If someone asked me, “What are the best picnic spots in Goa?”, I would (giving them the benefit of the doubt) consider it a rhetorical question, because there is no way I or anyone else can mention all of those in one blog…the bloody list is endless! For me, every part of Goa is a picnic spot, be it a beach, waterfall, wildlife sanctuary, lake or spice plantation. Bearing that in mind, here is our ultimate guide to the best places in Goa for a picnic:
Picnic Spots in Goa: Beaches
Beaches | Picnic Spots in Goa
Talk of Goa, and beaches automatically top the list of picnic spots in the state. Sitting on the sand or laying on a lounger or hammock with a tropical drink in one hand and may be a book in the other, with the sea roaring and palms swaying in the background…it doesn’t get better than this. While the beaches in North Goa are always abuzz with life, acting as picnic spots during the day and wild party places after sundown, those in South Goa are relatively calmer, hence perfect for a more-intimate picnic with your family, friends or special someone.
Listed below are the most popular beaches in the state:
Beaches in North Goa
- Baga
- Anjuna
- Candolim
- Calangute
- Vagator
- Sinquerim
- Morjim
- Arambol
- Miramar
- Ashwem
Beaches in South Goa
- Bambolim
- Galgibaga
- Patnem
- Palolem
- Agonda
- Varca
- Cavelossim
- Mobor
- Betalbatim
- Colva
- Majorda
- Bogmalo
- Benaulim
- Betul
Also read our blog on the less-crowded beaches in Goa
Picnic Spots in Goa: Wildlife Sanctuaries
Wildlife Sanctuaries | Picnic Spots in Goa
Being encompassed by the Western Ghats, which are one of the Eight Hottest Hotspots of Biodiversity in the World, Goa is heaven for animal lovers. From the smallest insects to the majestic tiger, all kinds of animals and birds can be seen on a wildlife tour in the state. Some prominent species of Goa, apart from the tiger, are the king cobra, striped hyena, dhole, leopard, black panther, Asiatic elephant and gaur. Further, of the 330 kinds of butterflies living in the Western Ghats, 257 are found in Goa! Just one word of caution, if you do take a picnic to a wildlife sanctuary, be on your guard and get out of there before darkness falls.
Here is our list of the protected territories in the state:
- Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park
- Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
- Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
- Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
- Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
Wait, there’s more. The famous Galgibaga, Morjim and Agonda beaches are important nesting sites of the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles.
Picnic Spots in Goa: Lakes and Springs
Lakes and Springs | Picnic Spots in Goa
Imagine sitting on lush grounds by a lake, surrounded by tall palms and undisturbed silence, enjoying your favourite drinks and dishes with your favourite people…Nice, right? There are numerous lakes and natural springs in Goa, where you can enjoy a picnic, complete with a wicker basket full of tasty delights. Along with serving as breathtaking picnic spots in Goa, these lakes and the area around are also home to a large number of animals and birds, so keep a camera handy. If you feel drained out in the sun, you simply have to take a little dip in the waters, and you will be refreshed.
Given below are the most picturesque natural springs and lakes in Goa:
- Mayem Lake
- Carambolim Lake
- Netravali Lake
- Batim Lake
- Ambulor Lake
- Sarzora Lake
- Arambol Sweet Water Lake
Picnic Spots in Goa: Waterfalls
Waterfalls | Picnic Spots in Goa
Picnicking besides a waterfall is an altogether different experience, something you must do at least once. The best part about the waterfalls in Goa is the hiking opportunity you get, which makes the experience adventurous. The sounds of regional animals and birds on the way along with the numerous streams you cross would be imprinted in your memories for ever. And, once you finish the tiring hike and see the water falling from high cliffs in front, you would feel aptly rewarded. Enjoy your lunch with your feet dipping in the cool water or head straight underneath the waterfall for the ultimate fun.
Also check: North Goa vs. South Goa
Here is our list of the most popular waterfalls in the state:
- Dudhsagar Falls
- Hivre Falls
- Tambdi Surla Falls
- Netravali Falls
- Arvalem Falls
- Bamanbudo Falls
- Kesarval Falls
- Sada Falls
- Kuskem Falls
- Karmalya Falls
- Charavane Falls
Read our guide on the must-do trek to Dudhsagar Falls
Picnic Spots in Goa: Spice Plantations
Spice Plantations | Picnic Spots in Goa
If you are looking for picnic spots in Goa where you do not have to carry your own lunch, head to any of the spice plantations. Such places organise plantation walks to acquaint tourists about the diverse types of spices grown in the state, the ploughing and harvest seasons, their medicinal properties and even the climate required for each type. Your walk would be accompanied by the chirping of birds and may be a gentle breeze. In the end, most plantations serve a hearty Goan lunch, infused with their own spices. Yum!
Here is a list of the popular spice plantations in Goa:
- Savoi Plantation
- Sahakari Plantation
- Tropical Plantation
- Pascoal Spice Village
We know picnics don’t really rank high on people’s list of things to do in Goa, but those looking for off-beat activities in Goa will definitely jump up at the idea of enjoying a picnic. So, what are you waiting for? Instead of wasting away at your hotel or resort in Goa, take your family or friends for a day of endless memories and joy.
