5 Alternatives To A Goa Holiday

Don’t worry if cancellations disrupt your Goa plans again. Agreed that Goa is India’s comfort destination, but there’s an entire world of beaches, villas, cafés, sunsets, and tropical vibes waiting for you.  

This guide presents five places, like Goa, that capture the same laid-back spirit—whether you’re after sun-drenched beaches, lively villa parties, natural beauty, delectable food, or an escape from the ordinary. Each destination features handpicked luxury villas from Lohono Stays, perfect for crafting your ideal getaway.

1. Alibaug – Goa’s Private and Luxurious Twin

Alibaug has rapidly become Maharashtra’s most cherished coastal retreat, and for good reason. It offers the easygoing beach culture reminiscent of Goa, but with enhanced privacy, pristine shores, and effortless accessibility.

Why Alibaug Feels Like Goa

• Quaint beach cafés, fresh seafood, and charming boutique shops
• Idyllic coastal roads are ideal for scenic drives
• Sundowners and villa parties echo a quieter Anjuna vibe
• Perfect for groups, celebrations, and spontaneous escapes

How Alibaug Stands Apart

• A convenient ferry ride from Mumbai—no airport hassles
• Serene and less crowded beaches such as Awas, Varsoli, and Kihim
• Greater abundance of luxury villas, fewer commercial hotels
• A celebrity hotspot, offering high-level privacy and exclusivity

Where to Stay: Villa Santorini, Alibaug

• Greek Isles–inspired whitewashed architecture
• Arched doorways and bougainvillea-lined walkways
• Private swimming pool with loungers
• Rooftop bar for evening gatherings
• Dedicated BBQ corner
• Palm-fringed lawn spaces

2. Coorg – Goa’s Chill Vibe in the Hills

For travellers who adore Goa’s slow-paced charm but yearn for hills instead of beaches, Coorg is the answer. Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg is misty, tranquil, and perfect for unwinding.

Why Coorg Captures Goa’s Essence

• Leisurely mornings, long brunches, and music-filled days
• Café hopping and lounging reminiscent of Assagao
• Great for group holidays or intimate escapes

What Makes Coorg Unique

• Expansive coffee estates, spice plantations, waterfalls, and forest trails
• Mesmerizing monsoon magic unavailable in Goa
• Plantation tours, river picnics, and wildlife experiences
• A fresh-air sanctuary with lush green vistas

Where to Stay: Whispering Waters, Coorg

• Set across 25 acres of coffee and spice plantations
• Colonial teak furnishings throughout the villa
• Panoramic glass windows with scenic views
• Authentic Kodava gourmet cuisine
• Riverside picnic experiences
• Curated barista-style coffee sessions
• Relaxing Ayurvedic massage experiences

3. Karjat – Goa Without the Traffic or Flights

If your ideal Goa holiday means staying in a villa with a pool, partying with friends, and lazy poolside days, Karjat should be your go-to. It’s a villa-only haven surrounded by breathtaking mountains.

Why Karjat’s Energy Matches Goa

• Private pool villas perfect for vibrant house parties
• BBQ nights, music sessions, drinks, and games—emulating Goa group-trip energy
• Expansive lawns, comfortable corners, and inviting open-air spaces

Karjat’s Unique Qualities

• Scenic vistas of the Western Ghats, rather than beaches
• Utterly peaceful with no tourist hustle or noisy congestion
• Just a short drive from Mumbai and Pune
• Ideal for quick getaways when you want Goa’s spirit without lengthy travel

Where to Stay: Casa Rivière, Karjat

• Sprawling 12-acre lakefront estate
• Distinctive stone architecture
• Floating yoga deck overlooking the lake
• 14-foot wooden ceilings throughout
• Lush landscaped gardens
• Private swimming pool
• On-site activities include horse riding, fishing, and a sports court
• Offers the relaxed freedom of a Goa-style villa in a serene natural setting

4. Phuket + Koh Samui – International Goa (A Combined Alternative)

These two Thai gems together embody Goa’s lively energy, tropical beauty, beaches, and nightlife—but with an international flair: more transparent waters, superior beach clubs, thrilling adventure options, and luxury villas.

Phuket – Party-Friendly, Beachy, Tropical

• Beach clubs, live music, and buzzing nightlife
• Jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkelling excursions
• Bustling tourist zones rich in dining and exploration options

How Phuket Differs

• More developed nightlife infrastructure
• Cleaner beaches and superior water sports facilities
• Perfect for groups seeking Goa’s Baga-Anjuna vibe abroad

Villa Recommendation: Katamanda – Villa Amanzi

A majestic seven-bedroom villa with an infinity pool overlooking Kata Noi Beach. It offers in-villa staff, a private chef, a bar lounge, and spectacular sunset views.

Katamanda – Villa Amanzi, Phuket

Koh Samui – Relaxed, Romantic, Wellness-Focused

• Quiet beaches with calm waters and serene sunset cafés
• Romantic, couples-friendly atmosphere
• Villa lounging is akin to South Goa’s relaxed charm

Koh Samui’s Distinctive Touch

• Wellness-centred: spas, massages, and yoga retreats
• Ideal for families and couples seeking tranquillity
• More subdued nightlife, with a focus on natural beauty

Villa Recommendation: Element of 8

This six-bedroom sea-view villa features expansive decks, an infinity pool, Southeast Asian art, and awe-inspiring sunsets over the emerald waters of Samui.

Element of 8, Koh Samui

5. Bali – Goa’s Global Twin with Culture and Character

Bali is the international reflection of Goa—vibrant, youthful, culturally rich, and bursting with energy. It offers a perfect tropical escape with all the lively elements you would expect.

Why Bali Reminds You of Goa

• Thriving beach clubs, nightlife, café culture, and surf shacks
• Youthful, lively crowds
• Gorgeous villas reminiscent of Goa’s luxury rentals
• Excellent for birthdays, extended stays, and content creation trips

How Bali Stands Apart

• Deep cultural heritage: temples, rituals, rice paddies, and ceremonies
• Dramatic cliffs and volcanic shorelines
• Surfing, trekking, yoga, and scuba diving opportunities
• Diverse towns and scenes across Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu

Where to Stay: Pandawa Cliff Estate – Villa Marie

A six-bedroom cliff-edge villa boasting ocean views with a pool, spa, gym, tennis courts, and lush gardens. A top choice for weddings, large groups, or chic celebrations.

Pandawa Cliff Estate – Villa Marie, Bali

Frequently Asked Questions: Places Like Goa

Q. Which place, like Goa, is the cheapest to travel to?

Karjat and Alibaug are the most budget-friendly options, especially when travelling from Mumbai or Pune.

Q. Which Goa alternative offers the best nightlife?

Phuket leads the way with a nightlife scene closely resembling Goa’s party scene, followed by Bali’s Seminyak and Canggu hotspots.

Q. Which place, like Goa, suits couples best?

Koh Samui and Bali are ideal destinations for romantic villa holidays, complete with stunning sunsets and indulgent spa experiences.

Q. Where can you find the best water sports like in Goa?

Phuket excels with jet skiing, snorkelling, and parasailing; Bali offers surfing, diving, and rafting adventures.

Q. Is Bali more expensive than Goa?

Bali’s affordability varies—flights may be pricier, but food, transport, villas, and activities can suit diverse budgets.

Q. Where are the best places for villa parties, like in Goa?

Alibaug and Karjat provide top-tier villa-party setups domestically.