Top 5 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Goa

Scenic aerial view of Mandrem Beach in Goa, India, featuring lush greenery and coastline.
Mohit Hambiria, Pexels

Goa offers a dynamic drinking scene, ranging from high-energy nightclubs and lively beach shacks to sophisticated cliffside lounges and intimate local pubs.

Entertainment and Music:

Goa's music and entertainment scene is notably vibrant and diverse, encompassing lively venues with live performances, energetic nightclubs, and unique party experiences.

Visitors can experience frequent live music performances at venues such as Cohiba in Candolim, which hosts popular bands daily, and Cavala Seaside Resort in Baga, known for its long tradition of nightly Goan band performances. For a distinct social experience, the Silent Noise Parties at Palolem Beach in South Goa offer guests wireless headphones to choose from multiple DJ channels, ensuring a personalized music journey without disturbing the tranquil surroundings.

1. Club Cubana

Type: Nightclub

Perched atop a hill in Arpora, Club Cubana is known as 'The Nightclub in the Sky'. It features a multi-level setup with a swimming pool, several bars, and a spacious dance floor, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The atmosphere is energetic, attracting a lively crowd with renowned DJs and themed nights.

Getting There: Located in Arpora, Club Cubana is best reached by taxi or a rented scooter from popular North Goa areas like Baga, Calangute, or Anjuna. Taxi fares can vary based on distance.

2. Curlies Beach Shack

Type: Beach Shack & Party Venue

Situated on Anjuna Beach, Curlies transitions from a relaxed daytime hangout into a lively party spot after sunset. It maintains a rustic, shack-like feel but is one of the most active venues, hosting parties with live music and DJs nightly. It provides ample space with a lounge bar and open sea views.

Getting There: Curlies is located on South Anjuna Beach and is easily accessible by taxi or scooter. It is a well-known landmark in the area.

3. Soro - The Village Pub

Type: Pub

Found in Assagao, Soro offers a unique blend of rustic charm and contemporary beats, set within an old Goan house. It is a stylish pub known for its live music performances and DJ nights, providing a more relaxed yet lively environment away from the main beach party crowds.

Getting There: Soro is in Assagao, a short drive from Anjuna and Vagator. Taxis or rented scooters are the most common modes of transport, with fares depending on the starting location. Expect taxi costs similar to other inter-village travel in North Goa.

4. Purple Martini

Type: Cliffside Lounge & Bar

Perched on Anjuna Cliff, Purple Martini offers breathtaking 180-degree ocean views, particularly popular for sunset cocktails. This chic, Mediterranean-inspired lounge provides a sophisticated setting with an impressive array of exotic cocktails, live music performances, and DJ sets that continue into the night.

Getting There: Located at Sunset Point on Anjuna Cliff, Purple Martini is accessible by taxi or scooter. Given its cliffside location, walking from main roads may be challenging; a direct ride is recommended.

5. Joseph's Bar

Type: Local Bar

Tucked away in the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas in Panjim, Joseph's Bar offers an intimate, neighbourhood experience. It is celebrated for its draft beer, unique cocktails crafted with locally sourced ingredients like kokum and feni, and delicious Goan snacks often supplied by local home cooks. It provides a relaxed, authentic Goan bar atmosphere.

Getting There: Joseph's Bar is in Fontainhas, Panjim. If staying in Panjim, it is often within walking distance from many hotels. From other parts of Goa, a taxi or local bus to Panjim city center is required, followed by a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride within Fontainhas. Cocktails start around INR 100.