Goa Trip Guide: Best Beaches, Budget-Friendly stays & Must Know Tips (2025)

 

Introduction: The Chaos, The Beaches & The Budget-Friendly Escape

Goa—the land of golden beaches, electrifying nightlife, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re here for the sun, sea, and sand or just to escape reality for a while, Goa never disappoints.

This wasn’t just another trip; it was an adventure filled with unexpected twists, crazy laughter, and legendary moments. Along with my brother Shashanka and four friends—Shubham, Rishabh, Jaydeep, and Peeyush—I set out to explore Goa without going broke.

From almost missing our flight to cooking our own meals, from soaking in scenic beaches to cheering for India in a thrilling cricket match, this trip had it all. If you’re looking for a guide that combines fun, travel hacks, and practical tips, you’re in the right place.

How to Reach Goa

✈ By Flight – Goa has two airports:

• Manohar International Airport (GOX) (North Goa)

• Dabolim Airport (GOI) (South Goa)

From the airport, take a prepaid taxi, a GoaMiles cab, or rent a scooter for a budget-friendly ride.

🚆 By Train – The major railway stations are:

• Madgaon (for South Goa)

• Thivim (for North Goa)

Taxis, autos, and local buses are available outside the station.

🚍 By Road – Sleeper buses run from Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore, costing between ₹800–₹2,000. Options include VRL, Neeta, Kadamba, and MSRTC buses.

The Almost Missed Flight: A Thrilling Start!

Our adventure began before we even reached Goa! Thanks to a last-minute traffic jam, we nearly missed our flight. Just when panic set in, luck decided to be on our side—our flight got delayed due to an incident at IGI Terminal 1.

By the time we reached check-in, we were mentally preparing for an argument with the airline staff. But fate had other plans—eight seats were still unbooked! We barely made it onto the plane, making it a legendary start to an even crazier trip.

Where We Stayed: Budget-Friendly Yet Comfortable

We booked a 2BHK Airbnb for ₹3,000 per night, and honestly, it was a steal!

✔ Spacious rooms

✔ A swimming pool

✔ A fully equipped kitchen

To reach our South Goa Airbnb, we booked a car—which, to be honest, was too costly. If you’re on a budget, consider renting a scooter or taking a local taxi instead.

Budget Tip: Skip expensive hotels. Airbnb and hostels offer more comfort for less money.

Exploring Goa: Beaches, Rides & Unforgettable Moments

1. Anjuna Beach – Fun, Photos & an Unexpected Injury

Anjuna Beach was our first stop, and we were beyond excited. The waves were strong, the vibe was lively, and we couldn’t resist walking barefoot into the water. Bad idea.

A powerful wave suddenly pushed us back, and I landed on a hidden rock, scratching my leg! While I was checking my injury, my friends were busy clicking photos—priorities, right?

Despite the mishap, Anjuna Beach was a vibe! The cliffs, cafes, and beach shacks make it one of Goa’s best hangout spots.

2. Cola Beach – A Moment of Reflection

To reach Cola, we rented an Ertiga for ₹2,000, with our fantastic drivers, Rishabh and Peeyush, taking the wheel.

We found a cozy grassy-roofed shack, sat down, and just absorbed the raw beauty of the ocean. The powerful waves crashing on the shore felt like the ocean whispering—“You are strong, you can achieve anything, and the world is yours to explore.”

For a moment, we weren’t just travellers—we were dreamers standing at the edge of endless possibilities.

3. Baga Beach – The Ultimate Farewell

Our last night in Goa was legendary.

We sat on the soft sands of Baga Beach, watching the India vs. Africa final on a massive screen. The cool sea breeze, the crashing waves, and the energy of the cheering crowd made it unforgettable.

With chilled beer in hand, we roared with excitement at every boundary. When India won, the entire beach erupted in celebration! Strangers became friends, and we knew—this was a night we’d remember forever.

Food & Cooking Hacks: Eating Well Without Overspending

Goan food is delicious but expensive, so we cooked Egg Maggi for breakfast in our Airbnb—cheap, tasty, and satisfying.

Budget Tip: Buy groceries and cook at least one meal a day to save big!

Places We Missed (But You Shouldn’t!)

The only thing we regret? Not visiting Dudhsagar Falls. If you have time, DO NOT skip this breathtaking waterfall!

Other Must-Visit Attractions in Goa:

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (UNESCO Heritage Site)

• Aguada Fort & Chapora Fort (For stunning sunset views)

• Se Cathedral (One of Asia’s largest churches)

• Deltin Royale Casino (Test your luck!)

• Fontainhas – Old Goa’s Portuguese charm

• Candolim beach- Most beautiful beach.

Precautions & Travel Tips

✔ Carry your driving license – Else, be ready for a ₹1,000 fine!

✔ Apply sunscreen – Goa’s sun will roast you!

✔ Stay hydrated – Beer ≠ water. Drink coconut water!

✔ Bargain smartly – Everything has a tourist price, so negotiate!

✔ Avoid risky night rides – Goa’s roads can be dangerous at night.

Final Thoughts: Goa – More Than Just a Destination!

Goa isn’t just a place; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. It’s the thrill of almost missing a flight, the joy of finding budget-friendly hacks, the laughter from Jaydeep’s non-stop jokes, and the unforgettable moment of cheering for India on a beach as rain and waves joined the celebration.

It’s about getting scratched on rocks but still running back into the sea, about watching the sunset at Anjuna and feeling like the ocean is whispering, “The world is yours to explore.”

We came to Goa for beaches and parties, but we left with something far greater—stories, memories, and the realization that adventure isn’t about how much you spend, but how deeply you live each moment.

So, if you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to visit Goa, this is your sign—pack your bags, grab your squad, and just GO(A)!