While Goa is predominantly known for its vibrant nightlife and beaches with iridescent waters, there are myriad other exciting activities you can indulge in during the summer holidays in goa as well.
It can be a land for adventure seekers looking to quench their adrenaline rush or it can even be an oasis where you unwind, relax and rejuvenate with family, friends, or your partner. Goa as a destination has something unique and exciting for everyone to explore, experience, and treasure as memories.
Explore the Mainstream Destinations
A staycation in Goa is a great way to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate. With its stunning beaches, lush greenery, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Goa is the perfect destination. Checking into a luxurious hotel or a boutique resort is ideal as they are equipped with a wide range of amenities designed to make your stay a memorable one.
Leisurely swim in the pool or explore the spa with its range of services, including massages, facials, and other treatments that can help you unwind in a tranquil environment. Some resorts even offer yoga and meditation classes, which are perfect for those looking to find inner peace and balance.
Expose your palette to the Guan cuisine at the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant or explore other restaurants in the vicinity serving authentic Goan dishes like chicken vindaloo, pork sorpotel and sannas (steamed rice bread), chicken cafreal, or crab xec xec which is a delicious Goan crab curry preparation.
Beachfront hotels in Goa are popular for family and group getaways because of their luxurious facilities as well as the close proximity to the watersports and nightlife. Take the opportunity to explore the amenities and attractions available in the local area as well.
With a long coastline of beaches in Goa, explore a myriad of water sports activities such as scuba diving, bumper rides, speed boats, kayaking, banana rides, parasailing, and jet ski rides for a fun and enjoyable experience.
You can visit famous attractions like the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, Butterfly island and San Jacinto island along the South Goan coast or famous forts like Fort Aguada in Candolim, Chapora Fort in Vagator, and Tiracol Fort in Pernem.
One of the best things about a staycation in Goa is that you can explore the state at your own pace.
Learn a Skill
Summers in Goa are a great opportunity for students and adults to learn a new skill or pursue an existing hobby like playing a musical instrument, surfing, pottery, yoga and meditation, and cooking.
Goa has a thriving music scene and is home to a range of talented musicians. One of the most popular instruments to learn in Goa is the guitar followed by the piano and the drums. There are several guitar schools and instructors who offer lessons to beginners and experienced players alike. Or perhaps learning to play traditional Goan instruments has piqued your interest like the ghumot and dhol.
There are many music schools and workshops in Goa that teach traditional Goan music. However, learning to play a musical instrument in Goa is not just about taking lessons. It is also about immersing yourself in the local music culture and community.
Many cafes, bars, and restaurants in Goa conduct live music performances as part of their entertainment. Attending these events can be a great way to draw inspiration and learn from other musicians.
Surfing is another thrilling and fun activity and it can be enjoyed by all ages when practiced safely. Surfers get to experience the power of the ocean, the beauty of the beach, and the adrenaline-fueled sensation of riding a wave. Several surf schools offer beginner and advanced courses for all ages. Ensure safety guidelines are followed, life jackets are donned and earplugs are worn to prevent water penetration.
Goa is also a popular destination for yoga enthusiasts. Catering to this demand, many yoga schools offer courses and workshops during the summer months. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you can deepen your practice and learn new techniques.
Giving Back to the Community
Volunteering at an NGO can be a fulfilling and impactful experience. Whether you are interested in environmental conservation, health restoration, imparting education, or social justice, there are quite a number of NGOs in Goa that offer opportunities to make a positive impact and give back to the community. NGOs are open to volunteers to assist them with research, advocacy, counseling, and outreach activities.
To volunteer at an NGO in Goa, it is imperative that you research the organization and the services extended. Several NGOs require volunteers to commit to a minimum amount of time and may also require certain skills or qualifications. It is also important to have a genuine interest in bringing about change through the NGO and possess a willingness to learn and work collaboratively with others.
Become a Part of the Festivities
When traveling to Goa during the summers, you can experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Goa through its festivities. From traditional festivals and music performances to food festivals and cultural events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Forge memories by immersing yourself in the local traditions, trying the local food and drinks, and participating in various activities and events.
One of the unique, popular, and upcoming festivals in Goa is ‘Ambeachem Fest’, better known as the Mango Festival. This festival is mostly held in May, when the mango season is at its peak, over four days. This festival is celebrated by learning to graft, preserve, cultivate, and consume mangoes in different ways such as pickles, juices, and jams. Traditional dances, music performances, competitions, and games are organised during this festival.
San Joao is another well-known Goan festival where locals celebrate the onset of the monsoon season and the feast of St. John the Baptist. The festival is celebrated with great fervor where people wear brightly colored clothes and floral wreaths on their heads. The streets are decorated with colorful banners, and various fun activities are conducted such as boat races, singing competitions, and cultural performances.
All in all, Goa is truly unique in the experiences that it has to offer. With its diverse landscape, rich culture and history, colourful festivities, and friendly locals, summer holidays in goa makes it is a must-visit destination during the summer.
