A serene coastal village in South Goa, Majorda has become known for its pristine golden sands and distinctive Indo-Portuguese architecture. Perched on the edge of the Arabian Sea, which borders Goa for more than 70 kilometres, this tranquil destination offers some fabulous accommodation options, including restored village houses-turned-hotels as well as impressive luxury resorts.

South Goa is famously quiet, and brilliant for those seeking a different experience to the buzz of North Goa. Hop on bicycles to wind your way along palm-shaded village lanes, with crumbling painted houses reflecting Goa’s intriguing fusion of Indian and Portuguese influences. Small neighbourhood shops and boutiques showcasing clothing and homeware by Goan designers are studded throughout the village, and most paths lead ultimately towards the sea.

Majorda’s vast golden beaches are ideal for long walks and sunbathing, with refreshing swims in the Arabian Sea and parasailing and jet-skiing opportunities. Seafood restaurants and small bars fill up fast in the early evenings, ahead of dramatic sunsets — best enjoyed with a Goan beer in hand. Delve into Goa’s rich history with guided village tours, or speak to the teams at the best places to stay in Majorda about tours of imposing private residences across South Goa. Many are open by appointment and hugely charming.

The Best Places to Stay in Majorda

For Boutique Charm

• The Postcard Cuelim is a charming small hotel housed in a 350-year-old terracotta-tile-roofed residence. Expect elegant interiors with wooden furnishings, soft drapes and sunlit balconies. There's gourmet fare to the savoured in the gardens, too. A boutique gem. 
• Vivenda dos Palhaços has long been a Majorda favourite. Run by a brother-and-sister team, this immensely characterful spot comprises a heritage house - with Portuguese and Hindu elements - as well as a small cottage and quirky tented bedroom. Quirky and welcoming, the hotel promises terrific food and drink - and the atmosphere of a fascinating friend's magical house party.  

For Contemporary Style

• Courtyard by Marriott Goa is a large contemporary hotel just 500 metres from Colva Beach. Smart, stylish interiors will please fans of clean, uncluttered design. There's a spa, all-day restaurant and refreshing swimming pool, along with a lively kids' club. A modern hotel choice for guests of all ages. 

For a Family-Friendly Resort

• Alila Diwa Goa faces verdant paddy fields in lovely Majorda. Expect five-star style in swish guest rooms with huge bathrooms boasting free-standing tubs, plus garden views. With four restaurants, a lively bar, kids' club, multiple pools and a superb spa, there's little reason to leave! The Ayurvedic treatments come highly recommended. 
• ITC Grand Goa Resort stretches across 45 acres of lush, sea-facing grounds. Unwind at the Kaya Kalp spa, sink into palm-fringed pools, wander along the private beach and feast at some of the excellent eateries. The kids' club and games room add to the sense of fun for the whole family. 
• Beleza by the Beach offers a laid-back resort experience on the golden sands of Colva Beach. Airy guest rooms feature colourful textiles and sliding doors revealing private balconies. There are three restaurants, a popular bar, a serene spa and a swimming pool with shallow end for little ones. Fun and friendly.

Prefer an Apartment or Private Villa?

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa, we'd recommend visiting our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Goa Dabolim Airport, 30 minutes north of Majorda. Public transport around Goa is fairly limited, but most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance. 
• If you're comfortable driving in India, contact our online partner Rentalcars to hire a car.
• Peak season runs from November through to mid-February, when the weather is cooler and dry. Expect December to be particularly lively with festivals and events by the coast in North Goa; the south tends to be far quieter. Consider avoiding the hottest months of April and May when cycling along village lanes will feel very warm. The same goes for the rainy season, which runs from June to August.

Still not sure ?

• Refine your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Panaji.
• Alternatively, see our pick of the best places to stay in Goa.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.