A Week in Goa: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Wednesday, August 30: Arrival and Beach Exploration

Start your trip by arriving in Goa and checking in at your hotel. In the morning, head to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in North Goa. Enjoy the soft sand, gentle waves, and beach shacks offering delicious Goan cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring Baga Beach, known for its water sports activities and vibrant nightlife. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along Anjuna Beach and witness a magical sunset.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Baga Beach: Estimated cost - Varies depending on activities, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Anjuna Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, Le Poisson Rouge is a charming beachside café known for its delicious European-style pastries and strong coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• For lunch, Britto's offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu full of Goan seafood specialties. Try their famous fish curry or prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
• For dinner, Curlies Beach Shack is a must-visit. Situated right on Anjuna Beach, it offers a diverse menu of international and Indian cuisine. Don't miss their wood-fired pizza and fresh seafood. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.

Thursday, August 31: Old Goa and Spice Plantation

Start your day by visiting Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful churches and colonial architecture. Explore the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, two prominent landmarks. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation near Ponda and take a guided tour to learn about various spices grown in Goa. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst nature before returning to your hotel.

• Old Goa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Friday, September 1: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Wildlife Safari

Embark on an exciting adventure to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Enjoy a scenic drive and then take a jeep ride to reach the base of the falls. Spend time swimming and relaxing in the refreshing natural pools. Afterward, head to the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary for a thrilling wildlife safari and spot various species of animals and birds in their natural habitat.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person (including jeep ride), Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, September 2: Water Sports and Fort Aguada

Indulge in an action-packed day of water sports at Candolim Beach. Try activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides for an adrenaline rush. In the afternoon, explore Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Visit the lighthouse and learn about its history. Wrap up the day with a relaxing beachside dinner.

• Water Sports at Candolim Beach: Estimated cost - Varies depending on activities, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Fort Aguada: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 3: Fontainhas and Fonte Phoenix Spring

Discover the charm of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Goa. Take a leisurely walk through narrow lanes adorned with colourful Portuguese-style houses. Visit the Fundação Oriente, showcasing Goan art and history. In the afternoon, head to Fonte Phoenix Spring, a natural spring known for its medicinal properties. Enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings.

• Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Fonte Phoenix Spring: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, September 4: Spice Village Tour and Cultural Evening

Embark on a guided spice village tour in the village of Savoi-Verem. Learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, nutmeg, and black pepper. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch with authentic flavors. In the evening, attend a cultural performance showcasing Goan folk dances and music. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Goa.

• Spice Village Tour: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Cultural Evening: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Beach Hopping and Sunset Cruise

Explore the beautiful beaches of South Goa. Start with Colva Beach, known for its golden sand and soothing tranquility. Move on to Palolem Beach, famous for its scenic beauty and calm waters. In the evening, embark on a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River. Enjoy live music, dancing, and panoramic views as the sun sets over the horizon.

• Colva Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Palolem Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at The Fisherman's Wharf, situated right by the river. Indulge in their famous Goan fish curry with rice, priced at an average of ₹300 per person.
• For a delightful lunch, head to Martin's Corner, a popular Goan restaurant just a short distance from Palolem Beach. Try their mouthwatering Goan Prawn Curry, priced at an average of ₹400 per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Fisherman's Wharf. Feast on their delectable Tandoori Lobster, priced at an average of ₹900 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Goa, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda. It's a perfect place for families to witness the beauty of countless colorful butterflies amidst lush greenery. Another hidden gem is the Divar Island, accessible by a short ferry ride. Explore the island's quaint villages, churches, and scenic landscapes while enjoying the tranquility away from the bustling crowds.