Best Places to stay in Goa – The Complete Guide

Where to stay in Goa? This is probably the first question that comes to mind when planning a visit to the ‘party capital of India.’ There is no dearth of accommodation options here. From lavish resorts to pocket-friendly hostels, you can find a number of them.

The accommodation occupies a big chunk of travel expenditure. If you are planning to keep your visit on a budget, you need to book a place that is not only cheap but gives the maximum value for money.

I am here to help you with that. In the current blog, I will guide you in finding accommodation in Goa, that not only on a budget but which also suits your needs. 

There are a number of accommodations in Goa. Most popular in the budget category are hostels, guest houses and beach shacks.

Where to stay in Goa?

The choice of your stay depends on a number of factors. I will delve into these factors in the subsequent paragraphs. 

Before proceeding further, here is a quick overview:

Confused about where to stay in Goa- North or South? Both have their set of advantages. Evaluate these and see what suits you the best.

Where to Stay in Goa- North or South?

Which is best place to stay in Goa- north or south? This question seems to baffle a lot of travellers visiting Goa. North and South Goa are the two districts of Goa and both have their own advantages. 

Staying in North Goa

North is synonymous with “FUN GOA.” With great nightlife, numerous options for adventurous activities, it is a favourite of all youngsters. Some of the best beaches of Goa are located here. The best part is that North Goa has great budget options for accommodation.

Why stay in North Goa?

You should plan to stay in Goa if you like one or more of these things: 

• Party all night- North Goa is famous for its late-night beach parties. If nightlife is what you wish to experience, North Goa is for you. 
• Adventure- Not only is North Goa, the party capital, it is also a great place to get some adrenaline rush. 
• Amazing Food- If you are a foodie, North Goa is going to be a delight. With some of the best-rated cafes and delicious street food, North Goa will keep you happy and satisfied.
• Budget Shopping – From clothing to footwear and souvenirs, North Goa has some of the best and affordable street shopping avenues. 
• Affordable Stays-  In comparison to South Goa, North Goa is affordable when it comes to accommodation expenses. That is the reason why attracts so many youngsters from all over the country.

Who should stay in North Goa?

As I said earlier, if your perception of Goa is fun activities, late-night beach parties and lip-smacking food, go ahead and book your stay in  North Goa. I would recommend staying in North Goa if you are travelling in a group with friends or you are a backpacker. Also, if you are visiting Goa for the first time, I would suggest you stay in North Goa. 

Top 5 Budget Accommodations in North Goa?

You will not have trouble finding budget accommodation in North Goa. There are many options available. I have written a detailed blog on where to stay in North Goa. Check it out for more details. 

Below are my top 5 picks for North Goa 

• Om Ganesh Naik Guest House – The Guest House is close to both Querim and Arambol Beach. The place is cosy and not very crowded with tourists. This is one of the best budget options for travellers wanting to stay in North Goa but still have some peace.  Prices start at 800 INR per person. 
• Joe and Marietta’s Guesthouse– If you want to stay near Calangute Beach, this is the perfect place. Despite being near Calangute, this stay is relatively calm and secure. I would suggest this stay for all kind of travellers- group, couple and family. This is one of the few stays in Calangute that are suitable for a family as well. Prices start at 1150 INR for two people.
• The Banyan Soul – Although located in Anjuna, this is a pretty serene place. With clean and tidy rooms, the place is perfect to spend some quality time with your loved one. Prices start at 1452 INR for two people.
• Dreams Hostel – Located very near to Vagator Beach, this hostel is a great place for solo travellers. The common area is absolutely wonderful and you can make and connect with other travellers from around the world. Prices start at 450 INR per person.
• Aerostel Goa– If you are looking for a hostel somewhere near Calangute and Baga Beach, this is a pretty good option. Prices start at 575 INR per person.

Staying in South Goa

With relatively unspoilt and serene beaches, South Goa is the preferred choice among visitors seeking quietude. This part of Goa is relatively less crowded and you can spend your days reading a book on the beach or taking a leisurely walk on the beach with your loved ones.

Why stay in South Goa?

