Experience Kayaking In Goa: Best Places For A Relaxing Getaway

Kayaking in Goa is an amazing experience for locals as well as tourists of all age groups.

Goa is one of the top tourist destinations in India, attracting tourists from all over the world. The Arabian Sea encircles its crystal-clear waters, and its golden sand beach provides a variety of leisure options. For those seeking adventure, kayaking in Goa is one of the great choices for visitors among other water activities. Along with professional support and safety gear, this water sport has become the most preferred in the region. This relaxing sport soothes the mind and offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. Explore some of the best locations for kayaking that Goa offers.

Factors Affecting Kayaking In Goa

 Several people on kayaks, waiting for their turn for an exciting adventure on calm waters.

Photo: Arpit Srivastava / Wikimedia Commons

Kayaking is affected by some factors in Goa. Tourists must ensure they are aware of these factors before booking a Kayaking trip in Goa:

Water Current: Kayaking is only possible in calm waters. If the water current is harsh then there is a possibility of the Kayak overturning with the water current.

Rainfall: Kayaking requires no rainfall so that the Kayak can sail through easily.

Temperature: If the temperature is too high, then Kayaking may be uncomfortable. Moderate and pleasant temperature offers a soothing Kayaking experience.

Wind: The wind direction also affects the Kayak. Kayaking must be done when the wind is mild so that the Kayak can sail through with ease.

Types Of Kayaking In Goa

Goa offers the best and different Kayaking destinations. Tourists can enjoy the following types of Kayaking here:

Mangrove Kayaking: Mangrove Kayaking in Goa, India offers the best scenic spots. It is done in the North Goa area. The lush green surroundings and serenity during this kayaking is mesmerizing. Chapora is a place in Goa that offers Mangrove kayaking.

Morning, Sunset, and Moonlight Kayaking: Tourists can also indulge in morning, sunset, or moonlight kayaking. The place looks different and unique each time. Morning kayaking makes you feel enthusiastic and positive, sunset kayaking gives a romantic vibe, and moonlight kayaking offers a thrill.

Backwater Kayaking: Backwater Kayaking takes you through a network of lagoons and creeks, offering the untouched beauty of the surroundings. You can also spot the exotic species of birds and water. Lucky ones can spot otters as well.

Popular Destinations For Kayaking In Goa

Goa is the ultimate destination for kayaking. Following are some of the best Kayaking spots in Goa:

1. Sal Backwaters

Sal Backwaters is a perfect place for kayaking in Goa for first-timers and skilled people.

Photo: Nihal Wadkar / Wikimedia Commons

Kayaking in Sal Backwaters is ideal for beginners and lies around 5 km away from the source of Sal. The water here is calm and makes it easier to paddle the way back and forth. At a few places, the river gets dense and narrow and offers the feel of kayaking in Amazon waters. The evening kayaking here offers breathtaking views of the sunset. You can sit and relax on the kayak and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and calmness. You can also spot exotic birds and otters here.

Location: Nuvem
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: ₹5000

2. Moira

Moira is a picturesque place surrounded by dense mangrove forests offering thrill.

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Moira is a picturesque spot for kayaking in Goa. Tourists here paddle through mangrove forests with a guide. You will pass through tangled roots and branches and will witness the diverse wildlife and fauna of this place. Playful Kingfishers, Pittas, Fantails, Orioles, etc can be easily spotted here. This small tropical paradise offers a distinct vibe. This kayaking session also offers a romantic getaway to the couples. Tourists must experience the breathtaking kayaking session in Moira.

Location: Moira
Duration: 1 hour
Cost/Person: ₹1600 – ₹2000

3. Mandovi

Mandovi River offers a perfect opportunity for water sports and beautiful scenery.

Photo: Rahul Kushwaha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Kayaking in Mandovi River in Goa offers a great experience as the route takes you under the sunny, blue sky. It is enchanting for nature lovers as the water here is filled with lotuses and water lilies. One of the most thrilling things about this river is the Crocodile Challenge, where you will spot Crocodiles in their natural habitat while you kayak in these calm waters. You can kayak here at your own pace and soak in the beauty of the surrounding areas.

Location: Panjim
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Cost/Person: ₹1350

4. Chapora

 Chapora river is a lovely point for enjoying kayaking in Goa for a calming experience.

Photo: Tejj / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Chapora River is one of the most scenic rivers in Goa. It forms an estuary at Vagator Beach while meeting the Arabian Sea. Due to its twisty nature, this river offers a perfect spot for mangrove kayaking. Tourists can enjoy the hidden treasures of nature and explore the secret islands on the way. Take a break at these islands, relax, and enjoy the rustic
nature of the surroundings. Kayaking in the Chapora River is an experience in itself.

