Goa Travel Tips
Things I wish someone had told me before my first trip. Consider this your local friend's advice.
The Stuff That Actually Matters
- 🛵 Rent a scooter. I cannot stress this enough. Taxis are expensive, Uber is unreliable, and Goa is made for two wheels. ₹300-500/day. (More on getting to and around Goa)
- 💵 Carry cash. Many beach shacks and local shops still don't take cards. ATMs exist but can run out in peak season.
- 🌅 Beaches before 10 AM or after 4 PM. The midday sun will destroy you. Plus the light is better for photos.
- 🍹 Always negotiate. Water sports, taxis, market shopping — the first price is never the real price.
- ⛪ Cover up at churches. Shorts and tank tops won't get you into Old Goa churches. Carry a light shawl.
- 🌧️ Monsoon means business. If you're visiting Jun-Sep, pack rain gear and lower your beach expectations.
Things to Do
- • Eat local Goan food — don't stick to continental menus
- • Learn two words of Konkani — locals love it
- • Use SPF 50 — the Goan sun doesn't care about your tan goals
- • Stay hydrated — seriously, more water than you think
- • Book Dec/Jan stays 2-3 months ahead
Things to Avoid
- • Don't litter — Goa's beaches depend on us
- • Don't swim in monsoon — the currents are deadly
- • Don't accept drinks from strangers at parties
- • Don't ride a scooter drunk — police checkpoints are real
- • Don't photograph locals without asking
Related Itineraries
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Goa on a Budget
How to do Goa for under ₹15,000 — transport, food, stays, and activities without cutting corners on fun.
Best Time to Visit Goa
Month-by-month breakdown so you pick the right time for your Goa trip.