Explore 15 Places To Visit Near Aguada Fort For Stunning Views, History, Beaches & Hidden Gems

Aerial view of Aguada Fort Lower, North Goa surrounded by beach and lush greenery

Aguada Fort dates back to the 17th Century and is preserved in Goa, India. The monument belongs to the Portuguese Era and has a lighthouse located nearby. Sinquerim Beach is right below the fort and it overlooks the Arabian Sea. There are several nearby attractions which are worth exploring. These places to visit near Aguada Fort from other peaceful beaches to ancient forts with a storied past. These iconic spots along with Aguada Fort create an interesting day itinerary and promise a wonderful experience.

Discover The 15 Places To Visit Near Aguada Fort

Uncover the places to visit near Aguada Fort is a perfect destination not only for the fortress and the stunning view but isideal for both history enthusiasts and beach lovers.

1. Sinquerim Beach

Picturesque view of Sinquerim Beach from the fort during sunset and resort in front

Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons

Sinquerim Beach is located in Candolim, Goa. This beach can be witnessed from the fort. Sinquerim Beach has excellent opportunities for watersports, which include water skiing, parasailing, canoeing, windsurfing, and fishing. The beach is comparatively less crowded than Baga Beach or Calangute Beach, but it is popular among beaches near Aguada Fort and is mostly visited due to its proximity to Aguada Fort. Sinquerim Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Goa and offers a laid-back vibe.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 3 km
Highlights: Seen From Fort, Water-Skiing, Parasailing

Suggested Read: Sinquerim Beach Water Sports

2. Calangute Beach

Image of Calangute beach and one of the largest tourist attraction near Goa

Photo: Sri Chinnu / Wikimedia Commons

Calangute Beach, also referred to as the ‘Queen of Beaches’, is one of the most famous tourist attractions near Aguada Fort. It’s well-known for its beach shacks serving tasty food and amazing sunset views. The beach becomes lively at night with buzzing nightlife and great music. The beach comes alive at night with vibrant nightlife and music. Shoppers love the bohemian flea markets, while thrill-seekers enjoy a variety of Calangute Beach water sports, including parasailing and jet skiing. Whether you visit for a lazy day, for shopping, or for an adventure, Calangute Beach has something for everyone.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 8.9 km
Highlights: Beachfront Shacks, Nightlife, Watersports

3. Candolim Beach

Aerial view of Candolim beach - one of the best places to visit near Aguada Fort

Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons

Candolim Beach is located in Candolim, Goa. This beach is one of the prettiest places to see near Aguada Fort. People usually visit this beach for the amazing sunset views. The beach is known for its soft, golden sand and calm water. Candolim Beach also offers a variety of watersport activities like parasailing, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides, making it ideal not only for beach lovers but adventure lovers. Candolim Beach is comparatively chilled but has a more foreign crowd. The beachfront shacks and nearby restaurants serve delicious food. The place lies in proximity to Aguada Fort and is the first beach that can be approached from Panjim.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 5.4 km
Highlights: Sunset Views, Watersports, Seafood Shacks

Suggested Read: Explore The Best Places To Visit Near Candolim For An Unforgettable Experience

4. Chapora Fort

Image of the board in front of the Chapora Fort, Bardez taluka, Goa, India

Photo: Gayatri Priyadarshini / Wikimedia Commons

Chapora Fort is one of the iconic Goa fort, also known for being featured in some of the biggest movies. The fort is located near Vagator Beach, in North Goa, and looks out onto the Arabian Sea and Chapora River. Many visitors hike to the fort in the late afternoon to catch glimpses of stunning sunsets, which also makes it one of the go to spots for product photography due to the aerial views of the beach and river. While the fort is a popular tourist destination in Goa, it is also a great representation of Goa’s colonial history and Portuguese Influence.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 16.7 km
Highlights: Sunset Views, Colonial Insights, Chapora Fort Trail

5. Anjuna Flea Market

Image of Anjuna Flea Market, female shopkeepers selling jewelleries and more

Photo: Alexey Komarov / Wikimedia Commons

Anjuna Flea Market is organised at Anjuna Beach in North Goa. The market organised near the beach only on Wednesdays attracts bustling crowds as it showcases and sells the best bohemian souvenirs. The atmosphere of this market is lively and entertaining. The market has the best collection of jewellery, dream catches, clothes and footwear. A few of the stalls sell handmade jewellery and home decor too. There is a wide range of international and local cuisine and delightful food served in the market including the best seafood dishes and Goan Curry.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 15.1 km
Highlights: Jewellery, Dream Catchers, Souvenirs, Clothes

Suggested Read: Shopping In Goa

6. Baga Beach

Image of Baga Beach, clear turquoise colour water and lush green island and resorts

