When people think of parties in Goa, they normally imagine commercial clubs in Baga or full moon parties in Anjuna. But for the most authentic experience, Arambol is the place to go. Every day, travellers, yogis, singers and dancers from around the world gather on Arambol beach for its legendary sunset drum circle. This free-spirited celebration captures the true spirit of Goa’s party culture. Here’s how to find this authentic beach party in Goa, including what to wear, where to stay and my own experience there.
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Quick overview of beach parties in Goa
- North Goa beats South Goa for parties, thanks to places including Baga and Anjuna
- The famous Arambol sunset drum circle is the most authentic beach party in Goa
- Stay in Arambol’s beach shacks or the top-rated Happy Panda hostel
- The best time to visit Goa is from November to February for perfect weather and peak party season
Where can you party in Goa?
North Goa dominates the party scene, while South Goa is more relaxed.
Baga attracts partygoers seeking big commercial clubs and bottle service. Anjuna Beach is also excellent for partying, famous for its Wednesday flea market celebrations, full moon parties and trance music scene. Calangute has more commercial club scenes with entry fees and dress codes.
For more of the free-spirited community atmosphere that defines the authentic hippie Goa beach culture, head to Arambol.
Look out for posters and flyers about local Goa parties near you. Otherwise, check out What’s Up Goa, Facebook Events or Resident Advisor for the latest listings.
Why Arambol has the most authentic beach party in Goa
Since it first gained popularity as a hippie beach resort in the 1960s, Arambol has kept its mellow atmosphere. The government’s restrictions on local development have helped it retain its laid-back charm. Instead of major hotel chains, the 16km (10 mile) shore is lined with independent wooden bars, restaurants and beach shacks.
As well as wide sands and choppy waves, there are interesting things happening everywhere you look on Arambol beach. The sunshine brings everyone to the shore – jugglers, traders, yogis and even nonchalantly strolling cows. But it’s when the sun starts to set that the most magical beach party in Goa begins.
Want to know all the top things to do in Arambol? Click here.
How to find the Arambol sunset beach party
The daily sunset drum circle – the heart of this incredible beach party in Goa – typically begins at around 6pm, just south of the main beach.
To get there, walk along Arambol Beach Road towards the coast. Once on the beach, head a few metres south towards the Love Temple Beach Resort. The gathering naturally forms as people arrive with instruments and the energy builds throughout the afternoon. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you start hearing the rhythmic beats carrying on the sea breeze.
What to expect at this beach party in Goa
Locals and tourists from around the world gather in a circle on the beach to play musical instruments and dance as the sun goes down. This magical experience is free and represents the purest form of Goa party culture.
The gathering typically includes jugglers, yogis and people playing guitars, drums and other instruments. It’s a free-for-all jam where anyone can pick up an instrument and play along. Otherwise, you can dance or just sit nearby and enjoy the friendly, inclusive atmosphere.
The energy builds throughout the session, growing louder and more intense as the sun approaches the horizon. Once the sun disappears, everyone cheers to celebrate the day.
If you are looking to extend your experience after the sunset celebration, head south to Morjim. Check out the party nights at the Code Red Club and Resort, Bora Bora Life or Marbela Beach resort. Look out for posters and flyers about Arambol beach nightlife or check out What’s Up Goa for the latest listings.
My experience at the Arambol beach party
Late one afternoon, I was walking along Arambol Beach. As I relaxed on the sand, I saw a juggler and people gathering on a bench a few metres away. I didn’t think much of it and continued to watch the sun getting hazy and ready to retire for the day.
As the crowd of Arambol beach hippies and hangers-on got larger, my ears picked up the beat of tribal drums riding on the breeze. I was intrigued. Then I heard trumpets, tambourines, harmonicas and other instruments join in.
Others started dancing close to the drummers and musicians, with hula hoops or just moving their hips to the hypnotic rhythm. Everyone became a part of the party – even the juggler joined in.
I moved closer, still sitting and watching, taking in every minute of it, as the beach dogs ran around and wagged their tails in excitement.
The sun dipped towards the horizon amid a rainbow of intense colours – oranges, pinks and purples – and I breathed in the salty sea air. People whooped and cheered along to the infectious heartbeat rhythm and playful melodies, which steadily grew louder and more intense as the sun approached the sea.
