Planning a Family Holiday in the Andaman Islands

Why the islands suit families

Shallow, sheltered beaches, short road distances and a relaxed pace make the islands appealing to families. There are history, wildlife and water-based activities to fit different ages, and no need for long daily drives.

Choose fewer bases

Every island change involves a ferry and luggage handling, which is the hardest part of the trip with young children. We recommend two bases at most, for example Port Blair and Havelock, and longer stays at each. See our 5 Nights / 6 Days journey for a relaxed pace.

Pick the season carefully

Calmer-sea months, generally November to April, are the easiest with children. Monsoon crossings can be rough and activities may be cancelled. Details are in our best time to visit guide.

Activities by age

• Young children: beach play, short boat rides, glass-bottom or shallow-water experiences where available.
• Primary-school age: supervised snorkelling in shallow water, wildlife and history visits, and beach walks.
• Teenagers: swimming and snorkelling, and, subject to age and health rules set by operators, introductory water activities.
• Grandparents: gentle sightseeing with a car and driver; avoid itineraries with many jetty transfers.

Operators set their own age, weight and health limits for activities. Please treat any limits as binding, and tell us ahead about swimming ability and medical conditions.

Safety near the water

Beaches are not always patrolled. Only swim where conditions are clearly safe, follow local flag and signage advice, keep children within arm's reach in the water, and avoid swimming at dusk or in unfamiliar channels. Strong currents and jellyfish can occur. Life jackets should be worn on boats.

Sun, heat and health

The sun is strong all year. Use hats, rash vests and sunscreen designed to be kinder to reefs. Carry drinking water, any regular medicines and a small first-aid kit. Healthcare on the smaller islands is limited compared with the mainland, so serious concerns may require transfer to Port Blair.

Food and comfort

Seafood is a speciality, but plain vegetarian and children's options are generally available on request. Resorts on smaller islands may have a limited menu, so it helps to say what your children eat when booking.

A sample rhythm

Spend the first day settling into Port Blair, and keep mornings for outings and afternoons free for rest and swimming. Leave a spare day before departure to absorb any ferry delay.

Planning tip

Tell us the ages of your children and what they enjoy, and we will tailor pacing and stays accordingly. Start with the Andaman Islands page, read about ferry planning, or plan your family journey.