Things to do / Highlights

Enjoy the quietude

Vagator Beach is famous amongst tourists looking for a peaceful time at the beach. You can indulge in restful sunbathing, strolling, and doing all things beachy. Else, head up to Zor, which are two water springs–one located on the Ozran Beach side and other on the Big Vagator Beach side.

Pack in some adventure

The beach also offers opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Jet-skiing, parasailing, dolphin-siting tours, and boat rides are some of the many activities that you can enjoy here.

Try trekking

Trekking to the Chapora Fort, just above the Chapora Beach nearby, is another popular activity amongst tourists. The fort is essentially the ruins of an erstwhile Portuguese fort and is now a popular sunset-viewing spot. The trek to the fort is about 15 minutes long and can get slightly steep so be prepared for toughing it out a bit. However, once atop, it is quite a sight to behold!

Participate in the area's nightlife

If you’re someone who enjoys a great party, you’ll not be disappointed with all that the many bars and clubs around the beach have to offer. Nine Bar, Primrose Cafe, and Hill-top all attract quite a bit of a foreign crowd for the fantastic psychedelic and trance beats. Else, there’s also Waters, Chronicle, and Katzensuppe clubs that are more techno and house music-style.

What to eat

While you’ll find small food stalls selling quick bites, such as Maggi and the likes, there will also be street-side vendors selling fresh coconut water. You can try these, else head to one of the following places for a full-fledged affair:

Antares

A brainchild of former Masterchef Australia contestant Sarah Todd, Antares is the perfect snazzy nightclub-cum-upscale beachfront cafe. Their fare is primarily a mix of Australian and Indian flavours, with some Goan specialities as well. While daytime is perfect for meals with an oceanfront view, evenings are buzzing with professional foreign dancers setting the bar-top and tables on fire! Behave yourself and even you can shake a leg with the dancers and have yourself a super fun time.

Bean Me Up

Although fully vegan, Bean Me Up is a hit amongst hardcore non-vegetarians as well. Their pancakes, ice creams, pizzas, and salads are some of the top sellers, while the open-air, garden-style ambience adds to the experience. Pair your selections with one of their yum cocktails or wines.

Mango Tree Bar & Cafe

Boasting an extensive menu, Mango Tree Bar & Cafe is a typical Goan meeting place, rife with a boisterous crowd, blaring reggae music, and dark ambience. Their food selection ranges as far wide as Mexican and European, along with pizzas and even fantastic Goan flavours.

Bluebird

Bluebird is quintessentially local in their selection. Right from Goan fish curry to the vindaloos, their dishes are hearty, perfectly spiced, and every bit satisfying. Try once and you’ll return craving for more!

Things to buy

There are plenty of street-side stalls and small shops you’ll find strewn across the beach area. Jewellery (junk and designer), clothes, handicrafts, ceramic items, toys, and caps are amongst the many things you’ll find here. Remember that if you’re picking up something from a street-side stall or a vendor, play the haggling game to the best of your abilities. You might find it worthy to check for discounts at shops too, though! Don’t be disappointed if they refuse.

There’s also a flea market that is hosted in the nearby Arpora neighbourhood every Saturday. It is simply called the Saturday Night Market and entry is free for all. Head there to experience a vibrant Goan atmosphere along with some excellent shopping. This market is quite famous amongst foreign tourists. Keep aside at least two to three hours for the best experience.

Traveller's tips

Pick the right time

December to February are considered the best months to plan a visit to Vagator Beach. The nightlife is at its peak and the weather is ideal.

Raving outdoor parties

If you happen to be in Goa around Christmas, remember to head to the Disco Valley near Vagator Beach for its wild rave parties. Tons of foreigners and Indian locals make their way to this place for the Nirvana-like ambience amidst beachy airs.

Watch out

The beach attracts quite a footfall so be careful of your personal safety and belongings, especially wallets and ladies’ purses. If you’re travelling with children, remember to not let them run amok.

Touts and scammers

If you’re a foreign tourist in need of currency exchange, only head to formal currency exchanges or well-established agencies. You may encounter touts or locals claiming to do the same, but refrain. This may land you into trouble.

How to get there

Bus

Several buses run from Calangute and Mapusa to Vagator. Mapusa is the closest bus stop to Vagator Beach.

Two-wheelers

Scooters or bikes can be rented for about 3.5 USD per day. You can get one of these and make your way to the beach.

Four-wheelers

Much like two-wheelers, you can also rent four-wheelers and go about exploring the area. Else, you always have the option of using local taxis or Uber. While travel fare may be regulated if using an Uber, there’s no set price for the local taxis. Bring on your best bargain game!

Parking information

You’ll find plenty of street-side parking, along with designated parking spaces on both sides of Vagator Beach. The paid parking slots charge about 0.5 USD per two hours.

Vagator Beach information

Vagator Beach

Address: Mapusa, India

Department of tourism: Visit Goa

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free