Goa boasts some of the best beaches not only in India but the entirety of Asia. This former Portuguese colony attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year looking to escape from the daily grind and disconnect from everything. Whether you want to chill, party, or indulge in a yoga retreat, there’s a beach in Goa for you.
With so many fabulous beaches, it can be hard to know the best place to stay. Goa is well-spaced out, but a plus point is that hostels here are inexpensive. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re not fun, sociable, and clean!
To help you out, we’ve searched through the best hostels in this beautiful part of India, finding the best and most suitable hostels for your trip, taking into account itinerary and budget.
Thankfully, there are a lot of great places to choose from, including traditional beach huts, classy boutique hostels, and even a couple of reliable chains. So, let’s take a closer look at the best that Goa has to offer!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Goa
#1 Best overall hostel in Goa: Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem
#2 Best party hostel in Goa: Bricks and Bamboo Hostel
#3 Best hostel for solo travellers in Goa: Jungle by thehostelcrowd
#4 Best hostel near Fort Aguada: #Hashtag Rooms
#5 Best hostel near Anjuna Beach: Hopping Frog Beach Front
#6 Best hostel near Arambol Beach: The Peace Hostel, Arambol
#7 Best hostel near Palolem Beach: Summer by thehostelcrowd
#8 Best airport near Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport): Folklore Hostel
#9 Best hostel near Magdaon Railway Station: Jes Guesthouse
#10 Best hostel near Kadamba Bus Terminus: OLD QUARTER by thehostelcrowd
#11 Best high-end hostel in Goa: Sturmfrei Hostel
#12 Best budget hostel in Goa: Yellow Jumbo Hostel Anjuna
#13 Best hostel with private rooms in Goa: Dreams Hostel
#1 – Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem
Best overall hostel in Goa
Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem is the best overall hostel in Goa
Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem is the best overall hostel in Goa
Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem is the best overall hostel in Goa- Cost – $$
- Location – 76, Ourem Road, Behind Maria Cafe, Palolem, Canacona, South Goa
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem…
This colourful and artistic hostel has a fantastically friendly atmosphere, meaning it’s easily the best place to stay in Goa! The common areas are a great place to get chatting and meet other backpackers. If you don’t mind shelling out a little extra, you can get a room with aircon instead of a ceiling fan – perfect for the Goan heat.
Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem is perfect for…
Travellers who want a comfortable stay in a nicely decorated hostel and meet other like-minded people will love this artsy place. It’s just a short walk from Palolem Beach too, meaning that you can roll out of bed and head straight to the golden sands and blue waters!
Don’t stop the party! Read up on Goa’s best party hostels too!
#2 – Bricks and Bamboo Hostel
Best party hostel in Goa
Bricks and Bamboo Hostel is the best party hostel in Goa
Bricks and Bamboo Hostel is the best party hostel in Goa
Bricks and Bamboo Hostel is the best party hostel in Goa- Cost – $$
- Location – 926, Pequeno Peddem, flea market road, Anjuna
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Bricks and Bamboo Hostel…
This cosy hostel may be a great place to chill during the day, but at night it really comes alive with the vibrant bar, making it the best place to stay if you want to party in Goa! Each week, there are trance nights on the beach which the staff will happily point you in the direction of too.
Bricks and Bamboo Hostel is perfect for…
Sociable travellers who want to enjoy a few drinks with their new roommates in the evening should look no further than Bricks and Bamboo Hostel! The bar offers very reasonably priced drinks and a lot of common spaces to kick back and relax. If you’re interested in hippie culture, this place gives you a chance to experience it in their traditional huts!
#3 – Jungle by thehostelcrowd
Best hostel for solo travellers in Goa
Best party hostel in Goa is the best hostel for solo travellers in Goa
Best party hostel in Goa is the best hostel for solo travellers in Goa
Best party hostel in Goa is the best hostel for solo travellers in Goa- Cost – $$
- Location – 486(2) Vagator Beach Road, Next to Mango Tree Restaurant
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Jungle by thehostelcrowd…
You’ll find a huge garden, a spacious common area, and numerous outdoor terraces at this traditional Portuguese house, making it the perfect place to stay if you’re travelling solo and want to meet new people and make friends on your travels. We love that this hostel works closely with the local community too!
