Goa, located on India’s west coast, is renowned for its scenic beaches, lush forests, and rich Portuguese heritage, attracting countless tourists every year. “This place is an ideal spot for families to visit”, with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all ages. Goa is also known as “Rome Of East”, as it captivates with its sun-kissed shores, vibrant culture, and historic charm. Goa offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. But the only question that strikes our mind is what are the things to do in Goa with family and how we can plan our trip? So here we are providing you the best of all to create lifetime memories with your loved ones and cherish a perfect family vacation.
Things to do in North Goa with family
North Goa is a great place for a family trip. You can have fun at nice beaches like Calangute and Baga, try exciting water sports at Anjuna, and see amazing views at Fort Aguada. Explore lively markets in Mapusa and relax in calm Vagator. North Goa has everything for a happy family holiday with beach fun, water activities, and sightseeing. Here are few things to do in North Goa with family:
1. Visit the Anjuna Flea Market & Beach
The Anjuna Flea Market is a must-visit for any visitor to Goa. Held every Wednesday, the market is a treasure trove of handicrafts, and clothes. You can find everything from traditional Goan handicrafts to hippie-inspired clothing and jewellery. Nesting between the Aravalli hills, this is also among the best beaches in North Goa. It is one of the best places to visit in North Goa at night if you want to go to the trance parties that happen frequently on the beach. There are numerous shacks and bars along the beach where you can enjoy dining, drinking, and watching the sunset. This is one of the best things to do in Goa with your family.
2. Take a boat trip to Dolphin Island
Dolphin Island is a small island located just off the coast of Goa. It is a popular spot for boat trips, where you can swim with dolphins in their natural habitat. Dolphin Island is also a great place to relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. You can also sign up for something called a ‘Dolphin Tour’ in Goa. In and around Grand Island, boat tours are available exclusively to see dolphins jumping in the water. The Dolphin Tour is one of the best things to do in Goa with family.
3. Guided trek into the jungles
If trekking is your cup of tea, then make it a point to sign up for a trek in Goan jungles and enjoy the lush green vegetation. This is one of the things to do in Goa with family and for all the adventure seekers out there.
It is simply astonishing as to how much this destination has to offer for all the adventure lovers across the world. Goa, in short, is also a haven for adventure seekers.
4. Visit the Arpora Saturday Night Market
The Arpora Saturday Night Market is a lively market held every Saturday evening. It is the most amazing place to buy trinkets and mementos. You can undeniably add this on your list of things to do in Goa with family, to buy perfect souvenirs for your loved ones!
5. Ayur Clinic, Arpora
If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, visit Ayur Clinic in Arpora, Goa. Besides being a happening destination, Goa can also be a place of rejuvenation. At Ayur Clinic, you can enjoy ayurvedic detox therapy that’s perfect for all ages. It’s an excellent opportunity to revitalize yourself and take a break from the conventional things to do in Goa with family. So, if you’re bored and need a change, head over to Ayur Clinic for the best relaxation and rejuvenation experience.
6. Visit the Bodgeshwar Temple
The Bodgeshwar Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most popular temples in Goa and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and its peaceful atmosphere. This temple can be on the top of your bucket list of things to do in Goa with family.
7. Visit the Se Cathedral
The Se Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest churches in Goa. It is a beautiful example of Portuguese architecture and is a must-see for any visitor to Goa. The cathedral is also home to a number of important religious artefacts.
8. Take a cruise
If you’re interested in going out to sea on a large boat, then taking a cruise is an activity worth considering. Numerous cruise services are available throughout Goa, and you can choose between a luxurious or more affordable option. Watching a sunset over the beaches of Goa from a cruise is an unforgettable experience and one of the best things to do in Goa with family.
9. Visit the Wax World Museum
The Wax World Museum is a life-size wax museum with exhibits of famous people from around the world. It is a great place to learn about history and culture in a fun and interactive way. The museum also has a number of photo opportunities, so you can take pictures with your favourite celebrities.
10. Visit the Goa Science Centre
The Goa Science Centre is an interactive science museum with exhibits on a variety of scientific topics. It is a great place to learn about science in a fun and engaging way. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, so you can get hands-on with the science you are learning about.
11. Visit the Spice Farms
Have you run out of typical things to do in Goa with family? Go to the Sahakari Spice Farm in Ponda and check out the plantations. You can even learn a thing or two about farming spices. Also Carry a digital cam if you want to capture the eternal beauty and are on the lookout for some solace from the regular hubbub of concrete jungle.
12. Pamper yourself with a massage
After indulging in all those adventurous sports, your muscles may require some relaxation. Therefore, head over to one of the countless spa centres and pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa or massage.
