Goa is one destination which never gives its visitor a dull time. Whether it’s the summer sun, or the monsoon greenery, or the winter festivities, Goa is a 365-day vacation locale with something for everyone. However, if you want to experience the best of Goa, December is the time to be in this Konkan province. With Christmas merriment in the air, the pleasant winter sun, and loads of activities to choose from, a winter holiday in Goa can be truly an ultimate experience of the exotic locale. For hassle-free travel, you should book a taxi to Goa in advance as it is almost impossible to get taxis in December.
Here a few things to see and do in Goa in December:
Bask in the inclined sun
The average temperature of Goa in December ranges between 28°C (day) to 20°C (night) (which could go up or down by a couple of degrees depending on where you are staying). This means that you could practically laze on the beach all day and still enjoy the mild sun.
Tread the waters of the Konkan Coast
Popular beaches like Baga, Candolim, Colva, Calangute, and Anjuna are buzzing with activities all through winter, with every possible water sports and beach shacks open from morning to late night. Enjoy speedboat and banana boat rides, water scooters, parasailing, kayaking, windsurfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Take a cruise down the Mandovi River or go for fishing.
For the water lovers, another place to make the most of aqua-sports in at Dona Paula Bay. This bay area in north-central Goa is one of the most happening venues for watersports like dinghy sailing, windsurfing, parasailing, and scuba diving.
Experience the real Christmas spirit
Winter months in Goa are all about festivities, mostly because of Christmas, the region’s biggest celebration. The entire state lights up in the Yuletide colors, spreading the festive cheer. For an ultimate Christmas experience, head to Panjim Church which shines like the brightest star of the night with its lighting and nativity decoration. Go shop-hopping around town and scout through the delicious spread of sweet goodies and all things Christmassy.
Join the party animals
Besides religious celebration, December in Goa is synonymous with parties and has a reputation of hosting the most vibrant ones in the country. From swanky nightclubs to local shacks, you will be overwhelmed by the number of trance, rave, private or beach parties. For the most exhilarating experience, join the New Year Eve’s party at Anjuna Beach. Also, try the Shiva Valley pub or Curlies. A party lover’s paradise, these places have the most electrifying ambiance with live music, fireworks, and of course, great food.
Take the offbeat trip
If you are not the kind who likes to party, then you could spend some quiet time in nature. The pleasant winter weather makes it conducive to explore natural beauty of Goa. Take a kayak or a boat down to the Butterfly Beach in south Goa. This tiny enclave with a clean, sandy beach, surrounded by thick mountains bluffs, is off the Palolem Beach and one of the south Goa’s best-kept secrets.
For a more generous dose of nature, head to Charao Island in central Goa and explore the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. This is the best time to spot migratory birds who travel from the colder regions in search of warmth and food and make this their home till summer sets in.
Plan your travel
But before you start packing for your winter holidays, don’t forget to book your stay and travel in advance. Being the peak season getting the best deal in the best budget is quite a challenge. Hence, it is better to plan the itinerary and rent a local car in Goa well in advance to avoid the rush and turn your Christmas holidays into an album of joyful memories!