Jungle by thehostelcrowd is perfect for…
If you’re worried about not meeting people when you’re travelling solo, then this place will put those worries right to the back of your mind. Not only can you meet other people in the Jungle hostel, but there is a shuttle service every Tuesday and Saturday which will take you to thehostelcrowd’s other properties, maximising your opportunities to meet people!
Travel Tip: If you’re headed to Goa, you ought to know some of the incredible things you can do there! Check out This Guide to Goa’s Unique Offbeat Destinations!
#4 – #Hashtag Rooms
Best hostel near Fort Aguada
- Cost – $$
- Location – House No- 1/264/A,Near Coco Lala, Gaura Vaddo,Calangute,North Goa
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like #Hashtag Rooms…
At just 7km from the historical Fort Aguada, one of Goa’s most prominent tourist attractions, this cool and independent place is the nearest hostel and therefore the best place if the fort is on your agenda. We love the hostel has a beach hut open year-round and that water sports are just 2 minutes away!
#Hashtag Rooms is perfect for…
If you want to be close to Fort Aguada, then this is your best choice. 7km may sound like a lot, but it’s less than 20 minutes in a rickshaw! If that’s not enough, then you can choose between the beach on your doorstep or the coffee culture of Calangute – a village where you can also pick up some souvenirs for your nearest and dearest.
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#5 – Hopping Frog Beach Front
Best hostel near Anjuna Beach
- Cost – $$
- Location – 719/2, St Anthony Prais, Dmello Vaddo, Monteiro Vaddo,Opposite UV bar, Anjuna
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hopping Frog Beach Front…
This tranquil, peaceful, and welcoming hostel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the beautiful Anjuna Beach, making it silly to choose anywhere else if you want to be close to one of the region’s most popular beaches. We love that the hostel is surrounded by nature, making it super easy to chill out!
Hopping Frog Beach Front is perfect for…
Travellers who want to be close to Anjuna Beach and the famous Sunset Point viewpoint should have Hopping Frog Beach right at the top of their list when it comes to where to stay in Goa! The hostel welcomes all age groups, so it doesn’t matter if you’re 18 or 80, you’re bound to meet people here that you’ll connect with!
Want to go deeper? Take a cool tour in Goa to learn more than you could on your own!
#6 – The Peace Hostel, Arambol
Best hostel near Arambol Beach
- Cost – $$
- Location – House No 327, Madhla wada, Girkarwada road, Arambol
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Peace Hostel, Arambol…
This friendly and laid-back hostel is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the paradise of Arambol Beach, meaning it’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to this pristine stretch of sand! We love that there’s free Wi-Fi – great for Instagramming shots of the beach and the sunset views from Arambol mountain.
The Peace Hostel, Arambol is perfect for…
Travellers who want to be close to one of Goa’s more relaxed beaches will love it here. The sleepy fishing village gives you a perfect opportunity for a more local experience – great for getting off the usual beaten tourist track. Of course, in such a sociable hostel you can enjoy spending time with other backpackers too. You’ll get the best of both worlds!
#7 – Summer by thehostelcrowd
Best hostel near Palolem Beach
- Cost – $$
- Location – House Numbe 99/1, Ourem Road, Palolem
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Summer by thehostelcrowd…
Palolem Beach is one of Southern Goa’s most popular beaches, and this deluxe cottage hostel is a great place to stay if you want to be within walking distance of the waves. We love the tasty free breakfast – perfect for soaking up the hangover from the previous evening’s cocktails!
Summer by thehostelcrowd is perfect for…
If you want to be right on Palolem Beach, there really isn’t a better option than Summer by thehostelcrowd. Long term solo travellers and couples will be pleased to know that they can take a break from sharing a room as the single, double, and twin private cottages here are very reasonably priced!
#8 – Folklore Hostel
Best airport near Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
- Cost – $$
- Location – House No.524/2, Behind The Grand Leoney Resort, Near Mango Tree Restaurant, Vagator
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Folklore Hostel…
Dabolim airport is a bit of a trek from Goa’s top hostels, so what’s the next best thing? One that offers airport transfers! That’s exactly what you’ll find at this cosy hostel, where it’s easy to rest, recuperate, and rejuvenate. We love enjoying a morning coffee with a spectacular view of the lush, green jungle.
