Family Friendly Attractions in Goa

The sun-speckled paradise of Goa boasts sweeping golden sands and a lavish nightlife, but there are dozens of attractions, events, and activities designed for fun-filled family days out. Whether they're riding elephants or swimming in the sea, Goa is bound to keep your kids entertained.

 

Wonderful wildlife

 

Goa is covered in lush greenery, from deep dense jungles to tree-capped hills. Within this beautiful landscape there’s an array of magical and rare wildlife, and thanks to Goa’s wealth of wildlife parks, kids and adults alike can view these elegant animals.

 

 

Take your kids on an adventure to this island-bound bird sanctuary. Within this sprawling mangrove habitat - where paths criss-cross through the low-hanging trees - you can see huge herons, cute red knots, and copper-streaked jack snipes. In the swampy mangroves you’ll also see quirky crabs and mudskippers, which are bound to delight younger kids.

 

Chorao, Goa 403102.  

 

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

 

Nestled within a jungle near the town of Molem, this huge sanctuary is perfect for nature-loving parents and younger teens looking for a true taste of India’s Eden-like landscape. The sanctuary is known for its graceful spotted deer, rare jungle cats, and slithering snakes, as well as its bright butterflies and giant lizards. The best way to view it is by pre-booked guided tour, which also offer rides through the jungle on elephant back.

 

National Highway 4A, Caranzol, Goa 403410.  

 

Pristine beaches

 

As a well-known resort area, Goa has no shortage of beaches. While some are occupied by bouncing bars and hedonism-seeking party animals, you’ll also find family-friendly stretches of soft sands. Palolem Beach

 

The unblemished Palolem Beach is a perfect place to enjoy some lazy relaxation with the whole family. Although this slice of coastline is popular, it’s roomy enough for you to catch some rays without feeling crowded. Young ones will love building sandcastles beneath the towering palms, while older energetic kids can take a dip in the warm ocean waters. There’s dozens of shack-stores and seafood restaurants nearby too.

 

Canacona, Goa 403702

 

 

Fantastic forts

 

Goa has a rich and varied architectural heritage, and while it’s true that kids aren’t always interested in the finer points of history, some of Goa's imposing, war-battered forts are bound to grab their attention.

 

 

Head over to this 17th century beachfront fort and lighthouse complex, and watch your kids go wide-eyed with wonder as they dash around the ramparts and gaze at the deep moats. Kept in a good condition, Fort Aguada is a great spot for a family picnic, and the views across the Arabian Sea are stunning.

 

Calangute Candolim Sinquerim Road, Calangute, Goa 403515

 

Family dining

 

Worried that the spicy local fare may make your kids turn up their noses? Fear not, because there are plenty of family-friendly eateries serving up grub for the fussiest of palates.

 

 

Based in Goa, this child-friendly restaurant is the perfect place to bring picky eaters. The vast menu spans a great variety of authentic Indian cuisine, and also includes Mexican, Italian, and other international fare, from fillet steak to vegetarian stir fry. With a quaint garden area, and friendly staff ready to cater to large family groups, Jamies is an ideal family restaurant.

 

Colva Beach Road, Colva, Goa 403516.  

 

Cafe Chocolatti

 

Looking to satisfy your kid’s sweet-tooth? Then head to this café and chocolatier, located in Candolim. With a European edge to its range of sweet treats, its green garden oasis is a heavenly spot for adults to sip on a cappuccino while kids get stuck into gooey brownies.

 

Major District Road 10, Candolim, Goa 403515.