Traveling to the Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

By Neha – Revolving Compass

Traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants might sound like a crazy idea to many people. And I can totally relate. The Andaman Islands, although home to some of the best and most exotic beaches in Asia are located approximately 1,400 km east of mainland India. While it’s important to travel to the Andamans responsibly, if you do so, you can have a splendid time.

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Whenever I tried to visualize the Andamans in my mind, I pictured remote islands covered with dense tropical rainforests and pristine beaches.

I imagined tribal people, very limited facilities, a limited healthcare system, and difficult commuting options. So, after my first baby was born, I kept waiting for her to “grow a little” before we made the journey. But as it turned out, I simply could not summon the courage to travel to the Andaman Islands with my infant at that point in time. 

We Kept Waiting

We waited and waited. Eventually, our daughter turned four. Again, we considered planning a trip to the Andamans, but then we found out our second baby was on her way. And yet again, we halted our plans.

Call it the wit of an experienced mom, but I felt much more confident with my second baby. Also, I was ready to plunge into travel adventures with her while she was still an infant. So, I began researching how to travel to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants. The more I read and came to know about it, the more my confidence grew.

Then We Took the Plunge

I quickly discovered that the Andaman Islands are doable with kids and infants, provided you plan appropriately. So, here I am, back from a week-long trip to the Andamans, and I can now say that I have traveled there with a five-year-old and an infant. I’m ready to share my experience and tips with all the families out there who are also craving a similar experience but have simply been putting it off because they think your baby is too small.

Background Info The Andaman Islands

The Andaman Islands are an archipelago of Islands in the Bay of Bengal, to the southeast of India. The Andamans are comprised of 325 islands that cover an area of 6,408 km² (2,474 sq mi). Port Blair is the name of the main island. There is evidence that people have inhabited these islands for nearly 2,200 years! There are a number of indigenous tribes that still live on the Andamans, but out of respect for their culture and survival, do not participate in anything even vaguely resembling a “human safari.”

It is common to find people who speak Hindi, English, Tamil, and Bengali. Both North Indian and South Indian food is available throughout the Islands. Also, compared to many of the smaller islands in the Andamans, Port Blair has good medical facilities, buzzing markets, and modern means of communication. But then, most other islands are very small – so much so that you can walk around many within an hour!

How To Get There – Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

The most direct way to get to the Andamans is by plane. There are a number of direct flights to Port Blair ,operating out of most of the major cities in India. If you’re an international traveler, especially from the U.S., ensure you have your India eVisa for United States of America sorted before your trip. The Andamans could be a nice next stop after a Sundarbans National Park tour. If you have the time and budget, you can even reach the Andamans by sailing from Thailand. However, if you’re traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, this option could prove extremely challenging.

Traveling Between the Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

Once you’ve reached the Andamans, you’ll likely want to explore more than one island. To get around the Andamans, you have a few options.

Government Ferries

These ferries run all day, but they usually have long queues. You will have to buy a ticket from the counter. While these are the cheapest way to get around the islands, they are often crowded and uncomfortable. The safety measures are also not very stringent on these ferries. They will provide you with a life jacket, but I do not recommend this option when traveling with kids or an infant. 

Cruises Run by Private Operators

Private operators, like Macruzz, have routes that connect the major Andaman Islands like Havelock and Neil Islands with Port Blair. These cruises can be booked online, run as per schedule, and are comfortable and hygienic. The crew is also available if you need some assistance. If you are traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, I recommend this option. We booked with Macruzz for our island hopping trip, and we were very pleased. Our route was Port Blair -> Havelock Island -> Neil Island -> Port Blair. 

Day Trips Across The Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

For exploring islands that are close to Port Blair like Ross Island, North Bay Island, or Jolly Buoy Island, there are again ferries and speed boats run by both government and private operators. You can book a shared or a completely private one. Tour operators can book the day trips for you, or your accommodation can help with these. For these small island hopping excursions, we got an operator’s contact through our hotel, and he arranged it all for us.

Getting Around the Islands Themselves

For commuting around the islands themselves, there are taxis available. You need to pre-arrange the time with the taxi drivers to meet you at your accommodation. As the phone network is poor and doesn’t work at times, auto rickshaws are nearly always available.

