Whether you’re in North Goa or South Goa, novice kayakers can navigate the oceans and rivers with ease! Kayaking in Goa is an accessible adventure sport for everyone, and requires no prior experience.
Having never kayaked before, I decided to go on my first kayaking adventure in Goa. After consulting with kayak operators and learning the basics on the Goan River, I highly recommend this experience for adventure enthusiasts and water lovers. Goa’s pristine nature and calm waters make it exceptionally beginner-friendly.
With a kayak at your disposal, the possibilities are endless — the true beauty of kayaking lies in immersing yourself in nature and water. There are two main ways to kayak in Goa: through guided tours organised by certified operators, leading you along rivers and backwaters, or by renting kayaks to paddle on your own.
Cost of kayaking in Goa: A guided tour typically ranges from INR 1,500-2,000, while renting a kayak can be around INR 200-500 per hour, varying based on location and operator policies.
Kayaking along Goa’s rivers and backwaters offers glimpses of local wildlife and rich biodiversity. These waterways provide a relatively easier kayaking experience than the ocean, where waves and tides can be unpredictable. However, for those seeking a more physically challenging adventure, there are options to kayak in the ocean at certain spots.
Best places for kayaking in North Goa
Chapora River
While Chapora gained fame among Bollywood fans for the iconic Dil Chahta Hai Chapora Fort scene, few travellers know that the Chapora River is a beautiful natural gem ideal for kayaking in Goa. Navigating the mangroves of the Chapora River on a kayak is an exciting adventure, with opportunities to spot rare species like kingfishers, egrets, ospreys and even crocodiles.
T+L recommends: I learned to kayak in the Chapora River through Konkan Explorers. During my kayaking journey, I even spotted some adorable otters in their natural habitat, swimming along with my kayak. I highly recommend beginners to try kayaking here.
Baga, North Goa
Kayaking at Baga Creek may not offer the most scenic views, but it provides an excellent experience for novices in North Goa. The river connecting the famous Baga Beach has become a kayaking spot, offering a journey through bustling commercial life. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddle on their own.
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Bambolim Beach
The backwaters near Bambolim Beach are ideal for kayaking in North Goa, leading you on a picturesque journey through traditional fishermen’s villages and dense mangroves. What sets kayaking in Bambolim Beach apart is the opportunity to paddle under the moonlight! Certain operators, like the Adventure Breaks, organise night kayaking tours for seven days a month, providing a rare chance to experience kayaking in Goa at night. They also offer sunset kayaking tours, allowing you to see the mangroves bathed in the evening glow of the setting sun.
Best places for kayaking in South Goa
Cola Beach
The lagoon of Cola Beach in South Goa has become a tourist hotspot for kayaking beginners, gaining fame for its Instagram-worthy beauty and easy-to-navigate waters. Simply rent a kayak and chart a journey through narrow water streams, surrounded by towering palm trees and traditional Goan houses. You get to dive into the tranquil charm of rural Goa and witness the susegad vibe as you paddle along.
Sal Backwaters
Go deep in the forests of South Goa as you paddle your way through the Sal Backwaters. This journey takes you through mangroves, where you can admire blooming lotus flowers, bamboo trees, cashew plants, rare fish, and birds. Besides being an excellent spot for kayaking, the shallow waters also offer the opportunity for a peaceful stand-up paddling experience. Various tour operators are available to assist adventurers in navigating these waters.
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Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach offers a unique ocean kayaking experience in South Goa. Here, several operators offer kayak rentals by the hour, allowing visitors to venture into the ocean independently. While kayaking in the ocean at Palolem Beach is beginner-friendly, navigating the waves can pose a slight challenge due to the kayak’s stability. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, consider kayaking in the backwaters or rivers instead of the ocean.
Best time and season for kayaking in Goa
Kayaking in Goa is a year-round activity, offering different experiences depending on the season. While the monsoon season from June to August provides lush greenery and increased water flow for an adventurous paddling experience, the winter months from December to March offer pleasant weather with cool breezes, ideal for a relaxing kayak outing.
It’s advisable to plan your kayaking adventure during these optimal time frames for the most enjoyable experience. Avoid kayaking during the dry and humid period from April to June, just before the onset of the monsoon season, as the weather conditions may make the activity less comfortable.
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(Feature image credit: Mr.Bimal/Shutterstock)
Related: Swayed By Susegad: Unwind With A 10-Day Leisurely Goa Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Do I need prior experience to go kayaking in Goa?
No, prior experience is not necessary for kayaking in Goa. The activity is beginner-friendly, and operators often provide guidance and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
– Is kayaking in Goa safe?
Yes, kayaking in Goa is considered safe, with operators typically providing life vests and basic instructions to participants.
– Is Kayaking in Goa safe for children?
Yes, kayaking in Goa is generally safe for children, as long as they are accompanied by adults and wear appropriate safety gear.
– What should I wear while kayaking in Goa?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing while kayaking in Goa, such as loose shorts and T-shirts, with swimming suits underneath if planning to get wet.
Written By
Priyaja Bakshi
Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. ..Read More
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