What comes to our mind when we hear Goa? Beaches and nightlife; Well, there is so much more to Goa than the beaches and the exciting nightlife. Of course, we agree beaches in Goa are some of the best in the country and the nightlife is something that can be talked about for hours together. But what if we tell you, there is so much more to Goa than the beaches and nightlife.
Goa happens to the smallest state in the country attracting thousands and Lakhs of tourists from all across the globe. This little hamlet is one of the most popular and most visited destinations in the country. And why not - Goa has some of the most pristine beaches. It is a perfect blend of golden sand, pristine waters, sunsets, spices and seafood. What is more remarkable than the obvious facts here is that the culture and people make this city lively. Their hospitality and their happy go lucky attitude of the locals make the outsider welcomed.
The coastline expanded to 100 km stretch, Goa has some of the best beaches with bustling activities. The most popular beaches in Goa where it is bustling with people are Baga and Calangute beaches. These beaches are seen to be attracting many backpackers across the country and the world, due to exciting activities such as water sports, night clubs, casinos etc. While these beaches are bustling with activity, Anjuna beach and Arambol beaches attract the foreigners where the beach is a lot cleaner and there are a number of lovely cafes catering to the foreign crowd. There is always a debate as to where to stay in Goa. Which part is better? Which part is cheaper? North Goa or South Goa? Well, to be precise North Goa has cheaper accommodation options such as Hotels for backpacker and it is lot lively than the South Goa. But if you are looking for a more relaxed holiday and less crowded place, we suggest you go for South Goa. More such questions will be answered if you scroll further down, as we have come up with the detailed description and travel guide for Goa.
Top places to visit in Goa
Calangute beach
Often referred to as ‘Queen of Beaches’ in north Goa, Calangute beach is known to be the longest beach that spreads from Candolim to Baga. This enthralling beach is one of the busiest and commercial beaches in Goa. Bustling with activities, it is backpacker’s hub. There are some of the best hostels and budget hotels in this area that is very close to the beach. There so much to do at this beach that you will run out of time as to what to do. One can indulge in crazy water sport activities such as parasailing, wind-surfing, speed boat, banana ride etc. Apart from this, there are bustling eating joints that serve seafood, shacks and clubs serving cocktails and beer by the beach and attending a memorable party in one of those clubs. Nightlife in Calangute beach is truly remarkable.
Best time: October to February is a great time.
Basilica de Bom Jesus
Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most popular churches in Goa and in India. It is believed that this church and the beginning of Christianity happened almost at the same time. Located in Old Goa, this beautiful church holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Although it is 400 years old, the remains are still intact and are taken out once every year. The church also happens to be the finest examples of Baroque architecture (a highly decorative style of architecture) and Portuguese colonial architecture in India. Due to its rich history and cultural significance, Basilica of Bom Jesus is recognised as the UNESCO’S world heritage site in India. This 400-year world church is open to the public every day.
Best time: October to February is a great time.
Fort Aguada
This beautiful fort is a popular tourist spot that allures a lot of traffic for its view. Located on the shores overlooking the vast Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada played an important role for Portuguese. This well-maintained fort was built in the 1600s by the Portuguese to keep a watch on the Dutch and the Marathas. Until today it is still standing tall and strong carrying the testimony of the glorious past of Portuguese. It is the best-preserved fort that was built on the shore of River Mandovi. One must visit the fort and its lighthouse to the experience the glories of the Portuguese.
Baga beach
Baga is arguably one of the most visited beaches in Goa. Located in North Goa, this beautiful beach is visited by thousands of tourist from all over throughout the year. With a wide range of option for nightlife, Baga is a perfect place for a party animal. Lying on the same stretch as Calangute, Baga beach is considered to be an extension of Calangute beach. You will come across a wide range of water sport activities that leave an adventure lover gasping for breath. There are beachside shacks that come to life as the sunsets. They start with live music and serve mouth-watering food and beer by the beach.
Best time: October – February. A New Year celebration is legendary in here.
