Goa for Families, One Base in Candolim and Four Easy Days

Upon arrival at GOX, a private transfer will take your family to Candolim. This journey covers about 45 kilometres and takes a bit over an hour, making it an easy start to your Goan holiday. Check into your accommodation and settle in for the day.

• TipPre-book your airport transfer to Candolim for a smooth arrival.

After checking in, the afternoon is free for your family to relax. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the hotel pool, allowing children to unwind after the journey. Alternatively, take a leisurely first walk on Candolim beach, just steps from your stay.

• TipCheck hotel pool hours upon arrival for family swimming times.

For dinner, head to Candolim Beach-Shack Fish Thali, a highly rated local spot. They serve seafood and Goan cuisine, alongside Indian and Chinese fare, in a casual beachfront setting. It is open until 1:00 AM, offering a relaxed first evening.

• TipCandolim Beach-Shack Fish Thali opens at 11:00 AM daily. Arrive early for a good spot.

Start your day with thrilling water sports at Candolim Beach Certified Water Sports. Enjoy parasailing and banana-boat rides, perfect for family fun. Mornings are ideal for these activities, before the heat and crowds increase, ensuring a comfortable experience.

• TipBook water sports with Candolim Beach Certified Water Sports in advance, especially for popular activities.

After an exciting morning, return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon. The pool is perfect for children to splash and play, while adults can unwind by the poolside. This allows for a break from the sun and a chance to recharge before the evening.

• TipEnsure everyone applies sunscreen regularly, even when by the pool.

Conclude your day with another relaxed dinner. Consider returning to Candolim Beach-Shack Fish Thali, open until 1:00 AM, for their diverse menu of seafood and Goan specialities. Alternatively, explore other local eateries near your accommodation in Candolim.

• TipCandolim Beach-Shack Fish Thali is open from 11:00 AM until 1:00 AM daily for dinner.

Embark on a 45 to 60 minute drive to Old Goa to visit the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus. This Baroque Catholic church, completed in 1605, is free to enter and houses the tomb of Saint Francis Xavier. It is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• TipBasilica of Bom Jesus is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Dress respectfully for church visits.

Continue your exploration in Old Goa with a visit to the Se Cathedral, a Roman Catholic place of worship. It is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Afterwards, take a short drive to Panjim for a walk through the charming Fontainhas Latin Quarter.

• TipSe Cathedral is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Fontainhas.

After your cultural visits, return to Candolim. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel or choose one of the many local restaurants for dinner. This allows for a comfortable conclusion to a day filled with historical sights and charming streets.

• TipConsider booking dinner reservations if visiting popular restaurants in Candolim during peak hours.

Begin your final full day with an early morning trip to Chorao - Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. After a short Ribandar ferry crossing, enjoy a serene mangrove canoe paddle. This experience is best at sunrise, offering chances to spot kingfishers and egrets in calm waters.

• TipArrange your transfer to the Ribandar ferry early to catch the sunrise at Chorao - Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

After the peaceful canoe experience, return to Candolim for a relaxed afternoon. Spend time at the hotel pool or enjoy a quiet lunch at a local cafe. This provides a gentle pace, allowing everyone to unwind after the early start and enjoy some downtime.

• TipPack light snacks and water for the early morning sanctuary visit.

For your final evening, enjoy a special family dinner in Candolim. Choose a restaurant that appeals to everyone, perhaps trying a new Goan specialty or revisiting a favourite spot. Reflect on your family's memorable Goan holiday experiences.

• TipConsider making a reservation for your farewell dinner, especially if you have a preferred restaurant.

Enjoy a leisurely final morning in Candolim. Take a refreshing walk along the beach, collecting shells with the family, before savouring a delicious breakfast at your accommodation. Prepare for a late-morning checkout and your departure. Your transfer to Goa International Airport (GOX) covers 35 kilometres.

• TipConfirm your late checkout time with the hotel in advance.
• TipAllow ample time for breakfast before packing up and preparing for departure.

After a comfortable late-morning checkout from your Candolim accommodation, proceed to Goa International Airport (GOX) for your flight. The drive from Candolim to the airport takes approximately one hour. Allow two hours at the airport for a comfortable domestic departure, including check-in and security procedures for the family.

• TipKeep all travel documents readily accessible for airport checks.
• TipEnsure any last-minute souvenirs are securely packed in your checked luggage.

Your flight departs from Goa International Airport (GOX), bringing your family holiday in Goa to a close. Reflect on the wonderful memories created during your stay, from the beautiful beaches to the local experiences. We hope you had a delightful trip.