3 Days in Arambol for a Laid-Back Food Trip

Arambol is where Goa's hippie vibe meets incredible food. I've spent countless evenings here, munching on fresh seafood, sipping coconut water, and discovering hidden cafes. This itinerary covers the best bites, from beach shacks to cozy family-run spots, all with that signature Arambol chill.

Goa, goa
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sunset dinner at a beach shack with your feet in the sand
Trying the famous wood-fired pizzas from a tiny roadside oven
Fresh coconut pancakes for breakfast with ocean views
Late-night falafel wraps from the Israeli-run stalls

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

Share Your Adventure

Spread the word about this amazing trip!

Day 1

Day 1 in Arambol

Kick off your Arambol adventure with its famous beach, vibrant markets, and delicious Goan flavors.

Activities

Morning at Arambol Beach
Morning at Arambol Beach

Start your day with the soft sands and gentle waves of Arambol Beach. It's quieter in the morning, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a dip in the sea. Don't miss the freshwater lake at the northern end, hidden behind the cliffs—great for a quick swim.

Arambol Beach, North Goa7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (to avoid midday heat)Free (beach chairs/shade may cost ₹100-200)
Tips:
  • Carry a sarong or towel—there are no changing facilities.
  • Look for the small chai stalls near the beach entrance for a morning pick-me-up.
Explore Arambol Market

Wander through the lively Arambol Market, where you'll find everything from handmade jewelry to colorful hippie clothing. The market is a mix of local vendors and expat sellers, giving it a unique vibe. Stop by the organic fruit stalls for fresh coconut or a juicy mango.

Arambol Beach Road Market11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (before the afternoon lull)Varies (budget ₹500-1000 for souvenirs/snacks)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely—prices are often inflated for tourists.
  • Try the 'kokum juice' from local stalls—it's a refreshing Goan drink.
Lunch at Double Dutch

Arambol’s most famous eatery, Double Dutch, is a must-visit for its laid-back vibe and delicious food. Their seafood platter and banana pancakes are legendary. The shaded garden seating is perfect for a lazy afternoon meal.

Double Dutch, Arambol Beach Road1:30 PM - 3:00 PM (peak lunch hours, but worth the wait)₹600-1200 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early or be prepared to wait—it’s popular!
  • Ask for the day’s fresh catch—it’s usually the best option.

Must Try Foods

Goan fish curry with rice
Banana pancakes
Kokum juice

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Thivim Railway Station (30 km, ~1 hour by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Arambol Bus Stop (frequent buses from Mapusa and Panjim)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; use 'Goa Miles' app or negotiate with local drivers (₹800-1000 from Thivim)

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Arambol's Hidden Charms

A day to uncover Arambol’s lesser-known spots, from a peaceful lake to quirky cafes and a sunset drum circle.

Activities

Morning at Sweetwater Lake
Morning at Sweetwater Lake

Start your day with a short hike to Sweetwater Lake, a serene freshwater spot tucked behind Arambol Beach. It’s a local favorite for a quiet swim or just lounging by the water. The trail through the palm groves feels like a mini-adventure, and you might spot a few monkeys along the way.

Sweetwater Lake, behind Arambol Beach8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best before it gets too hot)Free
Tips:
  • Wear sturdy sandals for the hike
  • Bring a towel and snacks—there are no shops nearby
Lunch at Artjuna Garden Cafe

Head to Artjuna, a bohemian garden cafe known for its healthy, organic meals and laid-back vibe. Their falafel wraps and fresh juices are legendary, and the shaded seating under mango trees is perfect for a lazy afternoon. Don’t miss their homemade chocolate balls!

Artjuna Garden Cafe, near Arambol Market12:30 PM - 2:00 PM₹500-₹1000 per person
Tips:
  • Try their vegan options—even non-veg lovers rave about them
  • Check out the little boutique next door for quirky souvenirs
Sunset Drum Circle at Arambol Beach
Sunset Drum Circle at Arambol Beach

As evening rolls in, join the famous Arambol drum circle near the northern end of the beach. It’s a free-spirited gathering where travelers and locals play drums, dance, and watch the sun dip into the sea. Even if you’re not musically inclined, the energy is infectious.

Northern end of Arambol Beach5:30 PM - 7:00 PM (varies with sunset)Free (though tips for performers are welcome)
Tips:
  • Bring a shawl—it can get breezy
  • Arrive early to snag a good spot on the sand

Must Try Foods

Goan fish curry with rice
Bebinca (layered Goan dessert)
Fresh coconut water from beach vendors

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Thivim Railway Station (25 km, ~45 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Arambol Junction (frequent buses to Mapusa and Panjim)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; negotiate fares upfront or use Goa Miles app

Day 3

Day 3 in Arambol

A laid-back day exploring Arambol's hidden gems, from quirky cafes to serene spots and local flavors.

Activities

Breakfast at Mango Tree Cafe

Start your day at this charming, tree-shaded cafe known for its fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and hearty breakfasts. The relaxed vibe and hammocks make it a perfect spot to linger. Try their famous banana pancakes or the Goan omelette with local spices.

Mango Tree Cafe, near Arambol Beach8:30 AM - 10:00 AM₹200-₹500
Tips:
  • Get there early to snag a hammock seat.
  • Ask for the daily special—it’s usually a winner.
Visit the Arambol Saturday Market

If it’s a Saturday, don’t miss this vibrant market where locals and travelers sell everything from handmade jewelry to spices and clothes. It’s smaller than the regular Arambol Market but has a more bohemian feel. Great for picking up unique souvenirs or just people-watching.

Arambol Saturday Market, near the main beach road10:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Saturdays only)₹0 (window shopping) to ₹2000+ (for shopping)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely—prices are often flexible.
  • Cash is king here; ATMs are nearby but can run out.
Sunset at Arambol Cliff

Skip the crowded beach and head to the quieter Arambol Cliff for sunset. It’s a short walk from the main beach but feels worlds away. Pack a snack, sit on the rocks, and watch the sky turn pink over the Arabian Sea. Locals often gather here with guitars for impromptu jam sessions.

Arambol Cliff, accessible via a path near Sweetwater Lake5:30 PM - 6:30 PM (varies by season)Free
Tips:
  • Wear sturdy shoes—the path can be rocky.
  • Bring a shawl; it gets breezy after sunset.

Must Try Foods

Goan fish curry with rice
Bebinca (layered Goan dessert)
Fresh coconut water from beach vendors

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Thivim Railway Station (25 km, ~45 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Arambol Bus Stop (frequent buses to Mapusa and Panjim)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; Uber/Ola work but local cabs are cheaper. Negotiate rates before hopping in.

Travel Tips

Bring cash - many places don't take cards
Don't miss the daily catch board at seafood spots - it's freshest in the evening
The 'chai wallahs' near the beach make the best masala chai at sunrise
Portions are huge - consider sharing dishes to try more flavors

Related Trips

Explore related trips for this destination

Other Popular Destinations

Explore itineraries for other amazing destinations

Itineraries by Destination