Goa is a paradise for beach lovers, with endless opportunities to explore its stunning coastline. But if you’re looking for a more unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider island hopping in Goa. Many beautiful islands are scattered across the North and South, offering a quieter and more authentic glimpse into Goan life. By embarking on an island trail, you can discover hidden gems that most tourists overlook. So why not venture off the beaten track and visit these Beautiful Islands in Goa? You’re sure to find a new perspective on this beloved destination.

Here is the list of 5 Beautiful Islands of Goa to Plan Your Next Trip.

1. Conco Island – Monkey Island in Goa, South Goa

Also known as Monkey Island, Conco Island is one of the most visited islands near Agonda beach in South Goa. Conco Island is a 5-acre lush green Island situated at the bay of Palolem Beach. It is often referred to as Canacona Island and is called Monkey Island because the wooded island was once inhabited by monkeys that lived in nearby forests. This island is a great picnic spot and definitely worth a visit when around Agonda Beach.

Visitors often use ferries to reach this island although one can easily swim to this island during low-tide. Conco island is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and if lucky, one can see the Dolphins in this sea. A few things to do on this island are water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. Swimming around this island during low tide and sunbathing are good activities on this island. Apart from that, one can spend their day with chilled beers and good Goan food. The coconut groves and the monkeys here will keep you entertained and one can always take out time to visit the nearby Butterfly Island. All in all. this island is definitely a great attraction for foreigners, tourists as well as locals.

How To Reach Conco Island in Goa

Conco Island is located in the Canacona Region near Palolem Beach. The closest airport to Palolem Beach is Goa International Airport (GOI) which is 62.1 kilometers away and it would take around 1 hour 40 minutes to reach via NH 66. Alternatively, the airport is 62.7 kilometers away from Agonda beach and it would take around 1 hour 42 minutes via NH 66. One can take a cab or taxi from the airport till the beaches. From there, visitors can either take a ferry or can also try their hand at swimming if there is low tide.

Ferries to reach Conco Island Timings:

The ferry from Palolem Beach to Conco Island takes around 20 minutes and the ride to Butterfly Island is another 10-15 minutes. The ferries run throughout the day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. 

2. Divar Island/Diwar Island – A Most Beautiful Island in Goa

Located at a distance of 10 km from Panjim in Goa, Divar Island is a slice of heaven tucked away in dense woods amidst the beauty of nature. Connected to Old Goa only through ferry service, this island is synonymous with natural beauty, serenity, and tranquillity. The region is dotted with vintage houses built in Portuguese style, littered with traditional churches and is surrounded by evergreen paddy fields.

Commonly recognized as a ‘village stuck in time’; the area is still unexplored and unexploited by tourism or commercialization as it is disconnected from city life. Unlike the loud and hippie party culture of Goa, this place provides the contrasting peace and environment to the wanderers to make them want just to explore it. Although the island hardly has any particular sightseeing spots, the innate beauty and charm of the narrow winding roads, the tiny tea stalls, and overall aura will make you want never to leave the island.

History of Divar Island in Goa

The small island of Divar was once inhabited by the people of old Goa. They left this island when a dangerous and disastrous plague broke out. It is also said that the Island of Divar was once a site for Hindu devotees. There were several temples here before the 16th century, like the temples of Shri Saptakoteshwar temple, another temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Shree Dwarkeshwar and many more. Later Goa was Christianized, and the temples were shifted by Goan Hindus to other places. The ancient site of what was once a pilgrimage is called ‘porne birth’ ( Konkani for old pilgrim spot). Divar was among the first places that were occupied by the Portuguese. Though it is now a flourishing town, you can still spot the remnants of the old buildings and structures.

Etymology about Diwar Island in Goa

The term ‘divar’ is derived from the word ‘dipavati’, which means ‘small island’ in Konkani. The term is pronounced as ‘divaddi’.

Places to See in Beautiful Divar Island of Goa

1. Piedade

This village is the replica of a typical Goan village at the time of the Portuguese. The village of Piedade is beautiful, and you can spot well-kept houses throughout the hamlet. The population is mixed since a lot of people from other parts of Goa have settled in here. The ruins of the Kadamba dynasty are located in the village of Piedade. There were several temples in this quaint little village. It was later destructed by the Muslim invaders, around the end of the 15th century.

You can visit the ‘ church of Our Lady of Compassion, in the village of Piedade. This church site houses the remains of Kadamba architecture. Also, there is a beautiful chapel, wherein prayer services are conducted. The shrine is usually kept locked, but the priest opens it when someone requests for it to be opened. The Piedade village is well known for its celebration of the Bonderam festival.

2. Sao Matia

Also called ‘a village stuck in time’, the Goan village of Sao Matia is now called the Malar village. You can visit the beautiful Sao Mathias church in the village of Malar. It is a 400-year-old church, placed in the heart of the village. The festival of Bonderam is celebrated at the Sao Matthias church with great zeal. The structure of the church is one of its kind and is admirable. You can also witness the Konkan railway, passing through the village of Malar. The charming little village of Malar is truly picturesque.

