Planning a trip to Goa and feeling overwhelmed by endless beach options, not knowing about the latest hidden party spots, conflicting advice from friends, struggling to choose between North or South Goa, and that nagging fear of missing out on the best experiences?
Trust me, I’ve been there. Now I’m well-versed with the BEST places in Goa, so I can help you experience Goa like a local.
When I first visited Goa, I made every mistake in the book—spent too much time wandering through touristy areas, missed hidden gems everyone raved about later, went to internet-hyped party places that weren’t worthy at all (total catfish), and somehow ended up exhausted instead of rejuvenated.
That’s exactly why I’m sharing this complete Goa travel guide with you—to make your first or next Goa experience outstanding. You’ll definitely thank me for not gatekeeping it.
Here’s the thing about Goa:
it’s not just one destination. North Goa brings the energy with its legendary parties, bustling beaches, and beautiful sundowners, while South Goa offers serene coastlines and peaceful retreats.
Most travelers only experience one side—mostly North Goa due to obvious reasons like budget, time management, and not knowing much about South Goa. But now you don’t have to choose.
This is my 4-days Goa itinerary covering both North and South Goa, sharing how I lived and fell in love with this coastal paradise. I’m going to show you how to experience the best of both worlds—from sunrise yoga sessions and quiet beach therapy to epic sundowners and the nightlife of Goa that’ll keep you dancing till dawn. No FOMO, no regrets, just the perfect balance.
By the End of This Goa Travel Guide, You’ll Know:
- Exactly how to split your time between North and South Goa
- When is the right time to visit Goa
- Which Goa beaches are worth your time (and which ones to skip)
- Where to find those Instagram-worthy cafes, sundowner spots, and clubs in Goa
- Hidden spots loved by foreigners and seasoned travelers
- How to seamlessly blend relaxation, adventure, and fun
Ready to plan your perfect Goa getaway? Let’s dive in.
Day 1: Starting Your Goa Trip – South Goa Serenity
Morning: Touch Down and Head to South Goa
Whether you’re arriving in Goa by flight, train, or road, head directly to South Goa.
Trust me, starting with the peaceful South Goa vibes sets the perfect tone for your trip.
Go to Cavelossim Beach and book your stay nearby according to your budget. There are numerous beach houses, beachfront resorts, and beautiful properties available.
If budget isn’t an issue, I’d highly recommend:
The St. Regis Goa Resort—
it’s a perfect beachfront luxury resort. They offer incredible activities, hospitality, service, food, and scenic views. Everything is stunning and worth every penny I spent. Hands down, one of my best luxury stays so far.
Check into your accommodation and take a moment to breathe in that fresh Goan air.
Pro tip: Don’t skip breakfast in all that excitement. Eat a healthy fruit bowl or a quick vegetable sandwich to get that energy boost to kickstart your day—it’s definitely going to be a long one.
Rent a bike or car for your Goa adventure. You can easily get contacts for local bike or car rentals from your hotel or any nearby shop.
At the end of this blog, I’ve also mentioned a few contacts for bike and car rental services in both South and North Goa to ease your overall trip.
Evening: Sunset & Local Flavors
Afternoon: Your First Serene Beach Experience in South Goa
Get ready, do your skincare and makeup, and pack your beach essentials. Take out your camera, click that OOTD photo, and make that reel you’ve been planning.
Don’t forget: SPF sunscreen, power bank, and most importantly, sunglasses.
Head to Cavelossim Beach—this is one of those Goa beaches that barely anyone knows about.
No crowds, no beach shacks blaring music, just pristine sand and the soothing sound of waves. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think. Grab a book, lay out your towel, and just… exist. Get soaked in the sun and tan to your heart’s content.
Enjoy your lunch at any nearby beach shack. My top recommendation:
Mike’s Place: A perfect hidden restaurant by the beach that serves local Goan food, alcohol, coastal cuisine, and so much more.
If you feel like a quick outfit change, head back to your hotel, freshen up, and drive to Mobor Beach.
They have an unbelievable sunset view—the golden hour here hits different.
For dinner, head to Susegado Goa:
A perfect beachfront continental seafood restaurant. It’s classy, Instagram-worthy, and the food, drinks, and service are top-notch
Pro Tip: Don’t pack your Day 1 too tight. Jet lag is real, and South Goa’s energy is all about slowing down.
End your first day by saving energy for the next three days.
Day 2: Wellness & Adventures in South Goa
Now pack your bag and head to Benaulim Beach—it offers a serene, fresh blue coastline and white sand with minimal tourist crowds.
Choose from nearby hotels, resorts, hostels, or Airbnbs. Prices start from 1000 INR per day.
My recommendation: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
—a luxurious beachside elegance and opulent getaway where indulgence is at its finest. With its open landscapes, colonial-style architecture, and intuitive service, it’s absolutely perfect for a luxury beach retreat.
