10 Incredible Places to Visit in Goa

Making the most of your trip to Goa can be difficult if you’re not familiar with the many different activities and locations the state has to offer. In order to help you get the most out of your visit, we’ve compiled this list of 10 incredible places to visit in Goa. From popular beaches to off-the-beaten-path locales, this guide will give you ideas and inspiration as you prepare your next trip to Goa!

1) Palolem Beach

It’s a long, golden strip of sand that stretches out along India’s western coast. It’s home to some of Asia’s best yoga resorts, where health-minded yogis and other visitors come to practice their poses under palm trees. And it’s one of the most popular places for honeymooners and other tourists who flock there for its beauty and serenity.

2) Panjim

Panjim is not only known for its beaches, temples and monuments. It is also considered as one of India’s best heritage destinations. Dotted with historic churches, mosques and temples, Panjim is one of those few cities that have managed to preserve their culture and history even today. Apart from visiting its historical monuments, if you want a peaceful vacation away from all your worries, then there are many scenic locations that you can visit on a trip to Panjim.

3) Aguada Fort

Built during Portuguese rule, these ruins include massive bastions that overlook Panjim’s old port and Fort Aguada Jail, where notorious Hindu nationalist Nathuram Godse was once held. The impressive fort is also home to a 17th-century church. Plus, it boasts panoramic views of Old Goa. Visitors can explore its historical structures on their own or book an organized tour with a guide.

4) Canacona Beach

Canacona Beach is just one of those places that you must visit if you are heading to Goa. Tucked away from all hustle and bustle, Canacona beach is a secluded bay with clear waters and white sands. However, it’s not too hard to find as there are many hotels located close by on your way down. It’s a perfect beach for a quiet holiday away from it all.

5) Colva Beach

If you’re planning a trip to Goa, you’ll want to check out Colva Beach. This beach features a white sand beach and provides fun activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boating—not your ordinary beach experience! You can also try surfing here, or simply relax on one of its many hammocks.

6) Bogmalo Beach

Bogmalo Beach is known for its Bogmalo Ghost, a phantom ship that can sometimes be seen drifting just off shore. One thing that’s not a mystery? This beach’s stunning beauty. It stretches for almost three miles and is popular with families and couples looking for some time on shore. There are plenty of restaurants and accommodations close by, so Bogmalo is easy to access from anywhere along Goa’s coastline.

7) Betalbatim Beach

This beach, located about 10 miles south of Panjim (Panaji), is one of Betalbatim’s two major attractions. The other is its unique beach shacks, which have been a part of goan culture for over 100 years and offer a wide variety of different dishes. Whether you want seafood or barbecue, north Indian cuisine or pure veg food, there’s something for everyone here. And if you aren’t in the mood for food?

8) Chorao Island

Known for its gorgeous beaches, Chorao Island is located just off Panjim and is a popular tourist destination because of its ambiance. One of its most notable attractions is Fort Aguada, which can be reached by boat from Merces or Calangute Beach.

9) Calangute Beach

One of South Goa’s most popular beaches, Calangute stretches a mile-and-a half long. In high season, Calangute is well frequented by tourists, both foreign and domestic. There are also a number of water sports available on Calangute Beach for your entertainment.

10) Church of Our Lady of the Mount

The Church of Our Lady of Mount is a popular place of worship, but visitors must apply for permission to visit in advance. This ancient church sits on top of a hill overlooking Old Goa, and was built back when Christianity was still being persecuted by native Indians. If you get a chance to visit Church of Our Lady, keep an eye out for an image that’s said to be miraculous: there’s an 18th-century fresco of Our Lady with her hands raised over two lions, which many believe will protect anyone who stays within their gaze from harm.