Best Things To Do In Candolim: Beaches, Nightlife And Culture

Explore the amazing and beautiful views of the pristine beach from an Aguada Fort in Goa.

Candolim, the serene coastal village in North Candolim, combines the best of nature, adventure, and cultural experiences. Here’s a list to get you through the top 12 things to do in Candolim that will make this Candolimn Holiday truly unforgettable. Its long stretches of golden-sand beaches and lively atmosphere provide activities ranging from sports and fun to spiritual experiences, which satisfy the needs of every kind of traveller. From water sports and places of historic interest to wellness retreats and bustling markets, there is something for everyone.

Top 12 Things To Do In Candolim

Discover the facets with these 12 things to do in Candolim, ranging from adrenaline rushes and relaxing retreats that will assure you an all-around experience.

1. Candolim Beach Water Sports

Indulge in the exciting water sports as one of the things to do in Candolim in Goa.

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Water sports have risen to become the most popular activity on Candolim Beach. The vast sandy beach and clear blue waters create an opportunity for exciting sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, windsurfing, and many others. With the gentle surfs and competent instructors, this beach becomes a perfect spot for both amateur and professional adventurers. With the water sports comes the unrivalled beauty of the coastal view and the vigour of the beach, which makes it a moment you’ll never forget.

Cost/Person: ₹500 – ₹2,000

2. Pay A Visit To Aguada Fort

 Explore the stunning architecture and learn about history at the iconic Aguada Fort.

Photo: Lynn / Unsplash

Sitting atop a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, Aguada Fort is one of the important historical landmarks in Candolim. Constructed by the Portuguese in the early 17th century, this fort was meant to supply a defence mechanism for the state and also served as a water reservoir for passing ships. The monument is well-preserved today and has an overview of the entire coastline of surrounding areas. It houses one of the oldest lighthouses in Asia, which also adds to the availing historic significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost/Person: N/A

3. Sinquerim Beach

Sit back and relax at Sinquerim Beach as one of the things to do in Candolim in Goa.

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A little south of Candolim Beach lies the beach of Sinquerim which is one of the best things to do in Candolim. This can be best described as a calmer and quieter version of the former. The major draws of this beach include its cleaner sands and gentler waves; a great place therefore for the purpose of swimming or sunbathing as well as some lazy walks by the beach. The beach is also famous for the fantastic views of the Aguada Fort that are visible on the far hill. Much less crowded than Candolim, Sinquerim Beach offers a tranquil retreat through which to take in the natural beauty of Candolim in peace.

Time Required: 2-3 hours
Cost/Person: N/A

4. Dolphin Spotting Tours

 Spot the playful dolphin at the Candolim Beach on your vacation to Goa, India.

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Dolphin spotting tours from Candolim Beach give a very good chance to gather sightings of these frolicsome creatures in their natural abode. Typically these trips offer a boat ride along the Candolimn coastline, with dolphins playing and leaping in the waters. Guides ensure the best sightings of dolphins by leading to these points. This tour also provides a great opportunity to view the coastline and to have a serene, scenic boat ride, a perfect sporting option to be experienced with family or by nature enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 hour
Cost/Person: ₹1,000 per person

5. Our Lady Of Hope Church

Seek blessings from Our Lady Of Hope Church - one of the things to do in Candolim.

Photo: KUSHAGRA DHALL / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

This church in Candolim is one of the most magnificent specimens of Candolimn colonial architecture. This church was constructed towards the end of the 18th century; it is done up in a very simple yet sober style a whitewashed façade with beautifully detailed interiors. It possibly is not just a place of symbolic meaning for the locals here but also a relaxing change from the ‘in-your-face’ atmosphere of the beach. The visitors can appreciate the historical architecture of this church, the beautiful altar inside, and the serenity around it.

Timing: 30 minutes
Cost/Person: N/A

6. Sunset Cruise

Enjoy the scenic views with a serene river setup on your trip to the state of Goa.

