4.8 / 5

Arambol Beach

📍 Arambol Beach, GoaView map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:November to February

⏰ Open Hours:Open 24 hours

🏄‍♂️ Things To Do:Swimming, Surfing, Yoga, Paragliding, Shopping at Night Market

💰 Budget:Free entry, Water sports range from INR 300-1500

🧳 Traveller Types:Solo travellers, Families, Couples, Adventure enthusiasts

🔍 Known For:Pristine beach, Hippie culture, Freshwater lake, Paliem Sweet Water Lake, Street performances, Drum circles

📍 Distances:Dabolim Airport-36.6 km, Pernem Railway Station-16.8 km, Panjim-35 km

🍴 Food & Drink:Seafood, Local Goan cuisine, International cuisines at beach shacks

🛍️ Shopping:Night market with clothing, jewellery, handicrafts

🏨 Accommodation:Beach huts, Guest houses, Resorts available for all budgets

👒 Tip:Carry sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun, Keep the beach clean

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Arambol Beach: Why You Should Visit the Best Beach of North Goa

Goa is a dream destination for many travellers who love to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. Goa has many beaches offering different experiences and vibes, but one beach stands out from the rest: Arambol Beach.

Arambol Beach is the last beach in North Goa and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and unexploited beaches in Goa. It has a distinct Bohemian and laid-back vibe, as it was once a popular hippie beach in Goa. It attracts tourists from all over the world, especially foreigners who love to indulge in the culture and lifestyle of Arambol.

By the end of this article, you will be convinced that Arambol Beach is the best beach in Goa and that you should visit it on your next trip to Goa.

History and Culture of Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, Arambol Beach became a popular destination for hippies who were looking for a place to escape from mainstream society and live a free and alternative lifestyle. They settled in the beach huts and cottages along the shore and created a community that was based on love, peace, harmony, and creativity.

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The hippies also brought with them their music, art, spirituality, and philosophy, which influenced the culture and vibe of Arambol Beach. They introduced yoga, meditation, reiki, drumming, dancing, and other forms of expression that are still practised today at Arambol Beach. They also organized festivals and events that celebrated their culture and values.

Even though the hippie movement faded over time, Arambol Beach still retains its Bohemian and laid-back charm. It is still a haven for artists, musicians, healers, travellers, and seekers who want to experience the authentic and original spirit of Goa. It is also a place where people from different backgrounds and cultures come together and share their stories, ideas, and passions.

Attractions and Things to Do at Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach has many attractions and things to do that will keep you entertained and engaged throughout your stay. Some of the main attractions are:

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Paliem Lake:

A sweet water lake at one end of the beach that is surrounded by hills and a banyan tree where The Beatles once meditated. The lake is also known as the "Money Stone Lake" because of a legend that says that there is a money stone hidden at the bottom of the lake. It’s a great place to relax, swim, or enjoy a boat ride.

Arambol Mountain:

A hill that offers a stunning view of the sunset and the shoreline. It is also the starting point for paragliding and kite surfing activities that will give you an adrenaline rush. You can fly from the Arambol Mountain and have a bird's eye view of the beach, the sea, and the interiors.

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Beach-side Flea Market:

A market that sells various items from musical instruments to jewellery, mostly by foreign sellers. The market is open every evening during the peak season and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, gifts, or unique items. You can also bargain with the sellers and get some good deals.

Festivals:

Arambol Beach hosts several festivals throughout the year that showcase the culture and talent of Arambol. Some of the popular festivals are Arambol Festival or Freak Festival in February, which is a carnival-like event that features live music, dance, art, and food; Arambol World Music Festival in January, which is a musical extravaganza that features artists from different genres and countries; and The Tantra Festival in January, which is a spiritual and holistic festival that offers workshops, sessions, and ceremonies on tantra, yoga, meditation, and healing.

Adventure Sports at Arambol Beach

If you are looking for some adventure and thrill at Arambol Beach, then you will not be disappointed. Arambol Beach offers a variety of adventure sports that will challenge your skills and test your limits. Some of the adventure sports that you can try at Arambol Beach are:

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Paragliding:

One of the most popular and exciting adventure sports at Arambol Beach is paragliding. You can fly from Arambol Mountain and soar over the beach, the sea, and the interiors. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the landscape and feel the wind in your hair. You can also choose to fly solo or tandem with an instructor. Paragliding is a safe and fun activity that anyone can try, regardless of their age or experience.

