North Goa is the best destination for you if you are planning for a vacation in a place where you can chill out in the best possible ways by partying hard with the finest food & drinks. Lovely beaches with alluring nature views, refreshing shacks, verdant cliffs, exotic cuisine, and trendy shopping areas make it a happening place for tourists from all over the world. Once you land in this charming place, you are immediately enraptured by the mesmerizing ambiance of this place.
Find below the 12 best places for your North Goa trip and must-visit destinations
1. Aguada Beach
Aguada Beach is one of the major tourist spots in North Goa where the famous Aguada fort stands on a cliff. You can not only enjoy peaceful walks on the beach, but you can also opt for adventurous activities here. Aguada Resort on this beach is a popular resort for travellers who prefer to stay to hang out and explore the place.
Places you can visit: Aguada Fort, Lighthouse, Goa State Museum, St. Lawrence Church, Coco Beach
Activities you can enjoy: Beach walking, Shopping, Sightseeing, Snorkelling, Boating, Parasailing, Picnic, and Jet Skiing etc.
Things to Do:
- Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the calm waters.
- Explore the historic Fort Aguada nearby.
- Engage in water sports like parasailing and jet-skiing.
- Take a boat ride to spot dolphins.
- Enjoy beachside dining at local shacks.
Travel Experience: Aguada Beach offers a peaceful retreat with its serene environment and less crowded shores. The nearby Fort Aguada adds a historical touch, providing panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can indulge in water sports or simply relax and soak up the sun.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 40 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 20 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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2. Calangute Beach
Due to its immense popularity amongst tourists, this place is popularly known as “The Queen of the Beaches.” One can have a chilled-out vacation just relaxing on the warm sand bed of this beach. The sparkling markets offer everything from exotic food & drinks to artifacts of Indonesia. You cannot miss the heavenly sunrise and sunset here.
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Places you can visit: Castle House, Revolution Pub, The Medicinal Springs
Activities you can enjoy: Live Music and Dance shows, Shopping, Water Skiing, Windsurfing, Parasailing, Speed Boating, Jet Skiing, Banana Ride, etc
Things to Do:
- Sunbathe on the golden sands and swim in the sea.
- Enjoy water sports such as parasailing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides.
- Explore the vibrant nightlife with beach parties and clubs.
- Shop for souvenirs at the nearby markets.
- Dine at beachside shacks serving Goan cuisine.
Travel Experience: Calangute Beach, known as the “Queen of Beaches”, is one of the most popular and busiest beaches in Goa. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure with its wide range of water sports and vibrant nightlife. The bustling markets and shacks add to the lively atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 40 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 19 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
3. Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach perfectly satisfies your desire for a wholesome vacation full of parties, sightseeing, adventure, shopping, and fine dining. This beach has two parts namely Big Vagator Beach and Little Vagator Beach. Little Vagator Beach is famous for its exciting nightlife. Several stalls alongside the beach sell several items like handicrafts, books, food items, etc.
Places you can visit: Ozran Beach, Spa by Clarins, Disco Valley, Chapora Beach, The Goa Collective Bazaar, Tin Tin Bar
Activities you can enjoy: Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Shopping, Live Music Shows, Dolphin Watch
Things to Do:
- Relax on the beach and admire the stunning red cliffs.
- Explore the nearby Chapora Fort for panoramic views.
- Enjoy water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife at local beach clubs.
- Savor seafood at beachside shacks and restaurants.
Travel Experience: Vagator Beach is known for its dramatic red cliffs and scenic beauty. It offers a more laid-back vibe compared to other beaches, making it ideal for relaxation. The nearby Chapora Fort provides stunning views, and the beach clubs offer a lively nightlife scene.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 44 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 18 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
4. Baga Beach
Views of pearly white sands and sublime palm trees enthrall the visitors here. Thrilling water sports, refreshing shacks, and exclusive live music shows attract thousands of tourists to this place every year. You can find several pubs and clubs near this place.
Places you can visit: Club Tito’s, Club Ivy, Tibetan Market
Activities you can enjoy: Shopping, Scuba Diving, Banana Ride, Jet Skiing, Water Scooter, Motor Boat Riding, Dolphin Watching, Shopping, Live Music Shows, Casino Palms, and Relaxing at Spa etc
Things to Do:
- Enjoy water sports like parasailing, windsurfing, and jet-skiing.
- Relax on the sandy shores and swim in the sea.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife with clubs and beach parties.
- Visit the famous Tito’s Lane for bars and restaurants.
- Shop at the Saturday Night Market.
Travel Experience: Baga Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. It’s a hotspot for water sports and beach parties, attracting tourists who enjoy a bustling beach scene. Tito’s Lane is particularly popular for its array of bars and clubs, making it a nightlife hub.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 39 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 18 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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5. Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort is one of the most sighted places in North Goa with its connection to the famous Bollywood Film “Dil Chahta Hai”. This majestic fort is located on the famous Chapora Beach. Although in ruins at present, this fort has gained immense popularity because of its rich historical background of Portuguese ruling over it for more than 150 years. Views of tunnels constructed by the Portuguese to escape still give you a chilling sensation.