Anjuna beach
Anjuna is considered to be a popular beach amongst foreigners, hippies, and long-stayers. Almost up to two km, Anjuna beach has some of the best although limited water activities, cafes, guest houses and beach bars. Flea market in Anjuna beach amongst the most popular places to find funky T-shirts, junk jewellery and souvenirs; one can shop till they drop in this place. If you are looking for cheap accommodations on the beachside, Anjuna is the place for you. One can wake up to the roaring sea with a spectacular ocean view. Some of the best places to eat and drink at Anjuna are Banyan soul, Café Diogo and Casa Anjuna. And if you are looking for nightlife, Sea bar is a great place.
Best time: October – February is a great time.
Dudhsagar falls
Dudhsagar falls is a beautiful waterfall located on the border of Goa-Karnataka. This four-tiered waterfall is a 5th tallest waterfall nestled in the hills of Western Ghats. As the gushing stream of waterfalls from a humbling height of 1020 feet above sea level, it creates an illusion of a sea of milk falling from a great height; hence the name Dudhsagar is given to this waterfall. Dudhsagar trek happens to one of the most sought after treks in India. However, Dudhsagar trek has been restricted from happening. One can trek from Kulem to Dudhsagar which is a 12 km trek to the base of the fall. One can always reach Dudhsagar fall by jeep or bike.
Best time: Monsoon happens to be the best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls.
Dona Paula
Dona Paula is one of the busiest beaches packed with activities throughout the year. This beautiful beach is bustling with tourists who are attracted to pristine waters, adventure activities on the beach and spectacular nightlife. The most interesting thing about this place is the legend attached to this place. It is believed that Viceroy’s daughter Dona Paula de Menezes jumped off the cliff after facing objection from family regarding her love affair with a fisherman’s son. The place is thus called Dona Paula.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Chapora fort
Chapora Fort is a beautiful fort offers a spectacular view of the sea and nature around. This fort got its fame through a popular Bollywood movie that was filmed on this fort. Built-in the 15th century, this fort was under a lot of rulers from different dynasty. It was finally retained by Portuguese in the 1700s. Currently, the fort is not in good condition. However, it is a great place to chill with a friend on a pleasant day. Sunset from this fort is just stunning.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon and before sunset.
Colva beach
Colva beach is one of the striking beaches located in South Goa. Colva is known for its beaches and luxury resorts preferred by many tourists across the world. There are a number of water sport activities happen during the day at Colva beach. Likewise, there are interesting shacks serving tasty seafood with chill beer is absolute paradise.
Best time to visit: October to February is a great time to visit
Arambol beach
Arambol beach is one of the most beautiful and serene beaches in Goa, situated in a traditional fisherman village that is 90 km away from the airport. It has the most stunning beach that is less crowded in North Goa. Known for pristine waters, it is visited by tourists from all over the world who are looking for a peaceful vacation. Arambol beach is blessed by forest on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. One can indulge in Yoga classes on the sandy beach, or involve self in exotic beach Side Street shopping in this region.
Best time to visit: November to March is a great time to visit
Things to do in Goa
Water sports
Goa is one of the beautiful beach destinations that offer thrilling water activities; some of them are Parasailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, Banana boat ride and Speed boat. These exciting activities are loved by all. Most of these activities are popular in these beaches: Dona Paula, Anjuna, Calangute, Colva, Candolim, Bogmalo and Vagator beaches.
Best time: October to February is a great time to indulge in these activities.
Cruise
River cruises in Goa Is a popular thing to do. Cruising in the pristine waters of Goa is truly an exhilarating experience. There is a wide range of cruising experience for you to choose from according to your convenience. They range from evening cruises, romantic dinner cruises and the most famous casino cruise – Royal Deltin. These cruises in Goa offer Dinner options along with entertainment. All these cruises originate from Miramar beach in Panjim.
Best time: October to February is a great time to experience.
