When we talk about the islands of Goa is truly a land where the weather meets the sea and the soul finds peace. Leave all your worries behind and plan an unforgettable trip to Goa by adding the charms of the islands to your travel itinerary.
Admire the verdant beauty of nature, away from unwanted crowds. Enjoy peaceful moments, which are rare to find in today’s busy daily life. It’s time for a change, new beginnings to make you feel more alive.
Let’s begin this Goa travel guide and uncover the list of top islands in Goa that every nature lover must visit, because these kinds of opportunities come once in a lifetime.
List Of Top 10 Islands in Goa
Doing research, choosing the best island can be time-consuming. That’s why we have created the ultimate list of the top 10 islands in Goa. Read thoroughly, take your time and choose the best island for your next travel destination.
Grande Island
Excited to know which island is first in the list? It’s the Grande Island, and your trip to Goa won’t be complete if you don’t visit this beautiful gem. Another name of this island is Ilha Grande, considered one of the most popular islands in Goa. It is loved by tourists from all over the world due to its calm and serene surroundings.
What’s more? The speciality of this island is that it offers an abundance of water activities. Also, here you will find a huge number of bats. That’s the reason it is also known as Bat Island. Don’t be afraid, it is still worth visiting as you can also catch the views of historical attractions like Aguada Fort, the lighthouse and the Central Jail.
- How to Reach:- A boat is the best way to reach the island as the location is midwater.
- Things to do:- Visitors can enjoy water activities like snorkelling, fishing and scuba diving.
Chorão Island
Chorão Island is a very famous travel destination among nature lovers. It is one of the largest islands in Goa, which is situated approximately 5 kilometres away from the capital city. Even if it is small, but yet gorgeous to witness the heart of Mother Nature.
It is also famous for the epic Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and you will get to explore around 500 species of migratory birds. Along with that, you will also get the chance to spot crocodiles. Other than that, there are several colonial villas, Hindu temples and Portuguese churches to explore. So, visit this Chorão Island as it is one of the top 10 Instagrammable photo spots in North Goa.
- How to Reach:- Take a boat ride to reach the Chorao Island from the town of Ribandar. However, it is only 6 kilometres away from Panaji.
- Things to do:- Indulge in a variety of activities such as boating, cycling and also the most famous thing to do is birdwatching.
Vanxim Island
Another island is located in the heart of the taluka of Tiswadi. Famously known as the Island of Fishermen. It is really true to its name; here you will find several spots where you can easily enjoy fishing.
To elevate your experience, you can also think of visiting ornate churches to discover more about the Portuguese architecture. Among the churches of this island, the most popular one is the Church of Santo Cristo. In addition to that, it was built in 1879, considered one of the oldest churches in India.
- How to Reach:- Take a ferry from Divar Island to reach Vanxim Island.
- Things to do:- Explore the historical attractions, simply take a walk, watch the scenic sunset views, and enjoy boating by witnessing the surroundings.
Divar Island
Save the best moment of your life by adding this Divar Island to your travel bucket list in the lap of nature. This is one of the famous islands in Goa, approximately 3.7 kilometres from Old Goa. Explore the small region, which is mostly dotted with dazzling houses showcasing the style of the Portuguese.
Get the traditional essence of this region by exploring the churches. Visit this beautiful Goa island which is located on the Mandovi River. This island also takes you through the history of Goa, including the ruins of the Kadamba dynasty.
- How to Reach:- Take a ferry from Old Goa that will take you to the Southern side of the island.
- Things to do:- Individuals can enjoy activities like snorkelling, scuba diving
Butterfly Island
Are you planning for the best honeymoon destination, just you and your partner? Feel free to plan your visit to the butterfly island, also listed in the list of the most famous islands of Goa. Whether you want to indulge in water activities or just spend some quality time with your beloved, visiting an island the most romantic things to do in Goa this valentines week.
It is best known for its calmness and tranquillity, so if you are looking for such peaceful places, then it should be on your list. You might be wondering why it is called Butterfly Island, right? Well, it resembles the shape of the wings of a butterfly and is surrounded by high rocks.
- How to Reach:- Take a boat ride to Palolem beach to the most beautiful and unique Butterfly Island.
- Things to do:- Visitors can enjoy Canoe riding and also do boat riding.
