Idyllic and peaceful, yet also exotic, with its colourful culture and Portuguese heritage, Goa offers an east meets west at the beach experience which draws in about two million travellers a year. Goa is edged by a long stretch of coast along the Arabian Sea, so as well as the party beaches there are also empty lengths where it's just you and the sea eagles. Behind some of these quieter pockets are some of the best places to stay in Goa if you're looking for a serene escape. That said, Goa really does fulfil the cliché of having something for everyone, and for every budget.
Panjim (or Panaji as it's also known) is the state capital and it's a good place to base yourself if you want to explore Goa's culture (Old Goa is just six miles away) as well as the beaches.
Anjuna was the original hippy hang out, but has become less popular as a beach party desination in recent years.
Goa is awash with crumbling (but still grand), Portuguese architecture - the Portuguese were here for more than 500 years so they very much made their mark in Goa's looks, flavours and even the sounds of the place.
Most of Goa's main towns have at least one beautiful old church, and a number of them are quite something - including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which is where the remains of St. Francis Xavier are interred, and the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, which was the first port for all the sailors crossing from Lisbon. And if you're looking for colonial treasures, you'll definitely want to explore Old Goa.
As well as the Catholic contribution, Goa also has a number of very beautiful Hindu temples and monuments. Plus, for a small state, Goa has an excellent collection of museums and galleries.
Most of the cultural sights can be found in Panaji, but when it comes to living artists (many who have moved here for the bohemian lifestyle), you'll find their galleries dotted throughout the small fishing villages.
Goa is also a great place for animal lovers, there are several wildlife sanctuaries in which you might see elephants, wild boar, Indian bison and sambar.
And of course there's that 70kms worth of near perfect beaches, some of which is also great for diving.
Don't forget that the best places to stay in Goa are always popular, especially those with a swimming pool or a beach front location. So get organised and book early!
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Goa (Goa)
Holistic holiday retreat. With accommodation ranging from value beach huts to colourful suites - there is something for everyone. A comprehensive spa providing Ayurvedic treatments and detox packages as well as Sattvic cuisine will leave guests feeling utterly rejuvenated. A luxurious yoga space.
Goa (Goa)
Located on a quiet beach this property provides barefoot, boutique luxury. Individual cottages decorated in dark wood and bright fabrics and furnishings allow for privacy and feature outdoor terraces with sea views. There is a spa, restaurant and a lounge and bar area, popular in the evenings.
Goa (Ashvem, Mandrem)
Cosy resort comprised of cottages dotted around allotment style grounds. Rooms range from budget to family suites and some feature al fresco bathrooms. There is an emphasis on health and wellbeing with daily yoga classes and its own organic kitchen garden. Right by the beach it is a Goan dream.
Goa (Goa)
Specialising in Ayurvedic treatments this 100-year-old traditional Portuguese style villa is a little haven in South Goa. Colourful walls and heavy wooden doors make up rooms filled with art and antiques. There are tranquil gardens with hammocks and authentic Konkani dishes served up on an eve.
Goa (Goa)
Three chic and eco friendly tents overlooking a private salt water creek. Bamboo four posters, draped in white linens decorate the room and tents feature private terraces. There is a guest lounge where wifi is available and outdoor dining serving all meals. Ideal for boutique and beach lovers.
Goa (Goa)
This former holiday home provides contemporary living in traditional Goan style. Rooms are spacious and feature locally produced artwork and fabrics as well as private terraces. Food is quintessential Goan. There are two alluring infinity pools overlooking the river and a spa to spend an afternoon.
Anjuna (Goa)
An oldie but a favourite "Mr Jack" is something of a local legend. Providing friendly and attentive service the eponymous resort is perfectly located for both beach and party. Light and airy rooms feature nautical themed bathrooms. The restaurant serves a well-priced local fare. Great value.
Anjuna (Coutinho Vaddo)
An intimate resort style hotel within walking distance of many of Vagator's top attractions. A fuss-free stay where staff are happy to help. Good sized rooms with modern bathrooms include private balconies and terraces. Plus there is an inviting pool and lounge bar serving food throughout the day.
