What to Drink in Goa: Best Beers, Local Brews & Non-Alcoholic Options

Goa is one of our favourite beach destinations in India, known for its stunning beaches, sunny weather, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food.

But Goa isn’t just about the scenery; its drinks scene is equally worth exploring. From crisp, refreshing beers perfect for a long day on the beach, to unique local brews and tasty non-alcoholic options, there’s something for every traveller.

In this guide, I’ll share the best beers to try in Goa, plus a few must-try non-alcoholic drinks, so you can enjoy the perfect drink whether you’re relaxing by the sea, enjoying a succulent Goan meal, or dancing all night in the clubs.

Best Beers In Goa For Every Occasion

Kingfisher Ultra

Kingfisher Ultra is one of the most refreshing beers to enjoy on a Goan beach. Unlike the slightly bitter and heavy Kingfisher lager you might have tried in the UK, the Goan Kingfisher Ultra is light, citrusy and refreshing, perfect for those days spent sunbathing on the Goan sands.

Summary: Light, crisp and refreshing

Where to drink: On the beach, in the sun, reading a book… paradise!

Kingfisher Premium

Another Kingfisher – I promise this is the last one.

Kingfisher Premium is a slightly heavier, maltier version and often comes in bigger bottles. Its fuller flavour makes it much more suited as a drink to pair with Goan cuisine like spicy curries or grilled fish, while watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Summary: Crisp but fuller-bodied than Ultra

Where to drink: With dinner, preferably a delicious curry or even with a tandoor Kingfish

Tuborg Lager

If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual Indian lagers, Tuborg is a great choice. It also has the advantage of often being the cheapest beer available at most beach shacks. Not as crisp as the Kingfisher Ultra, but a very decent all-round lager to enjoy anywhere at any time

Summary: Cheap and cheerful all-round larger

Where to drink: Anywhere, well-suited to enjoying while having a dance in a Goan club

Hoegaarden

This Belgian classic has made its way to the shores of  Goa and is a popular choice in bars and shacks, and restaurants. Hoegaarden has a smooth, creamy texture with notes of coriander and orange peel, giving it a slightly spiced, citrusy flavour. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for something familiar and reliable, especially if you’ve enjoyed it elsewhere

Summary: Smooth, citrusy, with a touch of spice
Where to drink: Bars and restaurants, especially in the evenings

Bira White

While Hoegaarden is a classic wheat beer, Bira White feels like the perfect Goan upgrade. It’s lighter, fruitier, and more refreshing, exactly what you need in the middle of a scorching day on the beach. With hints of orange and a crisp finish, it’s made for sipping while you’re stretched out on a sunbed, watching the waves roll in. Personally, it’s my favourite beach beer in Goa!

Summary: Fruity, light and crisp, made for the beach
Where to drink: On the sand with sunshine and sea views

Craft and Local Goan Beers

While the above dominate most bar menus, Goa also has its own growing craft beer scene. Two names to look out for are Susegado and People’s, both brewed locally and offering something a little different from the mass-market beer options.

Susegado

A relative newcomer on the Goan beer scene, the Susegado range has shown how local beers can more than hold their weight. The ‘Tropical Wit’ in particular is a brilliant craft beer. This locally brewed wheat beer is fruity, light and just a little exotic, with hints of citrus and spice that make it stand out from your standard lagers. Compared to Hoegaarden or Bira White, it has a slightly more complex flavour, with tropical notes that really suit the laid-back Goan vibe.

It’s not as widely available as Kingfisher or Tuborg, but if you spot it on a menu, it’s worth trying for the craft beer experience (you can find it in these locations: Susegado Locations). To me, it feels like the perfect choice when you want something refreshing but also uniquely Goan.

Summary:  Craft-style, fruity and tropical

Where to drink: At beach shacks or craft beer bars, ideally while watching the sunset

People’s Lager

People’s is another Goan-brewed beer that’s a little more well-established. It’s a straightforward, easy-drinking lager — crisp but a bit heavier and bitter than some other Goan beers. 

It might not have the tropical or fruity twist of a wheat beer, but that’s what makes it a great all-rounder, something you can happily sip on all day, but also is brilliant with a classic Goan dinner like sausage fry.

Summary: Flavourful, strong and and a perfect all-rounder
Where to drink: Anywhere you’d usually grab a lager, but especially good with food

Best Non-Alcoholic Options To Cool Down In Goa

Sometimes a beer is all you need, but sometimes it’s not, or perhaps you’re just not a fan. On those occasions, these classic Indian beverages will never let you down.

Limca

Nothing hits the spot in Goa’s heat quite like an ice-cold bottle of Limca. This classic Indian soft drink is a lemon-lime soda that’s fizzy, tangy, and super refreshing. I promise, it’s the most refreshing thing I’ve ever tried! It’s lighter and less sweet than something like Sprite, with a slight salty twist that is especially thirst-quenching. For hot afternoons when you don’t feel like a beer, Limca is the perfect alternative.

Summary: Fizzy, refreshing and thirst-quenching
Where to drink: Any time you need a quick refresher, especially after a long walk or swim

Mango Lassi

For something completely different, you can’t beat a Mango (or plain) Lassi. The thick, creamy yoghurt-based drink is a staple not just in India but in Indian restaurants all over the world, and for good reason, it’s delicious! More of a treat than a thirst-quencher, I love it with breakfast or to help cool down a spicy Goan curry.

Summary: Creamy, fruity and sweet
Where to drink: As a morning pick-me-up or with a hot curry

The Best Beers in Goa

You’ve probably got an idea of my favourite from the list above,but to summarise:

The best Goan beer to drink on the beach: Bira White or Kingfisher Ultra

The best beer to drink with dinner: People’s Lager

The best drink with breakfast: Mango Lassi

Tips For Drinking In Goa

• Beer is often cheaper in shops than in the shacks, but it is not sold everywhere. Look out for ‘wine shops’ or ‘alcohol sold here’.
• Pace yourself! Goa can get extremely hot, especially in the sun. Make sure to drink plenty of water and pace yourself to avoid feeling ill.
• Don’t be scared to try something new, especially if it’s local. There are so many new companies looking to get it’s way into Goa’s exciting drink scene, give them a try!
• Goa has some of the best food in all of India, from vindaloo to xacuti, amazing BBQ fish and spicy pork fry. Find the right pairing to take the whole experience to a new level.

Have you tried any beers in Goa, or are you planning a trip to the beach state soon? Let us know in the comments below…

If you’re travelling elsewhere in India, check out our food guide to Rajasthan!