Is Goa good for a honeymoon?

India is one of the most popular places in the world for honeymooners, particularly, stunning places like Goa.

Located on the west coast of the Indian country, the city of Goa is found. It is of Portuguese background, as they landed in Goa back in the 16th century. This influence can be evidenced everywhere in Goa.

The small state of Goa is a safe, lively and vibrant place with tons of food choices, varied accommodation options, many touristic attractions and remarkable scenery. But, is Goa a good place for a honeymoon?

Yes. Goa has exotic beaches, a unique cuisine, an all-year-round tropical climate, colonial architecture and a culture full of contrasts. Goa is a distinctive romantic getaway with an electrifying nightlife and a peaceful traditional environment.

Goa is very well connected by bus and rail and it is of easy to access. Most of the international flights are operated by big airlines and they fly to Goa often from the major city airports. If you happen to be in other parts of India already, you can also drive overnight and you will reach Gao within a couple of hours.

Alternatively, there are also cruise packages very affordable from the main ports operated by big cruise lines landing in Goa a couple of times a week.

Why Goa is one of the best places for a honeymoon

Goa is one of the most popular and romantic destinations in India for a honeymoon trip. Goa is a phenomenal place that has something special for every honeymooner, whether nature, food, adventure or fantastic beaches are the focus of the trip. Below are the top reasons:

Beaches

Goa is home to some of the most mesmerising beaches in India. They offer endless opportunities for fun and relaxation for newlyweds. There are immense snorkelling, surfing and diving opportunities to get lost for hours.

The beaches in Goa are divided into two different clusters for honeymooners to pick the mood they are in. In the north of Goa, the beaches are famous for their lively atmosphere and party mode.

However, in the south of Goa, honeymooners will find peace, solitude and relaxation as beaches are secluded and quiet.

Which Goa beach is best for a honeymoon?

Goa is the perfect definition of a tropical dream where beaches are surrounded by palm trees and the water is clear and warm.

It is the perfect place to thrive on your honeymoon where there are different beautiful beach setups for a picturesque and unforgettable trip.

What the best beaches are can be a challenging question that can be hard to answer as it depends on what honeymooners may be after. In our opinion the beaches listed below are our favourite ones for a romantic honeymoon:

Goa North Beaches

1. Anjuna Beach
   Best beach in Goa. There is a gorgeous hippie vibe along the white sand and palm trees where music and a social atmosphere welcomes both visitors and locals.

2. Calangute Beach
   This beach is a charming retreat for love birds. Named the ‘Queen of Beaches’, you can find both beauty and fun as lively markets and beach bars serving cold beer and food can be found.

3. Candolim Beach
   Candolim Beach is another perfect example of a gorgeous beach and also full of adventure. It offers tons of water sports chances as well as festive scenery. It is known for its nightlife and unique atmosphere.

4. Arambol Beach
   Unlike the other beaches describe above, Arambol Beach is a more peaceful beach where honeymooners can find some solicitude and simply enjoy the pristine coastline.
   It is relatively unexploited by tourists and definitely worth spending time with if seeking romance.
5. Coco Beach
   Located in the Nerul River, this unique beach offers a stunning landscape, watersports activities, markets, beach shacks and beautiful sunset colours. Coco Beach is one popular beach where honeymooners will find themselves trapped by the Goan spirit and hippy vibe.

Goa South Beaches

1. Majorda Beach
   Majorda Beach is a peaceful and tranquil, golden sand beach in the south of Goa. Surrounded by tall and green palm trees and casuarinas, this beach is simply incredible.
   You can walk and enjoy the ocean breeze and refresh yourselves in the energetic waters of this gorgeous beach.
2. Butterfly Beach
   Also called Butterfly Island (it is not an island though!) is our absolute favourite for newlyweds and in-love couples in general. It is not only stunning but also quite untouched.
   The incredible highlight is spotting the millions of butterflies feeding on the endless blossoms at the top of the beach cliff.
   If this is not enough beauty, honeymooners can also spot dolphins in the turquoise waters from the golden beach sand.

3. Galgibaga Beach
   Goans called this beach, “the serene beach”. It is well characterised, as it is a calm and peaceful little beach where sea turtles go and nest their eggs.
   It is covered in coconut palm trees and fine dusty sand, where big turtles go every year to deposit their eggs.
   It is easy to spot them in the early morning when they start going back to the ocean together with the local fishermen on the shore.
4. Betalbatim Beach
   Lastly, Betalbatim Beach, also known as the sunset beach in Goa, honeymooners gather on the shore to witness memorable sunsets. It is a quiet and immaculate beach for the perfect sunset romance.
   This gorgeous beach is surrounded by pine trees, home to lovebirds flying everywhere. This joyful and charming beach is also called Lover’s beach!

