Often, beaches in India can attract large and rowdy crowds, and our motive of enjoying some quality time with family gets compromised. Mostly, what we seek is a moderately bustling beach that is safe and has a few activities to keep all members of the family engaged for hours. Apart from this, we surely want to witness beautiful sunsets, enjoy clean and delicious food, and then return home with peace of mind and lots of good memories. Therefore, keeping all our beach holiday concerns in mind, I am bringing you a list of the best family beaches in India.
- Cavelossim, Goa
- Radhanagar Beach, Andaman & Nicobar
- Juhu Beach, Maharashtra
- Alappuzha Beach, Kerala
- Gopalpur Beach, Odisha
- Palolem, Goa
- Tarkarli, Maharashtra
- Paradise Beach, Puducherry
- Varca Beach, Goa
- Kovalam Beach, Kerala
- Chandipur Beach, Odisha
- Marina Beach, Tamil Nadu
- Ganpatipule, Maharashtra
- Mahabalipuram Beach, Tamil Nadu
Also Check Out: Popular Beach Holiday Packages
Cavelossim, Goa
There is another side of Goa that is away from nightlife and parties. This beautiful holiday destination in India makes for a great family vacation too. Cavelossim, in South Goa, is known for its family-friendly beach, featuring white sand and contrasting black lava rocks. The beach is ideal for spending a vacation or a day with family and kids, as it offers opportunities for dolphin watching and river cruises. One can also enjoy a sunset boat ride or indulge in water sports. Cavelossim is also a lovely place to pick up cute sandals and sarongs for the kids and get them into the real holiday spirit.
Radhanagar Beach, Andaman & Nicobar
When it comes to taking your family on a holiday, nothing can be better than the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here, you are spoilt for choice when planning a family vacation. However, the ideal option would be to take your family to Radhanagar Beach, located about 12 km from Havelock Jetty on Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Island). Whether you have water activities in mind, want to explore the walking trails around the beach, or simply enjoy each other’s company, Radhanagar Beach is a perfect choice in every way.
Juhu Beach, Maharashtra
One of the most popular and frequently visited beaches in India is Juhu Beach in Mumbai. Located in the western suburbs of the city, Juhu Beach lies along the shores of the Arabian Sea and is part of one of Mumbai’s upscale localities, where many Bollywood celebrities have their residences. The beach is lined with stalls serving bhelpuri, pav bhaji, kulfi and other local snacks. On weekends, one can enjoy horse and camel rides, watch street performers and acrobats, play cricket, browse toy stalls, and experience the lively atmosphere that makes Juhu Beach a popular family and leisure destination.
Alappuzha Beach, Kerala
A popular beach in Kerala, Alappuzha Beach is famed for its historic pier, which extends into the sea and is over 137 years old. Situated in Alappuzha, which is known for its backwaters and Kettuvallam cruises, the beach also holds an important place in the maritime history of the state. Alappuzha Beach is a famous picnic spot, and the entertainment facilities at the nearby Vijaya Beach Park add to the reasons for visiting this place with family. There is also an old lighthouse nearby that fascinates visitors.
Gopalpur Beach, Odisha
A pristine beach, Gopalpur or Gopalpur-on-Sea is a small yet splendid retreat for beach lovers in India. Located about 15 km from Berhampur, Gopalpur was once an important seaport and offers visitors a glimpse into its maritime past. One can still see the ruins of the old port and remnants of its bygone era. Today, the casuarina-lined beach continues to attract beachgoers looking for a quieter coastal experience. It is one of the beaches in India that is relatively less crowded and less commercialised, making it a pleasant choice for a family outing and a new place to explore.
Palolem, Goa
Palolem is South Goa’s gem. With its swaying coconut palms and clean waters, Palolem is a great option when you’re in Goa with family. One of the ideal things to do in Palolem is to hire a kayak and paddle around to explore the area. The beach is also suitable for young families, as the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. A family on holiday in Goa can enjoy a dolphin trip, an Ayurvedic massage, South Indian dishes, fresh fish, and a session of yoga at sunset under the palm trees.
