Divar Island: What To Do At This Secret Island In Goa

Divar Island has been a well-kept secret for years and is thankfully still hidden away. Lying smack in the middle of the Mandovi River, it is just a five-minute ferry ride from the mainland. Probably smaller than the size of one of Mumbai’s most popular neighbourhoods, Dadar, this cute island is all about lush green paddy fields, lovely old Goan homes, local bars, fishing and the famous Bonderam festival. A ferry from Ribander jetty near Panjim or Old Goa will take you to this island.

The main church called Our Lady of Compassion built in the 16th century is perched on the hill and is where you should head to first, as it offers a fantastic great view. You can see the river splitting into two and flowing whilst hugging the island along its banks before it meets up again. The Chorao Island can be seen in the distance, as well as the spires of the churches in Old Goa. Not to mention that with most villagers still doing a lot of farming, there is greenery everywhere to be seen.

Ask anyone or just drive around and you will glance upon a step-well, which is not on any map yet, but definitely a treat to be discovered. Not to mention, getting lost on this island is pretty difficult but yet loads of fun. There are plenty of local eateries spread across which offer tasty home cooked food at really reasonable rates. Do pop into the local bakery in the main village of Piedade and try out their yummy puffs. Or parcel some food and go sit on the riverbanks and enjoy that meal with some cold beers. Do take the empty bottles back to the mainland. 

If it gets too hot, then take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the Mandovi, however, we’d recommend you avoid that during the monsoon. The few villages on the island have gorgeous old, quaint Goan homes, which by themselves are a sight to behold. Drive around some more, and you will glance upon a few smaller churches or chapels, temples and a railway bridge that cuts across the island, though Divar has no railway station. All in all, Divar is almost lost in time and that is exactly why we love it.

If you’re curious about the island’s rich history, you can start with a heritage walk by Make It Happen. It’s a perfect way to uncover centuries-old secrets and stories from local experts. For a more immersive experience, hop on an e-cycle with Blive and cruise through the island’s natural landscapes, it’s an eco-friendly adventure!

If you’re drawn to the water, a scenic boat ride through the mangroves is a must. Glide along, keeping an eye out for crocodiles, fish, and migratory birds; it’s both serene and exciting. For a more relaxed experience, consider a local-style picnic. And when it comes to food, you’re in for a treat!

If you’ve got a bit of extra time and are in the mood for some adventure, Mayem Lake is just a short 8-kilometer trip away! It’s the perfect spot if you’re up for something thrilling—Jumping Heights offers bungee jumping right by the lake, giving you a serious adrenaline rush with a view. It costs about INR 4000 for the jump along with the jumping video.

Or, if you’d rather go for something a bit more laid-back but equally memorable, head over to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. It’s a true bird lover’s paradise and one of Goa’s best spots for spotting local and migratory birds. Both spots give you a taste of Goa’s wilder side, each in its own unique way!

You can visit Divar island all year round with an exception for the months of March to May which could make it too hot to explore properly.

You can dine with a Goan family to sample authentic homemade dishes, or visit some of the island’s popular spots for a taste of local flavors. It’s all about savoring Goa at its finest!

If you’re looking for a spot with authentic Goan flavors, Rock Inn comes highly recommended! Built under an impressive rock formation, this place has a unique charm that perfectly complements its traditional cuisine. You absolutely must try their Rock Inn Thali. It’s a feast with an amazing curry, a generous piece of fried fish, and plenty of other delightful inclusions. For something extra special, ask for the Kalva and Lepo Fry, both local delicacies. And if you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss their refreshing Urrak Cocktail! The staff here is known for being helpful and quick, and the service is always excellent. For insider tips on what to order, have a chat with the owner, they’ll gladly help guide you through the best of the menu.

Timing: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM; 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Google Rating: 4.2 based on 350+ reviews

Cost for two: INR 1100 

Instagram: Rock Inn

Contact: +91 8390024816

This one’s a classic Goan rusty restaurant cum bar. The bar is well lit with colored stained windows, paintings made by local artists donning their walls. We had our Urrak and chatted over some fish thali and a veg thali over lunch. The flavors were on point, and it was just what we needed. As a sweet little send-off, they handed us paan-flavored chocolates on our way out, perfect for a little boost before heading out to explore more!

Timing: 11:00 AM - 11 PM (Wednesday & Friday to Sunday); 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Monday); 11:00 AM – 3:30  PM, 7:00 PM –11:00 PM (Tuesday & Thursdays)

Google Rating: 4.5 based on 500+ reviews

Cost for two: INR 800

Contact: +91 9623983995

The restaurant is open-air, so you get to enjoy the fresh island breeze and views of the surrounding. Their home cooked food and 20+ flavors of feni comes in as a scrumptious treat. The bar area is inviting and laid-back, perfect for a couple of chilled beers or a glass of feni if you’re feeling like a true Goan experience. The staff is super friendly and eager to share stories about the island. You could easily spend a lazy afternoon here, soaking up the scenery and just enjoying the slower pace of island life. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a true local secret! 

Timing: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM; On Sundays -> 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 10 :00 PM

Google Rating: 4.6 based on 46 reviews

Cost for two: INR 1000 

Must-try: Fish cutlets, Masala/Rava fried Fish, Cafreal Chicken, Flavoured Feni

Contact: +91 9850837515

This cozy, pet-friendly stay is perfect for a relaxing getaway! They serve an incredible homemade breakfast, while for lunch and dinner, you can either order delivery or head to Rock Inn Restaurant and Bar, which sits uniquely beneath large sea rocks. The staff is wonderfully courteous. Just be ready for limited internet and phone connectivity. It’s an ideal spot to slow down, grab a book from their collection, lounge by the pool, play a game of chess, or take your camera out to explore the charming nearby churches and scenic spots. The house itself, with its 150-year-old architecture and tasteful decor, offers a comfortable retreat that lets you truly unwind and reconnect with nature.

Price for two: INR 5000 onwards (includes breakfast)
Google Rating: 4.6 based on 150 reviews

Timing: Open 24 hours!

Contact: +91 8298292257

Owned and managed by a host who lives on-site, guests are treated with genuine warmth and care, making it feel like a family home. True to its Portuguese name, "Moradia" (meaning "dwelling"), the property is designed to offer comfort and affordability, with intentionally reasonable rates.

Price for two: INR 2000 onwards
Google Rating: 4.9 based on 500+ reviews

Contact: +91 9623841963

Stepping into Casa Desa Monteiro feels like entering a peaceful retreat, where relaxation unfolds across four uniquely decorated bedrooms, each capturing the region's cultural charm. The homestay is flexible for different group sizes—it can be rented as a 2-bedroom setup for 4 people, a 3-bedroom for 6, or a full 4-bedroom for 8. For larger groups, up to 2 additional guests can be accommodated with floor mattresses for a small fee.

Situated on Divar Island, this serene homestay is ideal for those wanting to unwind and disconnect. For an elevated experience, guests can also enjoy a chef-on-call or butler service for personalized dining. Casa Desa Monteiro offers additional memorable experiences: cruise in style on luxury yachts or catamarans, fish for your own seafood, relax with spa and massage services, and sample local feni at a traditional Goan tavern. It’s a place to slow down, recharge, and savor the authentic beauty of Goa.

Price for a group of 8: INR 38000 onwards
Google Rating: 4.6 based on 150 reviews