Suryalanka Beach
Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh · ~9 km from Bapatla town
Suryalanka Beach — also called Bapatla Beach — is the star of the Bapatla coast and the reason most travellers give the town a second look. It sits on the Bay of Bengal about 9 km from Bapatla town in Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh, and has earned the nickname “Mini-Goa of Andhra Pradesh” for its wide golden sand, shallow water, and easy-going beach town mood.
Unlike busier stretches of the Andhra coast, Suryalanka is approachable, family-friendly, and still developing. The beach is known for gentle waves that make swimming pleasant during calm seasons, sweeping sunrise views, and a growing strip of resorts and shacks along the beach road. For a weekend trip from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, or Guntur, it is the most practical and rewarding beach within reach.
How to reach Suryalanka
By car
From Hyderabad (~300–315 km, 6.5–7 hours)
Take NH65 towards Vijayawada, then follow the route via Narketpally, Addanki and Parchur, or via NH16 through Guntur and Chilakaluripet to Bapatla. The last 9 km from Bapatla town to the beach is a straight coastal road. Start early to beat traffic and arrive for the morning light.
By car
From Vijayawada (~88 km, 1.5–2.5 hours)
Head south on NH16 towards Guntur, continue past Chilakaluripet towards Parchur, and turn off to Bapatla. The drive is on good highways and is the most common route for weekend visitors from the Krishna region.
By car
From Guntur (~65–75 km, 1.5 hours)
Via Chilakaluripet and Parchur on NH16, then the Bapatla approach road. Guntur is the closest big city for last-minute supplies and rentals.
By train
To Bapatla railway station
Bapatla station is on the Vijayawada–Chennai coastal line, so dozens of express trains pass daily. From Hyderabad the rail journey is roughly 6 hours; from Vijayawada about 1.5–2 hours. From the station, autos and taxis cover the 9 km to the beach.
By bus
APSRTC to Bapatla
Regular APSRTC buses connect Bapatla with Vijayawada, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, and Ongole. From the Bapatla bus stand, an auto rickshaw to the beach costs a few hundred rupees.
By air
Nearest airport: Vijayawada (Gannavaram)
Vijayawada International Airport is the closest, about 85–90 km from the beach. Hire a cab or take a bus/train from Vijayawada to Bapatla.
Best time to visit
October – March (peak)
Pleasant days, cool evenings, and clear skies — the classic window for beach visits. December and January are the coolest months. Sunrises are spectacular this season.
April – June (summer)
Hot and humid with strong sun. Visit only in the early morning or late evening. Swimming is fine but carry plenty of water and use sunscreen.
July – September (monsoon)
The sea turns rough and swimming is not advised. The beach still looks dramatic with heavy surf, but plan indoor activities or skip the trip.
Things to do at Suryalanka
Sunrise walks
Suryalanka faces east over the Bay of Bengal, making it one of the better sunrise beaches in coastal Andhra. Walk the wet sand at first light and stay for the fishing boats returning.
Swimming
The water is shallow and gentle for long stretches, which is why families prefer it. Swim near the main beach where lifeguards are present during busy periods, and always respect sea conditions.
Water sports
Boat rides and seasonal water sports operate from the beach, with availability varying through the year. Confirm operators and prices on the spot.
Stay at a beach resort
A small strip of resorts and homestays lines the beach road. Weekend rooms book out early, so reserve in advance for October–March.
Visit Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple
In Bapatla town, 9 km inland, this ancient temple to Lord Vishnu is one of the oldest in Andhra Pradesh and worth pairing with a beach visit.
Photography
Golden sand, palm lines, fishing boats, and big skies — the beach is photogenic at sunrise and golden hour. Carry a wide lens for the coast.
Where to eat
The beach road has shacks serving fresh catch — prawn, crab, and fish fries — plus chai and coconut water. Bapatla town, 9 km away, has proper Andhra meals (rice, pappu, spicy curries), tiffins, and sweet shops. Carry drinking water; stalls are seasonal.
Practical tips
- 1There is generally no entry fee to the beach; parking on the beach road may attract a small local charge.
- 2Carry cash — most shacks and autos in the area don't take cards or UPI reliably.
- 3Weekdays are far quieter than weekends; Saturday–Sunday sees big local crowds.
- 4Swim only in the designated area and check with locals if the sea is rough.
- 5Carry your own drinking water and take your plastic back with you — the beach is cleaner when visitors help.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Suryalanka Beach?
October to March is the best time — pleasant weather, calm sea, and clear mornings. December and January are the coolest months.
How far is Suryalanka Beach from Hyderabad?
Suryalanka Beach is roughly 300–315 km from Hyderabad by road, about a 6.5–7 hour drive. By train to Bapatla station it takes about 6 hours, then 9 km by auto.
How far is Suryalanka Beach from Vijayawada?
It is about 88 km from Vijayawada, a 1.5–2.5 hour drive via NH16 and Chilakaluripet.
Is there an entry fee for Suryalanka Beach?
There is generally no entry fee to the beach itself. Parking along the beach road may attract a small local charge.
Which railway station is near Suryalanka Beach?
Bapatla railway station, about 9 km away, is the nearest station. It lies on the Vijayawada–Chennai coastal line with many daily express trains.
Is Suryalanka Beach safe for swimming?
Yes, during calm seasons the water is shallow and gentle. Swim near the main beach where lifeguards are present during busy periods, and avoid the sea during the monsoon when it turns rough.
