • Families who want beaches + cafés
  • Solo adventurers

2. Alibaug – A Peaceful Seaside Escape Close to Mumbai

A favourite among those who appreciate tranquillity and luxury, Alibaug is perfect for travellers who want the beach without the chaos. Lined with coconut groves, boutique cafés, and quiet beaches, it offers a serene break just a short ferry ride away from Mumbai.

Why Alibaug Works Beautifully in December

  • Perfect winter weather
  • Peaceful beaches like Awas, Kihim, Revdanda
  • Stunning villas ideal for festive gatherings
  • Great restaurants and cafés for long brunches

It’s a destination designed for downtime — private pool villas, slow mornings, scenic drives, and quiet celebrations.

Best For

  • Family holidays
  • Group villa stays
  • Calm coastal experiences
  • Weekend getaways

3. Pondicherry – French Charm Meets Seaside Serenity

Pondicherry (Puducherry) is one of India’s most charming coastal getaways, especially in December when the weather is perfect for walking tours, café hopping, and relaxing by the sea.

Why You’ll Love Pondicherry in December

  • Pleasant, breezy days
  • French-inspired cafés, boutiques, and bakeries
  • Sunrise walks on the Promenade
  • Beautiful architecture and cultural influences

Whether you’re cycling past heritage houses or meditating in Auroville, Pondicherry’s soft charm makes it a dreamy December pick.

Best For

  • Couples
  • Food lovers
  • Slow travellers
  • Art & culture enthusiasts

Read Also: The Best of Dubai Food: Top Restaurants and Dishes to Try

4. Kerala Coast – Varkala, Kovalam & Marari Beach

Kerala’s coastline offers some of India’s most scenic and soulful beach destinations. December brings cool breezes, calm seas, and clear sunsets — the perfect setting for a wellness or nature-filled holiday.

Top Kerala Coastal Spots for December

Varkala

  • Famous for its red cliffs and cafés overlooking the Arabian Sea
  • Ideal for yoga, sunsets, and scenic walks

Kovalam

  • Lighthouse Beach for swimming and watersports
  • Great for families and wellness travellers

Marari Beach

  • Secluded, stunning, and perfect for romantic escapes

Why Kerala Shines in December

  • Comfortable weather
  • Ayurvedic retreats
  • Fresh seafood
  • Backwaters & boat cruises

Best For

  • Wellness retreats
  • Romantic getaways
  • Families
  • Nature lovers

5. Andaman & Nicobar Islands – A Tropical Island Paradise

If you want crystal-clear water, untouched beaches, and world-class diving, the Andaman Islands are your dream December destination.

Best Places to Visit

  • Havelock Island – Radhanagar Beach, diving, snorkeling
  • Neil Island – Tranquil beaches and nature trails
  • Port Blair – Museums, history, and markets

Why December Is Perfect

  • Calm, tropical weather
  • Best visibility for water sports
  • Quiet, peaceful holiday environment

Best For

  • Honeymooners
  • Adventure seekers
  • Families
  • Anyone who loves turquoise seas

⭐ Bonus: Coonoor — A Calm, Non-Coastal December Escape

Not everyone wants the beach in December. Some prefer crisp air, green valleys, and misty mornings. If that sounds like you, Coonoor is the ideal December escape.

December brings cool weather, blooming landscapes, and an overall sense of calm — perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind in nature.

Why Coonoor Is Great for December

  • Pleasant weather
  • Endless tea plantations
  • Quiet, scenic hill retreats
  • Perfect for slow living

Where to Stay

Explore villas in Coonoor for a peaceful hillside holiday.

Learn more in this detailed guide to a peaceful Coonoor getaway.

Best For

  • Nature lovers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Travellers avoiding crowded coastal areas

Where Should You Go This December?

Whether you’re dreaming of beach cafés, cliffside sunsets, underwater adventures, or peaceful villa holidays, India offers a coastal destination for every type of traveller.

Choose:

Goa for festive energy, nightlife & beautiful villas
 Alibaug for quiet, luxurious seaside living
Pondicherry for culture & charm
Kerala for wellness & scenic beauty
Andaman for tropical island magic
Coonoor (Bonus) for a peaceful, non-coastal retreat

No matter where you go, December brings the best weather, the best views, and the perfect mood for a refreshing escape.

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