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Goa is the smallest state by area in India but it has a unique beauty to offer. The vibrant culture and rich history of this place combined with beautiful beaches make it a must-visit destination. It has a strong Portuguese influence and epitomises religious harmony, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. You must explore things to do in Goa with family for a fun-filled and action-packed holiday. Get set to have a thrilling holiday with your family in this beach paradise.
10 Things To Do In Goa With Family
Here is a specially curated list of the top 10 things to do in Goa with family.
1. Explore Beaches In Goa
Photo: alexey turenkov / Unsplash
Beaches in Goa provide a serene environment for exploration. Baga Beach is located in North Goa and is popular for its beach shacks and water sports. Vagator Beach in North Goa has rocky cliffs and offers great views. For a more adventure-laden time, Calangute Beach in North Goa is a perfect beach for sports. On the other hand, Anjuna Beach has a 2 kms long stretch and is a great place to explore with family. You can also visit Colva Beach in South Goa, which is popular for its gold sand and attracts international tourists.
Location: Baga Beach, Baga, Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
2. Visit The Goa Science Centre
Photo: Aaron C / Wikimedia Commons
This centre is under the National Council of Science Museum, the Ministry of Culture, and the government of India. This place was established to serve the purpose of education and entertainment combined with science and technology. The main aim of the centre is to develop a scientific temper in the general public. It is a great opportunity to explore hands-on science and sci-fi exhibits along with your family. It attracts kids as it is an entertaining picnic place in Goa. Events are organised here and there is also a children’s play station focused on kids. The visiting hours here are from 9:30 AM to 6 PM.
Location: Miramar, Panaji, Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Cost: ₹25- ₹50
3. Go Bird Watching At Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Dulcey Lima / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dr Salim Ali’s bird sanctuary is a great place to visit in Goa with family and friends. There is a 15-minute ferry ride that takes you to the sanctuary. There are bird-thronging marshes which you can explore. This place is a paradise for bird watchers and children. You can take a guided tour to explore the place in a manner. It is a hidden gem, not known to many and excites nature lovers from India and abroad. It is a great way to spend a morning spotting birds amidst beautiful mangroves.
Location: Chorao Island, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Cost: ₹10 per person
4. Pray At The Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Photo: Aviatorjk / Wikimedia Commons
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a famous historical site known for its architectural grandeur in Goa. It is situated in old Goa and is known for having the model remains of St. Francis Xavier who played a cardinal role in the propagation of Christianity in Asia. Tourists can visit this place on weekdays from 9 AM to 6:30 PM and on Sundays from 9 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 6:30 PM. It is a great place to explore and the atmosphere of the basilica is exciting. You can attend the feast of San Francis Xavier held every year in December.
Location: Old Goa Road, Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to March
5. Dolphin Watching At Calangute
Photo: NASA / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Calangute Beach is popular for dolphin-watching. There are tours organised for spotting dolphins on small boats or speed boats for tourists. The total tour time is around one to two hours. The duration between October to March is considered the best time to visit this place for dolphin watching. The tranquil views of the coastline can be enjoyed along with this tour. This is an ideal family-friendly activity where you can opt for a private or a shared tour based on your choice.
Location: North Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Cost: ₹1000- ₹2500
6. Explore Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Photo: Ankit Shah / Wikimedia Commons
Dudhsagar Waterfalls in Goa is located on the Mandovi River. The height of the majestic falls is about 310 metres. It is popular as the Sea of Milk because of its milky white waters. Tourists can reach here by road as it is just 60 kms from Panji. Major activities near the falls include a jeep safari through the forest trails and trekking for about 2 to 3 hours to reach Dudhsagar waterfalls. You can also swim in the natural pool and go on a picnic with your friends.
Location: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonauli, Goa
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Cost: ₹2500- ₹4000
7. Take A Peek Into History At Fort Aguada
Photo: Travel with BD / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Aguada is a popular landmark in Goa that offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. It provides an insight into the glorious colonial past of our country. It is a great place to visit with your family as the architecture of the fort has thick walls and a four-story lighthouse which was constructed in 1864. You can add Sinquerim beach which is nearby for a day full of exploration.
Location: Sinquerim, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
8. Enjoy Shopping At Mapusa Market
Photo: subbu noir / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mapusa market is a bustling spot in Goa and has a great variety of things to buy. This market has local produce, textiles, spices and souvenirs. One can buy fruits and vegetables and spices like turmeric, black pepper and cinnamon. Goan snacks made locally including chorizo and desserts like bebinca and dodol can also be purchased. This market has traditional clothing options including beachwear and saris. Fresh seafood is also available in this market.
Location: North Goa, Goa
Best Time To Visit: Fridays, Morning hours are less crowded
9. Go On A Spice Plantation Tour At Ponda
Photo: Haydn Blackey / Wikimedia Commons
The Spice Plantation Tour is a great experience to uncover the rich agricultural heritage of Goa. It is situated in the heart of Goa, and the lush green spice gardens are attractive to visitors. Spices like cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, pepper and cloves are cultivated in the gardens. It is an amazing opportunity to learn the cultivation process, the conditions it needs, time and techniques to grow these spices.
Location: Sahakari Spice Farm, Ponda, Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Cost: ₹400- ₹600
10. Seek Blessings At Shri Shantadurga Temple
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons
This temple is located in Kavlem which is about 33 kms from the capital city of Goa, Panaji. The temple is popular for its architecture, it has a massive prayer hall and santorum. The main entrance, Mahadwar is grand and there are several daily rituals that are followed here including the Aarti. You can visit this temple during festivals like Navratri and Shanta Durga Zatra for a great time. This is an ideal place to seek blessings and offer prayers to the goddess Shantadurga for your prosperity and growth.
Location: Kavlem, Ponda, Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Goa has a variety of beaches, a rich cultural heritage, vibrant flea markets and delicious food. With several things to do in Goa with family, you can enjoy an all-round adventure here. The combination of nature and fun activities makes it a perfect family-friendly destination. It’s time to book your trip with TripXL and visit this beautiful beach paradise in India.
Cover Photo: Sumit Sourav / Unsplash