Also read: Top 10 Places To Visit In Goa
Things to do in South Goa with your family
South Goa is perfect for a family vacation. Enjoy peaceful beaches like Palolem and Colva, where kids can play in the gentle waves. Visit the historic Cabo de Rama fort for stunning views. Explore the beautiful Dudhsagar Waterfalls and spice plantations for a day of adventure. South Goa offers a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere with a mix of nature and cultural experiences. Here are few things to do in South Goa with family:
1. Colva Beach
South Goa may be known for its relative quietness, but Colva Beach is an exception. Located in Salcete, Colva is among the best beaches in South Goa and is also the most crowded. Those looking for a party place in South Goa can head straight to the Full Moon Parties held in Colva when the moon is at its fullest and brightest in the Goan night sky. Colva Beach is one of the must visit places in Goa for all the beach lovers.
2. Take a boat trip to Butterfly Beach
If you’re looking for things to do in Goa with your family, you should definitely visit Butterfly Beach. This hidden gem offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, where you can relax in tranquil surroundings and participate in exciting activities like swimming and snorkelling. It’s the perfect place for a memorable family getaway in Goa.
3. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important religious sites in Goa. It is home to the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary who is revered by Christians around the world. The basilica is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and is a must-see for any visitor to Goa, making it a significant thing to do in Goa with family.
4. Visit the Benaulim Beach
Benaulim Beach is a popular beach for families, with its water sports and family-friendly activities. You can go jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat riding. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes on the beach, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the sunset.
5. Visit the Shri Mangueshi Temple
The Shri Mangueshi Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most popular temples in Goa and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and its peaceful atmosphere, making it one of the serene things to do in Goa with family.
6. Visit the Cabo de Rama Fort
The Cabo de Rama Fort is a Portuguese fort located on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea. It is a great place to learn about Goa’s history and to enjoy the stunning views. The fort also has a lighthouse, which is a popular tourist attraction.
7. Canoe
One of the best things to do in Goa with family is canoeing. Paddle along the lakes and beaches of Goa in a canoe as you take in the mesmerising view. While canoeing, ensure that both you and your partner are in sync with each other. Apply a lot of sunscreen as the sun reflected off the water might cause skin burns.
8. Visit the Ponda Heritage Walk
The Ponda Heritage Walk is a guided walk through the historic town of Ponda. The walk takes you past a number of important historical sites, including the Ponda Fort, the Mahalaxmi Temple, and the Ponda Market. The walk is a great way to learn about Goa’s history and culture.
9. Vasco Da Gama
The town of Vasco Da Gama is a hub that connects many great South Goa beaches. It is an absolute must-visit place, not just for its small-town and intricate beauty, but for a glimpse of the essential Goan atmosphere. This charming suburban town in Goa is a must-visit for families. Don’t miss out on this wonderful thing to do in Goa with family!
10. Visit the Goa Chitra Museum
The Goa Chitra Museum is an open-air museum with exhibits on Goan culture and heritage. The museum has a collection of over 4,000 artefacts, including traditional Goan houses, tools, and implements. The Goa Chitra Museum is a great place to learn about Goa’s rich culture and heritage.
11. Go shopping in Panjim
Shopping is definitely the most important one in the list of things to do in Goa with family. Panjim has those quintessential shopping lanes that we all love. Go deeper in to find unique items. While you are busy roaming the streets of Goa, carry a bottled water in plastic containers with you always to avoid dehydration. Learn how to bargain before you step in Anjuna Flea Market as it’s easier to bargain in there by almost up to 30%.
These are just a few of the many things you can do in Goa with your family. Goa has something to offer everyone, You’re guaranteed to have a great time, regardless of your interests.
Goa is famous for yoga, but you can sign up for some Tai Chi classes in and around Candolim. Once you master the art, It’s best to practise the art in solitude on top of a fort. The professional art of Tai Chi is a must-have thing to do in Goa with family if you want to explore different things and gain various experiences. Tai Chi is a form of exercise that has been widely adopted Across the globe and for all age groups.
Also read: About Goa – The place Of Dreams
Final Thoughts
There we go. Let’s see how many trips it takes you to check all of these things to do in Goa with family! But rest assured, wherever you go, you will never have to think about what to do, thanks to this exhaustive list. This list has got almost all your Goa trips covered right from beach hopping to tattoo making. There are a lot of things to do in Goa with family and many other things to see in Goa that will make your trip memorable to the core!
Here are some additional tips for you & your family travelling to Goa:
- Choose a family-friendly resort or hotel that offers amenities such as a swimming pool, kids’ club, and playground.
- Book activities in advance, especially popular ones like boat trips and dolphin watching.
- Pack snacks and drinks to save money and avoid the hassle of finding child-friendly food on the go.
- Take breaks throughout the day to relax and cool off, especially in Goa’s hot and humid weather.
- Be aware of your surroundings, even though Goa is generally a safe place, particularly when travelling with children.