Anjuna (Bardez, Goa)
This 18th century Portuguese style villa provides luxury at an affordable price. Spacious rooms are decorated in a classic style, some with balconies all with attached bathrooms. There are two pools plus the popular Romeo's restaurant serving up a largely European fair. Great value, great location.
Goa (Goa)
Tranquil haven just stumbling distance from the sea. The property comprises tents, log cabins and one beach villa. All are air-conditioned with private bathrooms. Whilst the tents are Mughal style the other accommodation is traditional Portuguese-Goan. Perfect for a laid back, budget escape.
Goa (Canacona)
This authentic resort comprises 12 unique cottages where you can unwind after a day at the beach. Each comfortable cottage is decorated in a traditional Indian beach style with wooden floors and vibrantly coloured soft furnishings. Relax in your own private sitting area or on the veranda.
Goa (Goa)
A 140-year-old Portuguese villa, proudly located in the “Beverley Hills of Goa”. Amalia Villa, or The Project Café, as it is now known, channels traditional Goan heritage with a modern, makeover. Just four rooms, it is an intimate and authentic stay.
Goa
This boutique hotel is set within verdant grounds in Agonda, South Goa. Stylish guest cottages have thatched roofs and cosy soft lighting; nature is welcomed in, with palm trees growing in, around and through living spaces. Situated a few minutes' walk from the sea, it makes a chic beach break.
Goa (Ashwem Beach)
Located on a popular stretch of beach yet maintaining its privacy Leela's eighteen individual cottages are dotted around luscious grounds. Four posters beds with white drapes induce an air of romance whilst wood-clad bathrooms create a rustic feel. A healthy breakfast spread is included.
Goa (Goa)
Located directly on the popular Ashwem Beach: you couldn't ask for a better location. Classic beach style accommodation ranges from traditional Portuguese houses to thatched beach huts with romantic four posters. All feature private balconies. L'atelier restaurant is popular for its fusion cuisine.
Anjuna (Goa)
A collection of seven self-catered villas providing flexible and spacious accommodation, great for families and groups. Great location and great value for money. There is a large communal pool, plus you are within easy reach of the beaches of Calangute and Anjuna, and their many restaurants.
Goa (Adao Waddo)
Five-star resort with spa, four restaurants and kids' club. Resort prides itself on luxury for all family members. Exclusive 'Diwa Club' for guests who are looking for a more bespoke experience; offering its own lap pool with open-air hot tub. Perfect for serenity seekers.
Goa (Salcete)
An intimate guesthouse, set in lush surroundings, with just five guestrooms. Rooms feature wooden shutters, rustic tiled floors and vibrant decor using traditional Indian fabrics; each with its own theme and individual decorative touches. Immerse yourself in nature at this truly unique hideway.
Goa (Majorda)
Immerse yourself in village life at this quirky guesthouse, where each room tells a story. The Portuguese style building is elegantly furnished in a relaxed Indian style. The light and airy rooms are individually styled and furnished with bright traditional fabrics and wooden beds. Super chilled.
Anjuna (Goa)
A boutique yoga retreat upholding eco friendly principles. Its seven chic Rajasthani tents are decorated in the chakra colours. Food is entirely organic, vegetarian and delicious. There is an inviting, naturally filtered pool and power is solar generated. Unwind with daily yoga and meditation.
Goa (Nerul,)
Charming villas tucked away amidst coconut trees and lush vegetation. Choose from two sparkling pools with plenty of sun loungers, verdant gardens and a tree-top spa in which to relax. Homely rooms are packed with antiques. A healthy breakfast is served and other meals are on request. Delightful.
Goa (Panaji )
A fantastic base for local exploration. Rooms feature wooden flooring, atmospheric lighting and plush furnishings. High–tech special touches aid your relaxation and luxury bathrooms feature full-sized tubs to unwind in. A focus on gourmet cuisine at a variety of restaurants. Pure indulgence.
Goa (North Goa)
Four 19th century Portuguese dwellings lovingly restored by their fashion photographer owner. A clear eye for design is apparent throughout this unequivocally boutique property. Terracotta walls, cobalt blue bathrooms, cascading muslin draped four posters: a bohemian heaven. Brad and Ange loved it.
