3 Days in Morjim for Family Fun

Morjim is one of those rare places in Goa where you can enjoy both peace and excitement with your family. It's got a relaxed vibe, clean beaches, and just enough activities to keep everyone happy. I love how the Russian influence mixes with Goan culture here, making it unique. The beach is perfect for kids with its gentle waves, and there are plenty of spots to grab a bite without breaking the bank.

Goa, goa
3 Days
Family
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Spending a lazy afternoon at Morjim Beach building sandcastles and spotting dolphins
Trying authentic Russian food at one of the local cafes near the beach
Taking a short boat ride on the Chapora River to see the mangroves and birds
Watching the sunset from the famous 'Little Russia' area with a coconut in hand

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Morjim

Kick off your family trip with Morjim's top attractions, from its famous beach to local wildlife and delicious Goan flavors.

Activities

Morning at Morjim Beach
Morning at Morjim Beach

Start your day at Morjim Beach, known for its golden sands and calm waters. It's perfect for families, with plenty of space for kids to play and shallow waters for safe swimming. Keep an eye out for nesting Olive Ridley turtles if you're visiting between November and March. The beach shacks here are great for a relaxed breakfast with sea views.

Morjim Beach, near the Chapora River mouth8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best before it gets too hot)Free (shack meals around ₹200-500 per person)
Tips:
  • Bring sunscreen and hats - the sun gets strong by mid-morning
  • Try a fresh coconut from beach vendors - they're sweet and refreshing
Visit the Russian Market

Morjim has a quirky Russian influence, and this small market reflects that. Browse through stalls selling everything from souvenirs to Russian groceries. It's a fun spot to pick up unique trinkets or try Russian snacks like syrniki (cheese pancakes). The market is compact, so it won't overwhelm kids.

Near St. Anthony's Chapel, Morjim11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (before the midday heat)Free to browse (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Cash is preferred at most stalls
  • Look for the stall selling homemade Russian honey cakes - they're a hit with kids
Sunset at Chapora Fort

Head to nearby Chapora Fort for panoramic views of the coastline. While the fort itself is in ruins, the vantage point is spectacular, especially at sunset. The short hike up is manageable for most families (about 15 minutes). It's less crowded than the famous Aguada Fort but offers equally stunning views.

Chapora Fort, about 15 minutes from Morjim5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (for sunset views)Free
Tips:
  • Wear sturdy shoes - the path can be rocky
  • Bring water - there are no shops at the top
  • Stay after sunset for the beautiful lights along the coast

Must Try Foods

Goan fish curry with rice
Bebinca (layered Goan dessert)
Russian pelmeni (dumplings found at some Morjim cafes)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Thivim Railway Station (20 km, about 40 minutes by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Morjim Bus Stand (local buses run every 30-60 minutes to Mapusa and Panaji)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Readily available through apps like GoaMiles; auto-rickshaws also operate locally

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Day 2

Day 2 in Morjim

A mix of nature, local culture, and delicious Goan flavors, with a relaxed pace perfect for families.

Activities

Birdwatching at the Morjim Turtle Beach

Head to the quieter northern end of Morjim Beach, famous as a nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles (November to March). Even outside nesting season, it's a fantastic spot for birdwatching—look for kingfishers, egrets, and even the occasional brahminy kite. The shallow waters are safe for kids to splash around.

Northern end of Morjim Beach, near the turtle nesting zoneEarly morning (6:30-8:30 AM) for best bird activityFree (donations to turtle conservation welcome)
Tips:
  • Carry binoculars if you have them
  • Avoid loud noises to not disturb wildlife
Hire a Local Fisherman's Boat

Skip the commercial boat tours and chat up the fishermen drying their nets near the beach. Many offer short trips (30-45 mins) on their traditional wooden boats—kids will love spotting dolphins while you learn about their fishing techniques. Negotiate directly; it's cheaper than pre-booked tours.

Morjim Beach, near the fishing shacksLate morning (9:30-11 AM) when waters are calm₹800-1200 per boat (fits 4-6 people)
Tips:
  • Wear quick-dry clothes—you might get splashed
  • Ask about their catch of the day
Lunch at a Family-Run Goan-Portuguese Home

Book ahead for a homely meal at a Goan-Portuguese family's house (ask your hotel for recommendations—'Fernandes' and 'D'Souza' families often host). Expect dishes like pork vindaloo, fish curry with coconut, and bebinca (layered dessert) served on banana leaves in their courtyard.

Residential lanes behind Morjim Church1-2:30 PM (typical Goan lunch hours)₹500-800 per person
Tips:
  • Call a day prior to confirm menu—some specialize in seafood, others in meats
  • Carry cash—most don't accept cards

Must Try Foods

Prawn Balchão (spicy-sour pickle-style curry)
Sanna (fluffy rice cakes)
Urak (local cashew feni's milder cousin)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Thivim Railway Station (25 km, 45 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Morjim Junction (500m, buses every 30 mins to Mapusa/Panaji)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy via GoaMiles app; auto-rickshaws charge ₹200-300 for short hops

Day 3

Day 3 in Morjim

A relaxed day soaking in Morjim's hidden gems, from quiet riverside spots to local markets and unique dining experiences.

Activities

Morning Kayaking on the Chapora River

Start your day with a peaceful kayak ride along the Chapora River, where the water is calm and the surroundings are lush. This is a great way to see Morjim from a different perspective, with chances to spot local birdlife and even dolphins if you're lucky. The early morning light makes the scenery even more magical.

Chapora River, near Morjim Beach7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best for calm waters and cooler weather)₹800-₹1,200 per person
Tips:
  • Wear light, quick-dry clothes and bring sunscreen.
  • Book with a local operator the day before to secure a spot.
Explore the Morjim Village Market

Head to the lesser-known Morjim Village Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods. It's smaller and more authentic than the Russian Market, with a friendly vibe. Pick up some Goan spices or cashews as souvenirs, and chat with the vendors for a taste of local life.

Morjim Village Market, near the main road10:00 AM - 11:30 AM (before the midday heat)Free to explore (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Carry small change for easier transactions.
  • Try the fresh coconut water sold at stalls—it’s refreshing!
Lunch at a Riverside Shack

Wrap up your trip with a lazy lunch at one of the charming riverside shacks along the Chapora. These spots are quieter than the beach shacks but just as delicious, serving fresh seafood and Goan classics. Try the crab xec xec or prawn balchão with a cold beer while enjoying the river views.

Riverside shacks near Morjim (e.g., Jardin d’Ulysse)12:30 PM - 2:00 PM (perfect for a relaxed midday break)₹1,000-₹1,800 for a meal for two
Tips:
  • Ask for the day’s catch—it’s always the freshest.
  • Bring cash as some shacks don’t accept cards.

Must Try Foods

Crab xec xec (a coconut-based curry)
Prawn balchão (spicy, tangy prawn dish)
Bebinca (layered Goan dessert)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Thivim Railway Station (25 km, ~45 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Morjim Bus Stop (frequent buses to Mapusa and Panjim)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; use GoaMiles app or hail locally (auto-rickshaws also available)

Travel Tips

Rent a bike to explore nearby beaches like Ashwem and Mandrem – it's cheaper and more fun than taxis
Carry cash as some beach shacks and smaller places don't accept cards
If your kids are picky eaters, try the wood-fired pizzas at most beach cafes – they're a safe bet
Visit the Saturday night market in nearby Arpora if you're there over a weekend

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3 Days in Morjim for Family Fun | Goa, goa | Travel Itinerary | TopPlacesIndia