Goa in December is a total vibe!! If you’re planning a trip this December and wondering where to spend your New Year’s Eve, your mind is sure to wander towards Goa! Yes, Goa is famous for its party culture and vibrant nightlife, but there’s much more to Goa in December than just parties and booze! If you visit Goa in December, you will be greeted with festive cheers and so many new experiences that make it a must-visit destination during the holiday season. But, these experiences aren’t just limited to the last week of the year! Goa is a celebration spirit throughout the year. But, something special happens the moment the calendar starts with December! So, here are five things you should NOT miss if you’re in Goa this December! 

Perfect Weather for Beaches and Watersports

Are you a mountain person or a beach person? If you love the beach and have a thrill for watersports, Goa in December is a great time! Soon after the monsoons, Goa’s beaches are ready to welcome you. December offers ideal weather in Goa – warm but not too hot, perfect for beach activities and water sports. The sea is calm, making it a great time for parasailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving. The beaches are open and bustling, yet not overcrowded. (if you find the right ones!) This provides a perfect balance for relaxation and adventure – exactly how you should end the year! So, if you’re planning your Goa trip in December, don’t forget to bask in the sun on Anjuna Beach, try your hand at surfing in Palolem, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Mandovi River. The options are endless!

Ever tried Stargazing in Goa?

Goa’s clear December skies provide the perfect opportunity for stargazing. Away from the city lights, beaches like Morjim and Ashwem offer a serene space for watching the night sky. Lie back on the sand, gaze up at the stars, and lose yourself in the universe. It’s the perfect break you deserve at the end of the year! Local astronomy clubs often organise stargazing events. So, make sure to find out about one, before you book your next Goa trip. Don’t worry, it’s complete with telescopes and expert guides, making it a fascinating activity for amateurs too. 

Best Time for the Best Seafood 

December is also the best time for seafood lovers to visit Goa and enjoy the culinary delights it has to offer. The fishing season is in full swing, ensuring that you get the freshest seafood. Be it the iconic Goan prawn curry or the delicious crab Xacuti, the variety of fish preparations are endless. Ast for Recheado, cafreal, or the good old rawa fry, and you are in for a treat! The local Goan cuisine is truly a feast for the senses. Dine at the local’s favourite beach shacks and restaurants that serve the catch of the day. (The locals really know the best places around) The pleasant weather also makes alfresco dining an absolute joy.

For all the Solo Travelers…

Goa is incredibly safe and welcoming for solo travellers. So, if you have a solo trip up on your bucket list, this is your sign to book that new year trip to Goa! The festive spirit, friendly locals, and numerous solo traveller meetups make it a great destination for those exploring on their own. Whether you’re looking to relax on a quiet beach, join a yoga retreat, or learn a thing or two about the historic sites, Goa offers it all for your December itenary! Indeed, Goa is a perfect blend of solitude and socialising. So, if you’ve been contemplating a solo trip, this is your sign to book it for New Year’s!

Celebrate Christmas in Goa

Last but not the least, Christmas in Goa is truly magical. Walk the streets of Goa on Christmas night and you will see that the state transforms into a wonderland! Lights, laughter, and joyous celebrations sum up the festive celebrations in Goa in December. And how can we miss out on the Goan sweets! The air is filled with the sweet scent of traditional sweets. Visit a local market and ask for bebinca, dose or kormolas! You’re sure to find your new favourite sweet, and you’re most likely to also meet a friendly Goan aunty at the store. The cheerful sounds of carols, and the sight of beautifully decorated homes and churches is truly mestermising. 

At Soul Travelling, we believe there’s no better way to celebrate the festive spirit than by exploring the unique traditions of Goa. It’s the vibrant culture that makes Christmas in Goa so special. This year, we’re excited to invite you on a series of delightful Christmas trails that will take you to the heart of Goan festivities. Give yourself a chance to stroll through historic streets, singing melodious carols, or discover hidden gems at local markets decorated with handmade crafts and delicious treats. Each trial is designed to create unforgettable memories, and give you the time of your life in Goa, this December! So, the idea of enjoying local delicacies at a festive feast excites you, you’re at the right place. But hey, there is more! You can visit stunning nativity scenes in quaint villages, or simply soak in the joy of the season with family and friends. So, join us to celebrate the warmth Goa offers, the joy of giving, and the magic of Christmas! 

How can we forget: Christmas Flea Markets and Pop-ups 

Goa’s Christmas flea markets and pop-ups are another highlight of the season. These vibrant markets offer a unique shopping experience, where you can find everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to delicious food and drinks. Some popular ones include the Arpora Saturday Night Market and the Mackie’s Night Bazaar. Pop It Up is having its Big Ol’ Winter Flea on the 7th and 8th of December in Panjim too. These markets are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, enjoying live music, and soaking up the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to explore these lively spots and take home a piece of Goan Christmas cheer!

December in Goa is a time of joy, celebration, and unique experiences. If you’re a beach person or you love stargazing, or if you’re simply here for the delectable seafood, December is the perfect time to plan your Goa trip. The festive Christmas trails are the perfect cherry in the cake! Indeed, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re travelling solo or with loved ones, Goa promises an unforgettable holiday season. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to unwind yourself in Goa this December.