Are There Any Unique Water Sports in Goa?
Goa is a thriving tourist destination for both Indians and foreigners. And why wouldn’t it be? This bohemian tropical state has everything a traveller longs for. However, aside from plenty of beaches, exciting nightlife, and delicious cuisine, do you know what the state’s highlight is? It is an abundance of exciting water sports. Especially in Goa, you will come across unique water sports like Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, White Water Rafting, Surfing, Kayaking, Water Zorbing, and Ringo Ride.
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a pro-level adventure seeker, these activities are bound to pique your interest. All these water sports are wild and give you a fun-filled dose of vitamin sea. So if you’re willing to taste the sea via a sport, keep reading this blog post. I’ve provided all the information you need about the unique water sports available in Goa.
1. Scuba Diving
Do you want to see the world beneath the calm Arabian Sea? If so, Scuba Diving is probably already on your bucket list. And can you guess what makes Scuba Diving in Goa so unique? In addition to seeing massive coral reefs, aquatic plants, and colourful fishes, you may catch a glimpse of submerged Portuguese war vessels.
The instructors are certified and well-trained. They will help you to understand and guide you through every aspect of Scuba Diving. So, even if you’re a newbie, you will have a smooth underwater experience. And with the instructor by your side, you can dive 5 – 10 metres or even 20 metres deep in the ocean. Many scuba diving packages are available in Goa, but always check everything before booking.
Where to do it in Goa: Grande Island, Calangute Beach, St. George Island, and Pigeon Island
Best time to do it: October to April
Duration: 15 minutes to 30 minutes
Cost of the activity: Rs.1500 – Rs.4000
2. Snorkelling
In India, Goa is the best snorkelling spot and is thus very popular among travellers. If you’re hesitant to try scuba diving at first go, I recommend you start with snorkelling. It’s simple but exciting. The best part about this activity is that you can see the underwater world with only a mask and a tube snorkel. You can try this activity mainly at Palolem Beach as the water is shallow.
Where to do it in Goa: Grande Island, Monkey Island, Sinquerim Beach, Miramar Beach, and Palolem Beach
Best time to do it: October to March
Duration: 30 minutes – 40 minutes
Cost of the activity: Rs.1000 – Rs.2000
3. White Water Rafting
White Water Rafting in Goa is one of the state’s most unique water sports. It is, however, often overshadowed by other overrated adventurous activities. So I recommend everyone give it a shot. You will see Goa’s rivers and local life from a different perspective. The best part is that you cover nearly a 10-kilometre stretch with 2nd and 3rd-grade rapids on the rivers.
The activity is typically divided into two shifts. One begins at 9:30 a.m. and the other at 2:30 p.m. You will be given a brief orientation before the activity, so make sure you’re attentive throughout it.
Where to do it in Goa: Mandovi River, and Valpoi River
Best time to do it: June to September
Duration: 2 hours – 3 hours
Cost of the activity: Rs.1500 – Rs.2000
4. Surfing
How about sun, sand, and surf? Surfing is an all-time favourite and one of the most thrill-seeking activities to do in Goa. If you’re a true-hearted adventure junkie, surfing in Goa will keep you on edge. I don’t think there’s any other adrenaline-pumped activity than this in Goa.
You will find the beaches of Goa filled with surf schools where you can take a course or a one-time session according to your preference. The surf instructors are well-trained and guide every learner with utmost care. So, are you ready to steer through the waves?
Where to do it in Goa: Arambol Beach, Ashwem Beach, and Agonda Beach
Best time to do it: October to March
Duration: 1 hour – 2 hours
Cost of the activity: Rs.1500 – Rs.3000
5. Kayaking
Don’t worry if you aren’t an adventure junkie. Goa never disheartens any of its guests. Opt for kayaking in Goa to relax and unwind while doing a unique water sport. You’ll paddle through the densely packed – mangroves, backwaters of Zuari or Mandovi River, and the off-beaten river paths of Goa.
Where to do it in Goa: Backwater of Mandovi River, Nerul River, and Dona Paula Beach
Best time to do it: October to May
Duration: 1 hour – 2 hours
Cost of the activity: Rs.800 – Rs.3000
6. Water Zorbing
Water Zorbing is a whirlwind activity that gives you a feeling of a roller-coaster ride on the sea/lake. It is one of the most unique and cheapest water sports in Goa and is ideal for solo travellers like us. If you’re looking for not too extensive yet exciting water sports in Goa, this activity nails it. Imagine tumbling on the water in a plastic ball and being completely safe. Isn’t it cool?
Where to do it in Goa: Mayem Lake
Best time to do it: April to June
Duration: 15 minutes – 30 minutes
Cost of the activity: Rs.500 – Rs.1000
7. Ringo Ride
Another one on the list of unique water sports in Goa is the popular Ringo Ride. All you have to do is sit on a circular tube and keep your grip tight. The tube is attached to a speedboat that goes at a certain speed to give you a sense of thrill and adrenaline kick.
Where to do it in Goa: Cavelossim Beach and Mobor Beach
Best time to do it: October to March
Duration: 10 minutes – 15 minutes
Cost of the activity: Rs.500 – Rs.1500
What is the best part about these water sports in Goa?
The best part is that none of these activities requires you to know swimming. If this isn’t the best part, I don’t know what is! These are all beginner-friendly water sports. So even if you’re a newbie, you can try them all.
So which one will you try out on your next trip to Goa?
Out of all these activities, which one piques your interest the most? It is a tie for me between surfing and kayaking. Both these activities showcase two sides of Goa. So without further ado, pick your choice and get going.
After reading about all these activities, it is hard to resist not wanting to book a flight to Goa right away. So, what are you waiting for? Go and plan your next adventurous solo trip to Goa. If you need help with your itinerary, you can always refer to my ultimate guide to Goa on the site.
And if you have questions regarding solo female travel, feel free to drop them in the comments below. I am always happy to help! Till then, keep travelling.