Goa (Wadi)
A delightful restored heritage villa in the North Goan village of Siolim. Scrumptious food, great staff and an amazing pool. Ornate mosaic flooring and terracotta or marble bathrooms make the unique decor whilst capacious four posters and antique filled rooms complete the traditional look.
Goa (Goa)
Located on a quiet corner of Ashvem Beach, Kaju Varo provides modern eco-lux bungalows for the boutique lover. Modern lines juxtapose against traditional palettes. Rooms are large and feature outdoor showers. The food is a similar fusion of Goan and contemporary European dishes. A zen gem.
Goa (Canacona)
Idyllic escape perched on top of a cliff overlooking the Arabian sea. With just four huts The Cape Goa affords ultimately privacy and with al fresco hot tubs and unspoilt views it is ideal for couples! Balinese style huts feature tropical indoor-outdoor showers. Make sure to try the cocktails!
Goa
A boutique eco-retreat hid within the jungle on a hill overlooking one of Southern Goa's finest beaches. The seven luxury cottages and tents are beautifully constructed using pine wood. Large rain showers have an outdoor feel and sea views can be enjoyed from the bed. A barefoot luxury escape.
Goa (Goa)
Five minutes from Goa's old town these two very private villas are a home away from home - if, at home, you had a team of staff to take care of your every need. Chic interiors lend themselves to indoor-outdoor living, making the most of their luscious surrounds. A totally different 'Goa' experience.
Goa (Canacona, Agonda)
The best place to stay on Agonda, this beachfront collection of nine luxurious bamboo huts provides stylish accommodation just a few steps from the sea. The best rooms include private plunge pools and hot tubs whilst all boast enormous beds and stunning bathrooms, the best being outdoors.
Goa (Tiracol, Maharashtra 403524 )
Wonderfully isolated former defense fort seeped in history with a 17th century church on site, a real off-the-beaten-track gem offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Tastefully decorated rooms with four-poster opulence, and its restaurant has a delectable and varied menu.
Goa (Benaulim)
A family friendly hotel in Goa, Taj Exotica boasts a private beach and views over the Arabian Sea. Elegantly styled guest rooms, tastefully finished in a classic style, overlook the impressive grounds. Guests are spoilt for choice with six restaurants, outdoor activities and a relaxing spa.
Goa (Aldeia de Goa )
In the heart of Goa, this luxury hotel offers sweeping views of the stunning Bambolin Bay. Choice of 7 restaurants to satisfy many palettes, a relaxing poolside area and bar, an emphasis on wellness with a top-notch spa and gym, and many activities & nightlife options to keep you entertained!
Goa (Goa)
A verdant stroll through lime groves to Candolim beach, Aashyana is a blend of French architecture and Indian tradition. With 19 staff for just the main villa alone, guests do not want for anything. The chef cooks homegrown Goan and Western dishes which can be eaten under the stars. Utter bliss.
Anjuna
A lovely, secluded boutique hotel in the hills of North Goa. Peace and quiet, superb food and a spectacular jungle setting. Mediterranean accents include pops of colour whilst modern art gives the place a bohemian feel. A quirky little hideaway within easy reach of Goa's best beaches.
Goa (Goa)
Forty five luscious acres packed with several fine dining options, the indulgent Kaya Kalp spa, tropical pools, a kids club, games room, its own private beach - and much more! Rooms include elegant Portuguese decor, dark wood rattan furnishings, white flowing linens and private balconies.
Goa (Fontainhas Altinho Panaji,)
Small, simple and stylishly designed boutique hotel in the heart of Panaji's Latin Quarter. Great base from which to head out to the pretty colonial-style streets and explore the city's rich culture, and there are a host of fine-dining options within walking distance. A chic and practical haven!
Goa (Vagator, Goa)
Internationally acclaimed hotel bringing some 5* luxury to North Goa. Rooms ranges from chic white suites with Indian colour pop palettes to palatial private villas. All feature stunning modern, mirror-clad bathrooms. Right on the beach there is a tropical pool, indulgent spa plus fine dining.