Surfing:

Another adventure sport that you can try at Arambol Beach is surfing. You can learn to surf or rent equipment from the surfing club at Arambol Beach. The club offers lessons for beginners as well as advanced surfers. The club also organizes surfing trips to other beaches in Goa. Surfing is a great way to enjoy the waves and have some fun in the water.

Kite Surfing:

If you want to take your surfing to the next level, then you can try kite surfing at Arambol Beach. Kite surfing is a combination of surfing and paragliding, where you use a kite to propel yourself on a board over the water. Kite surfing is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires skill and balance. You can learn kite surfing or rent equipment from the kite surfing club at Arambol Beach. The club offers lessons for beginners as well as advanced kite surfers.

Where To Stay In Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach has accommodation options for every budget and preference. You can choose from a range of options, such as beach huts, cottages, homestays, guest houses, and villas. Some of the advantages of staying at Arambol Beach are:

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Beach Huts:

If you want to stay close to the seawater and experience the rustic charm of Arambol Beach, then beach huts are the best option for you. Beach huts are wooden or bamboo huts with basic amenities such as beds, fans, mosquito nets, and attached bathrooms.

They are cheap and comfortable and offer a great view of the beach. You can also enjoy the sound of the waves and the breeze from your hut. Some of the popular beach huts at Arambol Beach are 21 Coconuts Inn, Shiva Garden, and Cactus Guest House.

Cottages:

If you want to enjoy more comfort and privacy, then cottages are a good option for you. Cottages are cosy and spacious rooms with balconies or verandas that overlook the beach or the garden.

They have better amenities such as air conditioners, refrigerators, TVs, and hot water. They are also more expensive than beach huts but still affordable. Some of the best cottages at Arambol Beach are Rudra Holidays, Om Ganesh Naik’s Holiday Home, and Arambol Plaza Beach Resort.

Home Stays:

If you want to experience the local hospitality and culture of Arambol Beach, then homestays are a great option for you. Homestays are rooms or apartments rented out by local families or hosts living on the premises.

They offer you a homely atmosphere and a chance to interact with the locals. They also provide you with home-cooked meals and tips on what to do and see at Arambol Beach. Some of the cozy homestays at Arambol Beach are Happy Panda Hostel, Arambol Harmony Guest House, and Maitree.

Guest Houses:

If you want to choose from a range of budget-friendly options, then guest houses are a good option for you. Guest houses are small hotels or lodges that offer decent facilities and services at reasonable prices.

They have clean, comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms and fans or air conditioners. They also have common areas such as lounges, cafes, or gardens where you can relax or socialize with other guests. Some of the affordable guest houses at Arambol Beach are Swati Guest House, JBL Guest House, and Dream Catcher Resort.

Villas:

If you want to indulge in luxury and spaciousness, then villas are the perfect option for you. Villas are large, lavish houses with multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and dining rooms. They also have private pools, gardens, and terraces that offer a stunning view of the beach or the hills. They have all the amenities that you can think of, such as Wi-Fi, TVs, DVD players, music systems, and more.

They are also very expensive and suitable for large groups or families. Some of the luxurious villas at Arambol Beach are Villa River Cat, Villa Jardim, and Villa Blue Lagoon.

Nearby Places to See from Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach is not only a great destination by itself, but also a convenient base to explore some of the nearby places that are worth visiting. Some of the nearby places that you can see from Arambol Beach are:

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Fort Aguada:

A 17th-century Portuguese fort with a lighthouse and a stunning view of the sea. The fort was built to protect Goa from the Dutch and the Marathas and also served as a prison during the colonial era. The fort is now a popular tourist attraction that showcases the history and architecture of Goa. You can also visit the nearby Aguada Jail and the Aguada Church, that are part of the fort complex. Fort Aguada is about 25 km from Arambol Beach and can be reached by road in about 40 minutes.

