Goa and that too with family? Sounds weird to many of you, who know only a little bit about this culturally rich coastal Indian state. It is true that the vibrant nightlife, jazz7 casinos, and raving beach parties tend to overshadow Goa’s cultural and historical significance and natural wonders. But it has more than just clubs and casinos. From family-friendly beaches to Indo-Portuguese architecture, forts, museums, and high-end restaurants, there are numerous places to visit in Goa with family. Here are a few places to know why Goa is a perfect destination to plan a family vacation.

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Family-Friendly Beaches

Goa is mainly a beach destination, with a large number of amazing sandy shores, where you can enjoy long strolls along the water’s edge, and indulge in some water activities. Since Goa has myriad beaches to choose from, it is better to do some early research. Find out about the beaches that offer thrilling water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, flyboarding, and paragliding.

 

One of the popular beaches which are packed with activities to give you a high adrenaline rush in your veins are Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Anjuna, Palolem, Etc. Moreover, if you are not a thrill-seeker, then just splash around the water, help your kids build sandcastles or play volleyball.

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Visit A Wildlife Sanctuary

No doubt Goa is a land of pristine beaches, but don’t limit your itinerary to only the beaches. It is home to a great number of wildlife sanctuaries, among them Cotiago, Bondla, Molem, and Netravali are to name a few. These sanctuaries are home to a wide array of animal species, including native and migratory birds, tigers, Indian bison, Indian peafowl, gray hornbill, etc.

 

Plan your trip to one of these sanctuaries and explore the unique ecosystem as well as exotic biodiversity of this Konkan region. Eco-tourism has recently been popularized in Goa and visitors in large numbers are hitting these offbeat trails with sheer enthusiasm. These sanctuaries and tiger reserves could be the best places to visit in Goa with family. You can treat your eyes to the impressive green landscapes, Indian gaur, barking deer, ruddy mongoose, as well as ancient tall trees.

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Admire the Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls, a four-tiered waterfall near Mandovi River, splashing down west of the border with Karnataka, is the second highest in India after Jog Falls. The best time to visit the fall is during monsoon when the cascades truly stand by their name ‘Dudhsagar’ or the ‘sea of milk’. This beautiful waterfall is so popular among tourists that 300 jeeps are allowed per day and there can often be long queues and waits for tickets.

 

A jeep safari will take you through the scenic dense jungles to the Bhagwan Wildlife Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. En route, you will get to see Devil's canyon, beautiful streams, and lush landscapes. Interestingly, swimming is possible in the falls, but wearing a life jacket is compulsory, which you can rent at INR 40.

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Explore the Architecture and Old Forts

If you are a history buff or want to teach some in-hand history lessons to your kid, make sure to visit the Indo-Portuguese architecture, old forts, and museums of Goa. Visit Aguada Fort, a well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort, which was built in 1612 to protect the land from the Dutch invasion. The fort is located on the south of Candolim beach on the banks of Mandovi River and overlooks the Arabian Sea. It offers some of the most sublime vistas of the sea. Visit the lighthouse, located inside the fort, which was built in 1864. This lighthouse is the oldest of its kind in Asia. 

 

After the fort, make your way to the 16th and 17th-century Catholic churches in Goa, which represent the beautiful blend of Indo-Portuguese architecture. Most of these churches were built in the Portuguese baroque style. Even the design of the houses of Goa’s natives is inspired by the colonial architectural style.

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Conclusion

There are umpteen numbers of places to visit in Goa, where you can enjoy a great, fun-filled family vacation. So, keep the hippie parties, wild nightlife, and casinos at bay, and enjoy Goa’s true gems. This small coastal state has so much history to unearth and so many places to visit that a seven-day trip would not be sufficient.