Goa
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Goa.
Top Attractions
3 Days in Palolem for a Relaxing Family Trip
Palolem is one of Goa's most family-friendly beaches, with its calm waters, soft sand, and laid-back vibe. I've spent many weekends here with my own family, and it's the perfect spot to unwind while keeping the kids entertained. The beach is safe for swimming, and there are plenty of shady spots under the palm trees. The nearby markets and cafes make it easy to grab a bite or pick up souvenirs without straying too far from the shore.
Trip Highlights
Best Time to Visit
Share Your Adventure
Spread the word about this amazing trip!
Day 1
Day 1 in Palolem
Kick off your family trip with Palolem's iconic beach, a scenic boat ride, and a taste of Goan flavors.
Activities
Morning at Palolem Beach
Start your day with the soft sands and gentle waves of Palolem Beach. It's perfect for kids to splash around while you relax under the shade of swaying palms. The crescent-shaped bay is calm and clean, making it ideal for swimming. Don't miss the colorful beach shacks lining the shore—they’re great for a quick coconut water break.
- Rent umbrellas early—they fill up fast.
- Look for dolphins near the rocky ends of the beach in the morning.
Dolphin Spotting & Island Boat Trip
Hop on a traditional wooden boat from Palolem Beach to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat. The ride usually includes a stop at nearby Butterfly Island or Honeymoon Island, where you can snorkel in shallow waters or just enjoy the secluded vibe. Local fishermen often double as guides, sharing stories about the area.
- Bring sunscreen and a waterproof phone case.
- Ask for life jackets for kids—safety first!
Goan Lunch at a Beach Shack
Head back to one of Palolem’s iconic beach shacks for a lazy lunch. Try places like 'Dropadi' or 'The Space Goa' for fresh seafood, like butter garlic crab or prawn curry with steamed rice. The vibe is laid-back, with hammocks and floor seating—perfect for families to unwind.
- Order the catch of the day—it’s always the freshest.
- Kids love the banana pancakes here!
Must Try Foods
Transportation
No destinations found for this itinerary
Day 2
Day 2 in Palolem
A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors, today takes you beyond the beach to explore the quieter side of Palolem with a spice plantation visit, a sunset at a hidden viewpoint, and a taste of authentic Goan cuisine.
Activities
Spice Plantation Tour
Head inland to one of Goa's lush spice plantations, where you'll walk through fragrant groves of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper vines. The guided tour includes a traditional Goan lunch cooked with fresh plantation ingredients. Kids will love spotting tropical fruits like jackfruit and cashew apples growing wild.
- Wear closed shoes - the plantation paths can be uneven
- Try the feni (local cashew liquor) tasting if traveling without kids
Butterfly Beach Hike & Sunset
In the late afternoon, take a short boat ride or moderate hike (about 45 mins) through coastal jungle to secluded Butterfly Beach. Few tourists make it here - you'll likely share the crescent-shaped cove only with fishermen and the occasional monitor lizard. The viewpoint above the beach offers one of Goa's most spectacular sunset spots.
- Bring water shoes - the beach has some rocky sections
- Pack mosquito repellent for the hike back
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Palolem
A relaxed day exploring Palolem's hidden gems, local culture, and quieter spots after two days of beach fun and popular attractions.
Activities
Kayaking through Silent Creeks
Paddle through the serene backwaters of Palolem, where mangrove-lined creeks offer a peaceful escape from the beach crowds. Glide past local fishing boats and spot kingfishers or otters if you're lucky. The early morning light makes the water shimmer, and the silence is broken only by paddles dipping into the calm water.
- Wear quick-dry clothes and bring sunscreen
- Local guides often share stories about the ecosystem—ask questions!
Cooking Class at a Local Home
Learn to make authentic Goan dishes like fish curry or pork vindaloo in a local family's kitchen. These intimate classes often start with a market visit to pick fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking where you'll grind spices on stone and learn secret family recipes. The best part? Sitting down to enjoy the meal you helped prepare.
- Come hungry—portions are generous
- Ask about the Portuguese influence on Goan cuisine
Sunset at Colomb Bay
Walk 20 minutes south of Palolem to this secluded crescent of sand that most tourists miss. The short trail through coconut groves leads to a peaceful beach where local fishermen mend their nets. Bring a picnic and watch the sun dip behind the cliffs—it's quieter here than Palolem's main beach but just as beautiful.
- Wear sturdy sandals for the rocky path
- Look for dolphins—they sometimes appear near the bay