Visit Them All in North, Middle, And South Andaman

Apart from Port Blair, there are many other places to visit in the Andamans that are accessible to tourists. A few such places include:

• Ross Island
• Jolly Buoy Island
• Cinque Island
• The Havelock Islands
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island
• Long Island
• Mayabunder
• Ramnagar
• Smith Island.

Some of these are very close to Port Blair, while others are quite far away. Then, there are even more remote private islands, some of which can be booked as well for an exclusive holiday experience.

What Andamans Are Known For

Andaman Islands are world famous for their dense rainforest cover, pristine blue waters, beautiful white sand beaches, and calm atmosphere. In short, they make for an ideal holiday destination. There is also plenty of opportunity for adventure. Of the many options, there is snorkeling, SCUBA diving, sea walking, kayaking, sailing, etc. The Andamans are home to countless beautiful coral reefs. And, of course, you’ll get to see some of the best sunrises and sunsets of your life.

Many of these Islands are home to tribal groups whose traditional ways of life are still well preserved. Most of them are not accessible to tourists, such as the North Sentinel Island, in order to prevent onlookers from disrupting their tribal way of life. However, some areas, especially the Jarawa Territory have been exploited for the sake of human safaris. Do not participate in these, as they threaten these peoples’ very survival.

Top 3 Islands to Visit for Families (With Pros and Cons)

When planning your trip to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, choosing the right islands to visit is key to ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and enriching experience. While the archipelago offers many options, not all are equally suited for families with young children. Below are the top three islands that strike the right balance between accessibility, amenities, and family-friendly activities.

Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

Havelock Island is one of the most popular and developed islands in the Andamans. It offers beautiful beaches, comfortable family resorts, and a relatively smooth travel experience, making it ideal for families.

Why Havelock Works Well for Families

• Easy to reach from Port Blair via fast and comfortable private cruises like Macruzz
• Wide selection of family-friendly resorts with beachfront access and shaded garden areas
• Calm and scenic beaches like Radhanagar and Vijay Nagar have soft sand, gentle waves, and tree-lined perimeters for shade
• Plenty of space for stroller walks or beachside picnics
• Opportunities for one parent to do short snorkeling or diving excursions while the other stays with the kids

Things to Consider

• Havelock is popular, so accommodations can book out quickly during peak season
• Depending on the weather, ferry schedules may be delayed, so always plan buffer time for transitions
• Limited public transport on the island; pre-arranged taxis or private drivers are essential for families

Best For

A relaxed, nature-filled beach vacation with easy access to family amenities and gentle adventures.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Neil Island is quieter and smaller than Havelock, offering a slower pace of life and a more intimate connection with nature. It’s perfect for families looking for a laid-back experience.

Why Neil Island is Family-Friendly

• The short ferry ride from Havelock or Port Blair makes it easy to include in a multi-island itinerary
• Compact size means short driving distances, reducing transit stress for little ones
• Beautiful, peaceful beaches like Laxmanpur and Bharatpur, which are good for beach play and exploration
• Fewer crowds, which gives your family more space to roam freely and enjoy quiet moments
• Many accommodations offer simple cottages or eco-resorts near the beach

Things to Consider

• Fewer restaurants and shops than Havelock or Port Blair; bring any essentials with you
• Healthcare facilities are minimal; always carry a well-stocked first aid kit and backup supplies
• Internet and mobile signals can be unreliable, so don’t expect to depend on digital navigation or streaming entertainment

Best For

Families who want quiet beaches, simple pleasures, and a truly unplugged experience while visiting the Andaman Islands with kids and infants.

Port Blair

As the capital of the Andaman Islands, Port Blair offers the most in terms of infrastructure, making it an excellent home base at the beginning and end of your trip.

Why Port Blair is a Solid Choice

• Best medical care in the Andamans, including pharmacies and clinics
• Easy access from the airport, making it a low-stress place to start or end your trip
• A range of accommodations from budget to mid-range with walkable access to sites and services
• Access to child-friendly attractions like the Children’s Park near Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex and the historical Cellular Jail
• Proximity to short day trips like Ross Island and North Bay Island

Things to Consider

• Less scenic and more urban than the outer islands
• Beaches are generally not as picturesque as those on Havelock or Neil, though they’re still enjoyable for short visits
• Can be hot and humid, with less tree cover than the outer islands for shade

Best For

Families who want easy logistics, a safety net of medical access, and a central hub to branch out to other islands.