Morning: Yoga Ritual
Start your day early with a yoga session in Goa. Below are a few recommended yoga studios nearby:
Per session charges start from 2000 INR, which is an absolute steal for such soul-awakening sessions.
These aren’t your usual yoga classes—I mean it when I say this. Their morning classes are magical, often held outdoors with ocean breezes flowing through.
Afternoon: Beach Hopping in South Goa
Visit Benaulim Beach—another peaceful stretch where you can swim, relax, and sunbathe without the chaos.
Grab lunch at Your Story Beach Shack—order fresh grilled fish, coconut water, or one of their famous cocktails.
Evening: Adventure Water Sports in Goa
If you’re craving a little adrenaline before dinner, you must try these activities. They’ll become lifetime memories.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Dive into clear waters to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and tropical fish—perfect for both beginners and seasoned divers.
OR Parasailing: Feel the thrill as you rise high above the Arabian Sea, soaking in panoramic views of Goa’s coastline. It’s equal parts adventure and postcard-worthy scenery.
OR Any water activity you want to try—just go for it!
Important:
Book your activities in advance. Always choose PADI/SSI certified operators (e.g., Atlantis Watersports, Dive Goa, Scuba Goa, FlyingFish) for your safety and fullest enjoyment.
Night: South Goa Party Scene
There are numerous techno and EDM parties happening in nearby places.
The locations and dates change frequently, so I can’t tag a single place or time. However, to make things easier, I’ve provided website link for you to select your preferred time and party type accordingly.
Day 3: Transition to North Goa – Adventure Mode On
Morning: One Last South Goa Sunrise
Wake up early for sunrise and head to Benaulim Beach. The morning light on this beach is something special.
Grab breakfast at a nearby café and
say goodbye to South Goa.
Mid-Morning: Journey to Anjuna, North Goa
Pack up and head to Anjuna, North Goa. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours depending on traffic, so put on your favorite playlist and enjoy the changing scenery.
If you’re staying in Anjuna, without a second thought, check into Artjuna Cabanas Hostel. They have a gorgeous property at a budget-friendly price.
Starting price per bed is around 1500 INR per day, which is nothing compared to their accommodation and overall service. The owners and staff are the coolest people you’ll meet.
Afternoon: Famous North Goa Beaches
Get ready and hit Eva’s Café for a delicious fusion lunch—the most aesthetic place I’ve seen in North Goa. They have direct beach access, so you can sit by the shore with your drinks.
Late Afternoon: Explore & Wander Through Anjuna
When you leave the café, there’s a local market right outside. It’s a full lane of street shopping packed with clothes, footwear, jewelry, antiques, exotic pieces—you’ll find everything and anything.
They have the cutest bikinis, imported clothes, beach slippers, unique accessories, bags, and more. Their collection looks straight out of a Thailand market—fresh and fashionable.
It’s really a great street shopping experience to pick up souvenirs or just soak in the North Goa vibe.
Evening: Sundowner Party Warm-Up
At the end of the shopping street, you’ll spot Jolene Seaside Sundowner—go there for the perfect sunset view by the beach.
The DJ scene here is electric.
Everyone’s in high spirits, music’s playing, and the energy is contagious. The view from their outside tables is mesmerizing.
Try their pizza and espresso martini—you can thank me later.
They have a live pizza counter, DJ setup, and—I kid you not—their restroom is so cool, perfect for that OOTD mirror selfie.
Night: Best Party Clubs in North Goa
Ditch the Chapora lane or any overhyped old clubs. Head straight to Clara Club Goa—the party scene there is insane.
The entry fee depends on table allotment. Make a pre-reservation even on weekdays; it’s always sold out. Cover charges start from 5000 INR.
The food and especially their cocktail mixes are perfectly blended.
They organize events, parties, dance shows, and crazy performances every day. Their nightlife scene is absolutely amazing and mind-blowing.
End your night with lots of fun and dancing.
Day 4: Hidden Spots Exploration & Final Moments in Goa
Morning: Ice Bath & Breakfast
When you wake up, get ready for the most awaited retreat of the trip: Ice Bathing.
Inside your hostel, Artjuna Cabanas, they have setups for yoga sessions, sound therapy, and ice baths. They charge additionally for these services.
You can book an ice bath session to release all the stress and burdens you’ve been carrying. It’s such a refreshing experience.
When you’re ready, have your breakfast. Order their Greek Sandwich—it’s the most phenomenal sandwich I’ve ever had, no cap.
Their restaurant ambience is beyond words, with nature surrounding you and birds chirping. If you’re lucky like me, you’ll also get to hear peacocks calling.
Afternoon: Drive to Arambol Beach
The drive from Anjuna to Arambol takes about an hour. I know it sounds ridiculous and hectic on the last day of a trip—trust me, you’ll love it.
The drive to Arambol itself is stunning. You’ll experience the real Goa vibes—coconut trees lining the roads, shopping markets, Maggi stalls in between, driving with beach views on your left, the locals, and just pure vibes.
