Planning a family holiday in North Goa and considering Novotel Goa Candolim? With its central location, modern rooms and a swimming pool featuring water slides, this hotel looks like an interesting option. But is it really worth booking?
In this detailed review, Madhur and Gunjan from PlanMyFamTrip evaluate Novotel Goa Candolim using our PMFT100 Scorecard. We cover its location, rooms, pricing, activities, food and overall experience to help you decide whether this hotel deserves a place on your Goa itinerary.
One thing to clarify upfront: Novotel Goa Candolim is not a beachfront hotel. However, Candolim Beach is a short drive away, and the hotel’s family-friendly pool is one of its biggest attractions.
Our final PMFT100 score: 87/100.
Where Is Novotel Goa Candolim Located?
Novotel Goa Candolim is situated on Anna Waddo, along the main Candolim Road in North Goa.
One of the biggest advantages of this location is accessibility. You don’t have to navigate narrow internal lanes to reach the hotel. It is positioned along a well-connected road, making it convenient for guests travelling by taxi or self-drive car.
The hotel is not directly on the beach and does not offer sea views. However, Candolim Beach is approximately 2 km away, making it a short drive from the property.
The location also gives you convenient access to:
- Candolim Beach and nearby beach shacks
- Calangute and Baga
- Popular clubs, bars and sundowner spots
- Shopping areas and restaurants
- Offshore casinos and North Goa nightlife
How far is Novotel Goa Candolim from the airports?
Approximate travel times discussed in our review:
| Airport | Approximate drive |
|---|---|
| Manohar International Airport, Mopa (GOX) | 45 minutes |
| Goa International Airport, Dabolim (GOI) | 1 hour |
Actual journey times depend on traffic and the time of travel.
Important: Novotel Goa Candolim vs Novotel Goa Resort & Spa
This is something travellers should know before booking.
There are two different Novotel properties in the Candolim area:
Novotel Goa Candolim
- Located on the main Candolim Road
- Modern rooms and suites
- Family-friendly swimming pool with slides
- Convenient access to Candolim’s dining and nightlife
Novotel Goa Resort & Spa
- A separate property located off Candolim Road
- Known for its landscaped, Bali-inspired setting
- Offers a different resort layout and facilities
- Has its own restaurants, spa and family activities
These are two separate hotels, so make sure you select the correct property while booking. Our review and PMFT100 score refer only to Novotel Goa Candolim.
1. Location & Accessibility – 17/20
The hotel’s location is one of its strongest advantages.
Being right on the main Candolim Road makes arrival and departure convenient. Candolim Beach is around 2 km away, and several popular North Goa attractions are within a short drive.
The trade-off is that you don’t get direct beach access or sea-facing rooms. If waking up to an ocean view is important to you, this may not be the right property.
However, if you prefer staying close to restaurants, nightlife, shopping and popular beaches, the location works well.
Our verdict: A convenient North Goa base, particularly for travellers who want easy access to different attractions rather than a secluded beachfront stay.
PMFT Score: 17/20
2. Rooms & Categories – 18/20
The rooms at Novotel Goa Candolim are modern, clean and well maintained.
The hotel offers different accommodation categories, including Deluxe and Luxury rooms, along with suites. During our visit, we particularly liked the Elegant Suite.
The Elegant Suite: A duplex-style experience
The Elegant Suite offers a distinctive two-level layout:
- A living area on the lower floor
- An upstairs bedroom with a comfortable king-size bed
- A reading nook
- Pool-facing views
- Generous wall-to-wall wardrobe space
- Smart TV and an in-room espresso machine
The duplex arrangement gives the suite a more spacious feel and makes it an interesting option for guests who prefer separate living and sleeping spaces.
Important: Room layouts, amenities and views can vary by category. Check the exact room description before booking.
Also, don’t confuse this property with the separate Novotel Goa Resort & Spa nearby. They have different room layouts and resort experiences.
Our verdict: Modern, comfortable and well-maintained rooms. The suite is particularly worth considering if you want more space during your stay.
PMFT Score: 18/20
3. Tariffs & Value for Money – 18/20
Novotel Goa Candolim offers a competitive proposition for travellers looking for a branded hotel in North Goa.