Places you can visit: Chapora Beach, Disco Valley, Ozran Beach
Activities you can enjoy: Sightseeing, Cruise, Photography
Things to Do:
- Hike up to the fort and explore the ruins.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Vagator Beach and the Arabian Sea.
- Capture stunning photographs of the landscape.
- Learn about the historical significance of the fort.
- Relax and enjoy the sunset from the fort.
Travel Experience: Chapora Fort, known for its role in various Bollywood films, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding beaches and the Arabian Sea. The fort’s ruins provide a glimpse into Goa’s history, and the hike up is rewarded with spectacular views, making it a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 44 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 18 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
6. Basilica of Bom Jesus
This famous building with a deep connection with St. Francis Xavier has been recognized as a UNESCO heritage site. The Baroque architecture reflected in the attractive interiors with magnificent marble floors, antique basalt ornamentations, and marvellous paintings makes it a place worth visiting.
Places you can visit: Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, Chapel of Saint Catherine, Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, Shantadurga Temple, Old Goa, The Archaeological Museum, Church and Monastery of St Augustine
Activities you can enjoy: Photography, Sightseeing
Things to Do:
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its baroque architecture.
- Visit the tomb of St. Francis Xavier.
- Learn about the history and significance of the basilica.
- Attend a mass or special religious service.
- Explore the adjoining museum displaying artifacts and paintings.
Travel Experience: The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a must-visit for its historical and religious significance. Its stunning baroque architecture and the tomb of St. Francis Xavier attract pilgrims and tourists alike. The adjoining museum offers insights into Goa’s colonial past and religious heritage.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 26 km away.
- By Train: Karmali Railway Station is the nearest, about 10 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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7. Mangueshi Temple
Mangueshi Temple is a 450 years old temple of Lord Manguesh who is another avatar of Lord Shiva. The beautiful Goan architecture of this famous temple with many interesting aspects like a lamp tower of 7 storeys called Depastambha, a figure of Shiva’s mount Nandi Bull, a large assembly hall, and charming chandeliers make this a unique religious place. Many famous Hindu festivals are celebrated in this temple throughout the year.
Places you can visit: Sahakari Spice Farm, Shri Nagesh Temple, Gaonkars Nandanvan, Butterfly Conservatory, NageshWaterworld
Activities you can enjoy: Sightseeing, Swimming
Things to Do:
- Visit the main temple and admire its traditional Goan architecture.
- Participate in the daily rituals and prayers.
- Explore the temple complex and its surroundings.
- Learn about the history and significance of the temple.
- Attend special festivals and events held at the temple.
Travel Experience: Mangueshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most important temples in Goa. Its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers and those interested in Goan culture and religion. Special festivals attract large crowds and offer a glimpse into local traditions.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 34 km away.
- By Train: Karmali Railway Station is the nearest, about 21 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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8. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
This historical 16th-century church is believed to be the first-ever church built in Goa. The speciality of this church lies in its simple architectural style which is highlighted in pure white. Altars of St. Francis Xavier, Our Lady of Rosary, and Crucified Jesus, and sculptures of St. Peter and St. Paul had been magnificently carved out reflecting the excellence of the craftsmanship.
Places you can visit: Crown Casino, Mario Gallery, Fontainhas, Big Daddy Casino
Activities you can enjoy: Electric Bike Riding, Sightseeing
Things to Do:
- Admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the church.
- Explore the beautifully decorated interiors.
- Participate in a mass or special religious service.
- Climb the steps for a panoramic view of Panjim.
- Learn about the history and significance of the church.
Travel Experience: This iconic church in Panjim is known for its striking white facade and Baroque architecture. It offers a peaceful ambiance and beautiful views of the city from its elevated location. Visitors can attend services, explore the interior, and learn about its historical importance.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 28 km away.
- By Train: Karmali Railway Station is the nearest, about 12 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
9. Arvalem Waterfalls
Arvalem Waterfalls is another great attraction of North Goa for nature lovers. Falling from a height of 24 feet, this fall is a great delight to the viewers. You can even explore the nearest Arvalam caves and visit the Shiva Temple nearby. Increasing water volume during the Monsoon makes this place more desirable to its visitors during that period. Read More: 10 Best Waterfalls in Goa
Main Attractions: Arvalam caves, Rudreshwar temple
Activities you can enjoy: Sightseeing, Picnic, Swimming
Things to Do:
- Visit the scenic waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty.
- Explore the nearby Arvalem Caves.
- Picnic in the serene surroundings.
- Take a refreshing dip in the waterfall pool.
- Capture photographs of the picturesque landscape.
