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Goa, India’s beach paradise, offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and culture. Known for its stunning beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Palolem, there are numerous things to do in North Goa with family. Explore historical forts like Aguada and Chapora, and visit UNESCO-listed churches in Old Goa. Enjoy vibrant markets like Anjuna Flea Market, savour Goan cuisine, and experience the nightlife in places like Tito’s Lane. For nature lovers, spice plantations and wildlife sanctuaries await. Whether you’re into adventure, history, or simply unwinding, North Goa is a bliss.
8 Things To Do In North Goa With Family
Here is a list of things to do in North Goa with family that will let you have the perfect quality vacation with your family:
1. Relax At Calangute Beach
Photo: Sri Chinnu / Wikimedia Commons
Calangute Beach, often called the “Queen of Beaches,” is one of the most popular and vibrant beaches in Goa. Located in North Goa, it stretches over 4 miles of golden sand, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and a lively atmosphere. The beach is known for its wide shoreline, swaying palm trees, and the gentle lapping waves of the Arabian Sea. The area around Calangute is bustling with beach shacks, offering delicious Goan cuisine, seafood, and refreshing drinks. Beyond its scenic beauty, Calangute Beach is also a hub for water sports and adventure activities.
Start And End Point: Baga (north) and Candolim (south)
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Cost/Person: Free
2. Explore Fort Aguada
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Aguada is a well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort located in North Goa, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built in 1612, it served as a strategic defence point against Dutch and Maratha invaders. The fort is named “Aguada,” meaning “water,” because of the freshwater springs within it, which provided water supplies to the ships passing by. The fort complex also includes a lighthouse, one of the oldest in Asia, which was built in 1864. Visitors can explore the fort’s expansive walls, enjoy panoramic views of the sea, and learn about its historical significance in Goa’s colonial past. Visiting Fort Aguada is one of the best things to see in North Goa with family.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: Free
3. Pray At St. Alex Church
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
St. Alex Church, situated in Calangute, North Goa, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Established in 1597, this Catholic church exemplifies the rich Portuguese heritage in Goa. Its baroque architecture features a striking facade, elegant altars, and intricately carved woodwork. The church is centrally located in Calangute, making it easily accessible from surrounding areas like Baga and Candolim. A visit to St. Alex Church offers a glimpse into Goa’s colonial past and its vibrant religious traditions. Exploring the church’s charming architecture and tranquil atmosphere are the best things to do in North Goa with family.
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Cost/Person: Free
4. Wander In Mapusa Market
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
Mapusa Market, located in the town of Mapusa in North Goa, is one of the most vibrant and bustling markets in the region. It offers products like fresh produce, spices, textiles, jewellery, handicrafts, and local Goan specialties. The market is a hub of activity, where people can experience the vibrant pulse of Goan life. Wandering through Mapusa Market, visitors can enjoy the colourful stalls and sample traditional Goan snacks like pav bhaji and chana chaat. It’s an excellent place to pick up souvenirs, from handmade artefacts to unique clothing items. If you wonder what to do in North Goa with family, consider visiting this market.
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
5. Feel Serenity In Shri Shantadurga Temple
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons
Shri Shantadurga Temple, located in Ponda, North Goa, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Shantadurga, a manifestation of Durga. The temple is renowned for its serene atmosphere and impressive architecture, which blends traditional Goan and Portuguese styles. The main deity, Shantadurga, is worshipped as a peaceful form of the goddess, and the temple’s peaceful surroundings provide a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This temple offers a glimpse into Goan spiritual practices and is a significant cultural and religious landmark in the region.
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Cost/Person: Free
6. Take A Look Of Chapora Fort
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chapora Fort, perched on a hill overlooking North Goa, is a historic Portuguese fort that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, Vagator Beach, and the Chapora River. Today, its well-preserved bastions and ruins evoke a sense of its historical significance while providing stunning scenery for visitors.The fort’s elevated position makes it a popular spot for photography and relaxation, with expansive views that are especially beautiful at sunset. Its blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty makes it a popular thing to do in North Goa with family.
Start And End Point: Vagator Beach to the west and Anjuna Beach to the south
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Cost/Person: Free
7. Explore Houses Of Goa Museum
Photo: Vija Rindo Pratama / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Houses of Goa Museum, located in Panaji, offers a captivating glimpse into the architectural heritage of Goan homes. Established in 1994, this unique museum showcases the rich blend of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles that define traditional Goan residences. Through an impressive collection of scale models, photographs, and artefacts, the museum illustrates the evolution of Goan architecture. Visitors to the museum can explore various exhibits that highlight the distinctive features of Goan houses, including their elaborate facades, decorative elements, and innovative use of space. The museum’s exhibits provide valuable insights into the domestic life and architectural practices of Goa over the centuries.
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Cost/Person: ₹100
8. Indulge Into Water Sports
Photo: Praveen / Wikimedia Commons
Parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides are popular water sports activities available at various beaches in North Goa, offering thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts. Parasailing allows you to soar high above the sea, attached to a parachute that is towed by a speedboat. Jet Skiing provides an exhilarating ride on the water, where you can speed across the waves and feel the rush of adrenaline. Banana Boat Rides involve a group ride on an inflatable banana-shaped boat pulled by a speedboat. It’s a fun, social activity where participants try to hold on as the boat speeds and occasionally make sharp turns. These activities are typically available at popular beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna.
Duration: 3 – 5 hours
North Goa is a place of amazing things where visitors can enjoy a lot without getting bored. It has a mixture of everything from culture, history, and natural beauty. These things to do in North Goa with family will promise unmatchable experiences. You can make lifetime memories by planning your next trip to Goa with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Nikhilb239 / Wikimedia Commons