Based on the approximate February rates discussed in our video:
| Room category | Indicative price per night |
|---|---|
| Base room categories | Starting around ₹10,500 |
| Elegant Suite | Up to approximately ₹15,000 |
These are indicative rates from our review, not live prices or guaranteed tariffs. Rates can change depending on travel dates, occupancy, season and inclusions.
How does it compare with other North Goa hotels?
At this price point, Novotel Goa Candolim competes with other branded hotels in the area, including Le Méridien.
Premium beachfront properties such as Taj Fort Aguada and Taj Holiday Village can command significantly higher tariffs, often around ₹30,000 or more during high-demand periods.
The important difference is the experience:
- Novotel offers modern comfort and a family-friendly pool.
- Beachfront luxury resorts offer direct access to the sea and a different holiday atmosphere.
Our verdict: Good value for money if you want a modern branded hotel, comfortable rooms and family-friendly facilities without paying beachfront luxury-resort prices.
PMFT Score: 18/20
4. Activities & Amenities – 17/20
This is where Novotel Goa Candolim really stands out, especially for families travelling with children.
The swimming pool: A mini water park experience
The pool area is one of the hotel’s biggest USPs.
Instead of a conventional swimming pool, the property offers a fun pool experience with:
- Water slides
- A cascading waterfall
- A dedicated kids’ pool area
- Poolside relaxation
- A poolside bar
For families with younger children, this can make a big difference. Kids get something more entertaining than a regular swimming pool, while adults can enjoy some time relaxing.
Other facilities
The hotel also offers:
- A fully equipped fitness centre
- Samayaa World Spa
- Indoor kids’ play and arcade facilities
- Lobby bar and coffee lounge
- Dining venues and poolside refreshments
Please check the availability, operating hours and any additional charges for individual activities before your visit.
Easy access to North Goa nightlife
Another advantage is the hotel’s proximity to popular clubs, restaurants and casinos. You can enjoy North Goa’s nightlife without having to stay right in the middle of a crowded party area.
Our verdict: The pool is a genuine highlight and makes the hotel particularly attractive for families with young children. The overall facilities add to its value as a comfortable North Goa base.
PMFT Score: 17/20
5. Dining & Overall Experience – 17/20
The food at Novotel Goa Candolim offers dependable options for guests who prefer to dine within the hotel.
The hotel has an all-day dining restaurant, The Square, along with other options for drinks, coffee and poolside refreshments.
But the hotel’s location gives you another advantage: you are not restricted to eating inside the property.
Within a short drive, you can explore:
- Local Goan restaurants
- Beachside cafés and shacks
- International food chains
- Popular Candolim restaurants
- Restaurants and nightlife options around Calangute and Baga
Starbucks, McDonald’s and other familiar dining options are also accessible in the surrounding area.
The overall experience is comfortable and convenient, making it suitable for families who want to combine hotel facilities with exploring North Goa.
Our verdict: Good, dependable dining and a convenient location with plenty of outside options. A comfortable family stay rather than an isolated luxury-resort experience.
PMFT Score: 17/20
What Makes Novotel Goa Candolim Special? Our Top 3 Reasons
1. A family-friendly swimming pool
The slides, waterfall and kids’ pool make this a standout feature for families travelling with younger children.
2. Convenient North Goa location
The main-road location makes it easy to reach Candolim, Baga, Calangute, restaurants, shopping and nightlife.
3. Modern rooms at competitive tariffs
The rooms are clean and contemporary, while the suites offer additional space and a more distinctive layout.
PMFT100 Scorecard – Novotel Goa Candolim
We evaluate hotels and resorts across five parameters, with a maximum of 20 points in each category.
| Evaluation Parameter | Score |
|---|---|
| Location & Accessibility | 17/20 |
| Rooms & Categories | 18/20 |
| Tariffs & Value for Money | 18/20 |
| Activities & Amenities | 17/20 |
| Food & Overall Experience | 17/20 |
| Total PMFT Score | 87/100 |
Final PMFT100 Score: 87/100
Is Novotel Goa Candolim Worth Staying At?
Our answer is yes, particularly for families and travellers who want to explore North Goa.
Novotel Goa Candolim offers a good combination of modern rooms, a convenient location, family-friendly facilities and competitive pricing.
