11 Popular Places To Explore In North Goa

If you're looking for a vacation spot where you can unwind with vibrant parties, excellent food, and drinks, North Goa is your ideal destination. With its beautiful beaches, stunning natural views, refreshing shacks, lush cliffs, exotic cuisine, and stylish shopping areas, it's a lively hub for tourists from around the globe. From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the enchanting atmosphere of this charming location.

# Aguada Beach

Aguada Beach is a key tourist destination in North Goa, renowned for the historic Aguada Fort perched on a cliff. Visitors can enjoy serene strolls along the beach or engage in exciting activities. The Aguada Resort on the beach is a popular choice for travelers looking to relax and explore the area.

# Calangute Beach

Often referred to as “The Queen of the Beaches,” Calangute Beach is immensely popular among tourists. It’s the perfect spot to unwind on its warm sandy shores. The lively markets offer a variety of exotic foods, drinks, and Indonesian artifacts. Don't miss the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views here.

# Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach offers a comprehensive vacation experience with its blend of parties, sightseeing, adventure, shopping, and fine dining. The beach is divided into Big Vagator Beach and Little Vagator Beach, with the latter known for its vibrant nightlife. Numerous stalls along the beach sell handicrafts, books, and food.

# Baga Beach

Baga Beach captivates visitors with its pristine white sands and lush palm trees. It’s a hotspot for thrilling water sports, refreshing shacks, and live music shows, attracting thousands of tourists annually. The area is also home to numerous pubs and clubs.

# Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort, a prominent North Goa landmark, is famous for its appearance in the Bollywood film “Dil Chahta Hai.” Situated on Chapora Beach, the fort, now in ruins, is notable for its historical significance, having been under Portuguese rule for over 150 years. The fort’s tunnels, constructed by the Portuguese for escape, add to its intrigue.

# Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is closely associated with St. Francis Xavier. Its Baroque architecture features stunning interiors with magnificent marble floors, antique basalt decorations, and remarkable paintings, making it a must-visit.

Nearby Attractions: 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.

# The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Believed to be the first church built in Goa, this 16th-century church is notable for its simple yet striking pure white architecture. It features intricately carved altars of St. Francis Xavier, Our Lady of Rosary, and Crucified Jesus, along with sculptures of St. Peter and St. Paul, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

# Arvalem Waterfalls

Arvalem Waterfalls is a captivating natural attraction in North Goa, with its 24-foot drop providing a delightful view. Nearby, you can explore the Arvalem caves and visit the Shiva Temple. The increased water volume during the monsoon season enhances its appeal.

# Big Daddy Caravela

For a taste of Las Vegas in Goa, visit Big Daddy Caravela, the renowned casino on the MV Lucky Seven boat floating on the Mandavi River. Enjoy luxurious amenities, VIP game rooms, various gaming tables, and numerous automatic machines. The casino features a fine dining restaurant, barbecue zone, kid’s area, cigar lounge, and live music and dance performances by global artists.

# Curlies

Curlies, the oldest shack on Anjuna Beach, is a favorite among party enthusiasts. Its simple yet intriguing interiors, friendly staff, excellent service, delicious food, and enticing drinks make it a popular spot. The beach parties, along with Goan music and cuisine, create a memorable experience.

# Anjuna Beach Flea Market

For an outstanding shopping and dining experience, visit the Anjuna Beach Flea Market, held every Wednesday. The market attracts a large number of tourists with its diverse offerings, including Kashmiri and Tibetan jewelry, Rajasthani and Gujarati handicrafts, Kerala spices, and more. You can also relax at one of the nearby restaurants or bars with live music.