#BucketList: Top 10 Goa Experiences You Must Try Before You Turn 35

Pack your camping gear, grab a mat, and get ready for a magical escape. Head to Agonda Beach and ditch the crowds. There's a hidden gem waiting for you — Butterfly Beach. It's a short but sweet hike away (~2-3 km).

You might wonder, "What's so special about this beach?" Well, imagine having an entire beach to yourself. Most people only visit by boat, but camping there is a whole different world. Stargazing is so incredible you'll be speechless, and then, the mind-blowing magic of bioluminescence as you splash in the glowing water. It's like something out of a fairytale. Wake up to the sound of waves and the promise of a perfect beach day. You'll have the whole place to yourself until the day-trippers arrive. It's the ultimate adventure for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.

Gear up for a Goan adventure on two wheels! Start early, grab a quick bite at Joseph Bakery in Mapusa, and hit the road. The ride to Divar is a treat for the senses — lush greenery, coconut trees swaying in the breeze, and the tranquil rhythm of the wetlands. Keep an eye out for some pretty cool birds like the Reddy Shelduck and majestic Ibises.

Reaching Divar is a smooth ride with frequent ferries from Old Goa. It's a cool experience riding your bike onto the ferry, surrounded by the calm river and lush mangroves. Upstairs, the gentle breeze and stunning views make the short journey even more enjoyable. It’s one of those experiences where you have to be there to feel it!

Mayem lake is the ideal place to unwind and soak up the beauty of nature and indulge in a once in a lifetime adventure sport. You get to Bungee jump from Goa's only fixed platform. Free fall from a height of 180 ft. with Jump Masters Trained Extensively under Experts from New Zealand. Endorsed by the Goa Tourism board, it's completely safe and a thrilling must-do if you're not afraid of heights!

Cafe hopping in Panjim is a delightful experience, offering a mix of unique ambiences and culinary treats. Start your day at Café Bodega, situated within the Sunaparanta Centre for the Arts, where you can enjoy a serene brunch in a charming courtyard setting surrounded by art. For a relaxed vibe, Mog Café is a newer spot that impresses with its blend of Goan and international dishes. If you're in the mood for something innovative, The Black Sheep Bistro offers a cafe-like atmosphere during the day with a stylish interior and creative menu. Caravela Café and Bistro, set in an old Portuguese house, invites you to unwind with excellent coffee and a nostalgic ambience. Finally, for motorcycle enthusiasts, the Royal Enfield Garage Cafe combines the love for classic bikes with great food and coffee, making it a unique end to your cafe-hopping adventure in Panjim.

Hitting 35 is a great time to focus on your well-being, right? Imagine combining a workout with a vacation, all while clearing your head. Surfing in Goa is the perfect answer! Not only is it super fun, but it's also a fantastic way to get fit, meet awesome people, and find your zen. Mantra Surf Club in Morjim is the place to be. Whether you're a total beginner or a salty dog, they'll hook you up with everything you need to catch some waves.

If you’re as passionate about culture as we are, then this experience is an absolute must! Sure, everyone’s heard of the Sunburn festival and all that glitz, but if you really want to dive into the heart of Goa, do as the Goans do and discover pure joy. Dancing, drinks, games, even more dancing, incredible Goan music, and mouthwatering Goan food. It’s a full-on celebration for both your heart and mind.

Plus, you can tailor the vibe to match your mood. Craving a splash of colour and some rain? Check out the Sao Joao festival in June. Prefer getting down and dirty in the mud? Chikhal Kalo is your jam. Fancy some fun on a charming Goan island? The Bonderam festival is calling your name. And that’s not all—Goa is constantly buzzing with events that celebrate its rich cashew harvest, its famous feni and urrak, its arts and crafts, and the laid-back “susegado” spirit that makes Goa so special. You really don’t want to miss this, trust us!

Post-pandemic Goa is alive with a fresh, new vibe. Many people in their 20s and 30s are moving here, seeking a life that’s a bit more meaningful, away from the usual city chaos. One of the most beautiful communities I've found here is a poetry circle. We meet twice a month, pick a theme, read poems, write poems, and share our love for poetry. Each gathering leaves us with hearts full of love and hope. This lovely initiative was started by Pragya Bhagat during the pandemic and takes place at Barefoot Cafe in Parra. Even if you don’t have anything to share, just come for the vibes. Sit back, listen, and soak in the joy of life that everyone brings.

Do yourself a favour and go for a Jazz night at Flying Goat. We get so excited just thinking about the joy of the music here. Watching the Jazz band lose themselves in the rhythm is pure magic. Grab a drink, let the music warm your soul, and just float along with the tunes.

If you’re into classic hard rock, make sure you check out Anjoned—it’s a place that screams freedom. And if you’re craving something a bit more classical, head to Tien for their moonlit classical nights. Trust us, your soul will thank you. Oh, and here’s a tip: the food here is absolutely to die for!

Parasailing in Goa is a thrilling experience that combines the beauty of the coastline with the adrenaline rush of soaring above the waves. As you're lifted into the air, the panoramic views of the golden beaches, blue waters, and lush greenery unfold beneath you, offering a breathtaking perspective of Goa’s landscape. The gentle breeze and the sense of weightlessness make it a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. So, ditch your fears and get ready for an unforgettable way to experience the magic of the sea and sky. Feel free to book your adventure with Atlantis Water Sports (they're the best!) or give them a call at +91 98900 47272 for any inquiries.

Explore the best seafood spots in Goa, where every bite is a celebration of coastal flavours and culinary artistry. From beachside shacks to upscale dining destinations, Goa offers a plethora of options to indulge in fresh catch from the Arabian Sea. Whether you're craving Goan specialities like fish curry and prawn balchao or prefer international seafood dishes with a local twist, these restaurants will tantalize your taste buds and leave your tummy and hearts full!