The pool with slides is a major advantage if you are travelling with younger children. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and the location makes it easy to explore the popular parts of North Goa.
However, keep in mind that this is not a beachfront hotel. If direct beach access, sea views or a secluded resort atmosphere are your priorities, you may want to consider other properties.
Who should book Novotel Goa Candolim?
- Families with young children who will enjoy the pool slides
- Couples looking for a modern hotel close to North Goa attractions
- Travellers who want convenient access to restaurants and nightlife
- Guests looking for a branded hotel at a competitive tariff
Who should consider other options?
- Travellers who want direct beach access
- Guests who prioritise sea-facing rooms
- Those looking for a secluded luxury resort experience
With a PMFT100 score of 87/100, Novotel Goa Candolim is a strong practical choice for a North Goa holiday.
Book Your Goa Stay with Klook – Use PMFT100 for 10% Off
Planning your stay at Novotel Goa Candolim or exploring other hotels and experiences in Goa?
Before booking, compare available prices and offers on Klook.
Use our PlanMyFamTrip coupon code PMFT100 to get 10% off eligible Klook bookings, subject to the applicable offer terms and discount cap.
How to use the PMFT100 coupon code
- Visit Klook.
- Search for your preferred hotel or eligible travel experience.
- Select your dates and proceed to checkout.
- Enter coupon code PMFT100 wherever the coupon option is available.
- Check the final discounted price before completing your booking.
Our booking tip: Compare the final price after applying the coupon with other booking platforms. Check taxes, breakfast inclusions, cancellation terms and room category before confirming.
Use PMFT100 on eligible Klook bookings and save on your next trip!
Frequently Asked Questions About Novotel Goa Candolim
1. Is Novotel Goa Candolim worth staying at?
Yes. It is a good option for families and travellers looking for modern rooms, a convenient North Goa location and a family-friendly swimming pool.
2. Is Novotel Goa Candolim a beachfront hotel?
No. It is not directly on the beach. Candolim Beach is approximately 2 km away and can be reached in a short drive.
3. Does Novotel Goa Candolim have a swimming pool with slides?
Yes. The hotel has a fun pool area with water slides and a kids’ pool, making it attractive for families with children.
4. What is the difference between Novotel Goa Candolim and Novotel Goa Resort & Spa?
They are two separate hotels in the Candolim area. Novotel Goa Candolim has a modern hotel layout and a pool with slides, while Novotel Goa Resort & Spa has a separate resort-style setting and its own facilities.
5. How much does Novotel Goa Candolim cost per night?
In our video, we discussed indicative February rates starting around ₹10,500 per night for base room categories and approximately ₹15,000 for suites. Actual rates vary by date, room type and availability.
6. How far is Novotel Goa Candolim from Mopa Airport?
The drive from Manohar International Airport, Mopa, is approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
7. How far is Novotel Goa Candolim from Dabolim Airport?
The drive from Goa International Airport, Dabolim, is approximately one hour, depending on traffic.
8. Is Novotel Goa Candolim suitable for families?
Yes. The pool slides, kids’ facilities, modern rooms and convenient location make it a practical option for family holidays.
9. Does Novotel Goa Candolim have a spa and gym?
Yes. The property offers Samayaa World Spa and a fitness centre. Check with the hotel for current operating hours and treatment charges.
10. What is the PMFT100 score of Novotel Goa Candolim?
Our PMFT100 score for Novotel Goa Candolim is 87/100, based on location, rooms, tariffs, activities and amenities, and food and overall experience.
11. Can I get a discount using the PMFT100 coupon code?
You can use PMFT100 for 10% off eligible Klook bookings, subject to the offer’s current terms and applicable discount cap.
About PlanMyFamTrip
We are Madhur and Gunjan, the travel creators behind PlanMyFamTrip.
We review hotels, resorts and destinations to help Indian families make informed travel decisions. Our PMFT100 Scorecard evaluates properties across five parameters, with a total score of 100.
Our focus is on practical insights, honest observations and real travel experiences so that you know what to expect before booking your next holiday.
Explore more Goa hotel reviews, resort comparisons and travel guides on PlanMyFamTrip.
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