Travel Experience: Arvalem Waterfalls, also known as Harvalem Falls, is a hidden gem offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature. The nearby ancient caves add a historical touch to the visit. It’s a great spot for picnics, photography, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Best Time to Visit: June to October (monsoon season), with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 45 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 22 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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10. Big Daddy Caravela
If you want to get a feeling of how it is to be in Las Vegas, then you must visit this place. This is the most famous casino in Goa which is on a boat named MV Lucky Seven boa floating on the Mandavi River. You can enjoy all the luxuries on your boat ride along with trying your luck in gambling.
With VIP game rooms, multiple tables with different levels of gaming, and many automatic machines, this casino has been able to win over other casinos in Goa. The entertainment and luxury have no limits here with a fine dining restaurant, barbecue zone, kid’s zone, cigar lounge, and live music and dance performances by global artists.
Places you can visit: Panaji Kala Academy, Mario Gallery, Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, Crown Casino, Mandavi River
Activities you can enjoy: Cruising, Boat Rides, Gambling, Live Music and Dance shows, Angling, etc
Things to Do:
- Try your luck at the casino games, including poker, roulette, and blackjack.
- Enjoy live entertainment and performances.
- Dine at the onboard restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
- Relax at the bars with premium drinks and cocktails.
- Take in the views of the Mandovi River from the deck.
Travel Experience: Big Daddy Caravela is one of the premier floating casinos in Goa, offering a luxurious and exciting gaming experience. With a wide range of casino games, live entertainment, and fine dining, it provides a glamorous night out on the Mandovi River.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 30 km away.
- By Train: Karmali Railway Station is the nearest, about 15 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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11. Curlies
Curlies is a famous name amongst party lovers as this oldest shack on Anjuna Beach offers great food and drinks in its simple but interesting interiors. The friendly staff, awesome services, mouth-watering dishes, tempting drinks, and cool ambiance of this place are the reasons why this place has become a favourite amongst tourists. You get to attend beach parties now and then here Goan music and cuisine put you in a trance.
Places you can visit: Anjuna Market, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Anjuna Beach, St Ann Chapel
Activities you can enjoy: Partying, Kayaking, Fishing, Parasailing, Banana Boat Rides Indoor games, etc
Things to Do:
- Relax on Anjuna Beach and enjoy the laid-back vibe.
- Savor delicious seafood and drinks at Curlies Beach Shack.
- Attend the vibrant beach parties and music events.
- Engage in water sports and beach activities.
- Shop at the nearby Anjuna Flea Market.
Travel Experience: Curlies is one of the most famous beach shacks in Goa, known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and lively parties. It’s a great place to relax by the beach during the day and enjoy the nightlife in the evening.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 45 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 21 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
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12. Anjuna Beach Flea Market
If you are seeking a place in North Goa where you can go for a mind-blowing shopping and dining experience, then you must visit the famous flea market on Anjuna Beach. This Flea Market which is held only on Wednesday of every week attracts a large number of tourists here on this day.
You can find the best pieces of Kashmiri or Tibetan jewellery, Rajasthani and Gujarati handicrafts, spices from Kerala, and many more things. You can even loosen up at one of the restaurants or bars with live music.
Places you can visit: Anjuna Beach, Cafe Looda, Seabreeze
Activities you can enjoy: Shopping, dining, Live music, Curlies Beach Shack
Things to Do:
- Shop for unique souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry.
- Enjoy live music and street performances.
- Taste a variety of international and local foods at the food stalls.
- Bargain with vendors to get the best deals.
- Experience the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of the market.
Travel Experience: The Anjuna Flea Market is a must-visit for its eclectic mix of vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to clothing and art. It’s a cultural experience where you can find unique souvenirs, enjoy live music, and taste different cuisines.
Best Time to Visit: November to March, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Dabolim Airport is about 45 km away.
- By Train: Thivim Railway Station is the nearest, about 20 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with buses and taxis available.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful vacation in a serene place where you can enjoy simply walking or resting in nature or a thrilling vacation with beach parties, exotic food, and drinks, North Goa will simply not disappoint you. So get some enthusiasm and plan your next trip to North Goa to explore some of these beautiful locations.
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FAQ About North Goa
Q. What are the famous beaches of North Goa?
A. The famous beaches of North Goa are Baga Beach, Aguada Beach, Calangute Beach, Vagator Beach, Sinquerim Beach, and Candolim Beach etc.
Q. What are the famous casinos in North Goa?
A. The famous casinos of North Goa are Big Daddy Casino, Deltin Royale, Deltin Jaqk, Casino Palms, Grand 7 Casino, Crown Casino, and Treasures Casino etc.
Q. Which are the best places to shop in North Goa?
A. Best places to shop in North Goa are Arjuna Beach Flea Market, Panjim Market, Mapusa Market, Mackie's Night Bazaar and Calangute Market Square etc.
Q. Which are the famous places to eatin North Goa?
A. The best places to eat in North Goa are Thalassa, Le Poission Rouge, Tuscany Gardens, Alex’s Shack, Bomra’s, Britto's, Morisco, Go with the Flow, Earthen Oven, Antares, The Black Sheep Bistro and many more.
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