Choosing the Right Island Combo for Your Trip

If you’re visiting the Andaman Islands with kids and infants for a week or more, consider this island combination:

1. Start in Port Blair – Recover from your journey and stock up on supplies
2. Move to Havelock – Enjoy beautiful beaches and a family-friendly resort stay
3. Add Neil Island – Slow things down even more with peaceful beaches and quiet time
4. Return to Port Blair – Rest, shop, and prepare for your flight home

By focusing on these three islands, you’ll enjoy a comfortable yet adventurous trip that’s well-suited for the rhythm and needs of family travel. With the right planning, the Andaman Islands with kids and infants can be a refreshing and memorable escape into nature and island life.

Best Time to Visit The Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

People visit the Andaman Islands all through the year, as the temperature hovers around 30-35 C (86-95 F). However, with the monsoon season starting in May and continuing until August, sudden bursts of heavy rain will likely disrupt your travel plans at this time. Monsoon season is particularly challenging when traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, so I suggest you choose another time.

October to February will be the best time if you are planning on traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants. We took our one-week vacation in the first week of October, and we had a lovely time. The days were bright and hot albeit quite humid – but that’s island life – and the evenings were pleasant. All the activities were operational. Best of all, it was just the start of the tourist season, which meant the crowds were much smaller than peak season. To put it simply, October was a perfect time for us to explore with our infant and 4-year-old.

Things To Do – Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

Generally speaking, I recommend you keep your itinerary slow-paced and comfortable so that it doesn’t get hectic. We allocated at least 2 days per island, and we were happy with our decision. With that said, there are plenty of things to do in Andaman.

SCUBA Diving and Snorkeling

Many go to the Andamans for adventure activities. SCUBA diving and snorkeling are high on most people’s lists. But yours might be different when you are traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants. My husband did manage to go SCUBA diving on the North Bay Island while I stayed behind with the baby.

Stroll on the Beach

What we enjoyed most as a family was our morning and evening walks on the pristine beaches. Some of our favorite beaches included:

• Radhanagar Beach
• Vijay Nagar Beach
• The beaches on Neil Island

Beachside Picnics

We also enjoyed a number of beachside picnics in the shade of the trees. The premises of our resorts were also nice for picnics.

Glass Bottom Boat Rides

There are a number of different options for experiencing a glass-bottom boat ride. Ask your accommodation to help you arrange this, and then get ready to see the beautiful sea life of the Andamans.

Explore Historical Sites

Sites like the Cellular Jail, Ross Island, and the beautiful Children’s Park near Rajiv Gandhi Marine Park in Port Blair are just a few of the historic sites you can visit in the Andamans.

Baby-Friendly Itinerary Sample (3, 5, and 7 Days)

Crafting the right itinerary is key when planning a trip to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants. A slow and steady pace will help you avoid fatigue, give your little ones plenty of downtime, and allow you to soak in the natural beauty of the islands without stress. Below, you’ll find three sample itineraries—each carefully designed to balance adventure and relaxation while keeping the unique needs of young children in mind.

3-Day Andaman Itinerary with Kids and Infants

Ideal for families with limited time who want a short island escape without overextending themselves.

Day 1: Arrival and Settle In – Port Blair

• Arrive in Port Blair (early morning if possible)
• Take a pre-arranged taxi to your accommodation near the Aberdeen Bazaar
• Have a light lunch and allow your kids to nap or relax indoors
• In the late afternoon, take a short walk to the Children’s Park near Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
• Optional: Attend the light and sound show at Cellular Jail (skip if it’s too late for your kids)

Day 2: Day Trip from Port Blair

• After an early breakfast, take a half-day trip to Ross Island via private speedboat
• Walk the shaded pathways and explore the ruins
• Return to Port Blair by lunchtime
• Rest indoors during the hottest hours of the day
• In the evening, enjoy a beachside picnic at Corbyn’s Cove

Day 3: Departure

• Relax in the morning or stroll through the local market for souvenirs
• Head to the airport in time for your departure

This 3-day plan offers a gentle introduction to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, minimizing transitions while offering outdoor experiences.

5-Day Andaman Itinerary with Kids and Infants

This plan allows for a quick island hop and an introduction to the marine world.

