Vodarevu Beach
Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh · ~15 km from Bapatla, 8 km from Chirala
Vodarevu Beach sits about 8 km from Chirala town in Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh, on the Bay of Bengal. Where Suryalanka is the polished, resort-lined star, Vodarevu keeps a working coastal character: a fishing village, a busy morning fish market, rows of boats pulled up on the sand, and a shore that is noticeably less crowded.
The official Bapatla district tourism portal lists Vodarevu as one of the most visited beaches in the area, with water sports, boat rides, and fishing on offer. It works beautifully as a quieter companion to Suryalanka — many travellers do both in a single day along the coastal circuit.
How to reach Vodarevu
By car
From Bapatla (~15 km, 30–40 min)
Take the coastal road south through Chirala (about 17 km from Bapatla), then follow the beach road 8 km to Vodarevu. Signage to the beach is good once you reach Chirala.
By train
To Chirala railway station
Chirala station, about 8 km from the beach, is on the Vijayawada–Chennai coastal line and is the most convenient rail stop. Autos and shared autos cover the last stretch from the station.
By car
From Vijayawada / Guntur
Via NH16 to Bapatla, then south to Chirala — about 100 km from Vijayawada and 80 km from Guntur. The Bapatla–Chirala coastal road is easy and scenic.
By bus
APSRTC to Chirala
Regular buses from Vijayawada, Guntur, Bapatla, and Ongole stop at Chirala. From the bus stand, an auto to Vodarevu takes about 20 minutes.
Best time to visit
October – March (peak)
Cool, pleasant days with calm seas — the best window for boat rides and long walks. Early morning is the most atmospheric, when fishing boats come in.
April – June (summer)
Hot sun, but the sea breeze keeps the shore tolerable. Visit in the early morning and buy fresh catch straight off the boats.
July – September (monsoon)
Rough seas stop boat rides and swimming. The village still bustles with fishing activity, but the beach is best skipped this season.
Things to do at Vodarevu
Boat rides
The district tourism page lists boat rides among Vodarevu's top activities. Local boatmen offer short coastal trips — negotiate the rate before boarding.
Fish market at the shore
Morning is when the catch comes in. Watch the auction, buy ultra-fresh fish and prawns at low prices, or ask a nearby shack to cook your purchase.
Fishing with locals
You can join local fishermen for a few hours if you're keen — a memorable, low-key experience unique to this coast. Ask around the village in the morning.
Water sports
Seasonal water sports operate from the beach. Availability varies, so check on the spot during peak season.
Beach walks & photography
The shoreline is lined with palm trees and colourful boats — an excellent, uncluttered backdrop for photography, especially at golden hour.
Where to eat
Vodarevu is a seafood town. Shacks along the beach cook fresh fish, prawn, and crab; the morning fish market is the place for raw catch. Chirala town, 8 km away, has proper Andhra meals, tiffins, and sweet shops. Carry water, and expect cash-only at most stalls.
Practical tips
- 1Combine Vodarevu with Suryalanka (15 km north) and Ramapuram (6 km south) for a full coastal circuit day.
- 2Come in the morning — the fish market and boats are best before 10 am.
- 3Negotiate boat ride and auto fares before you start.
- 4The beach is less commercial than Suryalanka: carry water, snacks, and cash.
- 5Watch the tide if you walk far from the main beach.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Vodarevu Beach from Chirala?
Vodarevu Beach is about 8 km from Chirala town, roughly 20 minutes by auto.
How far is Vodarevu Beach from Bapatla?
It is about 15 km south of Bapatla, around 30–40 minutes by road through Chirala.
Is Vodarevu Beach better than Suryalanka?
They're different. Suryalanka is wider, more developed, and better for swimming and resorts; Vodarevu is quieter, more local, and best for boat rides, fishing, and fresh seafood. Most visitors do both.
Are there boat rides at Vodarevu Beach?
Yes — boat rides and seasonal water sports operate from the beach, and fishing with local boats is possible. Check availability on the spot.
Which railway station is nearest to Vodarevu Beach?
Chirala railway station, about 8 km away on the Vijayawada–Chennai coastal line, is the nearest station.
