After several trips to Goa, I’ve come to love its palm-lined beaches, Portuguese-influenced charm, and range of stays – from colonial boutiques to luxury resorts. These are my favorite unique places to stay…
1. Kaia Oceanfront
I thought this serene, design-forward retreat was an absolute gem—its sleek minimalist style melted into the natural landscape, with dreamy ocean views, barefoot luxury, and a wonderfully secluded vibe!
I really loved the relaxed boho styling – there were earthy tones, natural textures, and handcrafted wooden furnishings which gave everything a warm, inviting feel. The vibe was zen-like and eco-conscious, which completely won me over!
My room was gorgeous with earthy textures, a sleek rain shower, breezy glass doors, and a terrace overlooking the sea – and a stunning open-air bathtub which totally stole the show for me!
Mornings began with sunrise yoga by the sea, days were filled with Ayurvedic massages in breezy cabanas, and evenings ended with candlelit dinners under the stars – all set on peaceful Ashwem Beach, a quiet, upscale escape from North Goa’s party scene.
- To book, check prices or availability for Kaia Oceanfront
My personal highlights…
- I enjoyed a full-body Abhyanga massage with herb-infused sesame oil tailored to my dosha – mine included ashwagandha, rejuvenating brahmi, and warming bala root!
2. The Park Calangute
I loved how this trendy boutique stay blended beachfront bliss with a rooftop cabana lounge and a lively, party-loving vibe – it definitely wasn’t your average Goan beach hotel!
It had an eye-catching look—modern and vibrant with splashy color accents, cool furniture, and artsy details which I saw created a stylish, sociable buzz.
I stayed in a chic, minimalist room with a comfy king bed, soft ambient lighting, and a rain shower and my favorite feature a super cool digital headboard that displayed a colorful tropical scene, birds and all!
I made the most of it – sunset dinners at LOVE, dips in the dreamy infinity pool, breezy beachfront meals, private strolls on the sand, and dancing into the night at their DJ sets – all perfectly placed right on Calangute Beach, just steps from buzzing clubs, night markets, and lively shacks.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Park Calangute
My highlights…
- Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the infinity pool was an Instagram-worthy moment – I could see all the way to Sinquerim Beach, Fort Aguada, and Dona Paula!
3. Mojigao – Eco Resort
This serene, nature-focused retreat was a real hidden gem! I discovered a resort filled with rustic-luxe treehouse villas, an artistic jungle setting, and a buzzy cultural hub offering yoga, art workshops, and conscious dining – it was a refreshing, soulful escape!
I was a fan of the décor which was earthy and artistic, filled with natural wood, cane furnishings, colorful textiles, and handcrafted details, which all added to its boho, creative vibe!
I stayed in a cozy wooden cottage with a private veranda, a breezy canopy bed, ethnic rugs, and large windows that opened out to the lush surrounding jungle. My favorite feature was the open-air bathroom which came with natural stone walls – it was actually an awesome experience showering in nature!
I loved starting my days with yoga in the treetops, recharging with holistic therapies and Ayurvedic meals, then ending with live art and music that gave the place a creative soul – all set in peaceful Assagao, tucked in the jungle just 10 minutes from Anjuna and Vagator.
- To book, check prices or availability for Mojigao
My favorite highlights…
- I loved dining at their open-air restaurant nestled in the tropical forest – especially the zucchini spaghetti with cashew cream made from (their own!) garden-fresh ingredients!
4. Azaya Beach Resort
I found this stylish, upscale beachfront resort to be a real standout – with its ultra-modern design blended with Portuguese-inspired architecture, beachfront cabanas, and private plunge pool suites that opened directly onto the sand!
The interiors oozed contemporary elegance with subtle Indo-Portuguese touches – I liked its sleek lines, earthy tones, handcrafted accents, and its cool yet romantic atmosphere!
From the king bed and chic modern furnishings to the minibar and smart TV, everything felt upscale—but I especially loved the oversized soaking tub set behind a glass wall that looked out over the entire room.
