52 Fun Things to Do in Goa You Don’t Want to Miss
There are so many fun things to do in Goa – it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular places to visit in India. Let me take you through some of my favourite Goa activities…
If you do decide to follow the Konkan coast down to Goa then prepare for some serious tanning time. With some of the country’s best beaches along this bay – like Mandrem, Baga and Cavelossim – it’s the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax and soak in the sunshine here.
At least for the first day… and then it’s time to explore the amazing amount of cool things to do in Goa. This west Indian state has history, beautiful countryside, fascinating people and plenty of wildlife to explore.
Goa is India’s smallest state and also its richest. Perched halfway down the Western coast, it looks out over the Arabian Sea and is renowned for its stunning beaches of pure white sand.
Goa first became world famous, however, for the influx of hippies in the 60s and 70s and the resulting beach parties.
Nowadays though, the appeal of Goa goes way beyond the obvious. There’s something magical about it. From the laidback locals, to sunbathing cows lying next to you on the beach, Goa will open your eyes to a breathtaking new world.
Beaches, culture & relaxation
With nearly 80 miles of coastline, Goa’s beaches are the primary attraction. But it’s the relaxed and friendly vibe which keeps people coming back for more. Every year, 2 million visitors flock to this small slice of paradise. As a former Portuguese outpost for over 450 years, it retains a distinctly different atmosphere to the rest of India and is regularly voted as having the highest standard of living. The sunsets are world-class. But which bit of this wonderful place is for you?
Things to do in North Goa
As soon as Goa gained independence from the Portuguese in the early 60s, it was here in the North that first saw an influx of hippy tourists from all over the world. Although the hippies have all moved on, their legacy and influence remain largest here. Anjuna beach plays host to a large flea markets every Wednesday. As the day comes to a close, crowds gather to listen to trance music whilst watching the sun go down.
South Goa
This area showcases Goa’s original charm and is considered by most to be slightly more authentic and typical than the North. Whether you agree or not, you’ll certainly find an abundance of stunning beaches.
One of the most prominent beaches is Palolem. Arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa, it was featured in the 2004 film The Bourne Supremacy. Although it’s become more and more popular in recent years, there are still no ugly modern structures on the beach. Accommodation comes in the form of coco huts that are erected every year after the monsoon season.
Central Goa
If you are looking to capture the culture and history of Goa, Panjim has a lot to offer. The state capital oozes charm and old-fashioned appeal. It’s completely different in character to any of India’s other capitals. A lot of this is due to the architecture.
Panjim is home to many buildings from the early 1800s, and in recent years quite a few of them have been lovingly restored to their former glory. That’s not all though. The city is famed for its terraced hills, colourful villas, cobbled streets, riverside promenade and beautiful churches. Panjim could easily be in the Caribbean; such is the sun-soaked feel of the riverfront. Buildings are low in height and pastel colours are everywhere. It’s a beautiful spot to explore on foot.
Situated a mere 10kms east of Panjim, Old Goa is also a sight to behold. Once one of the wealthiest cities on the planet, it’s now slowly being reclaimed by nature after being largely abandoned during the 18th century due to the plague. The remains of the city are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
If you want someone to show you round the best of Goa, without all the planning but with all the insider knowledge – you could book a tour? Check out this highly rated one from GetYourGuide.com.
- Join a comprehensive tour which showcases the best of Goa
- Witness the cultural heritage through the churches of Old Goa and the Hindu Temple
- Marvel at the charming colourful buildings of Asia’s largest and oldest Latin Quarter
- Learn about the significance of spices with a visit to a local Spice Plantation
- Taste a delicious local lunch prepared in the Goan style
52 Fun Things to Do in Goa
1. Hit the high seas and go dolphin spotting.
2. Buy yourself a new pair of harems with a matching bag from one of the many street vendors.
3. Have you even been to India if you don’t come back with a henna tattoo?
4. Do a river cruise along the Mandovi River.
5. Brave Goa’s traffic and hire a vespa for the day, or at least some sort of clapped out old bike (remember though, safety first).
6. Rejuvenate yourself with a session of ancient holistic healing at an Ayurvedic centre.
7. See some beautiful butterflies at the Butterfly Conservatory.
8. Taste, touch and see what goes into creating spices before testing out your taste buds on the world’s hottest chilli at the Sahakari Spice Farm.
9. Get some great snaps on a hike to Devil’s Canyon in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary.
10. Whip out the head torch for one of the most daring activities to do in Goa, a caving session inside the Arvalem or Pandava Caves.
11. Check out the sea views from Goa’s oldest fort, Cabo De Rama.
12. See the jungles, mangroves and beaches from the waters with a kayaking trip along the backwaters of Zuari, Mandovi or Sal.
13. Shop to a decent soundtrack at Ingo’s Saturday night bazaar in Arpora.
14. Venture into the big blue with a scuba diving excursion from Bogmalo Beach.
15. Visit the pretty impressive and Portuguese-style churches of Old Goa like Basilica of Bom Jesus.
16. Keep your fingers crossed that on a visit Galgibaga beach you’ll spot some turtles hatch.
17. Stop by Mum’s Kitchen for the best selection of local cuisine with a Portuguese twist.
18. Pluck up the courage to do karaoke at the laid back St. Anthony’s Bar on Baga Beach.
19. Bag a bargain at the Mapusa Friday Market.
20. Practice your downward dog at a yoga class somewhere like