Best family beach destinations

Top Beach Destinations for Family Holidays in India 

India is surrounded on three sides by water and has a coastline that stretches for nearly 7000 kilometers. The coast is bordered by the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean and has some of India's best beaches. Not sure which Indian beaches to visit for a fun vacation with your family? Here's a list to help you! 

1. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Andamans

How to get there: Privately run catamaran and government ferries are available from Port Blair, a bustling city 70 km away. 

Enjoy the white sand beach, turquoise blue waters, and the lush palm trees around Radhanagar beach in complete tranquility. It's one of the cleanest beaches in the whole world! Take a stroll on the 2 km beach, and head for a warm ocean swim with your family. The shallow waters make it safe for children. 

Indulge in water activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling for a kick of adventure sports and explore the vibrant marine life underwater. One can even do a scuba diving course certification! 

Nearby Attractions: Since Havelok is a tiny island, explore it by renting two-wheelers. Head to a dolphin tour on the neighboring beaches of Vijaynagar, Kala Pathar, and Elephant. 

Where to stay near Radhanagar Beach?

• Taj Exotica Resort & Spa 

• Silver Sand Beach Resort

• Barefoot at Havelock

2. Agonda Beach, South Goa

How to get there: Take a cab or taxi from the Goa airport or book a pick up at your hotel. 

The jewel of South Goa, Agonda beach is where most come to relax amidst the hectic tourist traffic in most of Goa. With golden crescent sand, it is away from party beaches that can be noisy but still offers all the major amenities such as WiFi, western cuisine restaurants, and private tours. 

Go surfing in the calm but majestic waters and take in the rustic charm of the beach while watching the sunset over golden waters. Ideal for kids, rent family boats at sea, and spot dolphins in the area. Take a yoga and meditation course to unwind! 

Nearby Attractions: Hike or boat to secluded beaches such as Dolphin Point and Butterfly Beach. Trekking trails around this region in South Goa are lush, and one can swim in secret lagoons and waterfalls. 

Where to stay near Agonda Beach:

• Sea Star Resort 

• Mariposa Beach Grove

• Agonda Heritage

3. Kovalam Beach, Kerala

How to get there: Get to Thiruvananthapuram via air or rail and head 20 km onwards to the beach in a taxi or bus. 

One of the lesser-known beaches in Kerala after Varkala is Kovalam. A crescent-shaped beauty, Kovalam is home to lively cafes, restaurants, and bazaars along the beach. For a more relaxing time, book a spa visit in the many Ayurvedic meditation centers in the area. 

Take a motorboat or kayak out to sea with your family at really affordable rates! Since it gets a little crowded in the evenings, be sure to book a table at sea-facing restaurants like The Tides, and Impresso Café & Restaurant. 

Nearby Attractions: The red and white striped lighthouse is an icon standing tall against the blue backdrop. Climb to the top for some amazing views of the crashing waves! 

Where to stay in Kovalam beach?

• The Raviz (Leela) Kovalam

• Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa 

• Soma Palmshore Beach Resort

4. Paradise Beach, Pondicherry

How to get there: Rent a car/scooter in Puducherry and drive 8 km to reach Chunnambar Boat House (Paradise Beach)

To explore this culturally rich region well, hire a private boat to tour the coastline and access many privately owned beaches. 

A delight for family and kids alike, the beach boasts of mouthwatering seafood, a colorful flea market, and is right at the mouth of the Bay of Bengal. It offers fantastic views and water sports like ATV rides, kayaking, bungee jumping, and hot air ballooning. Head to a fish spa for a relaxing evening! 

Nearby Attractions: Visit the nearby town of Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Sacred Heart Basilica Church, and Rock Beach. 

Where to Stay Near Paradise beach: 

• Chunnambar Beach Resort 

• The Sea Side Guest House at White Town

• The Dune Eco Village & Spa

5. Mandrem Beach, North Goa

How to get there: Park in the Mandrem village and walk through pretty gardens to reach the shoreline. 

Unlike party beaches like Anjuna or Baga, Mandrem is a hidden gem because of the secluded miles of soft white sand. With a family-friendly atmosphere, one can spot many children making sandcastles on the beach and enjoying the endlessly shallow waters. The waves are so safe for children, lifeguards are sometimes not necessary. 

Adventure buffs can head to kite surfing schools to fly in the ocean breeze and take in a 360-degree view of the coastline. Relax by visiting the therapeutic spas and shop till you drop in the bazaar! 

Where to stay near Mandrem beach?: 

• The Riverside Hotel & Restaurant

• Riverside Beach Huts 

• Sol Beso Mandrem