Tourist attractions in Goa are not just the beaches and the nightlife, there are ample of things to do here, boundless memories to create and so much fun that even the most experienced traveler will find it difficult to choose one. In fact, there’s something for everyone in Goa, be it adults, kids, those who are adventure freaks in nature or sports, food and drink lovers, people who are art and history enthusiast, people who want to do the shopping and for those who don’t want to do anything, just sit and relax. There are so many places to visit in Goa, making it a one-stop destination for many.
However, it is always beneficial to stay one step ahead in your vacation planning’s, so we’ve outlined some great activities that you should explore for sure:
1. The Beaches
Goa boasts the world’s some of the best beaches that are mesmerizing and gives a backdrop of sunrise and sunsets. However, Goa is all about beaches, you should be aware of the best beaches from North to South. It is possible to select wisely as you cannot explore every beach! North Goa beaches are overcrowded as you’ll find better shopping streets, activities and party animals. On the other hand, South Goa beaches have the most untouched, serene, and beautiful beaches, enabling you to meet your inner-self.
Top Goa beaches- Candolim, Baga, Anjuna, Colva, Calanguate, Vagator, Chapora, and Palolem
2. Water Sport Activities
As you’re exploring the popular sea of India, you would obviously indulge in water sport activities. There are countless water sport activities in Goa that might put you in turmoil. However, some of the popular water sport activities that you must try are boogie boarding, water scooters, parasailing, windsurfing, banana boat and speed boat rides, dinghy sailing, waterskiing, and a lot more. Undoubtedly, there are swimming in Goa beaches but beware of rocks in the sea and riptides as well.
Best time for water sport- Early morning for parasailing or windsurfing as the air is light and calm. You can enjoy boating throughout the day. Off-season water activities can be risky.
3. White Water Rafting
Are you an absolute adventure freak, then why not give a try to whitewater rafting? We assure that it will be great fun with a pinch of excitement and thrill altogether. Take on the challenge and forget all your fears in the adrenalin rush of water. A place like Mhadei River, Valpoi River, and Mandovi River in Goa offer unforgettable whitewater rafting.
Best time to enjoy this activity- June to September (During monsoons)
4. Kayaking
Have you heard of Kayaking in Goa? If not, then let me tell you, Kayaking in Goa backwater could be an exceptional experience for a lifetime. With a gentle glide in the water, you will come closer to the bats, birds, and occasional dolphins during the ride. The tranquil environment will help you rejuvenate yourself and experience the culture of Goanese people as you will come across many villages and churches.
5. Dolphin Tours
Are you fond of exploring sea life? Do you want to witness dolphins once in a lifetime? Well, if it is so, then Goa is home to dolphins. Many popular beaches like Calangute, Candolim, Varca, and Sinquerim offer dolphin sightseeing along with many rivers in Goa. More so, you could also find innumerable operators offering “No dolphin, no pay services”, which makes the possibility of seeing a dolphin higher.
6. Cruising
If you’re have chose Goa as your honeymoon destination, then cruising must be on your priority list. Cruising is very popular in Goa, especially in South Goa beaches that include Sal River and Mandovi River. You can choose the Goa Tourism Department to go with the crowd on the cruise or you can choose private cruises for candlelight dinners for your loved ones. You can avail of the cruise for 1 or 2 hours or go on a sunset boat ride.
Best time to enjoy cruise- October to February
7. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
To experience underwater life, head towards Vasco Da Gama on Grande Island for a day swimming, scuba diving, or snorkeling. You will find all the equipment on an hourly basis and basic training as well. You will witness famous shipwrecks and dive sites or just dig into the water and experience the colorful marine life.
Best time to visit- November and April
8. Paragliding
Have you heard of paragliding near the beaches? You can experience that in Goa if you’re an adventure or thrill-seeker! An Arambol beach in North Goa, you can do paragliding even for a shorter time. Learn some basic take-off techniques and security checks and glide into the sky along with your guide or instructor. You will experience breathtaking views of beaches and cliffs.
Best to time explore- Any time of the day, except late afternoon as the wind my pick up it and avoid monsoons of India (June to September)
9. Spice Plantation
Immerse yourself in the aroma of spices and learn how they are grown at the spice plantations in Goa. You can witness some of the exotic spices that became the first Indian export that includes cardamom, Peri Peri, which are the hottest chilies of the world, and a lot more. Ride with elephants or get water on with them by giving them a bath and thereafter, enjoy Goan lunch made with farm spices.
10. Casino Gambling
In India, only Goa has the legal authority to run Casinos. You can try your luck in games like Indian Flush, poker, roulette, slot machines, baccarat, blackjack, and a lot more. Besides this, you can enjoy live bands, stand up comedians, Russian dancers, and let your kids enjoy their activities arranged by these casinos. Casino Paradise, Casino Carnival, Deltin Jack, Deltin Royale, Casino Perl, etc., are some of the biggest casinos in Goa.
11. Reveal the Hippie in you
In 1960 and 1970, Goa became a famous hippie destination. Although this culture is no more followed by Goanese, you can still get a henna tattoo, braid your hairs, and make deadlocks to bring out the hippie in you. It is good to take a break from all the activities and let your wild side come out.
12. Party on the Beach
Beach party is a must in Goa. Choose from popular beaches such as Baga, Calangute, Candolim, etc., and St. Anthony’s bar in Baga is famous as along with party you could also witness the beautiful sunset. In South Goa, Palolem and Cavelossim are the hot party destinations and after sunset, all these beaches turn into a club. So you’re actually taking the feeling of the club on beaches.
13. Enjoy the Bike Rides
Bike rides on your own not only give you the freedom to explore every niche corner, but it also allows you to experience the landscape of the place. And in Goa, you could either rent a bike or drive on your own or you can ask a guide to do it for you. The choice is yours!
14. Explore the Wildlife Sanctuary
“Wildlife Sanctuaries in beaches”, sounds weird, isn’t it? Well, there are some popular wildlife sanctuaries in Goa that include Netravali Wildlife, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and Molem Wildlife Sanctuary. The thrilling landscape and clean environment make Goa home to many animals across the country.
15. Trek to Waterfall
Waterfall trekking is again the weirdest things you might across in Goa. But yes, Goa has many mountain ranges surrounding that are covered with green bushes. If you’re an adventure seeker, then trekking on waterfall will fascinate you rather than just laying on the beach.