Baga Beach:

A popular beach for water sports, nightlife, and shopping. Baga Beach is one of the most happening beaches in Goa that offers a variety of activities and attractions for all kinds of travellers. You can enjoy water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat ride, parasailing, and more at Baga Beach. You can also experience the vibrant nightlife of Goa at the famous clubs and pubs, such as Tito’s, Mambos, and Britto’s, that are located near Baga Beach. You can also shop for souvenirs, clothes, accessories, and more at the Baga Flea market that is held every Saturday night. Baga Beach is about 20 km from Arambol Beach and can be reached by road in about 30 minutes.

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Candolim Beach:

A serene beach with golden sand and calm water. Candolim Beach is one of the quieter and cleaner beaches in Goa that offers visitors a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or strolling on the beach without any hassle or crowd. You can also visit the nearby Candolim Church, which is a beautiful example of Portuguese architecture. Candolim Beach is also famous for hosting the Sunburn Festival, one of Asia's biggest electronic dance music festivals that takes place every year in December. Candolim Beach is about 23 km from Arambol Beach and can be reached by road in about 35 minutes.

Vagator Beach:

A scenic beach with red cliffs and palm trees. Vagator Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Goa that offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape. You can admire the beauty of nature at Vagator Beach or explore nearby attractions such as Chapora Fort, Anjuna Flea Market, or Ozran Beach.

Vagator Beach is also known for hosting Hilltop Festival, a psychedelic trance music festival in January every year. Vagator Beach is about 15 km from Arambol Beach and can be reached by road in about 20 minutes.

How to Reach Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach can be reached by various modes of transport such as rail, air, road, or local buses. Here are some of the options that you can choose from:

Rail:

The nearest railway station to Arambol Beach is Vasco Da Gama, which is about 60 km away. Vasco Da Gama is well connected to other major cities in India by trains such as Konkan Kanya Express, Goa Express, Mangalore Express, and more. From Vasco Da Gama, you can take a cab or rent a scooty to reach Arambol Beach in about an hour.

Air:

The nearest airport to Arambol Beach is Goa International Airport in Vasco Da Gama, which is about 60 km away. Goa International Airport is well connected to other major cities in India and abroad by flights such as Indigo, SpiceJet, Air India, Qatar Airways, and more. You can take a cab or rent a scooter from Goa International Airport to Arambol Beach in about an hour.

Road:

Public and private buses connect Panjim to Mapusa and then Mapusa to Arambol. Panjim is the capital city of Goa, and Mapusa is a major town in North Goa. You can take a bus from Panjim Bus Stand or Mapusa Bus Stand to reach Arambol Bus Stop in about an hour. The bus fare is around Rs. 50 per person. You can also take a cab or rent a scooter from Panjim or Mapusa to reach Arambol Beach in about 40 minutes. The cab fare is around Rs. 1000, and the scooter rental is around Rs. 300 per day.

Local Buses:

State buses connect Panjim to Mapusa and then Mapusa to Arambol. However, no direct bus connects Arambol to other beaches in Goa. You will have to change buses at Mapusa or Panjim to reach other beaches, such as Baga, Candolim, or Vagator. The local buses are cheaper than public or private buses but are also slower and less comfortable. The local bus fare is around Rs. 20 per person.

Arambol Beach Nightlife

Arambol Beach is not only a place to enjoy the day but also a place to enjoy the night. Arambol Beach has a vibrant and lively nightlife that will keep you entertained and energized till the wee hours of the morning. Some of the things that you can do at Arambol Beach at night are:

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Fireworks and Fire-shows:

One of the most spectacular and mesmerizing things that you can witness at Arambol Beach at night is the fireworks and fire-shows that are organized by the shacks every night. You can watch the sky light up with colourful fireworks that create a magical effect on the beach. You can also watch the fire shows where performers juggle, spin, or dance with fire. These shows are a treat for the eyes and add to the festive mood of Arambol Beach.

Drum Circle:

Another thing that you can enjoy at Arambol Beach at night is the drum circle that takes place every evening during the peak season. The drum circle is a sunset phenomenon where foreigners play Jimba, a musical instrument made from goat skin stretched over a wooden frame. The drum circle creates a lively beach atmosphere where people gather to listen to music, dance, sing, or just enjoy the vibe. The drum circle is also great for meeting new people and making friends.

