03 October,2026 10:52 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish Kamble
Beginners paddle through their first expedition in Juhu
What sets apart Shreyas Iyer from Pradhyumna Singh Rathod? Or Smriti Mandhana from Shikha Chouhan? Apart from the fact that you've heard of only two of them, not much. They all represented India at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 in Japan. Coinciding with Singh Rathod's fourth place and Chouhan's third place finish in the Quarterfinal 2 of the Kayak Cross events yesterday, a new kayaking season opened far from the island nation, on the coast of Juhu.
"Most Mumbaikars are familiar with kayaking through their Goa, Kerala, or Karnataka travel itineraries. We want to remind them that the waters off Juhu Beach offer an ideal kayaking spot," says Pratiksha Bavdane, who co-founded IndoKayak with kayak trainer and Juhu Koliwada resident Nevhi Gaud three years ago. After securing permissions from the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation and the Mumbai Maritime Board, they hope to spark a new movement in the city.
Post a monsoon hiatus, the watersport returns with two expeditions - pre-sunrise and post-sunrise - for beginner-friendly experiences. Each batch is accompanied by at least one expert, to keep things sailing smooth in the mighty Arabian Sea.
AGE GROUP Four years and above (accompanied by parent)
ON Every day; 5.30 am (sunrise) and 6.50 am (post-sunrise)
AT Juhu Beach (meeting point revealed on registration)
MESSAGE 7039600679 on WhatsApp to register
ENTRY Rs 1200 per person onwards
Learn how the experience unfolds on Juhu Beach
» Pre-snack: Kayaking on an empty stomach is not advised. Fruits and energy bars keep you energised
»Safety briefing: Participants are taught how to use life jackets and basic etiquette at sea
» Launch: Kayaks are launched into the seas from the shore. An expedition can reach nearly one kilometre into the sea
» Post-snack: After a 75-minute session, participants replenish energy with coconut water and fruits
In November 2025, a pod of dolphins (Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphins) were spotted by kayakers in the deep seas. "Dolphins avoid motorised sea vessels that generate loud sounds. When they saw us paddling away, they realised we weren't posing any threat. People often think Juhu Beach is congested, loud, and dirty. The scenes at sea tell a different story," Bavdane reminds.
October also brings the skimboarders of Mumbai back to Juhu Beach. Considered an offshoot of surfing culture, the sport involves smaller, thinner boards. Unlike surfers, skimboarders start from the dry shores, and drop the board on shallow waters before hopping on. Many athletes consider it a cross between skateboarding and surfing.
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