Pequeno Island
Just off the coast of Goa, there is Pequeno Island, situated in the Arabian Sea. It is small, and the beauty of this island is just unbelievable. The geographical location of this island is quite challenging to access, a perfect place if you need privacy. Moreover, visiting the island of Goa is one of the best things to do in Goa in the summer season.
Admire the calming waters, white sand and green trees, which make this place more beautiful. It is relatively untouched, suitable for couples, nature lovers and almost everyone. So, when are you planning to visit?
- How to Reach:- Simply take a boat to reach Pequeno Island.
- Things to do:- Even if it is one of the hidden islands but you can still enjoy snorkelling, diving and more.
Sao Jacinto Island
Get the chance to explore the unknown islands of Goa. It’s the smallest, far away from the mainland, the one and only - São Jacinto Island. This marvellous island is blessed with natural beauty. It is also a great spot for couples to spend quality time together.
Explore the area to find an old Portusues lighthouse. And from the top of the lighthouse, you will be able to enjoy the Goa coast and the Indian Ocean. Furthermore, there is an old spring in the middle of the island for drinking. The best part is that it is still used by locals.
- How to Reach:- From any location in Goa, tourists just need to hire a motorcycle or taxi to the São Jacinto Island.
- Things to do:- Get a glimpse of history through a walking tour.
Raneache Zuem
Are you looking for much-needed solace? Well, Goa has it all; there is Raneache Zuem Island located on the Chapora River. It is half a kilometre in breadth and 1.5 kilometres in length. If you want to add a little spice to your trip, then find the haunted house, which looks scary like in movies.
Interestingly, there is a bridge that connects this island to the mainland. Once you land there, you will start admiring the land as it is dotted with coconut trees and mangroves, making the island more scenic. Furthermore, many of you don’t know, but Dear Zindagi’s most famous song – “Love You Zindagi” was shot here on this island. Thus, you must also come and recreate the song with your loved ones.
- How to Reach:- Reach the nearest Railiway station (Karmali Railway Station). The other option is via the Revora Bridge. Furthermore, reach the Revora and get easy access to the Raneache Zuem.
- Things to do:- Admire the beauty of the island, and you can also enjoy fishing.
Cumbarjua Island
In the list of the best islands in Goa, there is Cumbarjua Island, which is well-known for its huge crocodile population. Nestled on the bank of the Mandovi River, far away from the mainland. You can plan to visit this island throughout the year as the environment stays quiet and calm.
To elevate your overall experience, you can easily roam around the lush forests. Once it was popular for the fort of the Portuguese king in the 15th century, and now it has become an offbeat destination. Appreciate the unexplored environment and enjoy fishing in the breathtaking backwaters. Also, it is one of the top 10 hidden places in Goa that you must explore for sure on your next trip.
- How to Reach:- Take a boat from the Cumbarjua canal to reach there.
- Things to do:- One can enjoy fishing and encounter crocodiles as well.
Conco Island (Canacona)
Are you excited about the last island in the list of the top 10 islands? If yes, then prepare yourself for the most breathtaking Goa islands, which are located in the Canacona region. Also, if you want to add adrenaline rush to your veins, then don’t miss out on enjoying thrilling watersports like snorkelling, scuba diving and more.
Do you know Conco Island is affectionately known as Monkey Island? And it is one of the most visited places. Furthermore, it is located near Palolem Beach, so yes, you can also think of visiting there by considering all the essential things to carry while travelling to Goa.
- How to Reach:- When you reach Palolem Beach, then from there you can then take a boat ride to finally reach the Money Island.
- Things to do:- Indulge in a variety of activities like boating, watch dolphins and go for a family picnic.
In A Nutshell
Finally, here is the end of the blog!
After knowing about the beautiful islands of Goa, it is obvious that you have also decided to visit, right? Thus, when you are coming to see the scenic beauty with lots of dazzling encounters? Hope you found this guide helpful, as it included the list of the top 10 islands of Goa.
Make your overall journey to Goa remarkable by choosing the best hotel in North Goa. Don’t look further, feel free to choose Swim Up, where every room is thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home with all possible modern amenities. Isn’t it a great option for all?
So, what’s holding you back? It’s the right time to plan your visit and admire the stunning beauty of the islands in Goa.
