Airbnb sees surge in Indian searches for coastal holidays; Goa tops domestic list, Capri leads abroad

Hyderabad: Indian travellers are showing a growing appetite for coastal getaways this year, with Airbnb reporting a surge in searches for both domestic and international beach destinations.

Goa continues to lead the charts at home, while Italy’s Capri has emerged as the top global choice.

Domestic travel: Goa leads the way

According to Airbnb data, Goa has recorded nearly a 50 per cent increase in searches compared to last year. The State remains a favourite but with a shifting focus, travellers are now exploring quiet villages, artisanal food trails, and cultural sites in addition to its well-known beaches.

Earlier this year, Airbnb collaborated with the Goa Tourism Department to launch Goa Unseen, a digital guidebook that highlights the State’s lesser-known heritage and local experiences.

Travel searches to Puri and Puducherry have gone up

Other coastal towns are also gaining traction.

Puri in Odisha saw searches rise by over 40 per cent, driven by its combination of spiritual heritage and beach culture. Puducherry recorded an almost 35 per cent jump, reflecting growing interest in its French colonial charm alongside its shoreline.

International favourites: Italy, Southeast Asia and Georgia

On the international front, Italy has emerged as a preferred destination for Indians, with Capri, Palermo, Naples and Venice seeing strong interest.

Southeast Asia continues to be popular for its accessibility and tropical appeal, with Langkawi in Malaysia and Colombo in Sri Lanka registering higher searches.

A newer entrant is Batumi, a Georgian city on the Black Sea coast.

Known for its subtropical beaches, lively nightlife, and distinctive architecture, Batumi is drawing attention from Indian travellers looking beyond traditional destinations.

Shifting meaning of a beach holiday

Commenting on the trend, Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for India & Southeast Asia, said Indian travellers are redefining what a beach holiday means.

“It’s no longer just about sun and sand, it’s about discovering local stories, engaging with communities, and finding places that feel personal and inspiring,” he said.

Community-driven tourism

With demand for beach destinations rising, Airbnb has emphasised its commitment to supporting community-led tourism. The platform says it aims to connect travellers with authentic local experiences while contributing to local economies.