You should plan to stay here if you like one or more of these things: 

• Serene Beaches-  South Goa has some of the most serene and best beaches in Goa. You can spend your day on the beach in peace. 
• Silent Beach Parties-  Have you heard about the silent beach parties at Palolem Beach. This is something I would strongly recommend you to be a part of.  
• Peaceful shopping – SInce South Goa is not that crowded, you can shop in peace at some of the beach markets like Palolem and Colem. 
• Offbeat Goa – South Goa forms a great base for experiencing the offbeat side of Goa by visiting some of its villages and lesser-known beaches. 

Who should stay in South Goa?

You should stay in South Goa if you are looking for a quieter vacation. South Goa is the ideal destination for couples, honeymooners and families. I would also recommend it to people who like to explore nature and offbeat trails. 

Top 5 Budget Accommodations in North Goa

While South Goa has a number of accommodation options, they are fewer when compared to North Goa. I have written a detailed blog on where to stay in South Goa. Check it out for more details. 

Below are my top 5 picks for South Goa:

• Amigo Plaza – The hotel is located at about 500 m from Colva beach. This place is a good budget option for families and couples. Prices start at 1148 INR for two people.
• Sal Riviera – Located by the side of river Sal and Cavelossim Beach, this property is beautiful. You can choose to stay between rooms and cottages.  I would recommend this place for couples as well as families. Prices start at 1369 INR for two people.
• River Castle – With clean and comfortable rooms, this apartment is almost equidistant from Cavelossim and Mobor Beach. The service and host were great too.  Prices start at 1369 INR for two people.
• Agonda Sunset Hostel– Only a walking distance from Agonda beach, this is a pretty clean hostel with comfortable beds. Prices start at 299 INR per person.
• Summer by Hostelcrowd– This is a hostel and hotel near Palolem beach. They have a great common area to hang out along with spacious rooms and bathrooms. I would strongly recommend this place for couples, groups and solo travellers. Prices start at 288 INR per person.

The map shows the main areas to stay in Goa. It also shows which area is best suited for what kind of traveller. 

Best Area to stay in Goa

The best area to stay in Goa depends on your preferences. Goa is divided into two districts (North and South) and a number of subdivisions & sub-districts. Each one has its own advantages. The infographic above shows the location of these areas and to what type of travellers the area suits best. 

Pernem, North Goa

Pernem is the northernmost district of Goa and is home to beaches like Morjim, Arambol and Ashwem. 

My recommendation for the best place to stay in Pernem is:

• Om Ganesh Naik Guest House – The Guest House is close to Querim and Arambol Beach. The place is cosy and not very crowded with tourists. This is one of the best budget options for travellers wanting to stay in Arambol. Prices start at 800 INR per person. 

Bardez, North Goa 

Bardez is the most happening area of Goa. From busy beaches to the most wonderful cafes and clubs, you will find everything here. 

This is one of the best places to stay in Bardez, on a budget:

• Joe and Marietta’s Guesthouse– If you want to stay near Calangute Beach, this is the perfect place. Despite being near Calangute, this stay is relatively calm and secure. I would suggest this stay for all kind of travellers- group, couple and family. This is one of the few stays in Calangute that are suitable for a family as well. Prices start at 1150 INR for two people. 

Tiswadi, North Goa  

Panjim, the capital of the state is located in Tiswadi. Tiswadi is a great option for first-timers and those who wish to see the best of both North and South Goa.

One of the best option available for staying in Tiswadi is :

• OYO Home 9355 Exotic Stay: This is a budget hotel located in Panjim. This is a great option if you are looking for a budget stay with family. Prices start at 933 INR for two people. 

Mormugao, South Goa 

This is the northernmost district of South Goa and is pretty much a central location to explore the north and south Goa.

If you wish to stay here, I suggest you take a look at this property:

• All Seasons Guest House Bogmalo – The guest house is located near the Bogmalo beach and is a great choice for couples and families. The owner is a really lovely lady who helped us out with cabs, buses and other information.  Prices start at 1001 INR for two people.

Salcete, South Goa 

Salcete s suited for all kind of budget travellers. The connectivity is great and there are many budget options in the area.

You can stay in this guesthouse in Salcete:

• John’s Highland Comfort Guest House– This guest house is about 1.5 km away from Majorda Beach and 3 km from Betalbatim beach. The place has clean, comfortable and spacious rooms.  I would recommend it for all kinds of travellers- family, couples, groups and solo. Prices start at 1200 INR for two people.

