The former Portuguese colony, Goa boasts of some incredibly scenic beaches that offer everything from parties to adventure, solitude to sunbathing. Holidays in Goa have become synonymous with sun, surf and sand.
There might be no better place in the world to be lazy than on one of Goa’s spectacular beaches. With palm-tree groves on one side of the white sands and gently lapping waves on the other, the best of the beaches live up to your image of a tropical paradise. Whether time is of the essence or you’ve weeks (or even months) to spend in Goa, locating the perfect beach is the secret to making the best of your stay. North Goa is home to the backpacker, party and package-tourist action, though you’ll also find plenty of solitude between the sun-tanners. South Goa conceals some of the state’s best beaches, great for picnicking and paddling.
We list five of the best beaches of Goa.
Mandrem Beach
Situated in North Goa, Mandrem is a tranquil beach and counted among the most beautiful beaches in Asia. Serene and scenic, Mandrem is preferred by honeymooners. The secluded beach provides the much needed privacy for the honeymooners.
A sleepy small village, there is nothing much to do in Mandrem. Laze around on the beach or take a swim in the clear waters or visit the eateries to enjoy local food, Mandrem is ideal for do-nothing vacation.
Agonda Beach
Counted among the most scenic beaches in Asia, Agonda Beach is serene and clean beach. It is ideal if you want to spend time meditating, catch up on your reading or simply, enjoying the sun.
Agonda is relatively less crowded than the other beaches of Goa. And that means lesser crowds, more privacy and loads of opportunities to enjoy solitude.
If you crave for some activity, jump on a country boat and go dolphin spotting. Cabo de rama and Cola beach are also worth a visit.
Baga Beach
One of the most popular tourist spots in Goa, Baga is known for its beach parties, nightlife and amazing seafood served at its beach shacks and restaurants.
During tourist season, the beach is line with rows of shacks. It is famous for its water sports and dolphin cruises. Baga becomes If interested in wind surfing
Baga beach also offers an opportunity to enjoy Wind Surfing between January and March. National Wind Surfing Championship is also conducted every year around September – November at the Baga beach.
Candolim Beach
Situated very near Baga, Candolim’s beach is counted amongst the most beautiful beaches in India. Under the shadow of popular beaches like Baga and Calangute, Candolim escapes the hordes that visit Goa during peak season.
Candolim village has another reason to fame. It was the first village to convert to Christianity in the 16th century.
Cavelossim Beach
Situated at the mouth of Sal River, Cavelossim beach is serene, flanked by paddy fields and coconut groves. As most tourists head for the more popular beaches, Cavelossim witnesses less crowds.
We also list three beaches ideal to enjoy the sea and the sun in your preferred beach wear.
Colva Beach, South Goa
A huge favourite with international tourists, especially Russians, the pristine white sands of Colva beach is the preferred hangout of the jet-set crowd. Terrific ambiance, cosmopolitan crowd and amazing food; promise to make your Colva experience a memorable one.
Colva is ideal to spend time doing nothing. Benaulim Beach, just a hop away from Colva, is a secluded sandy stretch devoid of the crowds.
Preferred by the foreign tourists, Colva allows you to sunbathe, swim in the sea or take leisurely strolls on the sandy stretch without the fear of peeping toms.
Ashwem Beach, North Goa
If you like to flaunt your body and hate people eyeballing you, then Ashwem is the beach to be. The beach enjoys a relaxed and laid-back setting and doesn’t get too crowded.
It is one of the cleanest beaches. If you would like, you could choose to go for a quick swim in its waters which are also safe. You can enjoy the seclusion that the beach provides by reading a book or just strike a conversation with people who come here from across the world.
Arambol Beach, North Goa
Arambol in Goa’s far north, still retains vestiges of its hippie past. A fishing village, it has metamorphosed into a tourist favourite. You could do the usual beach stroll, swim in the sea or just laze around like in other beaches. Or else, you could spoil yourself with the alternative therapies that are offered, such as meditation, yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki. The place boasts of a relaxed nightlife with jam sessions and live music. If the crowd proves too much, then walk towards the deserted Keri beach and the Terekhol Fort, just north of Arambol.