Things to Do in Divar Island, Goa

A number of festivals are celebrated at the Divar island, which you will surely enjoy.

1. Bonderam – Unique festival of Divar Island, Goa

This festival is similar to a carnival. It is celebrated on the 4th Saturday of the month of August. It is attended by several tourists and local people. The festival is a tribute to the fury of the villagers over a system of resolving disputes, that was devised by the Portuguese. The system was of putting up flags at the boundaries. The villagers did not approve of this system and finally decided to unfollow this practice. At this festival, the villagers enjoy music and partying. People dress up in various colors.

2. Potekar – Halloween alike festival in Goa

The festival of Potekar, is a three-day event. In this festival, the local people wear masks made at home, dress up in different costumes and venture around the village. They demand snacks and beverages from the local people. The festival of Potekar resembles Halloween in a way.

3. Feast of Our Lord Redeemer at Divar Island, Goa

This festival is celebrated in the month of November, each year. This is a traditional feast day. And people from all over Goa come together to celebrate it with great fervor. The image of the Lord Redeemer, which was brought by late Ferao goltim from Europe, has been kept in his house. His house is presently treated as a chapel. The image of the lord Redeemer is considered to be miraculous and devotees believe that their wishes are fulfilled if they get to see this image.

Food Specialities in Divar, Goa – Delicacies of Divar Island

There are a plethora of delicacies to choose from when it comes to Goan cuisine. Be it the sumptuous seafood, to the authentic Goan curry with rice, every dish is lip-smacking with the touch of Goan spices. You can avail of the authentic ‘Urak’, which is a milder version of the cashew fenny, at Divar island. Divar Island is one of the very few places in Goa where you will find Urak. many bars at Divar island produce their own Urak. Prawns are a specialty of the Goan cuisine.

The Divar island has a typical setting of what an old-time rural Goa, would have looked like. Well maintained elegant Portuguese villas are a common sight at this small island. It seems as if time has stopped at this place and people seem to have forgotten about this dainty piece of land, after a time. The island of Divar is a genuine touch of nature, old Goan villas, helpful people and hospitality. It is one of those places, that allure you to stay forever. So, don’t miss to be at this beautiful island while you are in Goa next time.

How To Reach Divar Island in Goa

Goa is well connected to major cities of the country like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Divar Island is at a distance of 10 km from Panjim, the capital of Goa. Divar can only be reached by one of the 3 ferry services. You can get a ferry from Old Goa near Basilica of Bom Jesus to Divar island. The Divar island is connected to two other ferry points of Goa. you can get ferry rides usually from 7 in the morning to 8 in the evening.

3. Chorao Island, Goa – Amazing Village life of Goa

Located at a distance of 5 km from the state capital Panaji, Chorao Island is the largest of the 17 islands present in Goa. Boasting of old-world charm, dainty cottages, and narrow muddy pathways, the island is a slice of heaven tucked away in time. This beautiful Islands in Goa has a very prominent Portuguese air about it which reflects in the architecture of its ancient whitewashed churches, solitary graveyards, picturesque Portuguese villas, and dilapidated buildings. The highlight of the island, however, is the very grand and notable Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary that accounts for major tourism boost in the region.

Also known as Chodan or Choddnnem, Chorao Island also has flourishing vegetation of the mangroves forest and boasts of rich wildlife with diverse species of flora and fauna. Besides, the island also holds significant historical importance and is home to a number of Hindu Temples. However, it can only be reached through a ferry or a boat ride from the village of Ribandar as there are no roads leading to the place. So, don’t miss to live your moments at one of the beautiful Islands in Goa.

The mythology of Chorao Island, Goa

There are several myths and legends associated with the Chorao Island. The most popular one of which goes to say that Goddess Yashoda- Mother of Lord Krishna threw a handful of diamonds in the sea. And out of one them, emerged the pristine the Chorao Island.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at the Chorao Island, Goa

Sprawling over 178 hectares of land area, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is not only the highlight of the island but is also the largest bird sanctuary in all of Goa. The sanctuary is inhabited with over 400 avifauna species, both local and migratory which include osprey, striated heron, red knot, pied avocet, brahmini kite and black bittern, etc. Besides, it is infested with the very gorgeous mangrove forests that are a delight to the eyes. You can also spot other aquatic inhabitants here like crocodiles etc. The best time to visit the sanctuary is a few hours before sunset or in the very early morning when the birds are the most active.

How to Reach Chorao Island in Goa

There are regular public buses that ply from Panaji to the village of Ribandar regular. You can take one of these to reach Ribandar from where you can take the jetty to Chorao Island.