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Shacks:

One of the best places to hang out at Arambol Beach at night is the shacks that line up along the shore. The shacks are small restaurants or bars offering visitors food, drinks, music, and entertainment. You can choose from a variety of cuisines such as Goan, Indian, Continental, Chinese, Italian, and more. You can also enjoy drinks such as beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails, and more. You can also listen to live music or DJ sets that play different genres, such as rock, pop, reggae, trance, and more. You can also join in the karaoke nights or open mic nights that are held at some of the shacks.

Clubs and Pubs:

If you want to experience the vibrant nightlife of Goa at Arambol Beach, then you can head to some of the clubs and pubs that are located near Arambol Beach. Some of the popular clubs and pubs near Arambol Beach are Club 9 Bar, Curlies, Shiva Valley, and Nyex Beach Club. These clubs and pubs offer a variety of music, drinks, food, and entertainment for party lovers. You can dance till dawn or chill out with your friends at these places.

Shacks Near Arambol Beach

One of the best things about Arambol Beach is the shacks that line up along the shore. The shacks are small restaurants or bars offering visitors food, drinks, music, and entertainment. Some of the best shacks near Arambol Beach are:

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Laughing Buddha: A popular shack that offers delicious food, refreshing drinks, live music, and a cosy ambience. Laughing Buddha serves a variety of cuisines such as Goan, Indian, Continental, Chinese, and more. It also has a bar that offers drinks such as beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails, and more. It also hosts live music events that feature local and international artists who play different genres, such as rock, pop, reggae, and more.

Pajis: A cozy shack that offers mouth-watering food, chilled drinks, and a relaxing atmosphere. Pajis serves authentic Goan food such as fish curry, prawn masala, chicken xacuti, and more. It also has a bar that offers enticing drinks & beverages.

Arambol Beach is a paradise for beach lovers who want to experience the Bohemian and laid-back vibe of Goa. It has everything that you can ask for: a beautiful and clean beach, a rich and fascinating history and culture, a vibrant and lively nightlife, a variety of attractions and activities, a range of accommodation options, and a friendly and helpful people.

If you are looking for a place that will make you feel alive, happy, and free, then Arambol Beach is the place for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit Arambol Beach on your next trip to Goa and discover why it is the best beach in Goa.

Arambol Beach Reviews

This trip wasn’t massively planned but wasn’t completely spontaneous either, so we had some points of interest but were open for any new adventures or tweaking our trip into a totally distinct way further. We first went to the vast, neat and gorgeous Arambol Beach, this place has plenty to offer everyone, a relatively even seashore with clean waters good enough for a swim, a picturesque beach with some rock structures at a far end, beach shacks, huts, a bustling street market, some wonderful restaurants to suffice your food cravings and myriad of other stuff to please a soul. Still just a stroll over the beach felt fabulous with the sea breeze running through the hair and enjoying the pristine white sands was a great way to enjoy the day.
.... to Arambol Beach, which was hardly 15- 20 minutes from Ashwem beach. This one was definitely the crowded one in the North Goa beaches. This one has many water sports and activities that one can do here. It also showcases an amazing sunset if you are up for it. Just relax on this one till the sun goes down . Many beach shacks here offer the beach chairs for rent . The best option would be to order drinks or food for yourself on any of the shacks that appeal to you. This will help their business as well as you getting a hint of luxury on the beach of a beach chair.Arambol Beach, North GoaHey ! A starfish .... so cute. Arambol Beach
DAY 3: ARAMBOL BEACH My last day at goa :( Located at the most northern side of Goa, Arambol beach was our next destination and also happened to be the last, at Goa. But another crazy incident occurred while on our way to Arambol , the GPS system, inspite of being a such useful technology, guided us to completely different location instead of Arambol. We ended up getting lost for a long time :(
This unique beach is the rocky as well as a sandy beach. There is also a freshwater lagoon, extending right up to the sulfurous mud and hot springs. Russians and hipsters trope can be seen here smearing the mud, which has certain curative properties. Arambol is a perfect picture of a Goan traditional village, with lots of palm trees and fishing boats.
I was still feeling a bit restless as was not getting cycle on rent. I shifted to new place in Ashvem Beach, Hotel Wellness Inn. A good decent resort focusing on wellness, yoga, meditation. Got a bike and was not on rent I feel that I am blessed just by asking the hotel owner offered me his bike.
Photos of Arambol Beach
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