Before leaving, I squeezed in beachfront dinners under the stars at La Concha, soothing Ayurvedic treatments at Prana Spa, and quiet moments in the cool private cabanas—all set on the pristine white sands of Benaulim Beach, a peaceful South Goa retreat far from the northern crowds.
- To book, check prices or availability for Azaya Beach Resort
My personal highlights…
- I loved the direct access to Benaulim Beach – just a short stroll past swaying palms and very fragrant pink and white frangipani trees, it felt like my own private paradise!
5. Red Thread Calangute
I was really charmed by this stylish boutique stay – it was an easy-on-the-eye fusion of contemporary Goan design, vibrant local art, and warm, personalized service. The decor mixed modern minimalism with bold colors, handcrafted tiles, and subtle Goan accents, creating a chic, artsy, and an effortlessly laid-back vibe.
From the designer furniture and crisp white sheets to the balcony facing the pool, everything felt refined – but I personally thought it was the intricate handwoven textiles that really made the space feel special.
I spent my days sipping sunset drinks on the rooftop lounge, browsing design books in the curated library, cooling off in the plunge pool surrounded by tropical greenery, and indulging in superb in-room spa treatments – all from a peaceful Calangute hideaway tucked down a quiet lane just a short stroll from the beach, cafés, and buzzing markets.
- To book, check prices or availability for Red Thread Calangute
My highlights…
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I loved how the hotel showcased local art – especially the huge Insta-worthy mural in the lobby which reflected Goan life complete with palm trees and colorful fishing boats.
6. The Postcard Hideaway, Netravali
I really loved this peaceful eco-luxury retreat tucked away in Goa’s Netravali forest – it was a serene, off-the-grid hideaway set amidst dense jungle, natural springs, and the sounds of wildlife.
The decor was just as special—minimalist luxury blended with rustic Goan charm, from earthy tones and wooden furnishings to forest-framing windows which I thought made the whole space feel tranquil and immersed in nature.
My spacious room had a comfy bed, elegant wooden interiors, a rain shower, and a forest-facing balcony – but my favorite spot was the outdoor sit-out deck where I relaxed and spotted rare birds and playful monkeys.
I explored the forest on guided hikes, soaked in wild springs, stargazed at night, dined on local cuisine in a jungle-view pavilion, melted into spa treatments and open-air jacuzzi soaks, and practiced yoga high above the trees!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Postcard Hideaway
My highlights…
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I loved the spiced Okra & Coconut Stir-Fry with Red Amaranth Dal and Turmeric Rice which the staff told me was made with fresh okra, red amaranth, and turmeric from the resort’s very own organic garden!
7. The Bay Agonda
This peaceful beachfront boutique resort was a real standout – I found a unique collection of stylish wooden cottages set right on the sand, and a vibe which was a mix of rustic charm, friendliness and barefoot luxury.
The interiors had a rustic-coastal look which I absolutely loved, with polished wood walls, linens, ornate lanterns and lashings of tropical plants everywhere I looked.
I stayed in a handcrafted wooden cottage with a comfy queen bed, airy mosquito-net canopy, ensuite bathroom, and a shaded private veranda – just a few steps from the beach. My favorite part was the semi-open bathroom where I showered under the stars (which was an awesome experience)!
I loved the mix of fresh seaside dining, Ayurvedic treatments in my room, and a dreamy early dolphin-watching trip—but the real magic was the setting, hidden at the serene, crowd-free end of Agonda Beach.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Bay Agonda
My personal highlights…
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Dining on fragrant Goan-style Vegetable Xacuti which came with baby potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers simmered in a rich, spiced coconut gravy!
8. Beleza By The Beach
This laid-back beachfront resort in South Goa has earned its spot on my list for its striking design and tranquil, village-style layout. The decor mixed contemporary style with coastal and Goan touches – I discovered warm wood accents, earthy tones, local art and a vibe which felt tropical, family-friendly, with a touch of barefoot-luxury!
I had everything I needed—a king bed, rain shower, stylish decor—but the highlight was starting each day with a Babush Cold Brew on my leafy garden terrace.
