Top 20 Exciting Things To Do In Goa
Things To Do In Goa : Goa stands out as an idyllic haven for travelers, providing a unique and unparalleled experience. Bursting with attractions like water sports, vibrant clubs, night markets, sandy beaches, cozy shacks, and enticing shopping ventures, Goa captivates the spirit of every visitor. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a honeymooning couple, a family seeking quality time, or a group of spirited youngsters, Goa has something special for all. In essence, planning a trip to Goa is a self-indulgent treat, offering a plethora of enjoyable activities. Immerse yourself in these exhilarating pursuits during your vacation, and you’ll find it hard to bid farewell to the enchanting beach parties that make Goa truly unforgettable!
1. Snorkeling
Goa is graced with a multitude of unspoiled beaches and islands, many of which serve as vibrant hubs for exhilarating adventure pursuits, with snorkeling taking center stage. Whether you find yourself in North Goa or South Goa, snorkeling stands out as a renowned and essential activity. Expertly guided snorkeling excursions are readily available on numerous beaches and islands across Goa, providing participants with the opportunity to submerge themselves and revel in the captivating beauty of the underwater realm. The vivid hues of fish and coral formations add an aesthetic charm, making the entire snorkeling experience truly rewarding in every aspect.
2. Water Sports
In addition to its picturesque beaches, vibrant shopping scenes, delectable seafood, and lively nightlife, Goa is a haven for adventure enthusiasts with its diverse water activities. Among the top experiences in Goa, especially for those with a penchant for excitement, are the various water sports on offer. Ranging from water skiing, parasailing, diving, kite surfing, jet skiing, and water scooter rides to exhilarating activities like flyboarding, paddle boarding, surfboarding, and sport fishing – Goa caters to every aquatic thrill seeker. If you crave genuine excitement and enjoyment, Goa stands as the ideal destination for those with daring hearts. Engaging in water sports becomes an absolute must-do for thrill-seekers visiting Goa.
3. Beach Hopping
The essence of Goa lies in its captivating beaches, and the most delightful approach to savor their beauty is through exploration. There are the popular and bustling shores like Calangute, Baga, and Anjuna, where one can partake in water sports, get inked with tattoos, or indulge in delectable treats at beachfront shacks. On the flip side, hidden gems such as Bogmalo, Cavolim, Colva, and Palolem offer a serene and less-traveled experience, characterized by profound tranquility and breathtaking landscapes. Embark on a beach-hopping adventure to encompass the best of both worlds. Undoubtedly, this ranks among the finest activities in North Goa, providing an opportunity to bask in the surreal beauty of its diverse beaches.
4. Shopping
Ensure you include a visit to this captivating destination in your Goa itinerary, and once you’re there, depart with bags full of treasures. The Saturday night market at Arpora stands out as an essential nocturnal activity in Goa, perfect for enjoying with family and friends. The market sprawls across three distinct zones: the lower field showcases local products from various regions, the middle part hosts the center stage events, and the upper zone boasts designer shops and boutiques. Take your pick from an array of local handicrafts, dresses, accessories, trinkets, shoes, as well as regional food and raw ingredients. Numerous food stalls cater to the cravings of culinary enthusiasts. Embrace the Goa mantra – eat, shop, and be merry!
5. Seafood Tour
Having visited Goa without indulging in its seafood offerings is simply unacceptable. Beyond the usual sightseeing, shopping, and water sports, Goa’s culinary scene, particularly its diverse seafood selection, promises an instant and delightful foodgasm. For the ardent food lover, immersing yourself in Goan specialties ranks among the top experiences in the region. Treat your taste buds to the succulence of grilled kingfish, pomfret recheado, batter-fried calamari, tonnak, tisryo, rawa-fried mussels, or crab masala. Each dish is a pampering session for your palate, making the culinary exploration of Goa an essential and mouthwatering adventure.
6. Basilica of Bom Jesus
Delving into the historic charm of Old Goa, a fascinating activity unfolds with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, an iconic landmark in the region. As the oldest church in Goa, it serves as the final resting place for the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, drawing visitors from various corners of the world. Erected in 1594, the Basilica stands as a testament to the profound history of Christianity in India. Explore the intricacies within, from the mesmerizing fresco paintings to the captivating images of the Holy Trinity, St. Ignatius Loyola, and the protective portrayal of infant Jesus. Roaming the hallowed halls of this ancient church emerges as one of the most enriching and cost-free activities in Goa, offering a glimpse into the cultural and religious tapestry that defines the region.
