With 35+ sun-kissed beaches, bright skies, lengthy shores, vibrant nightlife, and the best seafood, Goa attracts visitors from across the globe. Known as a coastal paradise, it is a perfect honeymoon destination, a getaway for friends & family, and an amazing spot to spend the weekend. Its rich heritage, friendly locals, and tropical climate make it an exotic vacation destination. For people visiting this versatile and charming state for the first time, here are a few tips. Check this extensive travel guide to Goa and make your Goa trip unforgettable.
This Goa travel guide includes:
- Best Places to Visit
- Things to do in Goa
- Goa’s best beaches
- Popular eateries
- Reasonable shopping spots
- Suitable time to visit
Best Places to Visit in Goa
Tito’s Street
A trip to Goa is incomplete without witnessing its happening nightlife. Enjoy the legendary night out at Tito’s street, one of the best clubs in Goa. Located near Bagha beach, this club attracts crowds from all over the world. Its prime location and top-notch service are the two perks that make this club a party hub. The place has two levels: one is the dance floor and the second is the sitting area where people enjoy their food and drinks. Tito’s street is a popular hangout spot that is worth your time and money.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Located on the Mandovi river, Dudhsagar Waterfalls is one of the tallest water cascades in India. This four-tiered waterfall structure is a must-see site situated on the Goa-Karnataka border. The water falls from nearly a height of 1017 feet worth every ounce of effort put into reaching there. The lush green jungle and the beautiful white water will make you fall in love with this natural beauty. Whether with friends or family, Dudhsagar waterfalls are something that you should not skip going to.
Beaches
Goa is blessed with plenty of beaches ranging from lively party destinations to serene & peaceful ones. These foreshores are crowded with Indian and foreign tourists throughout the year. North Goa offers the most happening beaches with a pinch of hippy culture, karaoke bars, and cheap alcohol. The best beaches of North Goa are Baga, Anjuna, Arambol, etc.
While North Goa beaches are well-known for their exciting and energetic nightlife, South Goa beaches are peaceful. These are the best choice for people wanting a cut-off from the world. Some famous South Goa beaches are Colva, Palolem, Galgibaga, and more.
Forts
Goa’s heritage is highly influenced by Portuguese culture. However, the state was also ruled by a Muslim emperor Adil Shah who built several forts in the state. Some forts were modified and some remained the same. These forts show the rich custom and architectural significance of Goa. These forts are spread across the state both in the northern and southern regions. The well-known forts in North Goa are Chapra Fort, Aguada Fort, Tiracol Fort, etc. The most popular fort in South Goa is Cabo De Rama Fort. All these illuminating buildings reveal stories of the bygone era and are great examples of astounding infrastructure.
Also Read: Offbeat Places in Goa
Things to do in Goa
Enjoy Water Sports
Goa is a perfect holiday destination for people searching for peace or thrill. With serene and picturesque spots, Goa also offers ample opportunities for adventure lovers and enthusiasts to explore the waters. There are various water sports such as underwater diving, catamaran sailing, jet skiing, and parasailing that people can try out.
Play in Goa’s Casinos
Goa has some exceptional avenues that must be on your bucket list. Visiting Goa’s casinos is the best way to indulge in a carefree and fun nightlife. These casinos offer several games such as slots, poker, flush baccarat, etc along with unlimited food and drinks. Most of these casinos offer an entire package including entry, buffet, and drinks. Goa’s best casinos are in Panjim where you can cruise on the high seas if you want to enjoy gambling.
Take Heritage Walks
There are several heritage sites, significant spice plantations, and Goan caves to walk through. History buffs and nature lovers can roam around these places and soak the essence of these beautiful sites. The heritage walk is a great way to get an authentic experience of Goan history and culture. Some of the most popular sites to wander around are Savoi Spice Plantation, Sahakari Spice Ranches, Tropical Spice Plantation, Fontainhas Heritage, and more.
E-Bike Tour
Want to ditch car tours and explore the beauty of this popular tourist attraction? Try E-Bike tours to explore the hidden gems of Goa. It’s one of a kind experience to travel on these battery-operated bikes. These tours let you witness the mesmerizing sites of Goa, taste scrumptious food, and enjoy the art and music.
Best Beaches in Goa
There is no better place than Goa to see the beautiful and hypnotic beaches. The place is filled with a bounty of beaches with roaring waves, golden sand, and a brightly shining sun. From happening parties to calm surroundings, these seashores give the best revitalizing experience ever. Some of the best beaches in Goa are:
Baga Beach, North Goa
The first beach that this travel guide to Goa includes is Baga. It is one of the happening seashores in Goa loaded with party crowds, music, water sports, fine dining restaurants, bars, and clubs. Dolphin cruises and water sports like parasailing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, kite surfing, and jet skiing are the major attractions of this foreshore.
Candolim Beach, North Goa
Candolim is the nearest beach (1-hour journey) from Goa international airport. This beach is one of the longest ones in Goa with a classic stretch of sand lined by beach shacks and cafés. It is comparatively less crowded & quieter and offers various water sports to spend a fun vacation.
Agonda Beach, South Goa
Agonda beach is a great honeymoon destination in Goa. This quiet, calm, and pleasant location is perfect to spend some time with your partner, friends, or family. Its smooth and consistent waves make it a suitable place for surfing too.
Palolem Beach, South Goa
Enclosed by a thick forest of coconut palms, Palolem is another off-beat attraction in the state. The beach is known for its picturesque views which attract tourists the most. Its temporary coconut huts, shacks, rustic rooms, and lounge chairs make a lifetime’s worth of memories.
Best Places to Eat in Goa
The delicious seafood boasts the vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and warm hospitality of Goa. The coastal culinary and local flavors are perfect to make your dining experience even more appetizing. Goa houses many restaurants and cafés to taste the rich flavor of Goan food. Some of the best places to eat in the state are:
- The Fisherman’s Wharf
- Thalassa
- Luna’s Ristorante
- Spice Goa
- Zeebop by the Sea
Where to Shop in Goa
Shopaholics can get the most exotic jewelry, hippie dresses, and cool hats on Goa’s streets. From MMC markets to high-end stores, this state has it all. Its flea markets, night bazaars, street shops, and malls are filled with people wandering around for shopping at reasonable prices. Here are some of the best places to shop in Goa:
- Anjuna Flea Market
- Arpora’s Night Market
- Mapusa Friday Market
- Baga Market
- Panjim Municipal Market
- Mackie’s Night Bazaar
Best Time to Visit Goa
There are two main seasons to visit Goa: October-April and May-September. Between October and April is the best time to relax on the beaches, play water sports, and witness the most popular festival, Sunburn with extensive Christmas and New Year celebrations. May to September is the time when the beaches are nearly empty and the prices of hotels become too reasonable to stay.
Final Words
A trip to Goa is thrilling yet relaxing. This travel guide to Goa shows the spirit of the state, its fascinating seashores, dazzling restaurants, and fun activities to do. Therefore, plan your Goa trip to this smallest state in India with the most popular attractions now!
Make your trip even more budget-friendly by booking the cheapest flights to Goa. Indian Eagle, an online ticketing company, offers various direct and layover flights at reasonable prices.
