Planning your next Goa vacation and unsure which resort to book? After multiple trips and countless stays across North and South Goa, travel creators Madhur and Gunjan from PlanMyFamTrip have compiled an authentic, experience-based ranking of Goa’s top resorts.
From luxurious beachfront escapes to budget-friendly hidden gems, here’s their honest take on where you’ll want to stay—and where you might not.
The Highly Recommended Resorts
These resorts offer an unbeatable combination of luxury, service, ambience, and location. Perfect for travelers seeking the full Goan experience—with pristine beaches, relaxing vibes, and five-star comfort.
The St. Regis, South Goa
Nestled on Mobor Beach, The St. Regis is the epitome of coastal luxury. It’s elegant, spacious, and ideal for travelers looking for peace and privacy. Expect seasonal rates around ₹30,000 and off-season deals near ₹18,000.
Evenings here feel like scenes from a postcard—palm trees swaying, waves shimmering, and every staff interaction oozing warmth and class.
W Goa, Vagator
Perfectly located in North Goa, W Goa delivers modern vibes with its famous Rock Pool sundowners and vibrant music scene. Despite its social energy, the resort doesn’t compromise on privacy or style. Prices hover between ₹20,000–₹25,000 in season and ₹17,000–₹18,000 off-season.
If you want luxe hospitality blended with a young Goan spirit, this is your pick.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Calm, spacious, and family-friendly, Taj Exotica embodies South Goa’s tranquillity. Its wide lawns, clean beach, and stellar dining make it perfect for a slow-paced getaway. Rooms start at ₹30,000 in season and drop to ₹18,000 off-season.
It’s the kind of resort where days drift by slowly—and beautifully.
JW Marriott, North Goa
Set amidst thick greenery near Anjuna and Baga, JW Marriott combines resort charm with a luxury hotel feel. It’s not a beachfront property, but its interiors and amenities compensate with unmatched refinement. Expect ₹25,000 in peak season and ₹18,000 off-season.
A smart choice for travelers who prefer both nightlife access and serene comfort.
Grand Hyatt, Bambolim
Close to Panjim, Grand Hyatt offers a rare blend of in-house casino fun and beach convenience. The property is massive, and you get value for every rupee spent—₹25,000–₹30,000 during season and roughly ₹15,000 in off-peak months.
Riva Beach Resort, Mandrem
This North Goa favorite balances affordability with authentic coastal beauty. Located near Mandrem Beach, it’s quiet, clean, and far less commercial than Baga. Rates range between ₹10,000–₹12,000 in peak months and ₹6,000–₹8,000 off-season.
Simple yet soulful—Riva feels like Goa’s best-kept secret.
The “Can Go” Resorts
These are good properties that deliver a satisfying stay, though they lack the “wow” factor. Ideal if you find a great deal or want to try something different.
Zuri White Sands, South Goa
South Goa’s only casino resort, Zuri is expansive and family-friendly. The casino’s limited hours may disappoint some, but overall amenities are robust. Expect ₹15,000–₹20,000 in season and ₹9,000 off-season.
Taj Aguada & Taj Village
Twin properties at Candolim that share restaurants and amenities. They’re charming but no longer cutting-edge in luxury. Rates start near ₹25,000 in peak periods and ₹15,000 off-season.
A safe choice, though not the most memorable.
Cidade de Goa (Taj Cidade)
Once an independent classic, it now runs under the Taj flag. It’s beach-facing but shows age in interior design. ₹20,000–₹25,000 in season; ₹15,000 or less off-season.
Choose it for location, not luxury.
DoubleTree by Hilton Arpora & Fairfield Calangute
Reliable budget options for short North Goa stays—especially if your plans include a casino visit nearby. In the ₹5,000–₹6,000 range, these hotels keep comfort and convenience accessible.
The Resorts to Avoid
These properties look appealing online but don’t deliver on value, location, or experience.
Marriott Goa (Panjim)
Located between destinations, it’s neither a beach resort nor a central stay. Views open to the Mandovi River, but the water’s often murky. ₹18,000 in season, ₹13,000 off-season—too high for what it offers.
Taj Horizon
A newer entrant that feels more “business hotel” than “Goa retreat.” There’s no balcony or open space, just a sealed glass view of the sea. ₹20,000 in season, ₹13,000–₹14,000 off-season.
Opt for it only if modern interiors matter more than beach charm.
The Westin Goa, Anjuna
Stylish inside but compact and lacking both beachfront and atmosphere. With prices near ₹18,000–₹12,000, you’ll find better value elsewhere—especially compared with JW Marriott or W Goa.
Fairfield by Marriott Anjuna
Damp rooms and maintenance issues make it an unfortunate pick. Though budget-friendly (₹5,000–₹8,000), other North Goa stays offer better comfort and hygiene.
Final Thoughts
From exclusive luxury escapes to smart mid-range options, these rankings help narrow down Goa’s sprawling hospitality scene.
If you want indulgent luxury—The St. Regis, W Goa, or Taj Exotica will define your trip.
For comfort without overspending, Riva, Zuri, or DoubleTree by Hilton strike a solid balance.
However, be discerning—some well-known brands underdeliver despite premium rates.
Before you book, explore the complete video reviews on PlanMyFamTrip’s YouTube channel for real visuals and on-site experiences. As Madhur and Gunjan say: “Travel smart, stay right, and make every Goa trip memorable.”
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