7. Grand Island
Goa stands as an idyllic haven for honeymooners, providing an array of activities in North Goa that add a touch of romance to their experience. One enchanting option is a revitalizing journey to Grand Island, easily accessible through a brief 20-40 minute ferry ride. Nestled in scenic beauty, the island presents a range of activities to enhance the romantic ambiance. For couples seeking intimate moments, a leisurely stroll through spice plantations sets the perfect mood. Alternatively, if adventure fuels your connection, immerse yourselves in the thrill of scuba diving and snorkeling, creating cherished memories with your beloved amidst the captivating waters.
8. Dolphin Watching
Embark on a boat excursion to witness dolphins, engaging in one of the most unique activities in North Goa. Setting sail from Sinquerim beach, 20-seater ferries transport enthusiasts into the open sea for an enchanting dolphin-spotting adventure. The thrill of encountering Indo-Pacific Humpback dolphins and finless porpoises, along with the possibility of spotting crocodiles, adds an element of excitement to this experience. Lasting between 45 minutes to an hour, this boat ride promises not only superlative thrills but also the creation of timeless memories.
9. Casino
The Mandovi River plays host to an array of ships transformed into lively casinos, extending warm invitations to both tourists and locals. Esteemed establishments such as Big Daddy Casino, Deltin Royale, Deltin Caravela, Casino Pride, Casino Palms, and Crown Casino operate around the clock, offering a plethora of games like 3-card Poker, Roulette, Baccarat, mini flush, and blackjack. The sheer delight of securing victories in these vibrant spaces makes it one of the most enthralling activities for bachelors in Goa. Beyond the gaming realms, these floating casinos boast swanky bars, lively discotheques, upscale restaurants, and rejuvenating massage centers, catering to the diverse desires of every visitor.
10. Dinner Cruise
No sojourn in Goa is truly fulfilling without indulging in a cruise, an integral component that completes the holiday experience. Among the myriad options like backwater and sunset cruises, the dinner cruise along the Mandovi River stands out for its blend of exhilaration and sophistication. Setting sail from the Santa Monica Jetty, this cruise guides you through the river, offering a post-sunset spectacle of Goa’s glittering beaches and vibrant shacks. Before the sumptuous dinner is served, the rhythmic beats of Goan music create a lively atmosphere, accompanied by captivating folk dances such as Dekhni and Fugdi performed by local artists onboard. Undoubtedly, this dinner cruise emerges as another captivating entry on the list of nighttime activities in South Goa, appealing to individuals of all age groups.
11. White Water Rafting
Undoubtedly an unconventional choice, engaging in white water rafting on the Mhadei River emerges as a unique and thrilling activity in Goa. The 6 km stretch of the river earmarked for rafting presents a dynamic course with rapids spanning from moderate to challenging levels. Complete with whirlpools, low waves, narrow passages, and rocky outcrops, the 2-hour rafting expedition on the Mhadei promises an exhilarating and enjoyable experience for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Setting itself apart from typical water sports, white water rafting finds its prime season from June to September, making it one of the rare and exciting things to undertake in Goa during the monsoon.
12. Spice Plantation Tour
Exploring the spice plantations on a guided tour is a relatively underrated experience in Goa. In Goa, there are a handful of spice gardens that provide informative walks amidst the lush greenery. Visitors can encounter an array of spice plants and fruit trees, such as cloves, nutmeg, cumin, curry, cinnamon, pepper, vanilla, coriander, turmeric, banana, coconut, pineapple, mango, pomelo, jackfruit, bimble, guava, papaya, cashews, and citrus. The enchanting and hypnotic atmosphere of these aromatic spice estates makes the journey truly captivating.
13. Hot Air Ballooning
Surprisingly, not everyone is aware of the captivating adventure of hot air ballooning in Goa. This activity proves to be an enchanting experience for bachelors, families with children, and couples alike. Commencing early in the morning at Assolda, participants embark on a journey aboard intricately crafted, massive balloons illuminated by the flames below. As the balloon ascends to 900 feet, revel in the breathtaking vistas of Goa. Beyond being one of the remarkable activities in Goa, it stands out as one of the most exhilarating ones as well.
14. Kayaking
Engaging in kayaking, a water sport typically pursued amidst the serenity of mangroves, bays, and backwaters, offers a tranquil escape. Share this delightful experience with your loved one as you paddle through the waters for a couple of hours. Reignite the flame of romance while partaking in this enjoyable water activity, ensuring to prioritize safety by wearing life jackets. Embarking on kayaking stands out as one of the enjoyable pursuits in South Goa.
15. Menezes Braganca House
If you seek experiences beyond the sun-soaked beaches, lively shacks, seafood delights, and party scenes, set aside a moment to explore the timeless Menezes Braganca House in Chandor. This historic Portuguese residence, currently home to the 15th, 16th, and 17th generations, showcases a rich collection of classical furniture and utilitarian items spanning across the ages. A visit to this captivating place is highly recommended for all, standing out as one of the top choices from the array of unique activities to explore in Goa.