Photo: Abdullah Ahmad / Unsplash

Baga Beach is not only the famous beach in Goa but one of the oldest attractions near Aguada Fort. The beach is exciting and has a very lively atmosphere. The beach is famous for watersports and visitors can experience jet-skiing, paragliding, parasailing and banana boat rides on this beach. Paragliding and parasailing are among the most chosen ones. There are numerous bars, clubs and beachfront shacks lined up on the beach including the famous one, Las Olas. Tito’s being the oldest, the club attracts crowds from borders and beyond.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 10.4 km
Highlights: Nightlife, Clubs, Beachfront Shacks, Watersports

7. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Image of walkway inside Salim Ali Sanctuary - places to visit near Aguada Fort

Photo: Shyamal / Wikimedia Commons

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located at a bit of a distance from Aguada Fort but is a worthy site to witness. The place is a paradise for bird lovers and nature lovers. During winter, diverse species of migratory birds come and reside in this sanctuary. Apart from relaxing at the beaches, bird-watching activity offers a sense of excitement and thrill. Diverse species of Kingfisher, Egret, Heron and the rare Mangrove Pitta. A guided tour of the place is also made available to tourists.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 20.8 km
Highlights: Migratory Birds, Nature Walk, Herons

Suggested Read: Salim Ali Wildlife Sanctuary

8. Basilica Of Bom Jesus

Image of the side elevation of the Basilica of Bom Jesus offers a detailed view of its architectural

Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the oldest monuments in Goa. The basilica observes crowds from all regions of India and is famous as it preserves the relics of St. Francis Xavier. The monument was built in the 17th Century and reflects beautiful Baroque Architecture. The relics of St. Francis Xaviers are displayed in a glass box. The basilica is located in Old Goa which was the capital of Portuguese India. This place is a pilgrimage centre too and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 25.4 km
Highlights: Baroque Architecture, Relics Of St. Francis Xaviers, Public Viewing Every Ten Years

9. Dona Paula

Picturesque view from Dona Paula, Panji, Goa - Places to visit near Aguada Fort

Photo: Raman Patel / Wikimedia Commons

Dona Paula is a pretty destination to visit in North Goa. Although located at a bit of a distance from Aguada Fort, the site is unique in itself. Dona Paula has a viewpoint, a bay and a beach. The bay has amazing watersports activities which promise fun and excitement. Some of the activities include jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides and ferry rides through the bay. Dona Paula Site overlooks the Arabian Sea and is an ideal destination for witnessing pretty sunsets. There is a statue of Dona Paula de Menezes which adds a historical touch to the place.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 18 km
Highlights: Watersports, Statue of Dona Paula de Menezes, Sunset Views

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Goa

10. Vagator Beach

Image of momentary green freshness just before the start of the dry season. Vagator, Goa

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

Vagator Beach has gained fame as it is the place where the Sunburn Festival is organised. The beach has an amazing nightlife with multiple beachfront shacks, clubs, bars, restaurants and a hippie vibe. The beach is known for the best cliffs perched around it. There are multiple red cliffs and swaying palm trees on this stretch of sand in Goa. The beach offers amazing views of the Arabian Sea and sunsets. The beach is divided into two parts, Little Vagator and Big Vagator each having a unique charm.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 14.8 km
Highlights: Red Cliffs, Palm Trees, Nightlife, Sunburn Festival

11. Anjuna Beach

A scenic view of Anjuna Beach with sandy shoreline, one of the best places to visit near Aguada Fort.

Photo: Jebakumar Samuel / Pexels

Anjuna Beach is one of Goa’s most recognisable coastal locations, renowned for its bohemian vibe and electric scene. Situated in North Goa, this beach offers a myriad of natural scenery with a buzzing cultural hub. The beaches rocky shores, craggy red cliffs, and palm-lined edges offer a stunning scene that has inspired generations of backpackers and international tourists alike. Here, visitors will find beachfront cafes and local seafood shacks, along with the occasional live music that indulge Goa’s essence of freedom and characters. If you like adventure, Anjuna Beach offers all the excitement: parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 15.2 km
Highlights: Flea market, nightlife, rocky coast, cafes, water sports

Suggested Read: Discover The Best Places To Visit Near Anjuna Beach For An Unforgettable Experience

12. Divar Island

A peaceful beach on Divar Island surrounded by lush greenery and calm scenic views.

