North Andhra Can Turn Marine Tourism Hub

A unique opportunity lies in underwater tourism. Divers could explore the Sunken City of Visakhapatnam, a historic submerged site near the Visakhapatnam Port Authority's breakwater - K Muralidharan, port evangelist

Visakhapatnam: Endowed with a stunning coastline, diverse marine ecosystems, and untapped potential, North Andhra is poised to become India’s premier marine tourism destination.

According to port evangelist K Muralidharan, beginning with Vizag’s golden beaches to the serene mangroves of Kakinada, the region offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty, adventure, and heritage that can be transformed into a world-class tourism hub.

Vizag, is recognised in various circles as the Jewel of the Eastern Seaboard.

Muralidharan, who is the Executive Director of Kakinada Gateway Port Ltd, told Bizz Buzz in an exclusive interview that often referred to as the “Goa of the East Coast,” Visakhapatnam (Vizag) already boasts pristine beaches and a thriving port. However, its true tourism potential remains largely underutilised. A strategic approach focusing on sustainable development and public-private partnerships (PPP) can change this narrative".

With strategic investment under the PPP model, North Andhra can emerge as a global marine tourism hotspot. The development of a coastal tourism circuit from Vizag to Kakinada, integrating beach resorts, adventure activities, marine heritage sites, and ecological wonders, would attract international tourists and generate significant employment. By leveraging its natural beauty, rich history, and strategic location, North Andhra has the potential to redefine India’s blue economy—transforming its coastline into a vibrant, sustainable, and thriving marine tourism paradise.he said.

One of the most exciting possibilities is linking Vizag’s southern beaches—Appikonda and Yarrada—to the upcoming tourist terminal via boat services, creating an “island effect.” This could rival the famous beach resorts of Thailand and the Andaman Islands. The existing beach corridor, including Rushikonda and Bheemili, could be developed into themed beach resorts featuring:coconut grove retreats with serene cottages and eco-lodges, luxury resorts & theme parks catering to families and high-end travelers, adventure & sports beaches offering water sports like surfing, diving, and parasailing.

He said Bheemili, about 20 km from the city with its picturesque Gosthani River estuary, can be developed into an estuarine-

themed park and a convention center, making it a major attraction. The region’s fishing hamlets can be beautified, allowing visitors to experience the charm of a traditional coastal village.Additionally, Bheemili’s potential as a yacht marina and tourist boat hub could revolutionize recreational boating in the region. Marine Wonders & Offshore Attractions Between Vizag Port and Rushikonda, offshore viewing platforms could serve as entertainment centers with gaming zones, fine dining, and ocean observatories. A long-forgotten proposal for a Dolphin Park near the Vizag Zoo could be revived as a natural aquarium-themed park, offering an interactive marine experience.

Muralidharan pointed out that another unique opportunity lies in underwater tourism. Divers could explore the Sunken City of Visakhapatnam, a historic submerged site near the Visakhapatnam Port Authority's breakwater. The remains of a sunken Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi, a relic of the 1971 war, could be turned into a diver’s paradise, drawing history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The port evangelist said decommissioned ships can be repurposed as floating hotels and restaurants, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. Meanwhile, seafood shacks and beachside cafés across the coastline could replicate the charm of destinations like Hội An, Vietnam, transforming the culinary landscape.

Referring to Kakinada Creek, he felt that a vast mangrove ecosystem could be developed with floating hotels, eco-resorts, and guided mangrove safaris, making it a prime nature-tourism destination.

Kalingapatnam & East Godavari estuaries are pristine and largely undiscovered. These areas can be developed for secluded beach tourism, estuarine adventures, and eco-resorts.