Goa- a name that makes you imagine yourself on arms of the endless blue sea fringed with swaying palm trees, and you are basking on the warm, golden sands, sipping on your favorite cocktail. This Konkan beauty is not only India’s favorite beach getaway but one of the best tropical beaches in the world! Irrespective of the season, occasion, or time of the year, Goa makes for a perfect vacation on the sea or a fancy wedding destination.
With breathtaking views, gorgeous resorts, and lots of adventurous activities to keep you engaged, Goa promises you a memorable time.
For the ultimate Goa experience, you need to ensure that you-
a) Travel well, travel safe
How you travel, where you stay, and where do you plan to visit, will all come together to make your vacation worthwhile.
Once you land (by flight, bus, or train), you would need a mode of transportation to take you around the state. You can take a bike rental (if you can ride two-wheelers) or book a highly-rated Goa taxi for safe and hassle-free exploration.
b) Stay in Luxury
Over decades Goa has evolved with some of the most remarkable and exotic hotels and resorts in the country. And welcoming all kinds of travelers from all over the world, the state has something for everyone.
Here are a few places verified and recommended by users, search engines, and our travelers.
North
Taj Fort Aguada & Spa, Siquerim Beach, Candolim
Star Rating: 5 (deluxe)
An iconic property, this was Goa’s first ever luxury resort. The charming Portuguese-style villas and rooms overlook the endless sea across the 16th century Fort Aguada. With the indulgences of delightful stay, lavish cuisine, and a world-class environment, this property lives up to the Taj brand.
Marbela Beach Resort, Morjim
Star Rating: 5
A boutique resort on the Ashwem Beach, Marbela offers an upscale retreat with a Spanish-style villa and luxury tents on the beach. With its visually delightful setup and amazing views, this resort has gained a lot of popularity among offbeat and international travelers.
Cidade De Goa, Panjim
Star Rating: 5
This vibrant property spreads over 40 acres, off the Vainguinim Beach in Panjim. The colorful suites set amidst coconut groves and a private beach make for the perfect retreat
Central
Bogmallo Beach Resort, Bogmallo
Star Rating: 5
At just a 10-minute drive from the airport, you can discover this charming resort, on the Bogmallo Beach. With every room/suite facing the sea, and exceptional culinary delights, this property promises the ultimate vacation! You can choose from rooms or chalets, or even garden villas.
Prainha Beach Resort, Dona Paula
Star Rating: 4
Cozy and quaint, this boutique resort sits on a virgin cove on the Dona Paula Bay. Enveloped by thick coconut groves, this white and blue themed cottages and suites paint the perfect picture of serenity.
South
ITC Grand Goa (formerly Park Hyatt), Cansaulim
Star Rating: 5
Formerly the Park Hyatt Resort, this retreat is South Goa’s crown jewel. Located on the Arosim Beach, the property has a private beach, exclusive to its guest, along with lavish villas and rooms spread across 45 acres of greenery. The lagoons and canals channeled throughout the premise add to the charm.
Lalit Golf & Spa Resort, Canancona
Star Rating: 5 (deluxe)
An overwhelming structure made in colonial Portuguese style, this is a classic retreat in Goa. The highlight of this property lies in its lush golf course and private plantations. With antique fixtures, chandeliers, ornate interiors, and an imposing mosaic art of Sao Rafael, the Lalit is luxury personified.
Zuri White Sands, Varca
Star Rating: 5
One of the most popular properties of South Goa, Zuri is Lalit’s neighboring retreat. The imposing retreat blends classic and contemporary style in its luxury offerings. The resort has its own casino and is an internationally acclaimed resort.
Mayfair Hideaway Spa Resort, Betul
Star Rating: 5
South Goa’s best-kept secret, this property is a paradise for those seeking a quiet retreat on the sea. With poolside gazebos, lagoons, and wooden walkways connecting different areas of the resort, Mayfair will leave you spoilt for choice.
c) Go a few miles beyond
While you are in South Goa, you can also explore the quaint beach town of Karwar, on the border of Karnataka and Goa. You can book a comfortable cab from Goa to Karwar and land in this ancient seaport sandwiched between the Sahyadri mountains on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. The colorful coastal community has a lot to offer from its old world charm to its diverse culture, and delectable cuisine.
Here are a couple of exotic places to stay in Karwar:
Devbagh Beach Resort, Devbagh Beach
Star Rating: 4
Made in a rusting setting, this eco-retreat sits within a thick coconut grove, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The property offers a private beach, an Ayurvedic spa, and a peaceful ambiance.
Cintacor Island Resort, Kurumgad Island
Star Rating: 5
Unique and exotic, this island resort can be accessed only by a boat. This upscale property with marine-themed décor offers uninterrupted views of the Arabian Sea, a waterfront bar, and marine exploration opportunities.
If you’re looking for an ideal 3 day Goa itinerary, check my blog post here
