10 fun things to do in and around Calangute, Goa

If Goa had a “happening capital,” Calangute would probably take the crown. Buzzing with energy all year round, this stretch in North Goa has everything from beach shacks, crazy nightlife, water sports to flea markets, cafés and a pinch of susegad vibes when you need them. Whether you’re the kind who likes to dive headfirst into adventure or the one who prefers long, lazy evenings with a drink in hand, Calangute has your back. 

Here’s a handy list of some super things to do when you’re here: 

1. Soak up the sun at Calangute beach 

Let’s start with the obvious. Calangute Beach isn’t called the “Queen of Beaches” for nothing. Golden sands, endless waves, and shacks lined up with seafood and cocktails make it the ultimate hangout spot. You can laze on a sunbed, get your hair braided by beach vendors (touristy, but fun!), or just watch the world go by. The vibe here is always electric, especially in the evenings when music spills out from the shacks.

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 3 mins (1.7 kms)

Aerial view of the beautiful Calangute beach

2. Shack-hopping for food & drinks

The charm of Calangute lies in its shacks. Start with a hearty breakfast at Infantaria (a local legend), grab lunch at Souza Lobo right on the beach, and keep the evening easy at St. Anthony’s with live music and karaoke. Each shack has its own personality. Some are lively with DJs, others are mellow with candlelit tables. Shack-hopping is basically the Goan version of café-hopping and you should definitely give it a try!

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 10 mins (3.4 kms)

Relax and enjoy the shack hopping at Calangute beach 

3. Water sports at Baga beach

Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, speed boating, pick your thrill of choice at Baga beach and go for it. Parasailing, especially, gives you that unbeatable aerial view of the Arabian Sea that’s worth every rupee. Most of these activities run throughout the day, but mornings are best if you want calmer waves.

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 13 mins (1.7 kms)

You can enjoy a variety of water activities at Calangute beach

4. Party at Tito’s lane

A trip to Calangute is incomplete without experiencing Baga’s iconic Tito’s Lane. Tito’s, Mambo’s and Hammerzz are the big names here if you’re into DJs and dance floors. If clubs aren’t your scene, the lane is still worth exploring for its buzzing energy, late-night food joints and casual bars where you can grab a beer and people-watch.

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 15 mins (3.3 kms)

Explore the super chill Tito's lane

5. Explore the Calangute market

Shopping in Calangute is an experience in itself. From tie-dye dresses and funky jewellery to bohemian bags and dreamcatchers, you’ll find plenty of beachy souvenirs. If you’re around on a Wednesday, drive up to Anjuna flea market which is a hippie paradise with clothes, handicrafts and live music. On Fridays, Mapusa market is the place to be for spices, cashews and everything Goan. You better practice your bargaining skills, because you’ll need it here! 

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 3 mins (1.3 kms)

Take a stroll through the Calangute market

6. Go back in time at Aguada Fort

Built in the 17th century by the Portuguese, Aguada Fort overlooks the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. Climb up the ramparts, click your Insta-worthy pictures with the lighthouse and watch the sunset paint the sky orange. It’s calm, breezy and a refreshing break from the crowded beach.

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 20 mins (7.3 kms)

A view of majestic Agoda Fort

7. Go Dolphin watching & island hopping

Like a little adventure beyond the shore? Head to Candolim jetty (close to Calangute) and book a dolphin-watching trip. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot playful dolphins flipping in the waves. Some operators also offer day trips to Grand Island where you can try snorkelling, fishing and a beachside BBQ. It’s a fun group activity and gives you a whole different perspective of Goa.

A unique experience you should add to your Goa itinerary

8. Café Crawl in the neighbourhood

If you’re more of a café person, Calangute won’t disappoint. Artjuna in Anjuna and Baba Au Rhum in Vagator are just a short ride away and perfect for laid-back breakfasts or a lazy workation vibe. Smoothie bowls, wood-fired pizzas and that rustic, boho Goan charm, you’ll find it all! They’re the kind of places you walk into for coffee and end up staying for hours.

9. Sunset at Candolim beach

While Calangute Beach is great, sunsets can get crowded here. For something more serene, take a quick drive to Candolim or Vagator. Both beaches are quieter, with fewer shacks and more open space to just sit with your thoughts (or your camera). Pair it with a drink at Purple Martini (Vagator) or SinQ Beach Club (Candolim) for the perfect evening.

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 12 mins (3 kms)

Calangute sunsets are next level magical!

10. Chill in Fontainhas, Panjim’s Latin Quarter

When you want a break from the beach buzz, drive down to Panjim’s Latin Quarter, Fontainhas. It’s like stepping into a European postcard, with pastel-colored houses, tiled roofs, and quaint little cafés. Walk around, click pictures, grab some Goan sweets at a local bakery, and soak in the slower side of life. It’s a different shade of Goa that often gets missed.

Drive time from TH Bam Goa, Calangute: Approximately 34 mins (13.8 kms)

A trip down these Portuguese lanes is a must!

Calangute is loud, colorful, and unapologetically Goan. It’s where lazy mornings, adrenaline-pumping afternoons and wild nights come together seamlessly. Whether you’re here for the beaches, the food, the shopping, or just the sheer vibe, there’s no way you’ll leave disappointed. So what are you waiting for? Pack your flip-flops, rent a scooter and make the full of your Goa trip by staying at The Hosteller Bam Goa, Calangute.