Between bites of grilled kingfish at their oceanfront restaurant and long dips in the jungle-wrapped pool, I found pure serenity with dosha-tailored Ayurvedic therapies – warm oils, fragrant herbs, and total calm – all set on a quiet stretch of Colva Beach, a blissful escape from South Goa’s livelier spots.
- To book, check prices or availability for Beleza By The Beach
My personal highlights…
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I loved their wellness amenities – especially the serene yoga pavilion and going for a Balinese massage with coconut and Ylang-Ylang oil in the spa!
9. Circle Hotel
I loved how this hip Anjuna hideaway blended striking design with a creative, community-driven energy—it felt like staying in an art gallery with a social twist!
The decor here was bold and eclectic, mixing industrial elements with pops of color, local art, and retro furniture – it had a cool, creative vibe where I saw backpackers, digital nomads, and free spirits mingling over music and cocktails.
My room was simple yet full of charm—flooded with natural light, dotted with quirky local art, and made extra special by a whimsical tree branch detail!
Evenings meant rooftop drinks and sunset chats, afternoons were for pool dips and co-working sessions, and courtyard live music brought everyone together— and being right in the heart of Anjuna, I was just a short walk from the beach, flea markets, and North Goa’s coolest cafés and nightlife.
- To book, check prices or availability for Circle Hotel
My favourite highlights…
- Browsing the nearby Arpora Saturday Night Market, I wandered past glowing lanterns, sizzling spice-filled food stalls, and live music, and loved the mirror-work Rajasthani jackets, chunky silver gemstone rings, and quirky vintage Bollywood posters!
10. W Hotel
Set right on Vagator Beach, this trendy luxury resort doubled as a buzzing party hotspot—it totally stood out as one of the coolest and most Instagrammable places I stayed in Goa!
The decor was bold, eclectic, and ultra-modern – with psychedelic lighting, striking art installations, and upscale design touches inspired by Goa’s bohemian spirit. The vibe was its main highlight though – it was lively, glamorous, and youthful, drawing a stylish, beautiful crowd.
My spacious room had a gorgeously comfortable king bed, moody lighting, a private balcony, and a sleek bathroom stocked with Bliss® spa goodies – but the mirrored ceiling panel above the bed definitely added my favorite cheeky, edgy twist!
I partied at their electric sunset pool sessions at Rock Pool, danced with a cocktail in hand to live DJs at the sleek WOOBAR, and unwound with spa treatments carved into a natural rock face – all perched on a scenic North Goa cliffside near Vagator Beach, with superb views of the Arabian Sea.
- To book, check prices or availability for W Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Hanging out at their glam beachfront WET pool – I loved the trendy infinity pool, funky pink cabanas, live DJs, and my Mirrored Mojito topped with silver leaf. After dark, it turned into a chic, mood-lit space!
11. Casa Anjuna
I really loved this place! It was a romantic, boho-style Portuguese-style villa in heritage hotel with vintage charm, whimsical decor, and a laid-back, old-school Goan vibe just minutes from Anjuna Beach.
Inside I found vibrant, eclectic decor complete with striking antique furniture, colorful tiles, four-poster beds, and playful bohemian touches. The vibe was laid-back, romantic, but ever so slightly eccentric too (which I was really charmed by)!
stayed in a character-filled room with a vintage four-poster bed, colorful tiles, antique décor, and a garden-view veranda—and the freestanding bathtub in the bedroom added the perfect old-world touch.
I took dips in the serene garden pool, enjoyed rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments, and relaxed on cozy verandas – all from a peaceful hideaway in the heart of Anjuna, just a short stroll from the beach, the famous flea market, and cool local cafés.
- To book, check prices or availability for Casa Anjuna
My personal highlights…
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Joining the guided meditation in their tranquil garden, especially with the warm Goan host and the calming Tulsi (Holy Basil) tea finale!
12. Hard Rock Hotel
I found this fun, rock ’n’ roll–themed hotel in Calangute and loved how it blended stylish luxury with a playful, high-voltage vibe!
