A Day in Goa: Sun, Sand, and Sea

  1. 9:00 AM: Fort Aguada and its Lighthouse
    30 minutes (10.2 km) from Panjim

    Start your day by exploring Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort, and its lighthouse. The fort is a marvel of military engineering, with its moats, ramparts, and bastions, and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River.

  2. 11:00 AM: Anjuna Beach
    24 minutes (8 km) from Fort Aguada

    Next, head to Anjuna Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in Goa. The beach is known for its vibrant flea market, held every Wednesday, where you can buy souvenirs, jewelry, clothes, and spices. You can also enjoy some water sports or laze on the beach under the shade of palm trees.

  3. 1:00 PM: Lunch at Thirsty Bear Shack
    16 minutes (6 km) from Anjuna Beach

    Refuel with some sumptuous seafood and Goan cuisine at Thirsty Bear Shack. This beachfront shack serves fresh seafood, grilled meats, curries, salads, and sandwiches, and has a laid-back, surfer vibe. Don't miss the signature dish, the Thirsty Bear Burger, made with a juicy beef patty, caramelized onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese.

  4. 3:00 PM: Chapora Fort
    17 minutes (5.9 km) from Thirsty Bear Shack

    After lunch, drive up to Chapora Fort, perched on a hill overlooking the Chapora River and the ocean. The fort is famous for its cameo in the Bollywood movie 'Dil Chahta Hai' and offers panoramic views of the Vagator and Anjuna beaches.

  5. 5:00 PM: Sunset at Baga Beach
    17 minutes (5.6 km) from Chapora Fort

    End your day with a stunning sunset view at Baga Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. The beach has a lively atmosphere, with shacks, bars, and restaurants, and offers various water sports and activities, such as banana boat rides, parasailing, and jet skiing.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Fort Aguada and its Lighthouse (30 minutes, free)
  • Anjuna Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Thirsty Bear Shack (1 hour, INR 500 for two)
  • Chapora Fort (1 hour, free)
  • Baga Beach (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 500 for two

Useful Tips

If you have more time:

  • Visit Calangute Beach, known as the "Queen of Beaches," and enjoy some more water sports and activities.
  • Explore the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas in Panjim, and admire the colorful Portuguese-style houses, art galleries, and bakeries.
If you have less time:
  • Choose either Anjuna Beach or Baga beach for the day, and skip Chapora Fort.
  • Try some street food from the stalls near the beaches, such as bhaji, pani puri, or fish fry, instead of having lunch at a restaurant.
  • Start your day early to cover more places and avoid crowds, especially at the beaches.

0