Jolly Buoy Island

Jolly Buoy Island

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Rating: 9/10
Best time to visit: All-Day days
Recommended time to spend: 4 hr
Activities to do:
  • Explore the underwater world
  • Relax on the sandy beach
  • Snorkel in the clear waters
  • Take a glass-bottom boat ride
Known for:
beachcoral-reefmarine-lifesnorkeling
Description:

Jolly Buoy Island, part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is a tiny, pristine island renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility, making it perfect for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides. The island is uninhabited, preserving its natural beauty. Visitors can relax on the white sandy beaches, soak up the sun, and enjoy the tranquility. Strict regulations are in place to protect the fragile ecosystem, including a ban on plastic and limitations on visitor numbers. A visit to Jolly Buoy is a chance to experience an untouched paradise and witness the wonders of the underwater world.

History:

Jolly Buoy Island, along with Red Skin Island, is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, established in 1983. These islands are opened to tourists on a rotational basis to minimize environmental impact. Historically, these islands were likely known to local fishermen, but their remote location kept them largely undisturbed. With the establishment of the national park, their importance for biodiversity conservation was recognized, leading to regulated tourism focused on preserving their natural beauty and ecological integrity. The rotation policy helps ensure the islands' sustainable use and continued enjoyment for future generations.