Family-Friendly Attractions in North Goa
North Goa is a wonderful destination to visit with the whole family, as there are so many great attractions that will appeal to parents and kids alike. Of course, its gorgeous beaches are one of the first things you’ll think of, but there is much more to the state than its coast.
If you’re thinking of planning a family holiday to north Goa, check out our suggestions of places to visit while you’re away. Should you still need to arrange accommodation and other practicalities, visit this website to get an idea of your options.
The beaches
You’ll want to spend at least a couple of days enjoying the seaside in Goa, India, as this is what the state is most famous for. There are numerous stretches of sand in the north, with the following a few of the best family-friendly places to head to.
Miramar, close to Goa’s capital Panaji, has plenty of amenities close to the sand, making it a good spot for families. Its location on the edge of the estuary of the River Mandovi means you’ve got an amazing view of the imposing Aguada Fort, which stands on a headland, as well as access to the calm waters of the Arabian Sea.
Sinquerim Beach is another great place for families to visit, especially if you have older children who will enjoy a few water-based activities. Parasailing, windsurfing and water skiing are among the sports you can have a go at if you’re feeling adventurous.
The broad sweep of sand is also great for little ones who just want to build sandcastles and paddle in the sea, while parents can grab refreshments from the various beach shacks and restaurants that run along the bay.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park
Goa is home to some truly fascinating wildlife and this is something that’s bound to capture the imaginations of your children. Pay a visit to the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park and you could spot the likes of Bengal tigers, porcupines, sambars, flying squirrels, bonnet macaques, Indian rock pythons, greater Indian hornbills and kingfishers.
This is just a brief overview of the creatures that inhabit the reserve, which is located to the north of Panaji. As well as the amazing wildlife, you can also visit the Dudhsagar Waterfall, which is the highest in Goa. The water tumbles down a cliff in the Western Ghats, throwing up clouds of white mist that make it look quite magical.
Go on a dolphin-watching tour
The waters off the coast of Goa’s beaches are just as full of life as its forests, with dolphin watching one of the most popular activities on offer. Book your family on a boat tour and you’ll head out from the beach in search of these playful marine mammals.
You can easily join one of these trips from north Goan beaches such as Calangute, Candolim, Baga and Sinquerim – although be prepared for the fact that many of the tours depart in the early morning to give you the best chance of seeing the dolphins.
Visit a spice plantation
An educational, but fun, thing to do in Goa is to visit one of the spice plantations. This is an excellent opportunity to show your children where food and flavourings come from, with many of these sites growing produce such as pineapples, coconuts, cashew nuts, chillies, cloves, cinnamon and pepper.
Typically, a spice plantation tour will involve wandering among the various plants with a guide who can tell you what everything is, followed by a traditional meal cooked using fresh ingredients from the plantation.