The 9 top spots for nightlife in Goa

What is it? This plush property is a hot competitor for Goa’s ultimate party destination. Said to be India’s first party resort, SinQ includes a nightclub, a poolside lounge and a tavern.

Why go? You really can’t go wrong here. It’s a luxurious property with beautiful poolside cabanas and stylish décor. The resident DJs are well updated on contemporary dance music, and visiting DJs are some of the most popular from around the country. There are 20 party suites onsite if you’d like to stay here as well.

What is it? LPK, which stands for Love, Passion, Karma is perhaps the most spectacular of Goa’s party destinations. Sitting on a picturesque riverfront in North Goa, it’s grandly decorated with large terracotta sculptures and counts a 40-year-old church amid its backdrop.

Why go? It’s a party destination unlike any other in Goa with décor that looks like ruins of some ancient cave temple, and a beautiful riverbank to take walks on when you tire of dancing.

What is it? This elite, neon-lit space perched atop Arpora Hill calls itself ‘The Nightclub In The Sky.’ It’s a sprawling property with a swimming pool, jacuzzi and multi-levelled dance floors.

Why go? It’s undoubtedly among Goa’s most happening places – the kind you have to visit if you plan to brag in the future about your party nights. The resident DJs mostly play house, R&B and hip-hop.

What is it? Housed inside a rustic villa in peaceful Assagao village, Soro is a chic pub with warm industrial-style interiors, graffiti-adorned walls and picturesque outdoor seating.

Why go? It’s a buzzing space that’s become a hip favourite among locals. You can play pool here, jam to live music, or sample eats from their live grill, all while feeling part of a young and happening crowd. Their appetizers are delicious – try the prawn wafers or the onion rings.

What is it? A short walk from the beach, this neon-lit, open-air party destination is known mostly for hosting legendary psychedelic gatherings. Its New Year's Eve raves are famous for lasting several days.

Why go? Though it was founded as a small, no-frills restaurant in 1976, Hill Top is among Goa’s wildest trance music destinations today. It hosts weekly Sunday parties here that consistently draw large, global audiences.

What is it? Housed in a charming old bungalow that stands on a quiet lane in Saligao, this bar has a distinctly old fashioned charm even though it is barely a decade old. It’s known for its peaceful, warmly lit interiors, vintage wooden furniture, live music, and decent food.

Why go? Live music is somewhat central to the quintessential Goan bar, and no one does it better than Cantare. They religiously host live jazz on Mondays, old-school rock on Thursdays, and feature local bands. Food and drinks here are also quite cheap compared to most popular bars in the area.

What is it? This Greek tavern sits atop a seaside hillock in Small Vagator and is Goa’s most coveted destination for alfresco dining.

Why go? Besides serving excellent food and drinks, Thalassa manages to pull together a spectacularly buzzing ambience. With minimalistic white décor, rustic cane and wood furniture, and peaceful lounge music in the backdrop, it is ideal for serene nights spent sea gazing. Their signature cocktails and kebabs are particularly worth trying.

What is it? This two storey laidback beachside bar plays host to DJs and live musicians from around the world, playing everything from techno to blues through the week.

Why go? Founded in 1986, Café Lilliput is a landmark destination in Goa’s nightlife scene. It maintains a serene atmosphere through the day aided by fruity cocktails and scenic sea views, then becomes a happening party place by night. It is an ideal spot to unwind after a day spent shopping at the nearby Anjuna Flea Market.

What is it? This vintage beachside bar and restaurant is more than five decades old but remains as relevant as ever in Goa’s nightlife.

Why go? Beachside karaoke nights, hip music and cheap booze apart, Britto’s is too much of a local legend to miss out on. A night here is uniquely Goa; think cheap beer, live music, fun crowds, beautiful views of Baga beach and scrumptious seafood.