Tarkarli, Maharashtra
Located in Sindhudurg District on the Konkan Coast of Maharashtra, Tarkarli is arguably one of the best beaches in the country. The beach is perfect for water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. One also has the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride to spot dolphins, especially in the early mornings. You can also introduce your kids to delicious Malvani cuisine and give them a brief lesson in history by visiting the imposing Sindhudurg Fort.
Paradise Beach, Puducherry
Another family beach destination is Paradise Beach in Puducherry. Also known as Chunnambar Beach, Paradise Beach is a secluded and picturesque place. The beach is a pleasant spot to spend some quality time with the kids and enjoy the coastal surroundings. The Dune Resort, about 15 km north of Puducherry, is a nice place to stay. As the beach can get a bit crowded during weekends, you can head out on a weekday for a leisurely stroll and relaxed time with the kids.
Varca Beach, Goa
A long stretch of white sand defines Varca Beach in Goa. The beach is quiet, calm and relatively free from commercial activity. Situated in South Goa, just south of Benaulim, Varca is marked by numerous wooden fishing boats belonging to the local fishermen. Known for its clean and peaceful surroundings, Varca is ideal for a relaxing family beach vacation in India.
Kovalam Beach, Kerala
A white-sandy stretch running along the Malabar Coast can be easily recognised as Kovalam Beach in Kerala. Located about 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the beach comprises three coves—Hawah Beach, Lighthouse Beach and Samudra Beach—that together form the famous crescent shape. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body-toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruises are some of the activities that you can enjoy with your family at Kovalam Beach.
Chandipur Beach, Odisha
The swaying casuarina trees mark the identity of Chandipur Beach in Balasore, Odisha. The uniqueness of Chandipur is that twice a day, its waters recede from the shore by up to 5 km, giving tourists the thrill of watching the sea disappear and offering visitors the opportunity to walk across the exposed seabed. This unusual tidal phenomenon, along with the beach’s natural surroundings and rich biodiversity, makes Chandipur a fascinating destination in Odisha. Visitors can also explore the local culture and enjoy the scenic beauty of this unique coastal destination.
Marina Beach, Tamil Nadu
One of the longest and busiest beaches in India, Marina Beach resembles a playground, especially in the evenings. For a fun and lively beach experience, especially for children, Marina Beach in Chennai is a perfect option. One can bring their family here and indulge in a game of beach cricket or enjoy kite flying, or simply savour roasted corn with a dash of lime. The beach also offers plenty of opportunities for children to enjoy the lively atmosphere, local snacks and beachside activities. Apart from this, a stroll along the beach is ideal, while going into the sea should be done only with expert guidance due to the strong undercurrents.
Ganpatipule, Maharashtra
Ganpatipule is a small town in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra and is known for its scenic and serene beach. Located about 375 km south of Mumbai, Ganpatipule also attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The beach, on the other hand, is a haven for adventure seekers, as they can enjoy water sports like parasailing. One can also relax on this casuarina-lined beach or enjoy other activities with family and kids. It is also worth visiting Ratnagiri, located about 25-40 km from Ganpatipule, which is known for its famous Alphonso mangoes.
Mahabalipuram Beach, Tamil Nadu
Now, this one is my favourite. About an hour or two’s drive from Chennai, Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is an excellent option for a quick family getaway in India. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this small yet beautiful place offers a lovely beach for a family outing. The breathtakingly beautiful Shore Temple, which stands facing the sea, is a sight not to be missed. History lessons are so much easier for kids when they can see the architectural marvels of the Pallava kings. Surfing is also a popular activity in and around Mahabalipuram, with several sections of the coast attracting surfers. Families can therefore enjoy the beach while children get an opportunity to explore the region’s remarkable history and architecture.
Well, that’s the list for now. If you know of more family-friendly beaches in India, do mention them in the comment box below. And if you liked our blog, make sure you share it with others. At Tour My India, we also provide tour packages across India, and we will be glad to serve you. To know more about our India tour packages, give us a call or drop us an email.
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About the author
From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
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