16. Butterfly Conservatory
For those in search of joyous activities in Goa, a delightful trip to the Butterfly Conservatory is a must. Witness the exquisite display of vibrant butterflies and even engage in feeding them succulent fruits. Situated a mere 3 kilometers from the Tropical Spice Farm, this conservatory boasts an impressive collection of nearly 133 different butterfly species. Founded by a nature-loving couple, the Butterfly Conservatory promises a cheerful and immersive experience.
17. Dudhsagar Falls
Embarking on a trek to the breathtaking Dudhsagar Falls stands out as one of the most unique and offbeat experiences in Goa. Renowned as one of the tallest waterfalls in India, it earns its name from the milky white hue of its cascading waters. In fact, including a visit to this majestic waterfall in your Goa itinerary is a definite must-do, adding a distinctive touch to your trip.
18. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Boasting a diverse range of endangered animals, the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary emerges as a stunning destination for exploration. This sanctuary is home to various wildlife species and a rich avian population, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. With more than 255 bird species and a plethora of diverse flora, it stands out as an idyllic haven for nature enthusiasts. For those who cherish the wonders of the natural world, a visit to this sanctuary proves to be one of the finest activities to undertake in Goa.
19. Goan State Museum
Exploring the Goan State Museum ranks among the top activities in Goa, catering not only to history enthusiasts but also to anyone seeking a profound understanding of the region’s past. Impeccably preserved, the museum houses a remarkable assortment of statues, valuable coins, religious and sacred texts, and much more, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the rich history of the area. A visit to this well-curated museum promises an enlightening experience for those eager to delve into Goa’s cultural heritage.
20. Chapora Fort
Renowned among history enthusiasts and photography aficionados, exploring this historic fort emerges as a popular activity in Goa. Serving as a beloved evening retreat, it offers a perfect setting to unwind and marvel at the breathtaking sunset sky. The fundamental architecture of the fort is exceptionally captivating. For those with extra time and a penchant for trekking, exploring the surrounding areas further enhances the experience.
21. Chorao Island
Discover the lesser-explored realm of cycling in Goa by incorporating it into your travel plans. Embark on a cycling excursion around Chorao Island, where you can appreciate the splendid greenery and picturesque landscapes while immersing yourself in the refreshing sea breeze. This tour unveils the charm of Portuguese churches, colonial villas, and other fascinating facets of the island. Optimal for an early morning start around 7:00 am, the 3-4 hour journey promises a firsthand encounter with the best that the locale has to offer.
22. Chapora River
Embarking on a houseboat adventure stands out as one of the exhilarating experiences in Goa, providing a unique perspective on the local attractions. Choose a houseboat excursion along the Chapora River and indulge in a tranquil cruise lasting approximately 5 hours. As you navigate the serene waters, keep an eye out for a variety of vibrant birds and relish the breathtaking sunset vistas. To complete the experience, savor the flavors of traditional Malvani cuisine served on-board.
23. Clubbing
The renowned party scene in Goa lives up to its reputation, boasting extravagant clubs, lively pubs, and vibrant bars. For those seeking enjoyable activities in Goa, including a night party in your itinerary is a definite must. While North Goa is synonymous with such lively venues, South Goa also offers its fair share of glamorous spots. SinQ, Cape Town Cafe, Katzensuppe, Cohiba, Mambos, Chronicle, Teso Waterfront, UV Bar, Cafe Lilliput, Club Cubana, Liquid Sky Lounge, and more stand as enticing options where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife that Goa has to offer.
24. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Nestled on Chorao Island along the Mandovi River, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary stands as Goa’s singular avian haven. The island is embraced by the enchanting expanse of mangrove swamps, creating a serene sanctuary for a diverse array of bird species. Visitors can marvel at a plethora of both local and migratory birds, such as the Lesser Whistling Duck, White-bellied Sea Eagle, White-throated Kingfisher, Woolly-necked Stork, Little Green Bee-eater, Long-tailed Shrike, Marsh Sandpiper, Oriental Darter, Besra, Black Kite, Red-whiskered Bulbul, Rose-coloured Starling, and many others.
Things To Do In Goa : Here’s a compilation of intriguing activities to consider during your visit to Goa. The list spans from well-known attractions to offbeat gems, encompassing both adventurous and tranquil experiences. If you’re planning a comprehensive trip to Goa, Skysafar offers the perfect opportunity to tailor your holiday. Customize your itinerary by selecting your preferred activities from this diverse list to create a personalized and memorable journey.
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