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Goa is a popular tourist destination in India which invites people from all over the world throughout the year. The most visited season, however, is during the summer months from April to June, right before the monsoon. Read ahead to know about some of the best places to visit in Goa in May. Most tourists would plan a weekend getaway to this tropical land. Still, you can enjoy a week-long trip with an excellent itinerary, including excursions and exploring all the famous tourist destinations. You can enjoy various beach activities, like watersports, sunbathing, and even the amusing and lively nightlife.
Top Places To Visit In Goa In May For A Scenic Escapade At Pearl Of The Orient
Visit 15 places to visit in Goa in May as you get a wide range of activities to rejuvenate yourself from bustling city life.
1. Baga Beach
Photo: Abdullah Ahmad / Unsplash
In May, Goa is characterized by hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Baga Beach provides a soothing array of water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Baga Beach is also famous for its lively nightlife. It features numerous beach shacks and clubs that come alive after sunset, making it a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy music, dancing, and socializing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Major Attractions: Water Sports (Jet skiing, Parasailing, Kayaking)
Duration: 1 day
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Baga Beach Goa For Sunkissed Vibes
2. Anjuna Beach
Photo: Camille Minouflet / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Anjuna Beach in North Goa is a true gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant hippie culture, and lively nightlife. Imagine indulging in thrilling water sports like parasailing, jet skis, speed boat rides, and scuba diving from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM amidst serene morning waters and pleasant temperatures. It’s an absolute paradise for adventure seekers!
Major Attractions: Wednesday Flea Market
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
3. Calangute Beach
Photo: Laliteshwar Suman / Unsplash
Famously known as the “Queen of Beaches” and renowned as the largest beach in the region. Located approximately 15 km from the capital city, Panaji, the beach is a hub for tourists worldwide. The beach has numerous shacks offering delicious seafood and refreshing beverages, enhancing the laid-back beach experience. The peak tourist season for Calangute Beach is during the winter months, particularly from November to February when the weather is pleasant. Swimming is prohibited during the monsoon season (June to September) due to rough sea conditions.
Major Attractions: Beach shacks serving local cuisine
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Calangute For Your Next Memorable Vacations
4. Palolem Beach
Photo: Sumit Sourav / Unsplash
Described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa, this one-mile-long, crescent-shaped beach is perfect for visiting in May. The beach is bordered by lush green palm trees and rocky formations at both ends, creating a picturesque setting that attracts local anglers and international tourists. You can engage in some of the best activities at this beach, including dolphin spotting, Ayurvedic massages and water sports.
Major Attractions: Dolphin spotted cruises
Duration: 1 day
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
5. Dudhsagar Falls
Photo: Holiday Photographer / Unsplash
Dudhsagar Falls is one of India’s tallest waterfalls. You can find these on the Mandovi River in the Western Ghats of Goa. However, accessibility to the falls can be pretty challenging. The nearest railway station is Castle Rock, where visitors can take a train to a stop near the falls. Unfortunately, this station does not have any platform. The only way to reach this beautiful natural creation is through safari jeeps or trekking on foot.
Major Attractions: Four-tiered waterfall
Duration: 1 day
Entry Fees: Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Discover Hidden Waterfalls In Goa
6. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This famous bird sanctuary was built over an estuarian mangrove habitat named after the renowned Indian Ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. This sanctuary features a network of mangrove swamps and tidal water bodies housing a rich variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, and it is best to visit during early mornings or late afternoons to encounter some endemic bird species.
Major Attractions: Migratory birds
Duration: Around 2 to 4 hours
Entry Fees: Rs. 10 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreign visitors
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
7. Fort Aguada
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Aguada is a historic Portuguese fort in Goa which overlooks the Arabian Sea on Sinquerim Beach. It was built between 1609 and 1602 to protect against Dutch invasions and serve as a reference point for vessels arriving from Europe. “Aguada” means “water” in Portuguese, reflecting the fort’s freshwater spring that provided water to passing ships. Today, the fort acts as a popular tourist attraction that invites visitors from all across the world.
Major Attractions: Aguada Lighthouse
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Aguada Fort For An Unforgettable Goan Experience
8. Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Photo: Aviatorjk / Wikimedia Commons
The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa is an influential Catholic Church renowned for its historical and architectural importance. The basilica is particularly famous for housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier, a prominent missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity in India. The site has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest churches in India.