Unique resorts

One of the greatest things about a honeymoon in Goa is the wide range of accommodation options.

From luxury resorts, unique villas and boutique hotels to cheap hotels, homestays and hostels. Goa is well equipped for everyone’s budget and preferences.

Here are our top Goa resorts and hotels recommendations for honeymoons:

• Casa Mandala Resort & Spa, Candolim Beach
  Open balconies overlooking the ocean, excellent and warm staff service and the outdoor pool, make this place a honeymoon dream.
• Sanctuary Beach Resort & Spa, Baga Beach
  This resort is well-equipped with amazing waterfront rooms. The excellent service, and the amenities to help honeymooners restore their minds and bodies, makes this hotel a very popular choice for a honeymoon vacation.
• The Park Calangute
  Amazing boutique resort located in Calangute. It offers the best service honouring its 5 stars rating. The awesomeness reaches its highest peak at sunset when honeymooners can unleash their romance in the open-air lounge sipping the best cocktails.
• Club Mahindra Varca Beach Resort
  A seafront resort that takes honeymooners and couples pampering to the next level. You can even request to have your body restoration treatment outdoors on your own open balcony.
  Whilst you get rejuvenated next to your forever soul, you can feel the waves and the ocean breeze on your skin. It is a superb romantic boutique hotel.

Other very good ones for couples to consider on their honeymoon:

• The Zuri White Sands, Goa Resort & Casino
• Novotel Goa Shrem Hotel-An AccorHotels Brand
• The O Hotel Beach Resort And Spa Goa
• The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort
• Planet Hollywood Beach Resort
• Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort
• Novotel Goa Resort & Spa-An AccorHotels Brand
• Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

If you are after a more affordable option withouth scrifising quality to omuch then, heck out our top recommendations for mid-range honeymoons:

• Hotel Avenue.
  A family hotel that offers lovebirds cheaper yet high-quality accommodation plans. They are also well provided with incredible activity packages and splendid food choices.
• Sugar Plum Macedo Palms
  Gorgeous guesthouse located right on the sand on Baga Beach. Very popular budget homestay for those watching the penny a bit more closely.
  It is premium located, the price is great, equipped with aircon and fans as well as surveilled 24 hours. It is a pretty sweet cheap choice.
• Hotel Solmar
  Located in Miramar Beach district, not far from the ocean, you can find this lovely baroque-style guesthouse. Provides an outdoor pool and a beautiful garden for couples to cool down from the Goan warmer days.
  Close to bars, food stalls and restaurants where honeymooners can get all sorts of Asian food for a very low price just like the rates of the guesthouse.
• Sai Residency Anjuna
  Located not far from Anjuna Flea Market and Anjuna Beach, this lovely tourist residence offers comfortable and cheap accommodation when in Goa. It is a 24 hours check-in available guesthouse and its staff is great. They have a variety of room types to suit everyone’s needs.

Other cheap accommodations worth considering when on a honeymoon on a budget:

• Santana Beach Resort
• Cuba Retreat, Canacona
• Resorte Village Royale , Calangute
• Jymis Cottages, Colva
• The Banyan Soul, Anjuna
• Meraden La Oasis, Anjuna
• Alagoa Beach Resort, Betalbatim

Architecture

Building decoration and constructions are so heterogeneous, resulting in ist multiple conquers. It has a multi-layer of Architecture from the Islamic to the Portuguese period that left Goa with all the religious buildings and churches that Goa is famous for today.

The traditional houses of Goa have a strong Portuguese influence, evidenced by the appearance of clay and heritage tiles, mother-of-pearl shell windows,cornices, gates, columns, use of porcelain and tons of colours. Goa has unique Baroque-styled buildings and a plethora of Christian iconic churches.

However, despite the strong Portuguese heritage and influence, there are also numerous cultural tokens by native Goan historians and artists, including Hindu, Muslim and Jain elements.

This is the reason why the decoration and architecture history is so diverse in Goa.

Magnificent food

Local and beautiful food is one of the most important factors in the decision-making process of a couple when picking a destination. A honeymoon is truly complete after having a good grasp of the tasty local foods.

Goa’s traditional Portuguese past left a mark on its culinary practices. The distinctive Goan’s cuisine is the result of the mix of Portuguese, Arab, Brazilian, African, French, Konkani, Malabari, Malaysian and Chinese cultures over the centuries.

Goan cuisine is based on rice, coconuts, kokum, cashews, spices, vinegar and tons of seafood! The Christian part of Goa does cook with meat, chicken and beans as well. It is a paradise for fish and curries lovers and just favourable food in general.