4. San Jacinto Island, Goa – Another Beautiful Island in Goa

One of the tiniest islands in South Goa, San Jacinto is one of the most exotic islands to visit. This lovely green island dates back to the early 20th century, around 1927 when inhabitants of San Jacinto to protect and preserve this island by vowing to never give the island on a lease to any company or government, or let them disturb or intrude on the island’s ecosystem. This makes it one of the most exquisite islands in South Goa. San Jacinto Island is highly secluded and is considered a tranquil place to be.

The legend of San Jacinto also says that the underground tunnel in this island connects to the old chapel in Siridao Beach which is located at the far bank of Mormugao Bay. This island is best known for its panoramic, beautiful and natural views from the Portuguese lighthouse. A church called Hyacinth Church is also located in this area that celebrates a feast on the last Sunday of September. What’s more, visitors can also walk up the hill to a view-point where an excellent view of the surrounding can be seen. A romantic walk or boat ride across the perimeter of this island is really recommended here. 

All in all, this small green island signifies purity and charm as it maintains a strict non-commercial status, away from industrialization, with picturesque surroundings, making it a unique and relatively unexplored beach.

How To Reach San Jacinto Island in Goa

San Jacinto Island is located in South Goa, near Vasco City. The closest airport to this island is Goa International Airport (GOI) which is around 3.5 kilometers away and it would take around 8 minutes to reach via NH566. Visitors can take a cab or a taxi from the airport to Vasco City. It is also around 5 kilometers away from Bogmalo Beach and around 5.7 kilometers (13 minutes) away via NH 566. Visitors can take a ferry or a boat from Bogmalo Beach to San Jacinto Island. Jacinto is connected with mainland Goa via the Silver Gate Bridge. Visitors can ride along NH 17 to reach Vasco City as well and from there, they can take a ferry to San Jacinto Island.

5. Butterfly Beach, Beautiful Beach of Goa

A little to the south of Palolem in Cancona region of Goa lies the Butterfly beach. This beach, also known as Honeymoon Beach, is in the form of a small cove surrounded by dense trees. It is slightly remote and is difficult to access on foot, making it one of the most secluded and peaceful beaches in Goa. It can be reached via a ferry from the neighboring Palolem Beach. Interestingly, the beach is so named as the surrounding trees attract a wide variety of butterflies occasionally. It may also be because the beach itself is in the shape of a butterfly! Either way, it is just as pretty as one, especially during sunsets. Just plop down here with a picnic basket and some wine and experience the oneness with nature. 

Vehicles do not lead directly to it since it is a secluded spot that has to be reached by passing through a thick forest. However, this also makes for a wonderful opportunity to go trekking through a forest! Indeed the best and most efficient way to reach Butterfly Beach is by boat from the nearby Palolem or Agonda beaches.
Once you reach Butterfly beach, you are in a whole other world. Enclosed by a thick forest on one side and leading to the open sea on the other, the beach has a unique and picturesque landscape. A cove-like structure welcomes you to engage in what promises to be a wonderful day at the beach.

Read about the Top must visit beaches you should definitely try in your next Goa trip.

Dolphin Spotting at the beautiful Butterfly Beach in Goa

Dolphins (Indo-Pacific Humpbacks) can be spotted from other places in Goa as well, but Butterfly beach is an ideal location as it is not crowded with tourists. If you choose to travel by boat from Palolem or Agonda to the Butterfly beach, especially in the early morning, you should be able to spot them along the way. Also, the changing sea tides reveal other marine fauna on the beach. At low tide, the seawater recedes and brings sea crabs, sea urchins, and many fishes out onto the wet sand along the beach line.

How to reach Butterfly Beach by boat:

The beach cannot be accessed by buses, cars or bikes as it is surrounded by a dense forest. You can reach the Butterfly beach by boat from Palolem or Agonda beaches. A boat ride costs around INR 1000-1200 (to and fro). You must keep in mind that during monsoon season boating to Butterfly beach is not possible.

How to reach Butterfly Beach by Road: 

If you take a taxi or auto from Agonda, first drive onto the Agonda beach road. On this road, 0.8 Km from Tina beach resort, a walking trail leads to the Butterfly beach. If you are traveling from Palolem to Agonda beach road, the starting point of the trek is 1.5 Km after passing Leopard valley club. Beyond this point, vehicles cannot pass. The trekking route from here is approximately 2 km long and is said to take 1.5 hours to cover the distance. Markings along the trekking route safely lead you through the jungle to the beach. It will also be helpful to have a GPS to navigate through.

Conclusion:

Skip Overcrowded Beaches And Head To These Gorgeous Islands In Goa Instead

These beautiful islands of Goa are worth a visit at least once in a lifetime! Let us know what you think of this island-hopping trail for Goa in the comments below! Also check the cheapest packages on our website to book your most affordable island trail in Goa & live in some of the beautiful islands in Goa.

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