After several trips to Goa, I’ve come to love its palm-lined beaches, Portuguese-influenced charm, and range of stays – from colonial boutiques to luxury resorts. These are my favorite unique places to stay…
1. The Park Calangute
This stylish beachfront boutique hotel in North Goa was unique due its rooftop cabana lounge overlooking the Arabian Sea and its trendy, party-ready vibe that I thought really set it apart from typical beachfront stays in Goa.
I thought the decor was awesome – it was bold and modern with bright pops of color, minimalist furniture, playful, avant-garde art pieces and an alluring vibe which felt trendy, upbeat, and sociable.
My sleek minimalist guest room came with a comfy king-sized bed, mood lighting, a glass-walled rain shower and my favorite part – a built-in digital headboard feature which featured a tropical scene with birds and bold colors!
I dined in the trendy rooftop LOVE restaurant and bar, took a dip in the photogenic beachfront infinity pool, made full use of the private beach access, dined al-fresco at the award-winning open-air restaurant and partied into the night at their curated DJ event!
Its setting made it super convenient to party too – it was located right on Calangute Beach in North Go and I found myself close to lively shacks, night markets, and buzzing beach clubs!
My highlights…
- Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the infinity pool was a Instagram-worthy moment! I could see as far as Sinquerim Beach, Fort Aguada, and Dona Paula and then I sat and stargazed afterwards!
2. Mojigao – Eco Resort
I found this serene, nature-focused retreat tucked to be a real treat with rustic-luxe treehouse villas, an artistic jungle setting, and a buzzy cultural hub with yoga, art workshops, and conscious dining making it a refreshing, soulful escape!
I found earthy and artistic decor, with lashings of natural wood, cane furnishings, colorful textiles, handcrafted details and a relaxed, bohemian, and creative vibe!
I stayed in a cozy wooden cottage with a private veranda, breezy canopy bed, ethnic rugs, and large windows that opened out to the beautiful surrounding jungle! I particularly loved the open-air bathroom with natural stone walls.
I went to daily yoga classes in a beautiful tree-canopy shala each, tried their holistic healing therapies, ate Ayurvedic meals in their plant-based restaurant, and attended their awesome onsite live art and music events.
I really appreciated the peaceful jungle setting in Assagao – secluded yet just 10 minutes from Anjuna and Vagator’s buzz.
- To book, check prices or availability for Mojigao
My favorite highlights…
- I loved dining at their open-air restaurant nestled in the tropical forest – especially the zucchini spaghetti with cashew cream made from (their own!) garden-fresh ingredients!
3. Azaya Beach Resort
I found this was a stylish, upscale beachfront resort which stood to me for its ultra-modern design mixed with Portuguese-inspired architecture, beachfront cabanas, and private plunge pool suites that opened directly onto the sand!
I found it was filled with contemporary elegance with Indo-Portuguese touches, featuring sleek lines, earthy tones, handcrafted accents and a laid-back and luxurious atmosphere – it felt both chic and romantic.
My standard room had a luxurious king-sized bed, elegant modern furnishings, a rainfall shower, a private balcony or terrace, and high-end amenities like a minibar and smart TV. I particularly liked my unique glass-walled bathroom which had an oversized soaking tub that overlook the bedroom!
Before leaving I made sure I enjoyed the beachfront dining under the stars at La Concha, rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments at Prana Spa, and the beautiful private cabanas on the sandy beach.
I loved where it was situated too, it was nestled right on the pristine white sands of Benaulim Beach in South Goa and it was a peaceful retreat away from the region’s much busier northern coastline.
My personal highlights…
- I loved the direct access to Benaulim Beach – just a short stroll past swaying palms and pink and white frangipani trees, it felt like my own private paradise!
4. Red Thread Calangute
I was really charmed by this stylish boutique stay—it felt like the perfect fusion of contemporary Goan design, vibrant local art, and warm, personalized service. The decor mixed modern minimalism with bold colors, handcrafted tiles, and subtle Goan touches, giving it a chic, artsy, and effortlessly laid-back vibe!
My guest room featured sleek custom furnishings, a luxury bed with crisp linens, statement lighting, and a patio overlooking the swimming pool. The bold, hand-painted mural wall behind the bed was a personal highlight for me!
I went for sunset drinks on the rooftop lounge, relaxed in the curated library of design books, took a dip in the plunge pool surrounded by tropical plants, and ordered in-room spa treatments!
Located in a quiet lane in Calangute, it was just a peaceful retreat just a short walk from the beach, cafés, and local markets.
My highlights…
I loved how the hotel showcased local art – especially the large Insta-worthy mural in the lobby which reflected Goan life with palm trees, boats, and village scenes.
5. The Postcard Hideaway, Netravali
I really loved this peaceful eco-luxury retreat tucked away in Goa’s Netravali forest – it was a serene, off-the-grid hideaway set amidst dense jungle, natural springs, and the sounds of wildlife.
The decor was equally as special with minimalist luxury mixed in with rustic Goan touches with earthy tones, wooden furnishings, and large windows that framed the surrounding forest. It felt tranquil, secluded, and very nature-immersed!