Vindaloo is a signature Goan dish that is a must-try when in Goa. Sol Kadhi, is a famous drink that all visitors have to try as it is believed to have health benefits.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the delicious desserts that Goa is famous for. These include Bebinca, Neoreo or Godshe based on coconut, rice and lentils. Just incredible.

Nightlife

Goa is famous all over the world not only for its striking beaches but also for hosting the most exciting nightlife. It is perfect for honeymooners who like chilling and spending some time around music and dancing until late at night.

There are options for everyone, from in-house parties in the best beach resorts, show bars and karaoke to parties in pool bars as well as night markets and nightclubs.

Our recommended nightclubs are:

• Love Passion Karma
  Also known as LPK Waterfront, is an unusual and unique nightclub located in the Nerul River in the Candolim area. It is one of the most popular clubs in Goa and it is quite frequented by couples.
  This is due to the vibrant atmosphere, awesome music, DJs performances and the outdoor deck to soak in the beauty of the area. The range of drinks and snack is awesome and it is totally recommended for honeymooners to elevate their holiday a notch.
• Club Cabana
  Another famous nightclub that offers a fantastic view of the stars. It has an incredible pool where people can enjoy a pool party whilst having delicious Goan snacks and drinks with the most viby music surrounding the club.
• Tito’s Bar and Club
  Tito’s nightclub is extremely popular among tourists. Very close to the beach, Titos lane is full of food, great music, and drinks and always super lively.
  There are another 3 clubs inside Tito’s nightclub. These are Club Titos, Café Mambo, and Bollywood Discotheque. There is also open-air events and restaurant drinks.

Street markets

A honeymoon in Goa is just magnificent, there is so much to see and do. Among other things, strolling around the flea markets.

It is the perfect place for shopper addicts, foodies and travellers in general.

There are several of flea markets around Goa where live music, dance performances, food, cocktails, jewellery and handcrafts make a honeymoon in Goa an absolute dream.

Our favourite street markets are:

• Anjuna Market
• Calangute Market Square
• Mapusa Municipal Market
• Panjim Market
• Arpora night market
• Mackie Night Bazaar
• Arambol Street Market
• Colva Beach Market
• Tibetan Market, Baga
• Ingo’s Night Bazaar
• Ashwem Beach Market

Tons of activities

• Scuba diving
• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Parasailing
• Mandovi River Sunset Cruise
• Cave Exploration
• Adventure sports, like water rafting and giant crocodile boat tour
• Waterfall exploration
• Banana boat ride
• Jet skiing
• Hiking
• Sunrise cruise
• Dolphins spotting at Monkey beach
• Hidden Islands. There are pristine islands in Goa for the most romantic days.
  All honeymooners must check out these islands as some of them are top-rated activities when in Goa for a honeymoon.
• Chorao Island: Known for its beauty, villages and cheese!
• Divar Island: This is a gorgeous pretty much-untouched island where honeymooners can experience the true countryside local Goan culture. It portrays picturesque scenery with a romantic setting.
• Grand Island: This is one of the most chosen islands by honeymooners in Goa due to the numerous water activities possible. Tons of wildlife to spot, and this island offers the best snorkelling and scuba diving.

Affordable

Although prices can get pretty outrageous if booked last minute in the peak season, Goa is cheap.

Goa is one of the few places in Asia where honeymoons are cheap. Cheap and comparable to Bali or Thailand.

There is amazing food, public transport and cheap accommodations yet in style. Even pricey resorts are somewhat affordable, especially, if they are booked way ahead of time.

Homestays and cheap hostels are still pretty good choices for honeymooners who what to travel on a budget, as they are safe, clean and well-located.

Safety

Goa is generally very safe. This is one of the main factors why Goa is a good place for a honeymoon.

There are some small crimes like in other touristic areas, such as scams, petty thefts and some sexual remarks to western ladies. The usual.

The crime rates are very low and by exercising common sense and taking normal safety precautions, we haven’t felt unsafe not even once.

Which month is best for a honeymoon in Goa? Best time to travel to Goa

Goa is a tropical paradise with a warm and humid climate all year round. As in all tropical places, there are still some differences in between the months, although you can never go wrong in Goa!

Each season has incredible things to provide. Which season is right for you, is up to you to decide what the highlight of your honeymoon in Goa is!

November – March. Peak Season

This is the winter season in Goa when the temperature average is around 25°C- 32°C.

The Monsoon period is just over around this time, leaving Goa with a beautiful lush green, full waterfalls and clear blue skies.

These months are the best months to travel to Goa for a honeymoon. The temperature is warm but still, visitors can explore pleasantly feeling a cool breeze on their skin.