The interiors were wild and full of attitude – bright pops of color, authentic Fender guitars, music memorabilia, and moody lighting gave it a cool, energetic edge that blended rockstar flair with Goan chill.
With a large comfy bed, rain shower, and edgy rock-themed touches, my room felt luxe and playful – and I loved the Rock Om® yoga kit, which added a unique wellness twist.
I loved cooling off in the outdoor pool with its fun underwater music, then dancing the night away at live DJ sets and jam sessions that gave the place a mini music festival vibe – all right in the heart of Calangute, just minutes from the beach and surrounded by Goa’s best nightlife, cafés, and shops.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hard Rock Hotel
My personal highlights…
- Ordering a Crosley turntable to my room via the The Sound of Your Stay’ program and playing Electric Love – BØRNS!
13. Amrapali-House of Grace
I fell for this heritage gem in Kerala – a 200-year-old lakeside mansion with tranquil views, restored colonial elegance, and cozy, art-lined interiors that I thought really captured the essence of slow, soulful luxury that Goa does so well!
With antique wooden pieces, handcrafted textiles, garden views, and intricate Athangudi floor tiles, my room felt like a true celebration of local heritage – I couldn’t stop admiring those stunning tiles!
Whether I was dining by candlelight in the serene courtyard, cruising the lake by private boat, relaxing in the plunge pool, or admiring the curated art – especially the beautiful Tanjore painting – everything felt thoughtfully designed and full of charm.
Its peaceful setting on the banks of the Zuari River in South Goa was another highlight, just a short drive from Panjim and Old Goa’s historic sites.
- To book, check prices or availability for Amrapali-House of Grace
My favorite highlights..
- I loved the cute on-site café which served delicious pastries such as flaky almond croissants, tangy lemon tarts, chocolate éclairs, and buttery madeleines by a Le Cordon Bleu pastry chef, along with very aromatic Amo tea from Assam estates!
14. MansionHaus
Here I discovered a beautifully restored 18th-century Portuguese mansion which had been skilfully turned luxury boutique stay complete with curated art, sleek technology, and a private members’ club vibe.
I loved the decor too – it was a striking mix of restored heritage elements such as terrazzo floors and vintage chandeliers paired with contemporary minimalist furnishings and bold hand-picked (so the staff told me!) modern art which felt upscale, artsy, and exclusive!
With bespoke furniture, local art, soft high-thread-count sheets, and smart tech, the room felt both refined and high-tech—but it was the striking lighting and lofty ceilings that made it particularly striking.
Rooftop swims, curated art, holistic wellness, bold cocktails, and modern Goan cuisine—all wrapped in the charm of Assagao’s leafy lanes and buzzing café culture made this stay feel effortlessly stylish for me!
- To book, check prices or availability for MansionHaus
My highlights…
- Dining on a delicious Goan Mushroom Balchão with a tangy tamarind in their Instagram-worthy colonial-style dining room complete with gold chandeliers and fine wooden furniture!
15. Planet Hollywood Beach Resort
I loved this over-the-top glam of this all-inclusive beachfront resort – it felt like stepping onto a movie set, with red carpet arrivals, star-studded décor, and immersive film memorabilia!
It had a big, bold personality – I gazed upon glossy furnishings, statement lighting, and cheeky cinematic accents that made the whole place feel stylish and alive.
I stayed in a glam, cinema-themed room with a plush king bed, private balcony, smart TV, and rainfall shower – and I especially loved the playful Walk of Fame star embedded in the floor near the bed.
I tried two treatments at the modern Pink Room Spa, swam in the Insta-worthy glam pool with underwater music, lounged on the private beach, and dined at immersive Planet Dailies, beachfront Poseidon’s Cove with ocean views, and the stylish Showstopper Bar – all set right on quiet Uttorda Beach in South Goa.
- To book, check prices or availability for Planet Hollywood Beach Resort
My personal highlights…
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Going for the very rejuvenating The Star Glow Facial ‘red-carpet ready’ facial which used 24K gold serums, oxygen therapy and a smoothing jade roller massage!