My spacious room came with a comfy bed, forest-facing balcony, elegant wooden interiors, a rain shower, and eco-conscious amenities. I absolutely loved the outdoor sit-out deck which came with forest views, where I sat and spotted rare birds and monkeys.
I went on their organized guided forest hikes, took dips in natural springs, stargazed under clear skies, gorged on locally inspired meals served in their fun jungle-view pavilion, went for treatments in the spa, took a dip in the open-air jacuzzi and joined yoga sessions atop a stunning pavilion
My highlights…
I loved the spiced Okra & Coconut Stir-Fry with Red Amaranth Dal and Turmeric Rice which the staff told me was made with fresh okra, red amaranth, and turmeric from the resort’s very own organic garden!
6. W Hotel
This was a trendy, luxury beachfront resort set on Vagator Beach which also doubled as a fun party hot-spot – it really stood out being one of Goa’s coolest and most Instagrammable luxury stays. because of its high-energy nightlife and striking contemporary design.
The decor was superb with bold, eclectic, and ultra-modern, with psychedelic lighting, eclectic art installations, and upscale design details inspired by Goa’s bohemian spirit. The vibe was lively, glamorous, and youthful and I saw attracted a well-dressed and beautiful looking crowd!
- To book, check prices or availability for W Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Hanging out at their glam beachfront WET pool – I loved the trendy infinity pool, funky pink cabanas, live DJs, and my Mirrored Mojito topped with silver leaf. After dark, it turned into a chic, mood-lit space!
7. Casa Anjuna
I really loved this place! It was a romantic, boho-style Portuguese-style villa in heritage hotel with vintage charm, whimsical decor, and a laid-back, old-school Goan vibe just minutes from Anjuna Beach.
Inside I found vibrant, eclectic decor complete with striking antique furniture, colorful tiles, four-poster beds, and playful bohemian touches. The vibe was laid-back, romantic, but ever so slightly eccentric too!
My guest room was home to a vintage four-poster bed, colorful tiled flooring, antique wooden furnishings, and a private veranda overlooking the gardens and I particularly loved the old-fashioned bathtub which was placed right in the bedroom.
I took a dip in the serene garden pool, indulged in rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments, and lounged on cozy verandas.
The location gave me easy access to all the highlights too – it was superbly located in the heart of Anjuna, it’s just a short stroll from the beach, the famous flea market, and cool little local cafes, yet tucked away enough to feel peaceful and secluded.
My personal highlights…
8. Hard Rock Hotel
I discovered this vibrant, music-themed lifestyle hotel in Calangute and really liked how it was where high-energy retreat where rock ’n’ roll,
Inside I found bold and contemporary decor with a rock-inspired edge, there were bright, crazy colors, music memorabilia, mood lighting and even authentic Fender guitars waiting to be played. It was lively, youthful, and fun with a playful rock ’n’ roll spirit as well as a laid-back Goan twist.
My spacious room features a plush bed, a curated music playlist, a walk-in rain shower, stylish rock-themed accents and my favorite feature an in-room Rock Om® yoga kit!
I really enjoyed taking a dip in the outdoor swimming pool which came with underwater music, dancing the night away at at live DJ night watching live jam sessions that turned the hotel into a mini music festival!
Located in the heart of Calangute, it was also handily just minutes from the beach and surrounded by Goa’s best nightlife, cafes, and shopping spots.
My personal highlights…
- Ordering a Crosley turntable to my room via the The Sound of Your Stay’ program and playing Electric Love – BØRNS!
9. Amrapali-House of Grace
I found this elegant heritage boutique hotel set in a restored 200-year-old mansion on the banks of Lake Vembanad in Kerala. It stood out to me for its tranquil lakeside setting, beautifully restored architecture, and intimate, art-filled interiors that wonderfully mixed heritage charm with slow-living luxury!
The vibe felt serene, intimate, and soulful – like a peaceful heritage retreat with a touch of understated luxury thrown in too! My guest room featured vintage wooden furniture, locally woven fabrics, handmade tiles, elegant antiques, and gorgeous views of the gardens. I especially loved the handmade – and very ornate – Athangudi floor tiles!
I also loved the romantic candlelit Keralan dinners in the peaceful courtyard, the curated local art which was displayed throughout the beautiful mansion (especially the Tanjore painting of Lord Vishnu), the charming plunge pool, and private boat rides which departed directly from the hotel’s dock.
My favorite highlights..
- I loved the cute on-site café which served delicious pastries such as flaky almond croissants, tangy lemon tarts, chocolate éclairs, and buttery madeleines by a Le Cordon Bleu pastry chef, along with very aromatic Amo tea from Assam estates!
10. MansionHaus
Here I discovered a beautifully restored 18th-century Portuguese mansion which had been skilfully turned luxury boutique stay complete with curated art, sleek technology, and a private members’ club vibe.
I loved the decor too – it was a striking mix of restored heritage elements such as terrazzo floors and vintage chandeliers paired with contemporary minimalist furnishings and bold hand-picked (so the staff told me!) modern art which felt upscale, artsy, and exclusive!
