4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa

Saturday, September 16: Explore the Beaches

Start your trip by unwinding on the scenic beaches of Goa. In the morning, head to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa, and enjoy the golden sands and clear blue waters. After a delightful beachside lunch, visit Baga Beach, known for its water sports activities. In the evening, take a stroll along the vibrant Anjuna Beach, famous for its flea market and lively beach shacks.

• Calangute Beach: Cost estimate: INR 200, Time spent: 4 hours
• Baga Beach: Cost estimate: INR 300 (for water sports), Time spent: 3 hours
• Anjuna Beach: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia, a charming beachside café known for its fresh and wholesome food. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options such as homemade granola bowls and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
• For lunch, head to Jamie's Restaurant, a popular eatery offering a mix of Goan and international cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering seafood dishes like Goan fish curry and prawn biryani. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Gunpowder, a cozy restaurant serving authentic South Indian fare. Try their signature dishes like appam with chicken stew or their butter pepper garlic prawns. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.

Sunday, September 17: Explore Historical Sites

Embark on a journey through Goa's rich history and culture. Start your morning at the magnificent Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. Afterward, visit the Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. In the evening, wander through the charming streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, and admire the colorful Portuguese-style houses.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
• Fort Aguada: Cost estimate: INR 200, Time spent: 3 hours
• Fontainhas: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours

Monday, September 18: Discover Wildlife

Immerse yourself in Goa's natural beauty and wildlife. Begin your day at the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot various species of animals and birds. Afterward, head to the Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool below. In the evening, take a serene boat ride along the Cumbarjua Canal, known for its dense mangrove forests and crocodile sightings.

• Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 4 hours
• Dudhsagar Falls: Cost estimate: INR 400, Time spent: 3 hours
• Cumbarjua Canal: Cost estimate: INR 300, Time spent: 2 hours

Tuesday, September 19: Indulge in Goan Cuisine

Savor the flavors of Goan cuisine on your last day in Goa. Start your morning with a visit to the bustling Mapusa Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce and spices. In the afternoon, take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Goan dishes like fish curry and vindaloo. In the evening, treat yourself to a traditional Goan seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant in Palolem, known for its scenic beauty.

• Mapusa Market: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
• Cooking Class: Cost estimate: INR 1,000, Time spent: 3 hours
• Palolem Beach: Cost estimate: INR 800, Time spent: 4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, visit the Spice Plantations in Ponda, where you can learn about different spices and enjoy an elephant ride. Another hidden gem is the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, home to a variety of vibrant butterfly species. Additionally, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Chorao Island is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering a chance to spot rare bird species in their natural habitat.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Goa here.