Juhu Beach is one of the most famous and visited beaches in Mumbai, the financial and entertainment capital of India. Located in the western suburbs of the city, Juhu Beach stretches for about 6 km along the Arabian Sea and attracts thousands of tourists and locals every day.
Whether you want to enjoy some water sports, relish some street food, watch a mesmerizing sunset, or explore some nearby attractions, Juhu Beach has something for everyone.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Juhu Beach, from its history and attractions to its activities and hotels. We will also help you plan your trip to Juhu Beach by telling you the best time to visit and how to reach there. So, if you are looking for a complete guide to the iconic beach, read on.
History of Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach has a rich and interesting history that dates back to several centuries. The name Juhu comes from a Sanskrit word “Juvem” which means “island”. In ancient times, Juhu was an island surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides and the Versova creek on the fourth side. It was inhabited by fishermen and farmers who cultivated salt and rice. The island was connected to the mainland by a causeway built by Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy in 1846.
In the late 19th and early 20th century, Juhu became a popular destination for wealthy businessmen and industrialists who built their bungalows and villas along the beach. Some of the prominent names include Jamnalal Bajaj, Walchand Hirachand, Homi Bhabha, and J.R.D. Tata. Juhu also became a hub for the film industry and celebrity culture in Mumbai, as many actors, directors, producers, and writers made their homes in Juhu. Some of the famous personalities who have lived or still live in Juhu include Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and many more.
Over the years, Juhu Beach has witnessed many changes and developments that have transformed it into a modern and urban beach. It has also faced many environmental and social issues and challenges such as pollution, erosion, encroachment, overcrowding, crime, etc. However, despite these problems, Juhu Beach remains one of the most popular and visited beaches in Mumbai and continues to attract people from all walks of life.
Things to Do at Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach offers a variety of activities and experiences that can suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the things that you can do at Juhu Beach:
Enjoy Water Sports:
If you are looking for some fun and adventure at the beach, you can try some water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat ride, parasailing, etc. These activities are available at various points along the beach and are operated by trained professionals. You can also rent equipment such as life jackets, helmets, etc. for safety purposes. The cost of these activities varies depending on the duration and type of activity.
Watch a Mesmerizing Sunset:
One of the most beautiful and romantic things that you can do at Juhu Beach is to watch the sunset over the horizon. The sky turns into a palette of colors ranging from orange to purple as the sun dips into the sea. You can also capture some stunning photos and videos of this spectacle. The best time to watch the sunset at Juhu Beach is between 6 pm to 7 pm.
Relish Street Food:
No visit to Juhu Beach is complete without tasting some of the delicious street food that is available at the beach chowpatty (food court). You can find a variety of dishes such as pav bhaji (bread with spicy vegetable curry), pani puri (crispy balls filled with spicy water), kulfi (frozen dairy dessert), bhel puri (puffed rice with tangy sauce), vada pav (fried potato dumpling with bread), etc. These dishes are prepared fresh and served hot by the vendors who have their stalls along the beach. You can also find some beverages such as coconut water, lemonade, etc. to quench your thirst.
Visit Gandhi Gram:
If you are interested in learning more about Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings, you can visit Gandhi Gram, a small area near the beach where Gandhi used to stay during his visits to Mumbai. You can see his statue and cottage where he used to spin the charkha (spinning wheel). You can also see some photos and memorabilia related to his freedom struggle and non-violence movement.
Shop at Nearby Markets:
If you are in a mood for some shopping, you can head to some of the nearby markets that offer a range of products such as clothes, accessories, handicrafts, etc. Some of the popular markets near Juhu Beach are Linking Road, Hill Road, Irla Market, etc. These markets are known for their bargain prices and variety of items. You can also find some branded stores and malls near Juhu Beach such as Shoppers Stop, Infinity Mall, etc. if you are looking for some high-end shopping.
Experience the Nightlife:
If you want to experience the nightlife and entertainment near Juhu Beach, you can visit some of the clubs, pubs, and bars that offer music, drinks, and dance. Some of the famous nightlife venues near Juhu Beach are Trilogy Nightclub, Razzberry Rhinoceros, Estella, etc. These places are frequented by celebrities and socialites who party till late night. You can also find some live performances of theatre or music at Prithvi Theatre which hosts various shows and events throughout the year.
Go for a Morning Walk:
If you want to start your day with some health and fitness activities, you can go for a morning walk or jog at Juhu Beach. The beach is open from 5 am to 10 pm and offers a clean and serene environment for exercising. You can also join some yoga or meditation sessions that are conducted by various groups and instructors at the beach. You can also enjoy the fresh air and breeze that will refresh your mind and body.