Quepem, South Goa 

If you would like to enjoy nature and explore the villages, I would suggest you stay in Quepem. This is one of the most offbeat locations in Goa:

Here’s my recommendation for staying in Quepem:

• OYO 41615 Peace Valley Apartments – This property is located in a quiet neighbourhood of village Quepem. There are a few temples and churches nearby. Prices start at 1330 INR for two people.

Goa is not only about beaches and parties. While you are here, explore the offbeat Goa by visiting its small and beautiful villages.

Canacona, South Goa 

The southernmost region of South Goa has some of the most serene and beautiful beaches. If you plan to stay here, I would suggest the following property:

• Summer by Hostelcrowd– This is a hostel and hotel near Palolem beach.  They have a great common area to hang out along with spacious rooms and bathrooms. I would strongly recommend this place for couples, groups and solo travellers. Prices start at 288 INR per person

Where to stay in Goa: By type of Traveller

Different travellers have different needs when it comes to choosing a place to stay. A family would most certainly be interested in a property that is drastically different from what a backpacker is looking for. Therefore, it would be unfair to not take into consideration individual needs. 

In the following section, I will be recommending the best place to stay in goa by type of traveller. 

Best place to stay in goa with family

Which part of Goa is best for family stay? This question is asked by many travellers who wish to visit with their families. If you are travelling to Goa with family, I would suggest you stay somewhere in South Goa. The beaches here are less crowded and serene when compared to North Goa. 

However,  if you do wish to stay in North Goa, I would suggest you stay in or near the capital city of Panjim. The city makes for a great place to explore both North and South Goa and also has great access to a number of tours and activities. 

So, if you are thinking about where to stay in Goa with family? these are my top recommendations- 

• La Vega Resort – This is actually a guest house located quite close to Morjim beach in North Goa. Unlike other northern beaches, Morjim is a relatively quiet beach. It’s a great place for families.  Prices start at 1000 INR for two people. 
• OYO Home 9355 Exotic Stay: This is a budget hotel located in Panjim. This is a great option if you are looking for a budget stay with family. Prices start at 933 INR for two people. 
• Fatima’s GuestHouse– This place is probably the best value for money near Agonda beach. The best part about the stay is the food. Prices start at 800 INR for two people.
• Bhakti Kutir Huts–  The place is located near Palolem beach in a serene spot and is perfect for families. Prices start from 1333 INR for two people.

Best Place to Stay in Goa with Friends

Goa is one of the best destinations for travelling with friends. From simply chilling on the beaches to trying adventure sports, there are a number of activities that will keep you occupied on your visit. If you are travelling to Goa with friends,  would suggest you stay in North Goa, somewhere in the Bardez sub-district.  

These are my top recommendations for where to stay in Goa with friends: 

• Joe and Marietta’s Guesthouse– If you want to stay near Calangute Beach, this is the perfect place. Despite being near Calangute, this stay is relatively calm and secure. I would suggest this stay for all kind of travellers- group, couple and family. This is one of the few stays in Calangute that are suitable for a family as well. Prices start at 1150 INR for two people. 
• Celebration Apartment 201– This is the perfect place if you are a group of friends or family. You can book the entire place for yourself.  The place accommodates 5 people and is very clean. It is located at about 3 km from Baga Beach. Prices start at 4000 INR for the entire apartment. 
• Paapi Chulo Hostel – This is another great hostel for budget travellers. The hostel is located in close proximity to Orzan Beach and Vagator beach. I particularly loved the hosts and the staff as they were really helpful and fun. Strongly recommended for groups and solo travellers. Prices start at 389 INR per person. 
• Summer by Hostelcrowd– This is a hostel and hotel near Palolem Beach.  They have a great common area to hang out along with spacious rooms and bathrooms. I would strongly recommend this place for couples, groups and solo travellers. Prices start at 1200 INR for two people.
• C Pearl Guest House – The best part of the Guesthouse is its location. It is quiet and is only a walking distance from the Majorda beach. I would recommend it for groups and couples. Prices start at 1330 INR for two people.

Best Places to stay in Goa for backpackers and Solo Travellers

As a backpacker and solo traveller, the most important aspect of travelling is safety, budget and access. Hostels are the best options that suit these criteria. Read my complete guide on the best hostels in Goa for backpackers.