Given the ideal weather at this time, there are tons of activities to be done and a plethora of festivals going on. The city's lively and fun atmosphere is at its highest.

Music, dance and food festivals are the focus of these months, particularly around Christmas time. Churches are all illuminated and decorated, as well as restaurants plazas and shops.

One of the top activities when in Goa at this time is the Goa Carnival. It happens in February and its theme revolves around local music, food, dancing, live performances, parades and street rituals!

This period is also the high season for tourism. It is recommended to visitors, book their accommodation and plane tickets ahead of time, to avoid paying high rates.

April-June. Shoulder Season

This makes for the summer season in Goa. This period is hotter, as the temperature rises to 29°C- 35°C. If you are sensitive to heat, this season might not be the ideal one to go.

These months constitute the shoulder season. This time is the least touristic and cheaper one and Goa is calmer and quieter overall. If honeymooners are after peace and relaxation, this season might be optimal to fulfil this purpose.

Although there is not a lot going on during the summer, Goa’s beauty is enough to impress any visitor. The main perk of going to Goa on a honeymoon at this time is the Shigmo Festival (Holi Festival).

Another really popular event taking place in June is the Sao Joao Festival, which gathers locals and visitors alike. It is surrounded by prayers, local performances and traditional songs for a good harvest in the year ahead.

June – August, Offseason

During these months the overall temperature in the air drops a couple of degrees reaching an average of 24°C-30°C.

This season is great as visitors can benefit from some cooler winds although the rain showers are really frequent and the humidity is higher. For nature lovers, perhaps, this is the perfect time to celebrate your honeymoon in Goa.

Waterfalls and rivers will be so full and strong that a hike through the jungles of India would spectacular!

Like all tropical places, thunderstorms and monsoons come and go quite quickly, leaving a peaceful and blooming day afterwards.

Goa is the state of festivals and fun in general. During this period of the year, there is an event, known worldwide where coconut is the main character. This national holiday is called Patolleanchem Feast, a festival made for those with a sweet tooth.

Another great festival taking place in August which gathers many locals and tourists alike is the Bonderam festival, happening on Divar island.

Based on food, music, live performances, berries, bright-coloured costumes and tons of fun, the Bonderam festival is something to be experienced.

One of the advantages of going to Goa at this time is the fact that it is the off-season, meaning that, there will be many fewer people, both plane tickets, accommodations, dining and activities will also be much cheaper.

If you can deal with some tropical rain and you wish to see Goa in its full bloom, perhaps consider going during the low season.

How much does a honeymoon cost Goa?

A honeymoon in Goa is actually not that pricey. The bulk of the cost for a Goa trip is the international flights as is always the case for overseas trips.

Travellers are encouraged to select their stopovers carefully, as this can reduce those costs significantly.

The average daily price per room in a low-medium hotel plan is about 80 $. The daily costs are about 26$ on average a day including meals and transportation, provided travellers are not having other costs during the trip.

Usually, a Goa honeymoon of about 5 days will have an average cost of 35,000 INR per person which equals 480$ per person. This is including medium-range accommodation.

Transportation in Goa works very efficiently and is a cheap way to explore the city. Public transportation sums up to $4.5 on average a day per person. A taxi ride in Goa is significantly higher than public transportation reaching 10 $ per ride.

Alternatively, honeymooners can rent out a motorbike for 6 $ a day which is a pretty suitable price. It can be difficult to drive a scooter around Goa as cars do drive crazy! If you choose this option, watch out for cars nearby.

Meals are usually around $ 8 per person including a full meal and drinks on street stalls while dining out in sitting-down restaurants can go up to double or triple that.

It is a pretty cheap lifestyle. We recommend going out for breakfast as they are delicious and somehow the cheapest meals when eating out! Lunch and dinner are usually pricier.

Entertainment and activities in Goa like museums, water activities and parties in nightclubs are not that expensive averaging 10 US except for scuba diving or jet skiing which can be on the high end.

Final Thoughts

A honeymoon is a lifetime memorable travel that will capture the best anecdotes and experiences for couples to cherish forever. A honeymoon in Goa is signing up for a dynamic and vibrant honeymoon where couples fall in love all over again in this picturesque state.

Named the Land of the sun, Goa is born and built under Portuguese influence surrounded by golden sand beaches, profound beauty, exotic jungles and buzzing nightlife.

If you are dreaming of a honeymoon in which the palm trees cover the sky, food is the main character and you imagine yourselves touched by a tropical atmosphere, Goa is the place!

The forever summer, the always amazing surf, underwater fun and laid-back vibe top it all up. Goa never fails to make new and forever memories, leaving honeymooners soulful.