Goa, India Is Leading the 2026 ‘Expedition Beach’ Trend—Here’s Why

Goa, India was recently named among the top travel destinations on Priceline based on an increase in bookings, in line with a new “Expedition Beach” trend, according to the travel platform’s annual Travel Trends report for 2026. 

The moniker refers to the fact that nearly three-quarters of travelers polled are seeking a beach getaway that goes beyond lazy beach days, with something that surprises or excites. Think beachtime combined with thrills, from cliff diving, exploring vibrant coral reefs, and parasailing to jungle hikes.

Goa certainly makes the mark with its beautiful beaches and opportunities for a wealth of outdoor adventures. Parasailing, kitesurfing, flyboarding, scuba diving, banana boat rides, and bungee jumping are just a few of the many possibilities.

Where should you go to experience the Expedition Beach trend in Goa? You’ve got multiple options. 

The so-called watersports capital of North Goa, Baga Beach offers it all for thrill-seekers while being close to restaurants and nightlife. Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boats, and bumper rides are all possible at this lively beach destination.

Calangute offers flyboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, bumper boats, and banana boat rides. This is also where you’ll find Goa Aquatics, a PADI 5 Star Dive Center hosting diving trips to nearby Grande Island, with clear waters inhabited by diverse marine life. Admire tropical fish, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. 

Anjuna, the “Hippie Beach,” is known for its nightlife, including trance parties, but it also offers paragliding, jet skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. For an even bigger thrill, you can bungee jump from an 80-foot tower. 

The calm blue waters at Anjuna are popular for a variety of adventure sports. With strong waves and sea breezes, surfing, windsurfing, and paragliding can all be enjoyed here, with several surf schools offering lessons. The beach is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Trance parties, Full Moon parties, beach raves, and fire shows can all be found here. 

One of Goa’s longest beaches, Candolim is popular for wakeboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, bumper, and banana rides. Speedboat rides offer a heart-pounding adventure while zipping around the sea, while kayaking tours will bring you through the local mangroves.

The long stretch of sand at Benaulim is ideal for strolling, while the calm waters make it suitable for swimming, but there are also thrilling activities like parasailing, speedboat rides, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. Dolphin spotting tours are available too.

Picturesque Majorda offers a wide range of activities, including adrenaline-pumping options like parasailing, jet skiing, water skiing, and banana boat rides. It also has multiple beach shacks serving local food along with umbrella and lounger rentals.