My guest room featured custom-designed furniture, more locally inspired artwork, luxurious linens, smart tech controls, and a sleek modern bathroom. The dramatic lighting and high-vaulted ceilings were stand-out feature for me!
I took a dip in the rooftop pool, gazed at art in the private art gallery, immersed myself in the wellness experiences, tried cocktails in the stylish in-house cocktail bar and dined on creative locally inspired cuisines!
Being in the heart of Assagao was a huge bonus – I was surrounded by leafy lanes, upscale boutiques, and some of North Goa’s best restaurants and cafes!
My highlights…
- Dining on a delicious Goan Mushroom Balchão with a tangy tamarind in their Instagram-worthy colonial-style dining room complete with gold chandeliers and fine wooden furniture!
11. Beleza By The Beach
I thought this laid-back beachfront resort in South Goa deserved a place on this list for its striking design and its tranquil, village-style resort layout.
The decor was contemporary with coastal and Goan influences – there was warm wood accents, earthy tones, local art, and breezy, sunlit interiors. Relaxed, tropical, and family-friendly with a peaceful, barefoot-luxury feel.
This blissful utopia also offers a whole host of remarkable experiences that prioritize comfort. These include stress-busting wellness activities, refreshing drinks, serene pool dips, and delicious food, all under one stunning roof.
My personal highlights…
- I was a huge fan of their wellness focus! I adored their zen-like yoga pavilion and their onsite spa where I indulged in a Balinese massage using coconut and Ylang-Ylang Oil by a super friendly massage therapist!
12. Planet Hollywood Beach Resort
Surrounded by white sand beaches and lush green environs, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort is the ideal getaway for couples and families alike.
The young and energetic staff presence endeavours to pamper guests in luxury, offering a bespoke personalized service to ease your stresses.
The guestrooms are equipped with unique design elements and feature moody lighting to set the mood for an authentic Arabian Sea welcome. The Pink Room Spa is the ultimate spot to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul, boasting five treatment rooms utilizing a whole host of natural elements.
Kickstart your celebrations in the on-site restaurant ‘Planet Dailies’, fueled by culinary artists who maintain a high standard of presentation and service through a range of Classic Western, Japanese, and South Indian dishes.
My personal highlights…
- Staying in the Hollywood Glamour room made me feel like I had stepped onto my own personal movie set! It had plush art-deco style furnishings, awesome mood lighting, framed movie posters, and even old movie clapboards!
13. Nilaya Hermitage
A discreet gateway to the complete rejuvenation of mind and body, Nilaya Hermitage invites you to part ways with everyday life and discover real meaning in a refreshing ambience.
Spread over 20 acres, the rustic-themed sleeping havens are surrounded by iridescent tropical birds and wake-up calls by peacocks.
The property is canopied by majestic trees lining both sides of stone pathways, leading to brick-coloured cottages styled on an ‘Arabian Nights’ theme, with Moorish architecture guiding you to another dimension.
Set on a secluded hill promising uniqueness and solitude, each of the 13 unique units offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, and the sunsets are nothing short of majestic.
My favorite highlights…
- Their infinity pool which was gorgeously positioned on an elevated terrace was just divine! My favorite thing to do was relaxing in it while sipping on a mango daiquiri and admiring the emerald-green Arambol hills!
14. Ahilya By The Sea
Perched on Coco Beach in North Goa’s peaceful Nerul district, a classic old-world Goan charm is harmonized with Balinese influences, offering an experience steeped in luxury.
The villas boast rustic laterite walls and intricately patterned wooden brackets adorning the roof. They are topped with bespoke artwork, an aroma diffuser, and restored antique décor.
On-site facilities include two pools, many relaxing nooks, and areas filled with board games and musical instruments, all contributing to the hotel’s relaxing atmosphere.
A sumptuous selection of local and European-style food, all-day snacks, and beverages are available here, and a well-informed staff is ready to provide the idyllic family retreat.
My highlights…
- I really loved being able to wander down to the private beach each morning to see the magical sunrise – I loved watching as the sun filled up the sky with vibrant colours over the breathtaking Western Ghats!
15. Whoopers Boutique Anjuna
At Whoppers Boutique, a vibrant yellow façade invites you to an experience brimming with authenticity and splendour, nestled in the heart of the jungle.
Many charming open-air hangouts adorn the property, welcoming the grace of nature to set the tone for a unique Goa welcome. A shimmering outdoor pool area is encircled by vegetation, offering a space of seclusion for you to soak up the charming surroundings.
A vibrant bar area with billiards table blends a cozy ‘British Pub’ feel with a temperate outdoors ambiance, and is a memorable hub for discerning travellers to mingle the night away.
Whilst embracing a tranquil location, the hotel is a mere 10-minute stroll from Anjuna Beach, offering a convenient position to explore the paradisiacal South-West Indian charm.
My favourite highlights…
- Their exceptional breakfast buffet which was served each morning in their main dining room – I especially loved the delicious Goan Poi Bread with Bhaji which introduced me to the taste of their local spices and herbs!
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