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a beautiful water sport that can be best enjoyed in Goa. There are very few places in India where scuba diving takes place. Goa is one such destination, where one can witness the treasures of the Arabian Sea. Home to a variety of marine life and colourful aqua plants, you will come across sea turtles and reef sharks in this region. There are three significant islands near Goa where scuba diving takes place. These are Grand Island, Pigeon Island and Agatti Island.
Best time: December – May is a great time for scuba diving. Monsoon should be avoided for this activity.
Casino
If you are someone who loves to raise the stakes and crave for an adrenaline rush, if you are someone who doesn’t hesitate into taking chances, then Casinos in Goa are must-visit places for you. Some of the most happening casinos in Goa are Deltin Royal Casino and Big daddy casino are popular offshore casinos, Casino strike, Casino Carnival and Deltin Jack are other popular places that are must-visit if you enjoy gambling.
Best time: Although the Casino scene is great all throughout the year and it starts at 10:00 am it is always best to visit casino post dusk.
Nightlife - Parties
Goa has always been projected a wild party destination in India. And truly so partying in Goa, is a completely a different experience; its weather, happy go lucky attitude of the locals and the carnivals, just don’t dull you for a moment. There are some exciting clubs in Goa that will leave lasting memories in life. Those are Club Titos – most popular place in Baga beach, Club Cubana ON Arpora hills and club extreme – in Miramar Road.
Best time: October to February is a great time to experience. And especially Christmas and New Year’s parties are something people look forward to from across the country.
Goa Itineraries
4N/5D Goa with Dandeli
Day 1: Goa Arrival; transfer to Dandeli
Day 2: Dandeli tour; evening transfer to Goa.
Day 3: Goa beaches tour
Day 4: Goa tour
Day 5: Goa departure
3N/4D North Goa
Day 1: Goa Arrival
Day 2: Goa day tour -
Day 3: Goa beaches
Day 4: Goa departure.
4N/5D South Goa with Gokarna and Jog falls
Day 1: Goa Arrival; transfer to South Goa
Day 2: South Goa beaches
Day 3: Goa – Gokarna transfer
Day 4: visit Jog falls
Day 5: Gokarna departure.
Best time to visit – November – February
Ideal time one can visit Goa is between November and February. It is also the peak time when people from all over come to Goa, due to its pleasant weather. It is neither cold nor very hot. It is a perfect time to go to a beach and get laid back. Since it is a peak season, you will see busy beaches bustling with activities – such as food shacks, bars, music, water sports like banana ride, jet skiing, parasailing etc. And if you are going during Christmas and New Year, Goa is the best place to party with friends.
Where to stay?
Goa is a beautiful destination filled with a wide range of accommodation. From beach shacks, eco-resorts, Airbnb to luxury resorts, boutique hotels, homestays and 5-star properties. One of the most frequently asked question by the tourist is – Where to we stay: North Goa or South Goa?
Well, it depends on person to person. While north Goa is known for lively scenes on the beaches, south Goa has some of the best quiet beaches that are great to relax. We are here you help you with top accommodation options one can check it out.
Best 5-star properties in Goa
These are some of the beautiful properties are in the country, located in Goa. They offer some of the best luxuries and spa retreats in Goa. If you are looking to treat yourself, these are some of the best 5-star hotels in Goa.
1. The Leela – South Goa
2. Goa Marriott resort and spa – North Goa
3. Taj fort Aguada resort and spa – North Goa
Eco resorts and Homestays
Capella – Is a luxury homestay situated in a sleepy village of Parra. Nestled in the midst of nature, one can have a beautiful and peaceful time in this homestay. If you are an avid birdwatcher, Capella is a perfect choice of place to stay.
Average room cost: starts from INR 4000/- per night
Olaulim Backyard – This is a beautiful homestay close to nature, where there are five cottages overlooking the backwaters of the river Olaulim. Located in North Goa, this is one of the few places where one can get away from the crowd and spend a peaceful vacation.
