3 Days in Colva for a Food Trip

Colva is where Goan flavors come alive, from beachside shacks to hidden family-run spots. I've spent years eating my way through this coastal gem, and this itinerary covers the best bites without missing the local vibe. Think fresh seafood, spicy vindaloos, and the famous bebinca dessert—all while soaking in that easygoing Goan charm.

Goa, goa
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sunset dinner at a beach shack with fresh crab curry
Tasting the perfect pork vindaloo at a tiny local joint
Learning to make Goan fish curry with a home cook
Ending each day with a slice of warm bebinca

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Colva

Kick off your Colva adventure with its famous beach, local markets, and delicious Goan cuisine. Start slow, soak in the coastal vibes, and indulge in fresh seafood.

Activities

Morning at Colva Beach
Morning at Colva Beach

Begin your day with a relaxed stroll along Colva Beach, one of Goa's most famous stretches of sand. The early hours are perfect for avoiding crowds and catching local fishermen bringing in their catch. Dip your toes in the water or rent a beach chair to just unwind.

Colva Beach, near the Our Lady of Mercy Church7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best for calm weather and fewer crowds)Free (Beach chair rental ~INR 100-200)
Tips:
  • Carry cash for small vendors—many don’t accept digital payments.
  • Bargain politely if buying souvenirs from beachside stalls.
Breakfast at Peep Kitchen

A cozy spot loved by locals for its authentic Goan breakfast. Try their poee (Goan bread) with chorizo or the classic fish curry rice. The café’s laid-back vibe makes it a great place to chat with fellow travelers.

Peep Kitchen, near Colva Circle9:30 AM - 10:30 AMINR 200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for their daily special—it’s usually the freshest catch.
  • Their kokum juice is a refreshing must-try.
Explore Colva Market

Wander through the bustling Colva Market, where you’ll find everything from spices to handmade crafts. It’s smaller than Margao’s but less touristy, with a mix of everyday items and souvenirs. Don’t miss the fresh coconut stalls—perfect for a mid-morning refreshment.

Colva Market Road, near the main bus stand11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (before the midday heat)Free to explore (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Look for Goan cashews and feni (local liquor) for unique souvenirs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes—the lanes can get crowded.

Must Try Foods

Fish curry rice
Bebinca (layered Goan dessert)
Prawn balchão (spicy pickle-style dish)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Margao Railway Station (8 km, ~20 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Colva Bus Stand (frequent buses to Margao and nearby beaches)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; use GoaMiles app for reliable fares or hail local taxis (negotiate rates upfront)

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Day 2

Day 2 in Colva

A mix of cultural sights and local flavors, from historic churches to seafood feasts by the beach.

Activities

Visit the Our Lady of Mercy Church
Visit the Our Lady of Mercy Church

Start your day with a peaceful visit to this 16th-century church, known for its stunning white facade and serene atmosphere. The interiors are simple yet beautiful, with a quiet garden perfect for reflection. It's a great way to soak in some of Goa's colonial history.

Our Lady of Mercy Church, ColvaMorning, around 9 AM to avoid the heatFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it's a place of worship
  • Check if there's a morning mass for a fuller experience
Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Head to this popular spot for a hearty Goan seafood lunch. Their butter garlic crab and prawn balchão are legendary, and the laid-back vibe by the river makes it a perfect midday break. Try the local feni cocktail for a true Goan touch.

Fisherman's Wharf, near Colva Beach12:30 PM to 2 PM₹800-₹1500 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for the catch of the day
  • Their seafood platter is great for sharing
Sunset at Benaulim Beach
Sunset at Benaulim Beach

Just a short drive from Colva, Benaulim offers a quieter beach experience with the same golden sands. Rent a beach chair, sip on fresh coconut water, and watch local fishermen bring in their catch as the sun dips into the Arabian Sea.

Benaulim Beach, 5km from Colva5 PM to 7 PM₹200-₹500 for chairs/umbrella
Tips:
  • Walk south along the shore for more secluded spots
  • Bargain politely for beach chair rentals

Must Try Foods

Goan fish curry with rice
Prawn balchão
Bebinca (layered Goan dessert)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Margao Railway Station (6km, 15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Colva Circle (frequent buses to Margao and nearby beaches)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; Uber/Ola work well, or ask your hotel to arrange

Day 3

Day 3 in Colva

A laid-back day diving into Colva's hidden gems, from serene lakes to local art and unforgettable Goan flavors.

Activities

Morning at Sernabatim Lake

Start your day with the quiet charm of Sernabatim Lake, a lesser-known spot just a short walk from Colva Beach. The lake is surrounded by coconut palms and offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Bring a book or just sit by the water—it’s a great place to spot local birds like kingfishers and egrets.

Sernabatim Lake, near Colva Beach7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best in the early morning light)Free
Tips:
  • Carry mosquito repellent—it’s a bit leafy here.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the short walk from the main road.
Goan Pottery Workshop at Clay Cafe

Get your hands dirty at Clay Cafe, a cozy spot where you can try your hand at traditional Goan pottery. The friendly artisans guide you through shaping clay into simple cups or bowls, and you can even take your creation home after it’s fired. The cafe also serves excellent herbal teas and snacks, making it a perfect mid-morning break.

Clay Cafe, near Colva Market10:00 AM - 12:00 PM₹500-800 per person (includes materials and refreshments)
Tips:
  • Book ahead—they have limited slots.
  • Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little muddy.
Lunch at Martin’s Corner

No trip to Colva is complete without a meal at Martin’s Corner, a legendary spot for Goan-Portuguese fusion food. Try their fiery prawn balchão or the melt-in-your-mouth pork vindaloo. The laid-back vibe and live music (on some evenings) make it a local favorite. Don’t skip the bebinca for dessert—it’s a Goan classic.

Martin’s Corner, Betalbatim (10-minute drive from Colva)1:00 PM - 3:00 PM₹800-1500 per person
Tips:
  • Go early to avoid the lunch rush.
  • Ask for their daily specials—they’re usually spot-on.

Must Try Foods

Prawn Balchão
Pork Vindaloo
Bebinca (layered coconut cake)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Margao Railway Station (6 km, 15-20 minutes by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Colva Bus Stand (frequent buses to Margao and nearby beaches)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; Uber/Ola work, but local taxis (metered or negotiated) are more common.

Travel Tips

Cash is king at small eateries—ATMs aren't always nearby
Ask for 'medium spicy' unless you really handle heat—Goan spices pack a punch
The best fish comes in early—aim for lunch if you want the freshest catch
Don't miss the pao (Goan bread) with every meal—it's perfect for scooping up curries

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