Goa, known for its golden beaches and vibrant culture, has long been a favorite destination for families looking for a fun-filled getaway. Whether you’re drawn to its serene shores, rich Portuguese heritage, or the many activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages, Goa offers something special for every family member. From building sandcastles on the beach to exploring ancient forts and churches, this sun-kissed paradise provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the things to do in Goa for family, ensuring your trip is filled with unforgettable memories for both kids and adults alike.
1. Family-Friendly Beaches in Goa
Goa’s beaches are its most famous attraction, and many of them are perfect for family outings. With gentle waves, soft sands, and an array of activities, these beaches are designed to keep both kids and adults entertained.
Baga Beach and Calangute Beach are two of the popular choices among tourists. But I believe they are not apt for families and here are the reason why.
While Baga Beach and Calangute Beach are well-known spots in Goa, there are several reasons families might want to look for alternatives:
- Crowds: Both beaches tend to be very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, making it hard to find a quiet place to unwind.
- Nightlife: Baga Beach is particularly famous for its lively nightlife, which may not be ideal for families with young kids. The area can become quite noisy and hectic in the evenings.
- Commercialization: The high level of commercialization at both beaches, with many shacks, vendors, and water sports, can sometimes take away from the natural beauty and peace that families might be after.
- Safety Concerns: With the large crowds and busy atmosphere, it can be tough to keep an eye on children. There have also been occasional reports of petty thefts.
If you’re seeking a more family-friendly beach experience in Goa, consider checking out some of the quieter beaches.
Colva Beach, located in South Goa, offers a quieter and more laid-back experience. It’s ideal for families who want to spend quality time by the sea, making it perfect for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely beach day.
For something a bit more scenic, head to Palolem Beach. This crescent-shaped beach is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for swimming with young children. Families can also enjoy dolphin-watching boat trips here, adding an extra dose of adventure.
2. Cultural and Historical Attractions for the Family
Goa’s rich history and culture make it more than just a beach destination. For families interested in exploring the past, there are plenty of historical sites and landmarks to discover.
Start with the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Goa’s most iconic landmarks. Children and adults alike will be fascinated by the impressive architecture and the history behind this centuries-old church.
A visit to Se Cathedral and St. Augustine Tower offers another glimpse into Goa’s Portuguese-influenced past. These sites provide a wonderful opportunity to teach children about history and culture in an engaging way.
For something more adventurous, take a trip to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century fortress perched on the edge of the Arabian Sea. Kids will love exploring the fort’s ancient walls while parents enjoy the stunning views over the coastline.
3. Adventure and Fun Activities for Families
Goa isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s also home to a variety of fun and adventurous activities for families. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, from nature lovers to thrill-seekers.
For a wildlife experience, visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to exotic animals, including leopards, bison, and an impressive array of bird species. The nearby Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the highest in India, is another family-friendly adventure. You can take a jeep safari through the lush forests to reach this majestic waterfall, which is a thrilling experience for both kids and adults.
Another fantastic day out is a river cruise on the Mandovi River. Many operators offer family-friendly cruises that include music, dancing, and even local Goan performances, making it a fun and culturally enriching experience for children.
Dolphin-Watching Tours, If you’re looking for a unique and exciting family activity in Goa, a dolphin-watching tour is a perfect choice. These tours offer a chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable experience.
What to Expect: Dolphin-watching tours typically start early in the morning when the sea is calm and the chances of spotting dolphins are higher. You’ll board a boat and head out to the open sea, guided by experienced local operators who know the best spots for dolphin sightings. The tour usually lasts for about 2-3 hours.
Best Locations:
- Sinquerim Beach: Known for its clear waters and frequent dolphin sightings.
- Palolem Beach: Offers a serene setting and is a great spot for combining dolphin watching with a beach day.
- Coco Beach: Another popular location for dolphin tours, with easy access and beautiful surroundings.
Tips for a Great Experience:
- Book in Advance: Dolphin-watching tours are popular, so it’s a good idea to book your tour in advance.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Light, breathable clothing and a hat are recommended. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
- Bring a Camera: Capture the magical moments of dolphins in action.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water and snacks, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
4. Family-Friendly Resorts and Accommodations
Finding the right accommodation is key to a successful family holiday, and Goa offers an abundance of family-friendly resorts designed to cater to all your needs.
The Caravela Beach Resort is one of the most popular family resorts in Goa. With a host of kid-friendly amenities, from swimming pools to game zones, it ensures that your children are entertained while you relax by the beach.
Another great option is The St Regis Goa Resort Goa, a luxury resort that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. The resort’s sprawling gardens and private beach make it perfect for families who want to enjoy some quiet time together. With activities like cycling and beach sports, there’s plenty to keep the kids engaged.
For families looking for budget-friendly options, Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Goa is an excellent choice. This beachfront property offers spacious rooms, child-friendly dining options, and easy access to nearby attractions.
5. Exploring Goan Cuisine as a Family
No trip to Goa is complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. Goan food is known for its bold flavors, and fortunately, there are plenty of family-friendly options available.
Introduce your kids to Goan specialties like fish curry, prawn balchão, and bebinca, a popular local dessert. Many restaurants, such as Martin’s Corner and Fisherman’s Wharf, offer child-friendly menus and provide a relaxed dining environment where the whole family can enjoy a meal together.
If your children are picky eaters, don’t worry—Goa is also home to numerous international restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines, from pizza and pasta to Chinese and continental dishes, ensuring everyone finds something they love.
6. Tips for Planning a Family Trip to Goa
Planning a family trip can be overwhelming, but with a few tips, your Goa vacation will be smooth and enjoyable.
- Best time to visit: The winter months (November to February) are the best time to visit Goa, as the weather is cool and comfortable for outdoor activities.
- Transportation: Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Goa with your family. It gives you the flexibility to move around at your own pace and visit less crowded beaches and attractions.
- Pack essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing for the kids. Carry some snacks and water, especially when heading out for long trips to beaches or historical sites.
- Book in advance: Goa can get crowded during peak season, so make sure to book your accommodations, activities, and dining reservations ahead of time.
- Call Hotel Directly to book: You wouldn’t believe it, but this trick has worked wonders for me. The best deals I’ve scored on Goa hotels weren’t through travel aggregators, but by calling the hotel reception directly and negotiating a better rate. I start by searching various aggregators to find the lowest price for the room I want. Then, I call the hotel directly and mention I found a cheaper rate, usually quoting a price 10% lower than the lowest I found online. Most of the time, they agree and reserve the room for me. Works like a charm!
- Consider Cab cost while booking flights: When booking flights to GOX and traveling from GOX to South Goa, be aware that cab prices tend to be higher. The fare difference can range from ₹1200 to ₹2500, depending on which part of South Goa you’re staying in and which resort you choose. Factor this into your flight booking plans. Note that the distance from GOI airport to South Goa is shorter than from GOX airport.
Also, if you book cabs directly from the resort, the prices are usually higher, and taxi unions often prevent outside cab providers from picking you up at the hotel. To save money on airport drop-offs, book an outside cab and walk a bit to meet it outside the resort. This helps avoid the high charges set by taxi unions. Grabbing a cab from the airport itself is pretty seamless, with standard rates in place, you would get government approved CAB providers just before you exit the airport right besides the exit gate at GOI, for GOX you can checkout this page. CAB aggregators like OLA and UBER do not operate in GOA.
Conclusion
Goa is a fantastic family destination that offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax on family-friendly beaches, explore historical landmarks, or indulge in local cuisine, this coastal gem has it all. With so many things to do in Goa for family, your vacation is sure to be packed with unforgettable experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.
Here are few of our cherished memories from most recent trip
