Goa Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Goa, India)

The state's spectacular sandy beaches have long been amongst the main tourist attractions in Goa, with the coastline offering an array of popular recreational activities and water sports, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, water-skiing and even parasailing. Goa is also a great place for boat trips and many tourist enjoy pleasure cruises, where you are often able to view dolphins swimming and jumping, and also swim in the warm, deep sea, amongst other attractions.

Fishing is especially popular with tourists staying in Goa and with a little guidance you will be able to catch everything from shrimps to catfish, and even oysters. For the young at heart, why not consider joining in the fun at one of Goa's legendary open-air parties, or even a ride on an elephant? The most celebrated tourist attractions in Goa are described further below.

Boat Trips, Fishing and Dolphin Spotting

Various pleasure boats and deep-sea fishing trips are available along most of the main beaches in Goa, such as Arambol, Benaulim and Palolem. Dolphin cruises are especially popular and offer tourist the chance to observe local dolphin species in their natural environment, such as Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, common dolphins and black-finned porpoises. Cruises also operate around the peaceful backwaters, heading to a number of local attractions, including the spice plantations around Ponda. Look out for sunbathing crocodiles on the riverbanks.
Open hours: seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Elephant Safari

Address: The Indian Retreat, Green Valley, Vollant, Bardez, Goa, India, IN
Tel: +91 0832 238 9231
Enjoying a peaceful countryside setting, the Indian Retreat is a great place to learn more about elephants and Indian culture, offering a taste of the Goa of yesteryear. Here you will abe able to enjoy a ride on an elephant as it frolics in the river, or even feed the elephants by hand. Other attractions include cottage-style accommodation, evening jungle dancing, traditional Indian breakfasts, relaxing massages and candlelit dining. Guests can be collected from the airport if required.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Sport / Football

Various sporting attractions are on offer all over Goa, such as golf, tennis, cricket, field hockey and football. Soccer has been a popular sport in Goa for more than 100 years and the state's football stadium (Fatorda Stadium) lies within the Margao area and many large matches regularly take place here outside of the monsoon season, attracting major clubs and crowds of spectators.
Open hours: seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Water Sports

Water sports have long been one of the main tourist attractions within Goa and although the waters are not crystal clear, there are many excellent dive spots where scuba divers flock. Paragliding is particularly popular around Anjuna and Arambol, while for jet-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing, head to the beaches of Baga, Calangate, Candolim and Colva. The Goa dive centre is located in Baga, along Tito's Road, as is open daily from 10:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 21:00. Other dive centres can be found at Bogmalo and Miramar.
Open hours: seasonal variations
Admission: charge for equipment hire and instructors

Trekking / Hiking Trails

Although Goa is hardly filled with tall mountains and high hills, it does boast a number of elevated trekking trails, where you can enjoy some great views across the state. Amongst the main hilltop attractions are a number of historic temples and areas of lush jungle-style planting.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Bullfights

If you are planning to watch a bullfight in Goa, don't expect Spanish matadors and red capes, Goan bullfights simply take place between two local bulls. Bullfights in India operate between October and May, often being held within the villages of Caranzalem, Santa Cruz and Taleigao.
Open hours: hours vary
Admission: charge for events

Entertainment

Various entertainment options and attractions are located all over Goa, which is known for being a place to party. Goa's frequent outdoor raves are always popular with tourists, with the main party hotspots including Vagator's Disco Valley and the Bamboo Forest within Anjuna. Open-air raves are at their absolute best around Christmas time and the New Year, when crowds flock to join in the fun. Those looking to party inside will find there are a selection of nightclubs available around Baga, Calangute and Candolim.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge