Goa holds a special place in the heart of all Indians, no matter how exquisite the beaches of Bali or how white the sands of the Andamans are. Every group of friends has the Goa trip on their bucket list, while every family flocks there at least once every few years. After all, it has something for everyone tucked within its tiny size; old churches for the history and art lovers, loads of food for the foodies, yoga, and meditation, clubbing till the wee hours of the morning, you name it! Plus, there’s a range of luxury hotels in Goa that are fit for royalty.
If you’re headed to Goa and have the budget, take your pick of some of the finest luxury hotels in Goa; apart from the pampering, these properties ought to be offering you the best kind of facilities. Ensure you explore every option, even those that aren’t mentioned here.
When the word ‘grand’ is in the name, and the name is synonymous with luxury, you know you’re in good hands. Resting on the coast of the Bambolim Bay, Grand Hyatt Goa has everything you need for a luxurious Goan stay. The 5-star hotel is spread across 28 acres, and has tropical gardens, soft green lawns, and two pools; all of this rolls down to the edge of the water. The hotel also owns part of the beach, so you know your beach time won’t be shared with other crowds.
Rooms are elegantly-designed, and all of them feature a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, a bathtub to soak away your worries in, and a balcony to take in some fresh air. Guests can unwind at The Shamana Spa, relax at the sauna facilities and catch up on work in their business center. There are a total of 7 dining options, so you can choose between Indian, Italian, Middle Eastern, European, and delicious seafood. Make sure you drop by the Capiz Bar for wines, spirits, and cocktails, from the classics to modern creations.
The Grand Hyatt Goa is centrally-located with great connectivity; Thivim Railway Station and Vasco City are both a 30-minute drive away, while Dabolim Airport is a 25-minute drive away.
Average rates for one night: ₹18,610
Also Read: Best Cafes In Goa To Unwind
Want a place away from the horde of tourists? Check. Want peace and quiet in the ever-bustling Goa? Check. Want privacy, luxury, and a Goa that is hidden like a gem? Check, check and check! Though heavy on the wallet, The Postcard Velha will check everything on your list of a different and peaceful Goa holiday. The hotel is located in old Goa, or Velha Goa in Portuguese, which is how it got its name.
The hotel is a colonial structure, and its white arches and tiled roof blend in well with the greenery of the 2-acre estate on which it is located. There are only 6 rooms, so you know your stay will be peaceful.
The Banyan rooms overlook the massive 300-year-old banyan tree in the garden, while the Mandovi has sweeping views of the surrounding hillocks and the delta formed by the Mandovi river. All rooms are airy and spacious, with balconies to further enhance the views.
The hotel has an in-house Vaidya, an expert in the ancient art of Ayurveda, who is always available. Be it for a consultation or a full personalized plan, Postcard Velha ensures wellness is right at your doorstep. The Goan delicacies and fresh seafood at the dining pavilion only taste that much better when complemented by the view of the Mandovi river rushing past. You can also indulge in activities like a heritage tour of old Goa, cycling, surfing, and fishing. The Postcard Velha is 50 minutes away from Dabolim Airport.
Average rates for one night: ₹27,800
Also Read: 8 Things To Do In Vasco Da Gama
A premium boutique luxury hotel, the Red Thread is an easy 1.3 km away from Goa’s famous Calangute Beach. The hotel is named after the ancient myth of the Red Thread of Destiny; one that connects people who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstance. The hotel works keeping this red thread in mind, creating a boutique experience that makes guests feel a connection to the place.
Each room is tastefully furnished and has a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, a wardrobe, and a kettle. When you tire of the pool and the beach, head to their terrace for a view of your surroundings. Start your mornings right with a continental or à la carte breakfast, and continue it the right way with delicious meals from their in-house restaurant. Red Thread Calangute is an hour’s drive away from Dabolim Airport.
Average rates for one night: ₹8,900
Also Read: Things To Do In Andaman
A chain of hotels known for their luxurious service, The Park at Calangute is the closest you can get to luxury right on the beach. Tasteful lights hitting white walls, The Park’s avant-garde art and design layout will steal your breath away. Each room and suite reflects this artistic thought, with all-white walls brought to life by purple hues. A 40-inch flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom equipped with toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers. Rohit Chawla’s eclectic photography lines the corridors.