Major Attractions: Baroque architecture of the Church
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
9. Divar Island
Photo: Vivek Vatsyayn / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Divar Island is a small island located in the Mandovi River, about 10 km from Panjim, the capital city of Goa. It is one of the few places in Goa that has preserved its rich history, culture, and heritage. Divar Island was once a thriving Hindu settlement that was destroyed by Muslim invaders and Portuguese colonizers. The island is particularly known for its cuisine which features several seafood dishes.
Major Attractions: the Church of Our Lady of Compassion
Duration: About half a day
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Divar Island
10. Butterfly Beach
Photo: Tran Nguyen / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Butterfly Beach is well-known for its secluded and picturesque setting. This small, crescent-shaped beach is characterized by its golden sands, clear blue waters, and the presence of numerous butterflies, which gives it its name. It is often called Honeymoon Beach due to its romantic aura and minimal crowds, making it an ideal getaway for couples and those seeking peace.
Major Attractions: Marine life
Duration: One full fay
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
11. Cabo De Rama Fort
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Cabo de Rama is a historic fort in Canacona in the Southern part of Goa. It is known for its scenic views of the Arabian Sea and its rich history, which dates back to the 17th century. The fort features remnants from the Portuguese era, including walls, moats, and a chapel known as Capela de Santo António, which is still in use today. The fort provides access to a nearby beach known for its pristine beauty and tranquillity, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
Major Attractions: Breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Canacona For An Idyllic Getaway
12. Chapora Fort
Perched on a hill, Chapora Fort stands as a majestic testament to history, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque landscape and the glistening beaches below. Dating back to around 1612, the fort, originally named “Shahpura,” is steeped in ancient charm. Visitors are treated to awe-inspiring sunsets and endless photo opportunities, making it a favored destination for both history enthusiasts and leisure seekers.
Major Attractions: Picturesque landscape and natural beauty
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
13. Arambol Beach
Photo: Vijay Tiwari / Wikimedia Commons
Arambol Beach, located in North Goa, is a serene haven that truly shines in May, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its tranquil ambience, this beach is surrounded by lush coconut groves and boasts soft golden sands that meet the clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea. It’s one of the best places to visit in Goa with family, with plenty of cosy shacks serving delicious Goan cuisine and refreshing drinks. The lesser crowds in May make Arambol Beach a peaceful escape where you can enjoy Goa’s natural beauty at its finest.
Major Attractions: Pristine beach known for its bohemian vibe, paragliding, and sweet water lake
Duration: 1 day
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Arambol To Get A Glimpse Of The Goan Culture
14. Dona Paula
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Lover’s Paradise,” Dona Paula is one of Goa’s most iconic attractions, offering a unique blend of romance, history, and scenic beauty. Located near Panaji, this picturesque spot is where the Mandovi and Zuari rivers meet the Arabian Sea, creating a stunning backdrop of shimmering waters and palm-lined shores. The Dona Paula Jetty provides breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the intriguing local legend behind the place or enjoy water sports like kayaking and jet skiing. In May, the pleasant breeze and fewer crowds make Dona Paula one of the best places to visit in Goa for couples.
Major Attractions: Scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, water sports activities, and the historic Dona Paula monument
Duration: 1 – 2 days
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
15. Se Cathedral
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest churches in Asia, Se Cathedral is a magnificent testament to Goa’s Portuguese heritage and a unique place to visit in Goa in May. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to Saint Catherine and is renowned for its stunning Tuscan-style architecture and tranquil ambience. Inside, the cathedral houses intricate altars, religious artefacts, and the famous Golden Bell, believed to be one of the largest in the world. The serene surroundings and beautifully maintained gardens add to the charm of this iconic monument. A visit to Se Cathedral offers a glimpse into Goa’s rich history and spiritual legacy, making it a memorable experience.
Major Attractions: One of the largest churches in Asia, showcasing Portuguese-Manueline architecture and housing the Golden Bell
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
Nearest Seaport: Mormugao Port
Suggested Read: Top Action-Packed Things To Do In Goa With Family
Goa is a popular destination among tourists from all over the world. Every year, over millions of tourists visit this beautiful coastal place and look for rejuvenation through activities like sunbathing and water sports. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a memorable experience with your friends and family members. Get indulged in various activities that this beautiful state has to offer.
Cover Photo: Olha Kolesnyk / Unsplash