I would suggest these hostels for backpackers and solo travellers:

• Agonda Sunset Hostel– Only a walking distance from Agonda, this is a pretty clean hostel with comfortable beds. Prices start at 299 INR per person.
• Rainbow Lining Hostels – This one is located near Palolem Beach. The place is really well maintained and the owners Nelson and Ayumi are really very helpful. Prices start at 399 INR per person.
• Happy Panda Hostel – This is a great place near Arambol beach where you can meet backpackers. Prices start at 341 INR per person. 
• Dreams Hostel – Located very near to Vagator Beach, this hostel is wonderful choice for solo travellers. The common area is absolutely wonderful and you can make and connect with other travellers from around the world. Prices start at 450 INR per person

Best places to stay in Goa for Couples  

Goa can be the perfect honeymoon destination for couples. Taking a walk on the beach while watching the sun go down in the sea, is a beautiful experience you need to have with your significant other. For couples, I would recommend staying in South Goa or staying near the relatively quiet beaches of North. 

These are the best places to stay in Goa for couples:

• Sal Riviera –  This place is located in a nice peaceful area by the side of river Sal and Cavelossim Beach. You can choose to stay between rooms and cottages. Prices start at 1369 INR for two people.
• Agonda Beach Lavender Luxury Guest Houses and Villas– The location is absolutely wonderful and so is the staff and cleanliness. his place is great for families and couples. Prices start at 1500 INR for two people.
• River Castle – With clean and comfortable rooms, this apartment is almost equidistant from Cavelossim and Mobor Beach. The service and host were great too.  Prices start at 1369 INR for two people.
• Casablanca Morjim – This hotel is run by a Russian couple at a pretty serene location near the Morjim beach. Prices start at 1100 INR for two people. 

Best Place to Stay in Goa for Nightlife?

Goa is known as the ‘party capital’ of India for a reason. It hosts some of the most amazing parties and the centre of these lies in North Goa. Therefore, you should choose a stay in North Goa, if you truly want to be a part of the Goa nightlife.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Goa for experiencing the best  nightlife:

• Joe and Marietta’s Guesthouse– If you want to stay near Calangute Beach, this is the perfect place. Despite being near Calangute, this stay is relatively calm and secure. I would suggest this stay for all kind of travellers- group, couple and family. This is one of the few stays in Calangute that are suitable for a family as well. Prices start at 1150 INR for two people. 
• Celebration Apartment 201– This is the perfect place if you are a group of friends or family. You can book the entire place for yourself.  The place accommodates 5 people and is very clean. It is located at about 3 km from Baga Beach. Prices start at 4000 INR for the entire apartment. 
• Paapi Chulo Hostel – This is a great hostel for budget travellers. The hostel is located in close proximity to Orzan Beach and Vagator beach. I particularly loved the hosts and the staff as they were really helpful and fun. Strongly recommended for groups and solo travellers. Prices start at 389 INR per person. 
• The Banyan Soul – Although located in Anjuna, this is a pretty serene place. With clean and tidy rooms, the place is perfect to spend some quality time with your loved one. Prices start at 1452 INR for two people. 

Budget Tips for Booking a Stay in North Goa

Goa is one of the busiest travel destinations in India. The place attracts thousands of visitors from all around the world. Therefore, you need to plan your visit in advance so as to get the best deals. 

Here are a few tips that will help you book a decent budget stay in  Goa:

1. Book Early – You need to book well in advance if you are planning to visit during the peak tourist season. This is especially important if you are planning to stay in a hostel or in busy places like Baga or Calangute.
2. Call the property – Call the property at least a day before your arrival.  That way not only will they keep your stay ready but you will also get a last-minute confirmation and there won’t be any hassles. 
3. Avoid the weekends – Avoid visiting on the weekends. Not only will the prices be inflated but the beaches will be too crowded. 
4. Avoid the Christmas time – Avoid the time between Christmas and the new year is the busiest time in North Goa. The beaches are full and the resorts, hotels and hostels are jam-packed. The accommodation prices and more than double.

I hope this blog helped you with finding a suitable budget option in Goa. If you have questions, feel free to ask below in the comments section, I would be happy to help. 

Happy Wayfaring 🙂