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What to do in Goa

Blissing out on the beach is the headline attraction on Goa holidays, but there’s no need to spend the whole time working on your tan. Relax and restore at a yoga retreat, learn about the spicy source of Goa’s delicious cuisine, and haggle for a bargain at a legendary market.

Beaches

The beaches of Goa are a treasure trove of quiet coves and shores bustling with watersports and beach bars. Expect to find palm tree-lined sands, fishing boats, and trance parties on golden sands that have lured visitors for decades.

For the most popular spots, head to South Goa’s resort of Colva, with its crashing waves and pristine white sands, and backpacker haven, Palolem. Alternatively, go windsurfing at watersport-haven Baga. In the smaller villages, such as Majorda, you will discover the area’s most picturesque stretches of sand.

Spiritual activities

Goa has been the destination of choice for yogis since the 70s. Now, you can stay in a luxury retreat with swimming pools and juice bars or book up teacher training in a traditional yoga school.

Drop-in classes for yoga and meditation are readily available, as are Ayurveda herbal medicine treatments and reiki healing sessions. They are often in spectacular settings, such as shala studios (open-air huts) overlooking the ocean or in lush tropical gardens and shaded by bamboo trees.

Spice farms

Black pepper, cloves and cardamom feature strongly in Goan cuisine, and you can visit a spice plantation to learn about the spices’ medicinal uses while wandering through lush grounds where fruits, nuts and palms grow.

Tanshikar Spice Farm and Sahakari Spice Farm both offer plantation tours and have shops and restaurants where you can try some of the spices. While you’re there, you might catch a folk dance by local villagers, too.

Anjuna Flea Market

Anjuna’s flea market has been held every Wednesday from mid-November until late April for decades and still retains some of its original hippy charm. Wander the market stalls of traders from across India and purchase pashmina textiles, spices and handmade jewellery. Haggling is expected so never accept the first offer.

The market has many chai (tea) stalls if you need a pick-me-up, and the few beach restaurants serve local snacks with a side of live music.

Old Goa

The city of Old Goa was established as the region’s capital in 1510 and thrived until it was gradually abandoned through the 17th and 18th centuries. You can still see the opulence of its golden era, though, in the grand churches and cathedrals built by the Portuguese after their arrival in 1510.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a towering church dating back to 1605 and a great example of Baroque architecture. The dazzling white Se Cathedral, meanwhile, is the largest church in Asia.

Where to stay in Goa

For travellers on a budget

While not as affordable as it once was, Goa still has plenty of opportunities for a cheap holiday. In areas like Cavelossim, in South Goa, you’ll find budget, family-run accommodation close to the beach and bustling towns. Or you can book a package holiday to one of the beachfront resorts on the north coast, such as Candolim, with on-site restaurants and bars. Anjuna also has plenty of budget guesthouses and hostels for backpackers.

For the cheapest place to sleep, though, look to the beach shacks up and down the coast. Yes, the facilities are minimal, but you get front-row tickets to the sunset.

For families

With long stretches of golden beaches, Goa is a top family holiday destination with plenty of kid-friendly entertainment. Head to Canacona in South Goa for calm waters that are safe for swimming and a party scene that doesn’t get too lively. Here, you can explore 20 beaches, including popular Palolem and Patnem, where restaurants and watersport shacks line the sand. Further up the coast, Mandrem, in North Goa, has a laid-back surfer vibe and clean, quiet beaches. You’ll find well-equipped beach huts or swanky resorts with swimming pools.

For food and drink

Panaji (also known as Panjim), the capital of Goa, is famous for its food. On streets lined with brightly coloured villas, you’ll find all the specialities of Goan cuisine. Dine on fragrant curries and fresh seafood in upmarket restaurants with ocean views or visit casual venues with the authentic feel of a Goan mother’s kitchen.

In the large village of Agonda, choose from organic vegetarian fare or the catch of the day from roadside grills. If you want to try a bit of everything, stay near the lively Margao Market in Salcete and pick up some local produce to cook at home.

For nightlife

The region of Bardez in the north is the undisputed party capital of Goa – and home to the beaches of Baga, Anjuna and Candolim. It’s the place to be for the hottest clubs with international DJs and wild all-night trance parties on the beach.

For places to stay, there’s something for all budgets, from international hotel chains to party hostels. The best way to recover the morning after a big night? Head to the sandy beaches of Bardez and blow away the hangover with a refreshing dip in the ocean.

For culture

Old Goa (Goa Velha) offers a taste of the past under Portuguese rule. Explore the heritage buildings and museums, and stay in quaint guesthouses or hilltop properties with extensive grounds.

Current capital Panaji also has its share of cultural attractions, including a charming Latin Quarter with cobbled streets and colourful colonial buildings. It’s also just a short distance from Miramar Beach, where you can stay in modern waterfront resorts overlooking the aquamarine waters.