Paradise Beach
A slice of paradise for every generation.
Paradise Beach
Just south of the boat house lies Paradise Beach, one of Pondicherry’s best-known sandy beaches. It is accessible only by boat (except for a marshy walk) – the ferry from Chunnambar Boat House takes about 10–15 minutes. This little island beach is often called Plage Paradiso, and it lives up to the name with its unmatched charm and tranquil beauty. Capped by thick mangrove groves, Paradise Beach has unusually soft golden sand and clear shallow waters, perfect for kids to play and explore. Tour guides emphasize that it’s a destination “for holidaymakers of all ages” who want to “relax and rejuvenate” in serenity.
Play beach sports
The open sand at Paradise is ideal for games. You can bring a volleyball or cricket ball (or ask beach staff to borrow one) and spend hours playing on the shore. The soft sand makes it safe to run and dive without hard ground. Kids and parents alike enjoy friendly matches or just digging in the sand.
Try water activities
Adventurous families can rent kayaks or take jet-ski rides on the lagoon. The water is relatively calm here. Note that parts of the water can be fairly deep (parents should use life jackets and watch small children). There’s also a designated swimming area, but always keep an eye on little ones.
Relax and picnic
Under the shade of coconut trees, you’ll find places to spread a mat and snack. The beach has snack shacks and food stalls (and even an occasional rain-dance arena) so you can grab lunch on the sand. Kids often build sandcastles or simply chase crabs along the waterline.
Photography and sightseeing
Paradise Beach is famously photogenic. The scenery of palm-fringed shore and sunlit water is great for family photos. Don’t forget to walk along the water’s edge during sunset – it’s truly a picture-perfect moment.
Relax by the river mouth
On one side of the beach, the Chunnambar River meets the sea, creating a gentle estuary where children can wade with their feet in the sand while watching boats pass by.
No visit to Chunnambar Boat House is complete without spending time on Paradise Beach. The tourism department calls this an “incomparable” spot that has “everything you need to make the most of your trip”. The beach is open roughly 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (depending on ferry schedules) and tends to be busiest around midday, so mornings or late afternoons are nice and quieter. Remember to bring swimwear and towels for everyone. Because the waters can be deeper, younger children should wear life jackets or floaties at all times here. All equipment rental and boat fees are paid on site (boat rides are separate from the entry fee of the park).
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Puducherry Museum
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