For sun, sea, and healthy hedonism, Ibiza and Goa are two popular destinations for party goers and sunshine worshippers. With beautiful beaches, liberated yogi spirit, and intoxicating nightlife scenes, both destinations are sure to breathe new life into any visitor day and night. So, how do they compare?
Scenery/Activities
Both Ibiza and Goa boast beautiful beaches and bays alongside striking natural scenery. Both are known for days spent in spiritual healing, yoga stretching and relaxing on the beach, and nights doused in dance at their iconic parties. However, for those seeking a bit more adventure, both destinations have plenty to explore in the daylight hours.
Beachside bliss!
Later, walk through cobblestone streets and pretty, white buildings in Dalt Vila (Ibiza Old Town) as you spend the day browsing the shops.
Head to Las Dalias Hippy Market for Artisan crafts and island souvenirs.
Walkers can explore Ibiza’s coastline by foot, with everything on offer from sunset strolls to epic four-day round trips around the island.
Walk the ancient path of pilgrims to Tanit’s Cave, an ancient Phoenician-Punic place of worship. Visit the fascinating C’an Marça Caves, originally used by pirates for storing smuggled goods.
Goa is also a haven for yogis, and the Bamboo Yoga Retreat is the perfect spot for a morning session on a secluded stretch of golden sand. The beaches steal the show in Goa, and you can spend the rest of your day on one of the many spots on the island.
Dona Paula Beach is a great beach for water sports and cove exploring. Butterfly Beach, one of the least crowded beaches in Goa, is perfect for privacy and peace, alongside the marvel of its exotic and beautiful butterflies.
Away from the coast, admire the beauty of one of India’s tallest waterfalls, Dudhsagar Falls or explore the Baroque architecture of the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Like Ibiza, Goa also has wonderful markets, perfect for an afternoon of browsing. Anjuna Flea Market is best for local souvenirs whilst Mapusa Market is historic and atmospheric, and the perfect place to shop for local food.
You’ll fall in love with Goa!
Ibiza is undeniably stunning, whilst Goa offers an impressive selection of beaches, and both offer plenty to explore. They come out equal in this round with 9/10.
Food and Restaurants
Ibiza and Goa both have vibrant food scenes perfect for hungry travellers or those in need of a scrumptious hangover cure. International flavours have influenced both destinations allowing them to offer a wide selection of cuisines and eateries.
El Olivo Mio is a charming spot with tables spilling out onto cobbled streets and Mediterranean dishes to dream about.
La Torre Ibiza is best for sensational and nutritious dishes enjoyed amongst incredible views or Shamarkanda is a cosy hangout where eastern and western flavours meet.
An idyllic lunch spot in Ibiza!
If spice is your style, Goa is the place for you. Indian food in Goa is known to be spicier than the rest of the country, something to keep in mind when ordering your dinner! Bhatti Village in Nerul is where you will find excellent local dishes and authentic, homely atmosphere. Gunpowder in Assagao is known for its epic Andhra Prawn Curry and artisanal cocktails. For something special, book dinner at Bomras where Chef Bawmra Jap provides an innovative spin on local flavours.
Ibiza wins this round with 9/10 with slightly more options whilst Goa scores 8/10 for its incredible Indian food.
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Nightlife
The star of the show of both these destinations is their iconic nightlife scenes. Ibiza is well known for its EDM scene whilst Goa is known for its outdoor trance parties, but both have an array of after-hours options to enjoy.
Café del Mar is a popular spot for sundowner cocktails and a seductive atmosphere, whilst Belvue Rooftop Bar is best for poolside DJs.
Dance the night away at Pacha or feel the sand in your toes at Nikki Beach or Tropicana Ibiza Beach Club. The summer opening party at Amnesia Ibiza is not one to miss!
Ibiza lights up at night!
Whilst Goa’s nightlife scene might be lesser known, it puts up a worthy competition to Ibiza. The popular psychedelic trance music scene can be best experienced at Cavala Beach Road Hill Top, known for its New Year’s Eve neon rave. Re: FRESH Club hosts wild parties and international DJs whilst SinQ is a plush property offering a nightclub, poolside lounge, and tavern. For the best beach party, head to Nyex Beach Club in Anjuna.
You can dance until you drop in both destinations however, Ibiza is more glitz and glamour whilst Goa is more psychedelic and rustic. Ibiza’s nightlife scene is slightly more established, scoring 9/10 and Goa scores 8.5/10 for its growing and impressive scene.
Accommodation
Both Ibiza and Goa have a fantastic selection of accommodation options from oceanfront beach huts and boutique boltholes to luxury hotels and villas.
In Ibiza, the OKU Ibiza is a laidback luxury retreat, boasting elegant design, two tranquil swimming pools, and regular yoga sessions in a prime location. One of this year’s most popular choices is the Six Senses Ibiza, offering an all-encompassing accommodation experience. Guests are welcomed by a shamanic smoke-cleansing ceremony as a first taste of the wellness classes and products on offer. Designed in soft tones and offering striking sea views makes this a perfect escape.
Atzaro Ibiza is an excellent choice for post-party pampering. Nestled amongst orange groves, and boasting four serene pools, enjoy a treatment in the onsite spa and healthy farm-to-fork dining.
Let’s go-a to Goa!
The Postcard Cuelim is a luxury boutique hotel featuring idyllic walled gardens, freshly prepared meals, and historic character.
For something special, book a room at The Leela Goa and enjoy a spa treatment, private beach access and an exclusive golf course, as well as four on-site restaurants. For travellers on a budget, River Castle is a gorgeous homestay.
Goa has a slightly wider range of price points, offering more affordable options alongside the luxury hotels, however, Ibiza offers stunning and impressive retreats. They score equally in this round with 8.5/10.
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So how do these two wonderful places weigh up? In terms of numbers, Ibiza wins with a final score of 8.9/10, and Goa comes behind with a final score of 8.5/10. Ibiza is an A-list destination with unbeatable parties and incredible scenery. Goa has a fantastic selection of beaches and activities, and an exciting nightlife scene. A trip to either will provide the party of a lifetime.
Love,
Isabella
They both sound like fun places. I think I’d have to give Goa a slight edge just for the Indian food!
Beach and music are always the best combinations to spend a cool holiday or a city break, I love beach and relaxation!!
Wish you book soon these two paradises of fun!!
Love,
Isabella