Average room cost: starts from INR 4000/- per night
Hostels and Budget Hotels
Backpacker Panda, Candolim
If you are looking at cool places to stay near Candolim, Backpacker panda has a beautiful hostel just 100 metres away from the beach in Candolim.
Average room cost: starts from INR 300/-
Zostel Calangute
Zostel is India’s first chain of backpacker hostels across India. This hostel in Goa is located in Calangute beach, where a Portuguese heritage home is converted into a beautiful, modern hostel.
Average room cost: INR 600/- per night
Le Blanche Guesthouse, Calangute
This basic guest house is perfect for a budget traveller who is looking for a clean room with basic facility. It is situated in a peaceful area that is in a short walking distance from the beach and the main road.
Average room cost: INR 600 – 800/- per night
What to eat & Where to eat?
Fish Thali at Starlight
Fish for the most obvious reasons a staple food for Goan. And nobody else can cook Fish as good as the Goans. If you eat seafood, and you are looking out for the best place to eat a memorable meal, then Fish Thali at Starlight is the place for you. The fish Thali has a fresh catch of the day – with a fish fry and fish curry with rice and dal.
Starlight restaurant: Calangute - Anjuna Rd, Arpora, Goa 403518
Rava fried Prawn at Anand
Rava Fried Prawn, Beer and sea is the ultimate combination for a blissful evening. Anand seafood bar and restaurant is a popular hangout spot with the locals. It is one of the best places where one should try Rava fried Prawn with a beer.
Anand seafood bar & restaurant: Chivar, Anjuna, Goa 403509
Crab at Laxmi restaurant
Seafood in Goa is something all must try. And crab curry at Laxmi family restaurant in Morjim is something all must try. Crab curry and grilled crabs in this restaurant are very popular with the locals. And if you happen to be in Morjim and miss out on crab at Laxmi restaurant, you are missing something really big in life.
Laxmi Family restaurant and Bar: Morjim Beach Road, Near Church, Bag Vaddo, Morjim, Goa 403512
Where to shop?
Shopping in Goa is a lot more fun than one expects. From flea markets to Night bazaars, Goa is a vibrant destination and an exciting place for a shopaholic. These colourful bazaars have a wide range of products and at exciting prices. Let us look at these markets in detail:
Anjuna Flea market
One of the popular things to do in North Goa is shopping in Anjuna Flea Market. This flea market is one of the best things that can happen to any person who is looking for a funky decorative piece for a home, for a handicraft you want to gift someone, or simply enjoy the colourful market; Anjuna is the place for you. There are hundreds of stalls in this flea market settling a wide range of products right from hammocks to beachwear, wooden crafts and carvings, funky t-shirts, footwear and souvenirs in best bargain. This Flew Market is held in Anjuna, North Goa every Wednesday.
Mackie’s night bazaar
Travelling on the weekend? Mackie’s night bazaar is Goa is a perfect place for food lovers and shopping enthusiast alike. There are numerous stalls and shacks on the Arpora - Baga beach road that are so vibrant that one doesn’t feel like getting back from it. This beautiful market is held every Saturday night until midnight. These stalls and shacks sell antique and junk jewellery, colourful t-shirts and clothes, beachwear and handicrafts are something you have to look out for. There are few authentic Chinese, Tibetan and Goan street food stalls in the market that sell lip-smacking food.
How to reach?
Did you know Goa receives over 2.7 million tourists every year? Having been receiving so many tourists, Goa has to be well connected.
Air – Goa being the smallest state in the country has an international terminal. That is pretty well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and many other cities. Most of the international flights to Goa are connected via Mumbai, as Mumbai is a major city that is closer to Goa.
Trains – There are about 3 main railway stations in Goa. One being Madgaon and the other is Vasco-da-Gama in the South Goa, and Thivim in North Goa, that acts as the major stations to enter Goa. The train is the most comfortable mode of travelling and is also a beautiful journey if the train is passing via the Konkan region.
Road – There are several luxury and state buses that run from major cities in the country like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. And drive on the Konkan route is truly mesmerising.