Goa Airport: Your Guide to Flights, Transfers, and Nearby Beaches

When you land at Goa Airport, the main air gateway to the coastal state of Goa in India, serving millions of tourists each year. Also known as Dabolim Airport, it’s the older, more central option—just 3 kilometers from Panaji and close to popular beaches like Calangute and Baga. But since 2022, there’s a second player: Mopa Airport, a modern, high-capacity airport built to ease congestion and serve northern Goa. Also called Manohar International Airport, it’s 30 kilometers from North Goa’s top spots like Anjuna and Arambol. Together, these two airports handle everything from budget flights from Delhi to luxury charters from Dubai, making Goa one of India’s busiest tourist gateways.

Choosing between Dabolim and Mopa isn’t just about flight prices—it’s about where you’re headed next. If you’re heading south to Palolem or Colva, Dabolim saves you an hour on the road. If you’re chasing the hippie vibe in Anjuna or the quiet shores of Agonda, Mopa cuts your transfer time in half. Most tourists don’t realize how different the taxi experience is between the two. At Dabolim, you’ll find a crowded queue of unregulated cabs. At Mopa, you’ll see official prepaid counters and app-based rides like Ola and Uber already waiting. The drive from Mopa to North Goa is smooth, modern, and lit up at night. The drive from Dabolim to South Goa? It’s winding, narrow, and passes through villages where cows often block the road. Neither is bad—just different.

Don’t just pick the cheapest flight. Check which airport it lands at. A ₹800 taxi ride from Dabolim to Calangute might sound fine until you realize it takes 45 minutes in traffic. A ₹1,200 ride from Mopa to Vagator? It’s 25 minutes, no stops, and you’re already smelling the sea. And if you’re flying in during monsoon season, Mopa’s better drainage and elevated runway mean fewer delays. Both airports have ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and basic food stalls—but only Mopa has air-conditioned lounges and charging ports every few feet. If you’re traveling with kids, elderly parents, or just want to avoid the chaos, Mopa wins. If you’re on a tight budget and your hotel is near the old airport, Dabolim still gets you there.

What you’ll find below are real traveler stories about getting from Goa Airport to your beach shack, the hidden taxi scams to watch out for, and which airport gives you the best shot at a stress-free start to your trip. You’ll also see how locals and long-term visitors choose between the two—and why some never go back to Dabolim after trying Mopa. Whether you’re here for the parties, the temples, or the quiet sunset walks, your airport choice shapes your whole Goa experience. Let’s get you from the plane to the sand without the headache.