Against the multi-hued backdrop I could see the silhouettes of everyone I had seen that day: the jugglers, the healers, the young and the old. Everyone was freely dancing to the pulsing beats. The drummers were tapping their hands on the skins and generating a throbbing, essential heartbeat. Everyone had the widest smiles and I’m sure some new friendships were made.
The last of the sun’s rays finally disappeared behind the horizon and, at this moment, the entire group cheered with delight and appreciation for the end of another wonderful day.
What to wear for a beach party in Goa
For women, flowy dresses in Goa work perfectly for beach parties. Men should choose lightweight shorts and a t-shirt or tank top. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that won’t cling in the humidity. Pair your outfit with flip flops, as most people dance barefoot anyway. A crossbody bag keeps your hands free for dancing while securing your phone and essentials.
A lightweight beach towel doubles as a dance mat and sunset picnic blanket. Insect repellent is crucial for outdoor evening events when mosquitoes emerge at dusk. A light shirt or sarong used as a shawl comes in handy for cooler hours after sunset. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste on the beaches.
Where to stay in Arambol
For Goa’s authentic Arambol beach shacks, the best thing is to check them out when you get there and reserve the one you like. If you prefer to book online in advance, look up the wonderful GoYm Resort at the southern end of the town.
Solo travellers in Arambol are welcome at the popular and highly-rated Happy Panda hostel. This relaxed hostel has an on-site bar, kitchen and library, and its rooms have a shared bathroom including a bath.
Book your Arambol beach accommodation by exploring the interactive map below:
How to get to Arambol beach in Goa
The closest airport is Goa International Airport (Dabolim), about 65km from Arambol. I pre-booked an private transfer from the airport to Arambol, which I was very grateful for. It saved me a lot of time and hassle after my long international flight.
Arambol beach is in the very north of Goa, close to the border with Maharashtra state. Just south of Arambol are the beaches of Mandrem, Ashwem and Morjim. All the beaches join together so you can easily walk along them and visit them all. From Morjim beach to Arambol beach the distance is around 6 miles (10 km).
Further south are the popular North Goa beach resorts of Anjuna and Calangute. The distance from Calangute to Arambol beach is around 19 miles (31 km). To travel from Arambol beach to Calangute beach or the nearby Baga beach takes around an hour by car or 2.5 hours by bus via Mapusa Bus Stand.
Frequently asked questions about parties in Goa
When is the best time to visit Goa for beach parties?
The peak tourist season in Goa runs from November to February, when the weather is perfect with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. December and January are the busiest months with the most parties and events.
Which side of Goa is more fun?
North Goa is more fun for solo travellers and party lovers, while South Goa is more serene and great for couples. The North Goa beaches have better nightlife, backpacker-friendly accommodation and the famous party culture that Goa is known for worldwide.
How do I found out the location of Goa parties?
Look out for posters and flyers about local Goa parties near you. Otherwise, check out What’s Up Goa, Facebook Events or Resident Advisor for the latest listings.
Is the Arambol beach party safe for solo travellers?
Yes, I went to the Arambol sunset beach party alone and felt safe. The community atmosphere is welcoming, as the drum circle attracts friendly international travellers. Take normal precautions like staying aware of your surroundings and not accepting drinks from strangers.
Final thoughts on the most authentic beach party in Goa
The Arambol beach party in Goa represents the authentic hippie spirit of this legendary destination. The daily sunset drum circles are the most genuine beach party experience you’ll find.
The free beach gatherings have a welcoming community spirit that’s perfect for solo travellers. Arambol invites everyone to join its rhythm and dance barefoot in the sand as the sun goes down.
Personally, I was hypnotised and went back every day, bringing friends to join in the amazing vibe. So don’t wait – the drums are calling and you won’t regret experiencing this.
Download this book now to plan your trip to Arambol beach
For everything you need to know about the Arambol parties and more fun places to go in Goa, check out the comprehensive eBook, The Insider’s Guide to Goa, written by Rachel Jones, an American who lived in Goa for five years.
Click here to buy the eBook and get all the details you need before you arrive in Arambol
Next up, read about more of the best things to do in Arambol.
Very nice! Must confess it took me a while to take in the cows on the second picture!
Lots of love, Ad xxx