When people think of Goa, beaches usually steal the spotlight. However, beyond the coastline lies a quieter, slower, and deeply cultural side of the state, its islands. Scattered across the Mandovi and Zuari rivers, Goa’s islands offer lush landscapes, charming villages, old churches, and a glimpse into traditional Goan life. Island hopping in Goa feels like stepping back in time, where ferry rides replace traffic and nature sets the pace. Divar, Chorao, and a few lesser-known islands make for a refreshing escape from crowded tourist hubs.
Divar Island: Goa’s Timeless Village
The Divar Island sits quietly in the Mandovi River, accessible by a short ferry ride from Old Goa or Ribandar. The island instantly charms visitors with its winding roads, colourful Portuguese-era homes, and serene surroundings. Cycling through Divar allows you to explore heritage churches, scenic viewpoints, and peaceful backwaters at your own pace.
The island also holds cultural significance, especially during festivals like Bonderam, when the otherwise calm village comes alive with music and celebrations. Divar suits travellers who enjoy slow travel, photography, and authentic local experiences away from commercial tourism.
Chorao Island: Nature and Birdlife
Chorao Island appeals strongly to nature lovers. Home to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, this island offers one of Goa’s richest ecosystems. Dense mangroves, calm waterways, and abundant birdlife define the landscape. Early mornings bring sightings of kingfishers, herons, egrets, and migratory birds during the winter season.
Visitors can explore the sanctuary by boat or walk along village paths that showcase traditional Goan homes and old chapels. Chorao balances nature and culture beautifully, making it ideal for travellers who appreciate quiet exploration and eco-tourism.
St. Estevam Island: Underrated and Peaceful
St. Estevam Island, also known as Jua Island, remains one of Goa’s most underrated destinations. A ferry ride from Ribandar leads you to a tranquil setting with scenic river views and gentle village life. The island features charming churches, lush greenery, and open spaces perfect for long walks.
Unlike more popular spots, St. Estevam rarely feels crowded. It offers a true break from city noise and works well for travellers seeking solitude, reflective moments, or a peaceful day trip surrounded by nature.
Vanxim Island: Rustic and Untouched
Vanxim Island, located close to Divar, offers an untouched rural charm. Coconut palms, narrow lanes, and old houses define the island’s character. Farming and fishing still form the backbone of daily life here, giving visitors a chance to observe traditional livelihoods.
Walking through Vanxim feels intimate and personal, especially for those interested in Goa’s village culture. The island does not offer tourist infrastructure, which makes it perfect for mindful travellers who value simplicity and authenticity.
Cumbarjua Island: A Scenic Drive Experience
Cumbarjua Island connects Old Goa to Agassaim via the Cumbarjua Canal. Unlike other islands accessed by ferry, this one offers a scenic drive surrounded by water and greenery. The canal attracts birdlife and provides beautiful sunset views.
Cumbarjua works well as part of a longer exploration rather than a standalone destination. It allows travellers to appreciate Goa’s river systems and offers a different perspective of the state’s geography.
Ferry Rides: The Heart of Island Hopping
Island hopping in Goa feels incomplete without ferry rides. These ferries serve as lifelines for island communities and offer travellers a slow, scenic journey across rivers. Watching locals commute with bicycles, vegetables, and scooters adds to the charm.
Ferries run frequently and cost very little, making island hopping both accessible and budget-friendly. The experience itself becomes part of the adventure, offering peaceful moments on the water with panoramic views of riverside life.
Best Time for Island Hopping in Goa
The best time to explore Goa’s islands falls between October and March. Pleasant weather, clear skies, and migratory birds enhance the experience. Monsoons, while lush and beautiful, may limit ferry services and accessibility, though they offer dramatic landscapes for experienced travellers.
Starting early in the day allows you to explore multiple islands comfortably and return before evening ferry rush hours.
Why Island Hopping in Goa Feels Special
Goa’s islands reveal a side of the state that beaches often hide. They celebrate slow living, community bonds, and a strong connection to nature. Island hopping allows travellers to disconnect from noise and reconnect with Goa’s roots.
Exploring Divar, Chorao, and other islands offers more than sightseeing, it delivers calm, culture, and stories that stay with you long after the journey ends.
