Serene Waters Homestay is situated in Chimbel, which is very near to Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (on the banks of the river/mangrove backwaters) — this gives it a distinctive “waterfront” actually‐by‐nature feel. It is fairly central in Goa (close to Panjim / central Goa) which means it offers relatively easy access both north and south.
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The natural surroundings are one of its big draws: mangroves, river‐view, calm water — less “big beach resort” and more a tranquil homestay by the water.
Accommodation & Atmosphere
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The property started small (only three rooms) but has expanded to about eight rooms including two family suites.
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Rooms are described as private doubles (queen-sized), air-conditioned, with attached bathrooms. Some rooms include balcony views (pool or garden) depending on category. The décor and ambiance lean toward “homely / comfortable” rather than ultra-luxury. It’s more “relaxed retreat” style. From reviews:
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“This property offers a beautiful, peaceful ambiance nestled by a river, ideal for nature lovers.”
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Many guests highlight the view of water/mangroves as the USP — the feeling of being by the river rather than in a big resort.
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Because it's a homestay, the feel is more intimate, quiet, and suitable for families or couples seeking peace rather than big party crowds.
Facilities & Services
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Swimming pool: The homestay offers a small outdoor pool with views of the waterfront — a nice bonus to the water setting. Free WiFi: According to the listing, WiFi is available.
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Restaurant / on-site meals: There is an in-house restaurant / café area for meals; home-cooked style is highlighted.
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Other services: Bicycle parking, car hire/transfer, airport shuttle (paid) are mentioned. Non-party / family-oriented rules: The listing mentions it’s “family oriented home stay … we do not allow Stags (group of men)”.
Dining & Food
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Breakfast: The listing says breakfast is included in many cases, offering buffet/vegetarian/Asian options.
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Guests have mentioned that the food is “homely style” and the friendly staff help make it comfortable. On the flip side, some reviews note that the food menu and variety could be limited.
Advantages & Highlights
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Wonderful setting: The river / mangrove / waterfront location sets it apart from typical goa beach resorts. A quieter, more nature-oriented stay.
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Good value / intimate scale: Because it’s a smaller property, you get a more personal, peaceful experience.
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Convenient central access: Being in the centre region of Goa makes it easier to explore both north and south (rather than being isolated).
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Pool + nature: A small pool plus natural waterside setting gives a mix of relaxation options (pool + view) rather than only beach access.
Some Drawbacks / Things to Consider
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Being a smaller property and homestay style, maintenance & consistency may not match top luxury resorts. For instance, from a review:
“Some found the entrance difficult to navigate … bathrooms & taps old … hygiene & cleanliness was mixed.”
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If you’re expecting beachfront access (i.e., sand / sea right outside), this is not a beach-front resort but more of a water-edge / mangrove‐creek style stay.
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Some guests say that cleanliness, in-room facilities, or service may not always meet high expectations (for example, older fittings). Because of the “homestay rules” (e.g., no stag groups, certain quiet hours) this may not be suited if you have a very party-oriented trip in mind.
Ideal For & Not Ideal For
Ideal for:
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Couples or families seeking a relaxed, quiet stay in Goa away from heavy tourist noise.
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Nature lovers who appreciate being by the river / mangroves rather than on a crowded beach.
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Travellers who value tranquility, simpler accommodations and personal service over ultra-luxury.
Not ideal for:
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Guests expecting a big beach resort with all high-end amenities, beachfront sand access, lots of nightlife.
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Large groups of friends looking to party or stay in very high-luxury surroundings.
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Those for whom “perfect cleanliness / new build standards” are must-haves (some patches may show age or homestay scale limitations).
Tips for Your Stay
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Room selection: Ask for a room with pool or river view if that’s important to you. The view is a big part of the charm.
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Check amenities/condition: When you arrive, check that the bathroom, taps, A/C, door locks are all as you’d like — if anything seems worn ask if an alternate room is possible.
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Meals & off-site options: While the on-site food is decent, you might want to plan for at least one or two meals at nearby Goan restaurants to get local flavour and variety.
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Transport: Because it’s a bit off the beach-front, renting a scooter or car makes sense if you plan to explore. They provide car hire/transfer.
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Expect quiet evenings: If you want nightlife, this may not be the hotspot; plan your evening accordingly.
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Pool and swimwear rule: Note that swim-wear is required for the pool (per their listing). Book early for peak season: Because it’s a smaller property, rooms may book up early in peak Goa season — plan ahead.
Photos
Contact Information
| Address |
Serene Waters Hotel, Ribandar, Goa |
| Phone Number |
+91 9823628180 |
+91 9823628180 |
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| Email Address | serenewatersgoa@gmail.com |
| Website // URL | https://weddingsdegoa.com/wdglisting/serene-waters/ |