Location: Chikhli
Duration: 15 minutes (min.)
Cost/Person: ₹1500

5. Baga Creek

 Baga Creek is one of the popular spots for kayaking in Goa among locals and visitors alike.

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Baga Creek is a lazy creek in Goa and is a tiny stretched tidal portion. Kayaking through this creek offers breathtaking views to the kayaks. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunset in the radiant sky. Its water is still and clear making the Kayaking experience more exciting. Glide along the tranquil waters of Baga Creek and enjoy the coastal charm of the place. The gentle waves and warm sun will refresh your mind and soul.

Location: Baga Beach
Duration: 0.5 – 4 hours
Cost/Person: ₹600 (1 hour), ₹300 (30 minutes)

6. Bambolim And Palolem

Palolem Beach is one of the popular beaches and tourist attractions attracting huge crowd.

Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons

Bambolim and Palolem beaches offer a picturesque setting for Kayaking lovers. Tourists indulge in this thrilling activity here and kayak through their tranquil waters. The beaches have golden sands, swaying palm trees, and azure waters. The water of Bambolim Beach has shallow waters and is perfect for both beginners and experienced kayaks. You will feel like you are floating along the glistened waves. One must experience Kayaking here with friends or family.

Location: North and South Goa
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: ₹600

7. Mabor Beach

 Mobor Beach offers a thrilling experience while kayaking in Goa on its calm waters.

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Mabor Beach in Goa offers a delightful experience in the pristine waters of the Arabian Sea. Tourists here can merge with nature and solitude while kayaking through the waters. While paddling you will experience calmness and yet feel adventure. Mabor Beach kayaking will take you through the coastal life of the locals surrounded by greenery. You will also be guided by trained guides who will enlighten your knowledge about the place. So, come and experience a perfect balance of thrill and relaxation.

Location: Cavelossim
Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Cost/Person: ₹150 – ₹2200

8. Sylvan Siridao

Sylvan Siridao is one of the best spots for kayaking in Goa for all adventure seekers.

Photo: Rune Haugseng / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Sylvian Siridao is one of the best kayaking destinations in Goa for all adventure seekers. This place also offers peace and beauty to the tourists. This mangrove region offers the best kayaking experience in Goa. Group kayaking is usually done here as it becomes hard to control the kayak alone. Tourists can enjoy both day and moonlight kayaking here as the views offered at both times are different and unique. The bright moon makes the landscape come alive. So, tourists must not miss visiting this place for kayaking.

Location: South Goa
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost/Person: ₹699 – ₹1500

Other Factors To Consider

Some of the important factors to consider like average cost and some traveller tips.

Photo: Clem Onojeghuo / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Tourists must consider certain important factors before visiting the beaches for kayaking for a better and more comfortable experience.

Price Of Kayaking In Goa

The price for kayaking depends on the location, duration, and type of kayaking. The cost lies between ₹ 200 to ₹3500. The cost is very reasonable compared to the breathtaking experience this activity offers.

Best Time To Visit

The best time for Kayaking is the dry season, from October to March. The weather during these months is very pleasant and ideal for kayaking. Moreover, the mangroves in these months are in full bloom and the waters are calm for kayaking. However, you can still do this activity throughout the year.

Tips For Travellers

Adventure and kayaking enthusiasts must keep the following tips in mind while planning their trip to Goa:

  • Listen to the instructor carefully during the orientation session.
  • Wear a life jacket and always keep the safety gear on.
  • Learn the signs and gestures that are required for communication during kayaking.
  • Do not carry unnecessary baggage on the kayak.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid the direct rays of the sun.
  • Ensure there is a rescue kayak at all times for emergencies.

Kayaking in Goa has gained immense popularity among adventure enthusiasts. Goa offers some of the best kayaking spots that give a great experience to tourists. The picturesque locations, calm waters, and beautiful palm trees add to the charm of kayaking. Tourists must indulge in this quiet and calm activity to connect with nature. So, plan your trip with TripXL for a seamless vacation in this coastal state.

Cover Photo: Shivkumar Sd / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The minimum age is between 5 to 12 years for kayaking and varies at different locations.
Yes, you can take a camera while kayaking and click pictures of the beautiful surroundings.
Yes, non-swimmers can participate in Kayaking as life jackets are provided for safety.
Family kayaks can carry up to 4 people, whereas other kayaks can accommodate one or two people.
100 kg is allowed for a recreational kayak. Tour operators may guide and provide a different kayak if the weight is more than 100 kg.

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