Explore Goa: 5 offbeat experiences for your next trip!

In the mind of an Indian traveler, there are 2 phases: Before Dil Chahta Hai and after Dil Chahta Hai. Before Dil Chahta Hai, Goa was just another beach destination in India. But after 2001, Goa became number one on every youthful traveler’s bucket list. Successfully going on a road trip to Goa became a rite of passage for many and Goan sunsets, Goan beaches, and the iconic Chapora fort view became the highlights for most of us. 

While Goa still tops travel bucket lists for many Indian travelers, certain parts of the state have now become undeniably cliched. From Calangute beach to the entire Panjim area, many of us are now facing a ‘Been there, done that’ crisis in Goa. Since our older favorites are now overcrowded, it’s time to look elsewhere. It is time to explore Goa’s hidden treasures and the only way to do that is to go offbeat. 

Here are 5 offbeat experiences for your next holiday in Goa! 

Butterfly Beach:

Gone are the days when all Goan beaches were untouched, clean, and inviting. Today, many of Goa’s beaches are infiltrated with tourists, and end up feeling loud, crass and unpleasant to those seeking more. If you’re looking for a place that has as few people,  Butterfly Beach is the place for you! It’s located on an island that is off the tourist radar. It is a pristine beach that you can have all to yourself. 

How to get there: You have to go via boat or ferry from Palolem beach to Butterfly beach. With Hype’s yacht rental, you can explore Butterly beach just by yourself.

Divar Island: 

If you’re the experience junkie who enjoys immersive travel, Divar Island is the place for you. Divar Island is the best place to visit if you wish to explore the Portuguese influence in Goa. From houses made in traditional Portuguese style to the quaint churches and from the lush greenery to the delicious local food options, Divar Island is rich in cultural beauty. You could opt for a heritage tour or a meal with the locals, while you’re there. 

How to get there: You can reach Divar Island via boat, ferry or yacht. You can go from either Old Goa or from Naroa.

Dolphin sightings near Sinquerim: 

If you’re someone who’s accustomed to the crowded, somewhat polluted beaches of North Goa, you might think this is a lie, but it’s not. It is possible to enjoy glorious dolphin sightings, all you need to do is to go offbeat! You can embark on a dolphin-sighting tour with a trained professional and experience a sighting that is extremely rare. If you wish to explore the deeper seas, hire a yacht all to yourself and explore the best of marine life in Goa. 

How to get there: You can hire a private yacht, or go on a ferry/boat tour, most of which start from Candolim.

Grande Island: 

Another wonder that’s right off the coast of North Goa! While Panjim is always brimming with tourists, a short ferry or yacht ride from Panjim will take you to Grande Island, a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored! Grande Island is known for the elaborate water sport opportunities and if you’re an adventure junkie, Grande Island must be on your list. Be it scuba diving or snorkeling, Grande Island is the ideal place to explore Goa’s underwater beauty! 

How to get there: You can charter a private yacht or take a boat from Panjim to Grande Island 

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chorao Island: 

The offbeat island of Chorao is actually one of the biggest in the state! While its vibrant culture and beautiful churches are inviting enough, the real gem is the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. It contains a vast range of bird species. For those who enjoy birdwatching or those who wish to explore an untouched gem, this is the best place! 

How to get there: You can take a boat from Ribandar, which is around 5-6 km from Panjim 

That’s the thing about Goa. When you think you’ve done it all, seen it all, you stumble upon a hidden treasure. The question is, which of these are you going to explore first? 

Book a private yacht for your offbeat escapades in Goa and make sure that the only ones seeing these pristine gems are you and your loved ones! 

This is luxury and beauty at its finest.