If you ask me why Arambol?
Arambol is a land of hidden gems where the craziest things happen. No more gatekeeping—go there and enjoy. It’s loved by foreigners and people like me who visit Goa every year and still get surprised.
Afternoon: Hidden Gem Café in Arambol
Head to Tathastu Café—it’s the perfect place to chill, eat, read books, get creative, or even work if you want.
It’s a place that shuts your mind off automatically and lets you breathe in the fresh natural vibe. It has a jungle concept with trees, plants, spiritual energy, water fountains—all natural with literally no AC.
The food is delicious. You won’t feel like leaving Tathastu Café at all—it’s so comforting and peaceful.
Evening: Farewell Sunset at Arambol Beach
Your last Goan sunset deserves a special spot. Head to Arambol Beach—around a 5-minute drive from the café.
Chill there while enjoying a perfect golden sunset. You can swim if you feel like it.
Reflect on your four days, scroll through your photos, and soak it all in.
After all, it’s about making yourself happy.
Afterwards, you can also check out the Drum Circle. A group of artists plays drums every evening—the vibe is extraordinary. You can listen, dance, and enjoy the rhythms.
Night: Final Hidden Spot in North Goa
Your last spot deserves to be extra special, leaving a lasting impression. So I recommend this hidden gem run by foreigners, loved by foreigners, and very few Indians know about this place.
You must obey some rules before entering: do not drink and enter. No alcohol is allowed inside the premises—pure vibes only.
For dinner, head to Shunya Wellness. Try their Falafel Platter (authentic Middle Eastern style) and virgin mojito.
Here’s the insider tip: forget mainstream clubs for tonight. Head to Shunya Wellness. These parties are mostly word-of-mouth, attracting a cool international crowd.
The music is usually psytrance or house, the vibe is intimate, and you’ll meet travelers from every corner of the world. Keep an open mind, respect the space, and dance like nobody’s watching.
Now say goodbye to this amazing Goa journey.
Essential Tips for Your Goa Trip
Best Time to Visit Goa
First things first… when should you visit Goa?
Honestly, it doesn’t really matter that much—but avoid summers as the heat and humidity can spoil your plans, mood, and pretty much everything.
Monsoon and winter are the right times to visit Goa, especially winters (I’m not really a monsoon person, but if you love rain, monsoon Goa is totally your vibe).
My recommendation: September to February
All water activities are available during this season, the weather is great, and you’ll enjoy Goa the most.
Most of the internet says to avoid December. I honestly don’t know why they’re influencing people to miss the best part of Goa.
December, Christmas, and New Year are the times when the whole of Goa lights up.
Everyone’s celebrating, and the beauty you witness during that period is rare and wholesome.
So plan during December—it’s absolutely worth it. If you think Goa will be too crowded, leave it to me. I’ve mentioned places that no one knows about, perfect for your Goa diaries.
Transportation in Goa
- Taxis and autos work but can get expensive
- No Uber or Ola, but there’s an app called GoaMiles which works the same way and charges fairly. Plus point—it’s available pretty much everywhere
- Rent a scooter for maximum flexibility and those perfect outfit shots (500-600 INR per day)
- Car rentals start at 1500-2000 INR per day
- Carry some cash—many beach shacks and vendors don’t accept UPI or cards
What to Pack for Goa
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) – you’ll burn faster than you think
- Light, breathable clothes—it gets really hot and humid even in winter
- must-have hot girl accessories
- Swimwear (multiple sets)
- Flip-flops and comfortable walking shoes (must-have)
- A sarong (multi-purpose!)
- Power bank
- Reusable water bottle (let’s avoid plastic bottles, please)
Safety & Etiquette in Goa
- Don’t drink and drive
- Beach shack etiquette: order food/drinks if you’re using their sunbeds
- Stay hydrated – the Goa sun is no joke
- Be mindful at party spots – know your limits
- Do not get involved in any illegal activities
Foodie Must-Tries in Goa
- Fish curry rice
- Pork vindaloo
- Prawn balchão
- Bebinca (traditional Goan dessert)
- Feni (local Goan liquor)
- Fresh seafood grilled at beach shacks
Final Thoughts on Your 4-Day Goa Itinerary
Four days in Goa is just enough to experience the yin and yang—the peaceful, soul-soothing South Goa and the energetic, party-loving North Goa.
You’ll do ice baths and yoga sessions, find beaches where you’re practically alone, dance at hidden parties, and everything in between.
The beauty of Goa is that it meets you where you are. Want to party till 6 AM? It’s got you covered.
Need to unplug and reset? It’s here for that too.
My itinerary gives you structure, but don’t be afraid to deviate. Some of the best Goa moments happen when you take that random turn or say yes to an unexpected invitation.
Comment down your favourite spot out of all places.
Also check my recent post on outfits for aesthetics and date night nights.