Winter is coming, but that doesn't mean you can't soak up some sun on the beach. India has a vast coastline that spans across 9 states and union territories, with each offering unique beach experiences for the beach lovers. So pack your sunscreen and your swimming trunks because here are the top coastal destinations in India that you can visit this winter.

1. Goa

Without a doubt, Goa is one of the most popular beach destinations in India. The state has a long coastline with numerous beaches that cater to different preferences. From party animals to solitude seekers, Goa has something for everyone. Some of the top beaches in Goa include Palolem, Baga, Calangute, and Colva. These beaches offer beautiful views, pristine shores, and a wealth of water sports and activities to indulge in.

2. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Known for its historic significance and stunning architecture, Mahabalipuram is also home to some magnificent beaches. The most famous one is the Mahabalipuram Beach, which offers beautiful views of the sunrise and sunset. Other popular beaches in the area include Kovalam Beach and Covelong Beach. Visitors can also indulge in surfing and paddleboarding if they're feeling adventurous.

3. Varkala, Kerala

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is one of the most scenic beaches in Kerala. This beach is popular among foreign tourists who come here to indulge in sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides and water sports. The beach also boasts of mineral springs and excellent surfing conditions.

4. Alibaug, Maharashtra

Located just a short ferry ride from Mumbai, Alibaug is a popular weekend getaway for beach lovers in Maharashtra. The Alibaug Beach, also known as the Gaurkshagar Beach, boasts of pristine shores and crystal-clear waters that make for perfect swimming conditions. Visitors can also indulge in a variety of water sports and activities.

5. Pondicherry

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a union territory that offers some of the most beautiful beach experiences in India. The Rock Beach and the Promenade Beach are two of the most popular beaches in the area. Both of these beaches offer excellent conditions for swimming and sunbathing, while also providing beautiful views of the coastline.

6. Murudeshwar, Karnataka

Murudeshwar Beach is one of the lesser-known coastal destinations in India. But it is just as beautiful as any of the other ones mentioned above. Located near the city of Mangalore, this beach boasts of crystal-clear waters and pristine shores. Visitors can also indulge in water sports and activities, or take a scenic boat ride in the surrounding waters.

7. Digha, West Bengal

Digha Beach is part of the Sundarbans region in West Bengal. It is known for its scenic coastline and pristine shores. Visitors can indulge in swimming, sunbathing and water sports, or take a boat ride in the surrounding waters.

8. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands offers some of the most beautiful and secluded coastal destinations in India. Some of the most popular beaches in the region include the Radhanagar Beach, Corbyn's Cove Beach, and the Wandoor Beach. All of these beaches offer excellent conditions for swimming and sunbathing, and visitors can indulge in various water sports and activities.

9. Diu, Daman and Diu

Diu Beach is part of the union territory of Daman and Diu. Located near the city of Vadodara, this beach boasts of beautiful shores and crystal-clear waters that make for perfect swimming conditions. Visitors can indulge in water sports and activities or take a scenic boat ride in the surrounding waters.