Day 1: Arrival in Port Blair

• Land in Port Blair
• Transfer to accommodation
• Explore Aberdeen Bazaar or walk to the waterfront
• Light dinner and early sleep

Day 2: Port Blair to Havelock Island

• Catch a morning Macruzz or Green Ocean cruise to Havelock Island (approx. 90 minutes)
• Check into a beachside resort with shade trees and ample play space
• Spend the afternoon on Radhanagar Beach under beach tents or tree shade
• Enjoy a casual dinner at your resort

Day 3: Explore Havelock

• Early morning beach stroll at Vijay Nagar Beach
• Optional: One parent goes SCUBA diving or snorkeling while the other relaxes with the kids
• Afternoon nap time
• Evening visit to Kalapathar Beach for sunset views

Day 4: Return to Port Blair

• Morning ferry back to Port Blair
• Light lunch and indoor rest
• Optional late afternoon visit to Cellular Jail for a history walk

Day 5: Day Trip to North Bay Island

• Take a glass-bottom boat to explore coral reefs without getting wet
• Return by lunch
• Pack and rest before departure

This 5-day itinerary gives your family a deeper feel for the Andaman Islands while still protecting time for rest and simple pleasures.

7-Day Andaman Itinerary with Kids and Infants

The full-week plan offers a gentle rhythm of travel, ideal for exploring two islands while giving your family breathing room.

Day 1: Arrival and Settle in Port Blair

• Arrive in Port Blair and settle into family-friendly accommodation
• Enjoy a short walk along the waterfront or nearby park
• Sleep early to recover from your journey

Day 2: Day Trip to Ross and North Bay Islands

• Take a half-day island-hopping tour arranged by your hotel
• Stop at Ross Island to walk shaded ruins
• Continue to North Bay Island for a glass-bottom boat ride
• Return in time for an afternoon nap and a relaxed evening

Day 3: Travel to Havelock Island

• Catch a morning cruise to Havelock
• Arrive and check in to your beachside resort
• Let the kids play while you enjoy the view
• Stroll Radhanagar Beach during the cooler evening hours

Day 4: Relax and Explore Havelock

• Take it slow with a morning beach walk and picnic breakfast
• Optional: One parent joins a diving or snorkeling trip
• Nap and indoor play during midday
• Sunset at Kalapathar Beach

Day 5: Ferry to Neil Island

• Take a morning ferry from Havelock to Neil Island
• Stay in a beachfront resort with an outdoor play space
• Visit Laxmanpur Beach for tidal pools and a shaded walk
• Simple resort dinner and early bedtime

Day 6: Explore Neil Island

• Visit Sitapur Beach for sunrise if your kids are early risers
• Picnic at Bharatpur Beach which has shallow waters for paddling
• Return to Port Blair in the afternoon by ferry

Day 7: Wrap Up in Port Blair

• Relax at your hotel
• Visit local markets for souvenirs or enjoy one final beachside walk
• Head to the airport for your return journey

This 7-day plan offers a fulfilling and varied family adventure to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, balancing scenic beauty, child-friendly activities, and plenty of downtime.

Practical Tips for Adapting These Itineraries

• Avoid overpacking your schedule. Keep transitions between accommodations to early mornings when kids are fresh.
• Always confirm ferry times the night before and arrive early at boarding points.
• Use midday hours for naps and indoor play.
• Bring an umbrella stroller or a baby carrier for shaded walks and island exploration.
• Contact accommodations ahead to confirm availability of cribs or extra beds.

Whichever itinerary you choose, remember that the goal is not to do everything but to enjoy the experience of exploring the Andaman Islands with your kids and infants at a comfortable pace.

Where to Stay Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

We stayed at Hotel De Marina in Port Blair. It was comfortable and came with all the basic facilities. What we really loved was the location of the hotel. The Aberdeen Bazar, Cellular Jail, Ferries to Ross, and North Bay Island were all walkable from our front door.

We stayed in resorts close to the beach on both Havelock Island and Neil Island, and we had a very good experience there, too. So, I highly recommend you book a resort where there is enough space for the infant and kids to play as well as a beachside that is easily accessible.

What to Bring for Kids and Infants

Although the Andaman Islands are beautiful, the fact remains that they are far from the mainland. So, you will have to be completely prepared when visiting the Andaman Islands with kids and infants. The following is my packing list for such a trip.

