A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary to Varca Beach, Goa

Wednesday, September 27: Arrival and Relaxation

Arrive at Goa International Airport and make your way to Varca Beach, located about 30 kilometers from the airport. Check-in at one of the family-friendly beach resorts, offering comfortable accommodations and amenities for all ages. Spend the morning exploring the resort and enjoying its facilities, such as swimming pools, kids' clubs, and recreational activities. In the afternoon, head to the beach and relax on the golden sands, basking in the warm September sun. As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, witnessing a breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea.

• Hotel Check-in: Prices may vary. Check hotel prices here
• Varca Beach: Free. Time spent: Flexible

Restaurants

• Breakfast: The Verandah - A charming beachfront cafe offering a delightful breakfast menu with options like fresh fruit smoothies, fluffy pancakes, and traditional Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Lunch: Fisherman's Wharf - Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at this popular restaurant known for its rustic ambiance and panoramic sea views. Try their mouthwatering Goan fish curry or grilled prawns. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
• Dinner: The Garden Court - Indulge in a romantic dinner at this open-air restaurant, surrounded by lush greenery. Savor their delectable continental and Indian dishes, including tender steaks and flavorful curries. Average cost for a meal is about 1,200 INR per person.

Thursday, September 28: Watersports and Cultural Exploration

Start your day with an exciting adventure by trying out various watersports activities available at Varca Beach. From jet skiing and parasailing to banana boat rides and kayaking, there's something for everyone in the family. After an exhilarating morning, head to the nearby town of Margao, known for its rich cultural heritage. Explore the vibrant markets and indulge in some local Goan cuisine for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the historic Our Lady of Grace Church and the famous Damodar Temple. In the evening, return to Varca Beach and unwind with a family-friendly movie night at the resort.

• Watersports Activities: Estimated cost varies by activity. Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Margao Market: Estimated cost for shopping and food. Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Our Lady of Grace Church: Free. Time spent: 1 hour
• Damodar Temple: Free. Time spent: 1 hour

Friday, September 29: Wildlife Encounter and Sunset Cruise

Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning. Explore the lush greenery, spot exotic birds and animals, and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the picturesque Palolem Beach, known for its pristine beauty and calm waters. Indulge in some beachside activities like building sandcastles or simply relaxing under the shade of palm trees. In the evening, treat your family to a memorable sunset cruise along the nearby Sal River, offering stunning views and a chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee approximately INR 20 per person. Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Palolem Beach: Free. Time spent: Flexible
• Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost varies by provider. Time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Varca Beach is Café Inn. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a charming restaurant located near the beach. They serve an array of Goan seafood delicacies like prawn curry and fish fry. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• To enjoy a memorable dinner experience, visit Martin's Corner. This restaurant is known for its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering Goan cuisine. Don't miss their signature dishes like Goan chicken cafreal and fish recheado. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the nearby Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can explore dense forests and catch glimpses of rare wildlife species. Take a family bike ride along the scenic cycling trails that crisscross the countryside, providing a glimpse into the local way of life. Don't miss out on experiencing a traditional Goan meal at a local family-run restaurant, where you can savor authentic flavors and indulge in fresh seafood dishes. Additionally, immerse yourself in the rich history of Goa by visiting the Old Goa area, home to beautiful churches and colonial architecture.