Folklore Hostel is perfect for…
Travellers who want to relax will be pretty enamoured with this place. The location in the Vagator foothills means you can experience some of the natural Goan beauty. The fact that the hotel offers airport transfers will take any stress out of early morning or late night journeys to or from the airport so you can fully enjoy the hostel and surrounding area!
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#9 – Jes Guesthouse
Best hostel near Magdaon Railway Station
- Cost – $$
- Location – H.No 254/1 Pacheco, Near Milagres Chaple, Beach Ro, Majorda, Salcete Goa
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Jes Guesthouse…
This charming and friendly guest house isn’t far at all from Magdaon Railway Station, meaning it should be high up your list if you’re arriving or leaving Goa by train. Also, it’s kind of hard not to love about a place that offers its own private balcony with every room!
Jes Guesthouse is perfect for…
Travellers who need to be close to Magdaon Railway Station won’t find a better-priced property near to the station, so it’s perfect if you have an early morning or late-night train journey – or if you’re just a bit of a stress head when it comes to your travel arrangements! The friendly family who runs it will be able to help you find your way around Goa too.
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#10 – OLD QUARTER by thehostelcrowd
Best hostel near Kadamba Bus Terminus
- Cost – $$
- Location – 165, Rua 31 de Janeiro, Fontainhas, Panjim
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like OLD QUARTER by thehostelcrowd…
It’s not right by the Kadamba Bus Terminus, but taxis aren’t pricey so if you need to be close to the bus station, then this is a great place to stay! This charming hostel is located in the Portuguese Heritage Zone of Panjim – unlike anywhere else in Goa or India. It’s a great place to explore by bike!
OLD QUARTER by thehostelcrowd is perfect for…
If you want to be within reasonable distance of the Kadamba Bus Terminus, and also want to enjoy India’s smallest state capital – a gem of colonial architecture, then you should definitely consider the OLD QUARTER hostel! There are several options for private rooms, meaning it’s a top choice for couples too.
#11 – Sturmfrei Hostel
Best high-end hostel in Goa
- Cost – $
- Location – House No. 167/2, Zhor Vaddo, Anjuna Beach – Vagator Beach Junction, Anjuna
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Sturmfrei Hostel…
Flashpackers who can afford to part with a bit more cash should take a look at this energetic and cultural hostel. We love the location – just 5 minutes away from some of Northern Goa’s most beautiful beaches by scooter, you’re never far away from a bit of relaxation, whether it’s on the beach or in the hostel’s common areas!
Sturmfrei Hostel is perfect for…
Travellers who want to meet lots of people from other cultures in a comfortable, warm, and classy environment will love Sturmfrei Hostel! It’s easy to get sucked into the chilled-out and friendly atmosphere, just make sure you don’t end up staying here too long!
#12 – Yellow Jumbo Hostel Anjuna
Best budget hostel in Goa
- Cost – $$
- Location – house number 708/3, st. anthony vaddo, anjuna, near anjuna parking/taxi stand
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Yellow Jumbo Hostel Anjuna…
This colourful and affordable hostel offers some of the best value beds in the whole of Goa, and it should definitely be on the list for budget backpackers. There’s a really useful currency exchange desk, meaning you’ll not get caught up in any scams when getting your rupees! There’s a tour desk too for arranging trips to the top tourist attractions, such as the Basilica de Bom Jesus and Dudhsagar Falls.
Yellow Jumbo Hostel Anjuna is perfect for…
Budget-conscious travellers will find a gem in this friendly hostel. Although the price is low, there’s no compromise on quality and comfort. The tours offered here are competitive too, and a great opportunity to see everything that this beautiful region has to offer!
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#13 – Dreams Hostel
Best hostel with private rooms in Goa
- Cost – $
- Location – 500(1), Vagator Beach Road, Vagator
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Dreams Hostel…
This creative international space has a wide selection of 1 and 2-person private rooms, making it a great place to stay if you want a bit of privacy! The common room is a great place to meet new people over a board game, or simply sit and relax and get lost in a book!