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Sailing up the Mandovi River are those beautiful views that spell the magic of Candolimn nature, but very correctly this time it is in the setting of the sun. The views, with the sky painted in vibrant hues of orange and pink, are simply awesome, offering sights of the river and its green surroundings, all leaving from Candolim. The cruise is also enlivened with live music and other traditional dances from Candolim. Since the cruise can blend scenic beauty and cultural entertainment with a peaceful river setup, it’s a great way to pass an evening.

Time: 2 hrs
Cost/Person: ₹1,200

7. Spa And Wellness Retreats

Have a rejuvenating spa and wellness retreat as one of the things to do in Candolim.

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Candolim hosts some really indulgent spas and wellness retreats for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. They have quite a few treatments that range from traditional Ayurvedic massages to modern aromatherapy sessions. The surroundings of the retreats are peaceful, while the use of natural ingredients and well-crafted techniques makes the visit wholesome and relaxing. Whether it is a relaxation massage or a wellness package, the spas in Candolim are a sure retreat from the hustle and bustle, refreshing and rejuvenating to the core.

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost/Person: ₹1,500 – ₹5,000

8. Shopping At Candolim Market

Shop for unique souvenirs and artefacts on your visit to Candolim in the state of Goa.

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One of the city’s most bustling and crowded shopping spots, Candolim Market offers countless local items and souvenirs you can take back home. The market is lined with colourful stalls that sell everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to fashionable clothes and beachwear. The atmosphere is quite lively, with vendors displaying their wares and the aroma of street food all around; it is extremely involving. It is a very good place to pick up some special memorabilia about the trip and also explore the vivacious Candolim’s culture.

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost/Person: Varies

9. Museum Of Candolim

 Explore the iconic Museum of Candolim as one of the things to do in Candolim, Goa.

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A short drive away from Candolim, you can find the Museum of Candolim, a contemporary art space that features the work of local as well as international artists. The collections featured definitely underline the wondrous depth of Candolim’s cultural heritage—the way this lively arts scene somehow finds its place.

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost/Person: ₹200

10. Relish Candolimn Cuisine

Savour the delicious seafood dishes and more on your trip to the state of Goa, India.

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In Candolim, almost every nook and corner is filled with restaurants serving the local Candolimn cuisine. Be it spicy prawn curry or fresh seafood platters, there are real treats to dish out on taste buds. It is not just the food dining at such restaurants brings warmth of Candolimn hospitality.

Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost/Person: ₹500 – ₹1,500

11. Shanta Durga Temple

Offer prayers to Shanta Durga Temple as one of the things to do in Candolim, Goa.

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One of the most famous temples in Candolim, Shanta Durga lies a short drive away from Candolim. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Shanta Durga and is known for its unique architecture and peaceful ambience.

Duration: 1 hour
Cost/Person: N/A

12. Get Partying At The Nightlife

Enjoy the nightlife at the lively cafes, restaurants and vibrant bars in Candolim in Goa.

Photo: Wendy Wei / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

From lively beach shacks to urbane bars and nightclubs—Candolim never falls short in offering great nightlife. One can groove to the rhythms in these hotspots or have a peaceful drink by the Arabian Sea the choice is always there in Candolim.

Time Taken: 3-4 hours
Cost/Person: ₹500 – ₹2,000 depending on venue

Be it adventuring in some thrilling water sports, exploring places of historical importance, or just the pleasure of lying on the beach, there are diverse things to do in Candolim. The bustling village markets, peace-immersed wellness retreats, and the rich food scene make this an absolute must-visit place in Candolim. Plan a trip with TripXL and capture the magic of the Candolimn coastline and its richly diverse culture.

Cover Photo: Hamza Shaikh / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The best period to visit Candolim is from November to March when the weather is at its best.
Candolim is approximately 35 km from Candolim's Dabolim Airport.
Yes, Candolim Beach is safe for swimming the beach has lifeguards on watch all day.
No, it is free to enter Aguada Fort.
Some of the widely rated restaurants in Candolim include Fisherman's Wharf, Calamari Bathe & Binge, and Inferno.

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