Clothing For Kids and Infants

For a week, pack your usual number of light cotton clothes, and then pack a few more. Also, if you don’t plan to wash them, bring a couple extras on top. Due to the high humidity, it is unlikely you’ll be able to reuse your sweaty clothing. Also, pack swimwear if you plan to venture into the water, which you most likely will. Bring a light jacket as well. In the airports, ports, and within hotels you will likely be in air conditioning, and it can get quite cold.

Medicine

Medicines are very important, as it’s likely you will not be able to find exactly what you’re looking for on the islands. While Port Blair has a buzzing market, when your child is sick, it’s not a good time to start experimenting with new medicine brands. Especially when you leave Port Blair, make sure you have all the medicines with you that you think you’ll need. It also won’t hurt to keep your pediatrician’s contact number on hand as well as copies of any of your children’s prescriptions.

Food

If you’re using organic baby formula, make sure you have enough for your trip plus some extra just in case something prevents you from departing when planned. Again, you can find formulas in Port Blair, but you might not find your favored brand. Make sure to bring non-perishable snacks, too. We brought a small electric cooker with some raw ingredients so we could cook all of our daughter’s meals without having to disrupt her feeding chart. Lastly, don’t forget a water sipper.

Miscellaneous

Don’t forget to bring your mosquito repellant. We also made sure to bring a lightweight hat and a hand fan. We also were glad to have a sun umbrella. And of course, we brought some toys to keep the kids occupied as well as sand toys.

What You Can Buy on The Andaman Islands

• Diapers (Only bring your own if your child needs a certain brand.)
• Formula and baby food (Again, only bring your own if your child needs a certain brand.)
• Baby lotions, creams, etc.

What to Expect While Traveling to the Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

The good news is that the Andaman Islands are well-maintained, quite unpolluted, and seldom crowded. This makes for an ideal holiday spot for both kids and infants. While the hot and humid weather makes kids and infants sweat a lot, it consequently improves their appetite. This was an unintended consequence I did not realize until after our trip. Being a mom to a picky eater and one who struggles to gain weight, it was such a relief to see her eat well while on the Andaman Islands.

If you are wondering whether or not you should hold off on traveling to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants, you need not! Just be prepared with your bookings and overall trip plan. Choose the right activities, keep the days light, and you as well as your family, are going to enjoy your trip to the max!

FAQs for Traveling to the Andaman Islands with Kids and Infants

1. Q: Is it safe to travel to the Andaman Islands with kids and infants?
   A: Yes, the Andaman Islands are safe for families with kids and infants as long as you plan appropriately. Ensure you have the necessary medications, baby essentials, and a flexible itinerary to accommodate your family’s needs.
2. Q: What is the best time to visit the Andaman Islands with kids and infants?
   A: The best time to visit is between October and February. The weather is pleasant during this period, and most activities are operational. Avoid the monsoon season (May to August) as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.
3. Q: What are the recommended modes of transportation between islands for families?
   A: Private cruises, like Macruzz, are the most comfortable and reliable option for families. They offer scheduled routes, hygienic conditions, and helpful crew. Government ferries are cheaper but often crowded and less safe for young children.
4. Q: What activities are family-friendly in the Andaman Islands?
   A: Family-friendly activities include beach strolls, glass-bottom boat rides, beachside picnics, and exploring historical sites like Cellular Jail and Ross Island. Adventure activities like snorkeling and SCUBA diving can be enjoyed by adults while one parent stays with the kids.
5. Q: What essentials should I pack for kids and infants when traveling to the Andamans?
   A: Pack lightweight cotton clothes, swimwear, a light jacket, mosquito repellant, sunscreen, baby formula, snacks, and essential medicines. Don’t forget a hat, a sun umbrella, and toys to keep the kids entertained.
6. Q: Are baby products like diapers and formula available in the Andamans?
   A: Yes, basic baby products like diapers, formula, and baby food are available, especially in Port Blair. However, if your child requires a specific brand, it’s best to bring it with you.

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Neha is a travel blogger from India, and she travels the world with her husband Abhishek and her two kids. Together, the couple likes to capture their travel memories and likes to provide information and itineraries on destinations, family travel, and many more tips related to traveling the world. Check out their travelogue at Revolving Compass.

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