Dreams Hostel is perfect for…
Couples or long-term travellers feeling they need a break from a noisy, sweaty dorm are in luck when they book at Dreams Hostel. There are a range of private rooms to suit different budgets and tastes, with the priciest ones offering some real Goan luxury!
Other best hostels in Goa
#14 – The Nest by Hostelogy
- Cost – $$
- Location – No.1689, near Anjuna fountain view restaurant, C/O Narayan Nilogi,behind Kuttweshwar Hindu temple
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Nest by Hostelogy…
This elegant and beautifully designed property offers a range of private rooms and dormitories in the tourist haven of Anjuna and Vagator. Sat right in the middle of a forest, this renovated Portuguese villa gives you the choice between a few drinks at a bar or a leisurely stroll down to the beach! Not a bad choice, eh?
The Nest by Hostelogy is perfect for…
Those who want a slightly more upmarket accommodation without the price that usually accompanies such a thing should consider staying at the Nest. If you’re on a road trip, then the hostel offers parking space – sure to take a load off your mind if you know that your car will be safe here!
#15 – ImagiNation – Artists’ Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – House number 277, Roof top, Blue House, Madhlawad, Pernem Road, Arambol
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like ImagiNation – Artists’ Hostel…
This bold and artistic hostel offers a space for creatives to work, meet like-minded people, and be inspired all while enjoying the sun and sand of Goa. Just 2km from Arambol Beach, we love the community feel that’s been created here! The chill out zone is a great place to enjoy a book from the mini-library.
ImagiNation – Artists’ Hostel is perfect for…
Artists who are perhaps considering a slightly longer-term stay in Goa should definitely consider this creative hostel. Being surrounded by like-minded people might just give you that spark of inspiration for your next project! The cosy spot hosts film nights so you can switch off and relax too.
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Goa?
You can usually find dormitory rooms in Goa for less than $10 per night, making it a great destination for budget travelers! If you want a private room, prices start around $15 and go up to $50 or $60 for nicer spots.
What are Hostels in Goa Like?
Expect beach vibes! Goa is famous for its beaches, and most hotels capitalize on this attraction; many are right by the water or are within easy walking distance to the beaches, and quite a few hostels also have swimming pools. Enjoy tropical decorations, hammocks, and cool Indian furnishings!
How Safe are Hostels in Goa?
Goa is a fairly safe travel destination, but you should check to make sure that your hostel has security features like lockers and CCTV cameras. Ask about what precautions to take to avoid any issues during your stay.
How to Find Hostels in Goa?
Check out your options using HostelWorld and other online search platforms to compare prices and facilities. If you're traveling around other places in India, you can probably get suggestions from other traveler or ask at your current hostel or hotel!
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Best overall hostel in Goa
Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem
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Check Best Price |
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Best party hostel in Goa
Bricks and Bamboo Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel for solo travellers in Goa
Jungle by thehostelcrowd
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Check Best Price |
 |
Best hostel near Fort Aguada
#Hashtag Rooms
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near Anjuna Beach
Hopping Frog Beach Front
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near Arambol Beach
The Peace Hostel, Arambol
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near Palolem Beach
Summer by thehostelcrowd
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Check Best Price |
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Best airport near Goa International Airport
(Dabolim Airport) Folklore Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near Magdaon Railway Station
Jes Guesthouse
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near Kadamba Bus Terminus
OLD QUARTER by thehostelcrowd
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Check Best Price |
 |
Best high-end hostel in Goa
Sturmfrei Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best budget hostel in Goa
Yellow Jumbo Hostel Anjuna
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel with private rooms in Goa
Dreams Hostel
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Check Best Price |
Conclusion
So, there we have it. We’ve taken a detailed and in-depth look at the best hostels on offer in Goa, and we’re pretty certain you’ll have found something to suit your tastes – and even more importantly your credit card – on our extensive list!
We wouldn’t want you not to make the most of your time in a tropical paradise now, would we?
Hostels are a great way to travel, especially in somewhere like Goa, as you’ll be able to save your cash to enjoy some cocktails by the sunset with your new traveller friends. You might even have something left over in your budget to continue travelling through India!
And remember to seriously consider out top choice in Goa – Rainbow Linings Hostel Palolem. We hope that whichever cool hostel you choose to stay in, you have an unforgettable trip!
***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)