Visit Nearby Temples:
If you want to seek some blessings and witness some rituals and festivals, you can visit some of the nearby temples that are dedicated to various gods and goddesses. Some of the famous temples near Juhu Beach are Mahalaxmi Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, ISKCON Temple, etc. These temples are known for their architecture, history, and significance. You can also participate in some of the ceremonies and offerings that are performed by the priests and devotees at these temples.
Enjoy a Picnic with Family:
If you want to have some fun and leisure with your family or friends, you can enjoy a picnic at Juhu Beach. You can bring your own food and drinks or buy them from the vendors at the beach. You can also play some games such as frisbee, volleyball, cricket, etc. at the beach. You can also rent some mats, chairs, umbrellas, etc. from the vendors at the beach for your comfort.
Also check out: A day at the Captivating Juhu Beach
Places to Visit Near Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach is not only a beach but also a gateway to many other attractions and landmarks that are located near it. Here are some of the places that you can visit near Juhu Beach:
ISKCON Temple:
ISKCON Temple is one of the most famous and visited temples in Mumbai that is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. It is located about 2 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or metro. The temple was built in 1978 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The temple complex consists of a main temple hall, a museum, a library, a restaurant, a guest house, etc.
Prithvi Theatre:
Prithvi Theatre is one of the most renowned and respected theatres in India that showcases various forms of performing arts such as theatre, music, dance, poetry, etc. It is located about 3 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or metro. The theatre was founded in 1978 by Shashi Kapoor and Jennifer Kendal Kapoor in memory of their father Prithviraj Kapoor who was a legendary actor and theatre personality.
The theatre has a capacity of 200 seats and hosts more than 500 shows every year featuring both established and emerging artists from India and abroad. The theatre also has a cafe, a bookshop, an art gallery, etc. that cater to the needs and interests of the audience.
Versova Beach:
Versova Beach is another popular beach in Mumbai that is located about 4 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or metro. Versova Beach is a part of the Versova village which is home to the Kolis, the original fishing community of Mumbai. The beach is known for its fishing activities, seafood stalls, and festivals such as Narali Purnima (coconut day) and Ganesh Chaturthi (elephant god’s birthday).
The beach is also famous for its cleanliness and beautification efforts that were initiated by Afroz Shah, a lawyer and environmentalist who led a massive beach cleanup campaign that removed more than 20,000 tons of garbage from the beach in 2016. The beach also offers a scenic view of the Versova creek and the Madh Island.
Mahalaxmi Temple:
Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the most sacred and visited temples in Mumbai that is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu and the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is located about 18 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or train. The temple was built in 1831 by Dhakji Dadaji, a merchant and philanthropist who had a vision of the goddess in his dream.
The temple is known for its architecture, art, and rituals that reflect the culture and traditions of Mumbai. The temple also organizes various festivals and events such as Navratri (nine nights of dance), Diwali (festival of lights), Lakshmi Puja (worship of wealth), etc. that attract lakhs of devotees and visitors.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link:
Bandra Worli Sea Link is one of the most iconic and impressive landmarks in Mumbai that connects the western suburbs of Bandra with the central business district of Worli. It is located about 12 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or bus. The sea link was inaugurated in 2009 and is officially known as Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link.
It is an engineering marvel that spans 5.6 km over the Arabian Sea and has eight lanes of traffic. It is also a tourist attraction that offers a panoramic view of the Mumbai skyline, the sea, and the coastline. The sea link also reduces the travel time between Bandra and Worli from 60 minutes to 10 minutes.
Siddhivinayak Temple:
Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the most revered and visited temples in Mumbai that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and success. It is located about 14 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or train. The temple was built in 1801 by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil, a childless couple who wished for a son from the god.
Mount Mary Church:
Mount Mary Church is one of the most beautiful and visited churches in Mumbai that is dedicated to Mother Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. It is located about 8 km from Juhu Beach and is easily accessible by road or bus. The church was built in 1640 by Jesuit priests on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. The church has a Gothic style architecture with stained glass windows, marble altars, wooden statues, etc.
Hotels Near Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach has a wide range of hotels near it that can cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the hotels near Juhu Beach:
Budget Hotels:
If you are looking for some affordable and comfortable hotels near Juhu Beach, you can choose from some of the budget hotels such as Hotel Bawa Continental, Hotel Sea Princess, Hotel Ramee Guestline, Heraa International, Hotel BR Golden Galaxy, etc. These hotels offer basic amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, etc. at reasonable prices ranging from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 4000 per night.
Mid-range Hotels:
If you are looking for some moderate and convenient hotels near Juhu Beach, you can choose from some of the mid-range hotels such as Hotel Novotel, Hotel JW Marriott, Hotel Ramada Plaza, etc. These hotels offer standard amenities such as spacious rooms, swimming pool, gym, spa, restaurant, bar, etc. at moderate prices ranging from Rs. 8500 to Rs. 15000 per night.
Luxury Hotels:
If you are looking for some lavish and exclusive hotels near Juhu Beach, you can choose from some of the luxury hotels such as Hotel Sun-n-Sand, Hotel The Taj Mahal Palace, Hotel The Oberoi, etc. These hotels offer premium amenities such as luxurious rooms, sea view, balcony, jacuzzi, sauna, lounge, etc. at premium prices ranging from Rs. 15000 to Rs. 50000 per night.
Best Time to Visit Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach can be visited throughout the year as it has a pleasant and moderate climate. However, the best time to visit Juhu Beach depends on your purpose and preference. Here are some of the factors that you should consider while planning your trip to Juhu Beach:
Weather:
The weather in Mumbai is generally hot and humid with four seasons: summer (March to May), monsoon (June to September), post-monsoon (October to December), and winter (January to February). The summer season is the hottest and driest with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The monsoon season is the wettest and coolest with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C and heavy rainfall. The post-monsoon season is the most pleasant and comfortable with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C and moderate rainfall. The winter season is the coldest and dryest with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C and no rainfall.
Crowd:
The crowd in Juhu Beach varies depending on the time of the day and week. The beach is usually crowded during the evenings and weekends when people come to enjoy the sunset, food, and nightlife. The beach is relatively less crowded during the mornings and weekdays when people come for exercise, yoga, or meditation. The beach is also crowded during some of the festivals and events such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, Diwali, etc. when people come to celebrate and participate in the ceremonies.
How to Reach Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach is well connected by various modes of transport and routes from different parts of Mumbai. Here are some of the ways that you can reach Juhu Beach:
By Road:
Juhu Beach is easily accessible by road from any part of Mumbai. You can use your own vehicle or hire a cab, taxi, or auto rickshaw to reach Juhu Beach. The road network in Mumbai is well developed and maintained and has various flyovers, bridges, and tolls that facilitate smooth traffic. However, you may also encounter some traffic jams and congestion during peak hours or festive seasons. The approximate distance and time from some of the major landmarks in Mumbai to Juhu Beach are as follows:
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport: 5 km, 15 minutes
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST): 22 km, 45 minutes
Bandra: 8 km, 20 minutes
Worli: 12 km, 25 minutes
Andheri: 4 km, 10 minutes
By Train:
Juhu Beach is also accessible by train from any part of Mumbai. You can use the local trains that run on the Western Line or the Harbour Line to reach Juhu Beach. The local trains are the cheapest and fastest mode of transport in Mumbai and have frequent services throughout the day. However, you may also face some overcrowding and rush during peak hours or festive seasons. The nearest railway stations to Juhu Beach are as follows:
Vile Parle: 3 km, 10 minutes by auto rickshaw or bus
Santacruz: 4 km, 15 minutes by auto rickshaw or bus
Andheri: 5 km, 20 minutes by auto rickshaw or bus
By Metro:
Juhu Beach is also accessible by metro from some parts of Mumbai. You can use the metro trains that run on the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar (VAG) Line or the Dahisar-DN Nagar-Mankhurd (DDM) Line to reach Juhu Beach. The metro trains are the newest and most modern mode of transport in Mumbai and have comfortable and air-conditioned coaches.
However, you may also face some limited connectivity and availability as the metro network is still under construction and expansion. The nearest metro stations to Juhu Beach are as follows:
Versova: 3 km, 10 minutes by auto rickshaw or bus
D.N. Nagar: 4 km, 15 minutes by auto rickshaw or bus
Azad Nagar: 5 km, 20 minutes by auto rickshaw or bus
Juhu Beach is one of the most iconic and visited beaches in Mumbai that offers a range of attractions and activities for all kinds of visitors. Whether you want to enjoy some water sports, relish some street food, watch a mesmerizing sunset, or explore some nearby attractions, Juhu Beach has something for everyone.
We have also helped you plan your trip to Juhu Beach by telling you the best time to visit and how to reach there. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Juhu Beach for an unforgettable experience.
And don’t forget to share your feedback and suggestions with us at Tripoto, your trusted travel partner.