Photo: Sandeep N / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Divar Island is what one can call a hidden gem as it is close to Panaji and can be easily accessed by taking a short ferry ride on the Mandovi River. While other beaches are crowded, Divar offers a chance for peace and tradition by immersing yourself in the beautiful countryside, lush paddy fields, and homes from the Portuguese era. Enjoy going up top to the Our Lady of Compassion Church that looks over the island from a hill and provides the spectator with beautiful panoramic views of the area. Bonderam Festival in August is a celebration of local legends and lore that features drifting music, local dance, and colorful processions and floats. The locals are very welcoming and love life at a leisurely pace, making one appreciate and reflect on the surroundings later.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 25.6 km
Highlights: Ferry ride, village charm, churches, Bonderam Festival

13. Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos Fort offers scenic river views and history, a top place to visit near Aguada Fort.

Photo: Asif Rahman / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Reis Magos Fort is one of the most beautifully restored forts in Goa and is located on the northern banks of the Mandovi River across from Panaji. The fort has a mesmerising views of the river and the surrounding area, and is therefore a great place to take photographs and stroll. The Reis Magos Church, dedicated to the Three Magi, is also located on the premises and is one of the oldest churches in Goa. The fort’s galleries are presently being used for art exhibitions and cultural events, thus connecting and contributing to Goa’s contemporary cultural scene. Inside, visitors can examine the history of Goa from graphics displays and preserved original architecture.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 9.6 km
Highlights: River views, art gallery, colonial fort, church

Suggested Read: Corjuem Fort

14. Church Of St. Lawrence

The Church of St. Lawrence is a serene spot known for its peaceful surroundings and hilltop views.

Photo: KUSHAGRA DHALL / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Church of St. Lawrence is a historical and peaceful building situated next to Sinquerim and Fort Aguada in North Goa. The church is dedicated to St. Lawrence, who is the patron saint of sailors, and the church is historic and spiritually rich in its culture. The setup of the church on the cliffs provides views of the coastal landscape and is an ideal location for quiet contemplation and tranquil photography. The architecture of the church is relatively simply constructed. Exteriors are whitewashed on the outside, with a high vaulted ceiling and calm meditative stillness on the inside. The church is lesser known and culturally rich location that is often missed by tourists in search of bigger attractions.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 800 m
Highlights: Sea views, historic church, peaceful setting

15. Morjim Beach

Morjim Beach is a tranquil coastal retreat and one of the best places to visit near Aguada Fort.

Photo: User:Agyar / Wikimedia Commons

Morjim Beach is a tranquil and beautiful beach in North Goa, which is referred to as “Little Russia” due to the high number of Russians that flock there each year. Morjim has a peaceful atmosphere, soft sandy beaches and distinct ecosystem. One of the main draws, is the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles, which come here to nest – so it is an environmentally sensitive area. Morjim beach is very relaxed with plenty of opportunity for sunbathing, long walks and yoga by the sea. Numerous beachfront cafes and shacks serve international cuisine. Morjim beach also offers activities such as kite surfing, paddleboarding and dolphin watching tours.

Distance From Aguada Fort: 24.1 km
Highlights: Turtle nesting, kite surfing, cafes, dolphin spotting

Suggested Read: Discover The Top Places To Visit Near Morjim Beach

Aguada Fort has its proximity to several notable places. Visitors usually find it interesting to explore these nearby spots by planning a one-day itinerary to the fort and surroundings. The places are a perfect blend of ancient forts to peaceful beaches. These places await cultural enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Every place reflects the vibe of Goa either through its architecture or with the laid-back atmosphere. Book a trip to Goa with TripXL and explore these places near Aguada Fort for a perfect getaway.

Cover Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Fort Aguada reflects Portuguese architecture. The place overlooks the Arabian Sea and offers pretty views of the same. The fort never fell into the enemy’s hands and is currently preserved.
There are many local tour operators and guides who offer guided tours to Aguada Fort and other spots in North Goa. Guided tours can help gain cultural insights and make the most of a place.
Scuba Diving is one of the chosen watersports performed in North Goa. There are many dive operators at Calangute Beach and Baga Beach. Other watersports include snorkelling, parasailing and cruise rides.
Taj Fort Aguada Resort and Spa is a posh beach resort in North Goa. The resort offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and is a luxury place to stay. The place is a heritage property with charming vibes.
Ideally to explore multiple beaches and forts 3-4 days are enough in North Goa. Besides beaches, there are a few temples and churches too which have to be explored.
Yes, Anjuna Beach has areas suitable for families, especially during the day. While evenings can get lively with parties and nightlife, the beach itself is safe and scenic for children, especially near the cafes and quieter zones.
Yes, Reis Magos Fort charges a small entry fee for visitors. The fee helps maintain the fort and support cultural programs hosted within its gallery spaces.
Yes, Morjim offers several eco-resorts, bamboo cottages, and sustainable boutique stays that prioritise environmental protection—ideal for nature lovers and responsible tourists.

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