Open all through the day, the Love restaurant serves delicious Western cuisine and local dishes. Need a pick-me-up snack or a light beverage? Head to the Peace Bar. The outdoor pool is great for some splashes, and with a hop, you can land on the beach. The 24-hour front desk office currency exchange services. The Park Calangute is a 45-minute drive from Goa International Airport.
Average rates for one night: ₹11,300
Also Read: Best Restaurants And Cafes In Goa With Live Music
Sur La Mer is French for ‘on the sea’, making it quite obvious that the beach and this property come hand in hand. Sur La Mer is located in Morjim village, far from the noise and crowd of typical Goa. There are 14 rooms, all spacious and tastefully aesthetic, and with exciting choices. You can choose to stay in a tree house, a range of royal and premium rooms, or in the penthouse. All rooms have a coffee machine, bathrobes, and a fridge.
The fresh, locally sourced food is enjoyed in the garden by the pool, and you can always indulge yourself with a drink or two (or three). Rejuvenate with some yoga, post which you can pick between Asian, Continental, or English breakfasts. The beach is a pleasant 12-minute stroll away, and there’s also an outdoor pool that you can relax in. Sur La Mer is 12 km from Calangute, and 1.5 hours away from Dabolim Airport.
Average rates for one night: ₹10,800
Also Read: Best Beachside Hotels And Resorts In Goa
Which Hotels Do Celebrities Stay In Goa?
Celebrities largely prefer luxury hotels that are off the beaten path and unfrequented by too many other people. These can include Planet Hollywood, Waters Beach Lounge and Grill, and the Taj hotels.
What Is The Best Location To Stay In Goa?
This depends on your Goa to-do list. Panjim, Baga, and Calangute are three popular tourist hubs with beaches, casinos, and nightlife. Old Goa is perfect for riverside explorations and old churches, while there are several offbeat beaches like Arambol Beach, Ashwem Beach, and Mandrem Beach.
What Should I Avoid In Goa?
Alcohol is easily available in Goa, but by all means, avoid drinking irresponsibly or drunk driving. Avoid darker, emptier, and more distant areas at night; while Goa is known to be a safe area and locals mind their own business, you don’t want to attract trouble.
Which Is The Cleanest Beach In Goa?
Palolem Beach, Arambol Beach, Morjim Beach, and Mandrem Beach are some of Goa’s cleanest beaches. Generally, emptier beaches that aren’t visited by too many tourists will be clean.
Can I Go Alone To Goa?
Goa can be a great destination for solo travelers. However, you will need your own transportation unless you rent a bike or travel by the packed local buses. There are also several hostels that are cheap but good, and ideal to meet other solo travelers.
How Can I Spend 5 Days In Goa?
When spending 5 days in Goa, ensure you get a look around Old Goa’s churches (1 night), Panjim’s colorful streets (1 night), and a few days at a beach that’s either touristy or offbeat (2-3 nights).
Is Goa Safe At Night?
Goa is relatively safe at night, but even then, exercise basic precautions. Don’t walk around alone, and least of all when you’re a few drinks down. Don’t leave your precious valuables alone in a room at night if you’re staying at a guesthouse or hostel.
Is Goa Safe For Unmarried Couples?
Goa couldn’t care less about unmarried couples, which is why so many of them head there each year. Just ensure your accommodation has no issues with unmarried couples.
What Is The Best Food In Goa?
Goa’s best food is undeniably its seafood and local Goan cuisine. Ensure you eat some poee with butter (type of bread), taste some sanna (type of spongy steamed rice cakes, similar to idlis), pork vindaloo (spicy pork curry), kingfish and fried calamari.
What Is The Famous Drink In Goa?
Goa’s famous drink is called Feni, which is a traditional liquor. The two popular types are cashew feni (distilled from the fermented juice of cashew apples) and palm feni (distilled from the fermented juice of the palm tree).