What are the Surf-Friendly Beaches in Goa?

Goa’s surf-friendly beaches are spread throughout the state. Arambol Beach, Baga Beach, and Ashwem Beach in North Goa are popular among surfers. That said, South Goa is also equipped with some ideal beaches for surfing. These include Palolem Beach, Agonda Beach, Betalbatim Beach, and Varca Beach.

You can look into my ultimate solo travel guide to Goa if it’s your first time in this tropical state.

Surfing has piqued the interest of many, including mine, in Goa’s water sports. And all credit goes to these incredible beaches and their long stretch of shoreline.

So, if you’re a big-time adventure seeker and a surf trip to Goa is in your mind, this blog post is for you. Continue reading to discover which beach on the list is best suited for you to try your hand at this adventurous sport.

1. Arambol Beach – perfect for surfing in solitude

Arambol Beach in North Goa is one of the best surf beaches in the state. In addition, the offshore wind from the northeast creates the ideal surf-friendly environment. You’ll love surfing at this beach, especially if you like less-crowded spots as I do.

There are many surf schools in this area where you can enroll for the basic 1-hour lesson, where you’ll be given a brief ten minutes of instruction followed by a 50-minute surfing session supervised by the instructor. Or you can also book a private surfing session if you wish to dive into the depth of surfing. However, you can also surf on your own with a rented surfboard. After surfing, do not forget to walk up to the Arambol Sweet Water Lake. It is one of the picturesque settings to catch one of the best sunsets in Goa.

2. Baga Beach – an all-rounder beach for surfing

Baga Beach is one of the most happening places in Goa. You name it, and you’ll have it in the blink of an eye. That also applies to surfing! The wide-open beach front allows swells up to 8 feet, making it the best playground in water for experienced surfers. The waves make it even more exciting for windsurfers and kite surfers.

Furthermore, Baga Beach allows you to surf even if you’re on a shoestring budget in Goa. You can choose from a variety of surfing packages. Some of them include everything from surfboards to surfing gear. So, before being enticed by any of the packages, weigh your options and then choose. Oh, and don’t forget to stay a little longer at the beach to enjoy the commercial nightlife of Goa.

3. Ashwem Beach – surf at the off-beat beach of North Goa

This off-the-beaten beach welcomes surfers with open arms. You’ll be surprised to know how many people flock to this beach solely for surfing and kitesurfing. Another remarkable feature of the beach is that, despite its location in North Goa, it is one of the most secluded and cleanest beaches in Goa. As a result, you can play with your surfboard without worrying about nudging others. Isn’t that awesome?

If you’re visiting Goa for the first time, you can look into my article on the complete solo travel guide to North Goa.

4. Palolem Beach – the best place for surfing in the Monsoons       

If you’re visiting Goa during the monsoon season and want to surf, you can go to Palolem Beach. This beach is South Goa’s treasure, and I could go on and on about it! You will not find a more tranquil atmosphere than here in Goa.

This beach is also one of the swim-friendly beaches in Goa. So, all you water babies, get ready to jump in the sea after the surfing sessions!

5. Agonda Beach – an adventurous surfing session

Surfing at Agonda Beach has recently gained popularity (for all the right reasons) among adventurers. The gentle waves make it easy to learn to surf. In addition, you will be guided by an experienced surfer throughout the activity. You can also personalise your sessions.

Besides surfing, you can also engage in water sports like kayaking, parasailing, and banana riding at this beach. And if you want to participate in all these activities, I recommend purchasing a package. The time limit for each activity is short, but you will get a taste of everything for around Rs. 2000.

6. Betalbatim Beach – the best place to learn surfing

One of the top surf-friendly beaches in Goa is Betalbatim beach. This location allows you to practice surfing without being disturbed. The instructors are well-trained and meticulous in their instruction. So, if you’re serious about learning the sport, I believe you know where to look.

And once you’re at this beach, please stay for a night. You would not want to miss the magical sight of Betalbatim Beach, the glowing beach of Goa, at night! 

7. Varca Beach – surf against a jaw-dropping backdrop

Varca Beach is tucked away in the southern part of Goa. It offers a pleasant surfing experience to visitors. The combination of multiple swells and warm water creates a soothing atmosphere.

Having said that, if Caribbean beaches fascinate you, this place will undoubtedly give you the sensation of being on one. Imagine surfing against such a backdrop—it’s like something out of a Hollywood film.

To know all the offbeat/hidden locations in South Goa, check out my article, Exploring South Goa on Solo Travel Journey. 

What is the best time to surf in Goa?

When it comes to surfing in Goa, timing is the key. The best time to visit Goa is in the dry season, i.e., October to March. It is the perfect season if you’re looking forward to steering through the Arabian Sea like a boss! During this time, the sea remains warm and calm with plenty of beginner-friendly waves, creating an exemplary ambience for all kinds of surfers in Goa.

Here are some popular surf schools in Goa, along with the prices.

Goa’s beaches are teeming with surf schools. Whether you’re a first-time surfer or a seasoned pro, these schools have you covered. You can have one-on-one sessions or do a short course on surfing according to your budget and time on hand. This chart should help you choose a surf school on your preferred beaches.

That brings us to the end of this blog. Surfing in Goa is both enjoyable and thrilling. I don’t think there’s anything better than connecting your soul, mind, and body through a sport. I hope this blog post piques your interest in surfing and convinces you to include it on your next solo trip to Goa!