The best beaches in Goa: North and South Goa. Which beach and resort to choose in Goa? Goa which beach to choose
The beaches of South Goa are rightfully considered the best beaches in the state. Compared to the South Goan beaches, there are much fewer people; they are mainly chosen for recreation by families with children and older people.
It’s almost impossible to find parties like those on Arambol on the southern Goan beaches: everything closes here after 11 pm.
There are lifeguards on all beaches in South Goa. During strong waves, they drive along the beaches in jeeps and make sure that vacationers do not go further than waist-deep. In addition to waves, there is another danger in the sea - rip currents, so you should not listen to the rescuers and swim far into the sea.
Almost all the beaches of South Goa have white and very fine sand, like flour, that creaks under your feet like snow. Because of such fine sand, the beach strip is very dense and you can easily ride on it by bicycle (you can rent one at the entrance to the beach) and even by car (but this is only allowed to lifeguards).
The beaches of Velsao, Cansaulim, Arossim, Utorda, Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva, Sernabatim, Benaulim, Varca, Cavelossim, Mobor, Betul are one continuous 27-kilometer strip of sand, the beaches merge into one another, between the beaches there are deserted areas without sun loungers and shekov: here you can sunbathe on your towels if you want peace and tranquility.
According to our observations, in the first half of the day the sea in South Goa is calmer, there is practically no wind. After lunch, waves appear and the wind begins to be so strong that it blows away the umbrellas.
What are the best beaches in South Goa? In our article we will tell you in detail about each of them and mark all the beaches on the map.
Arossim
Arossim Beach is a smooth continuation of Cansaulim. Why the beaches of Cansaulim and Arossim are called differently is not clear: there is one village near these beaches. The beaches are no different: the same sparsely populated areas, fishing boats, there are several sheks on the beach.
Utorda
Compared to previous beaches, Utorda Beach is quite lively. There are many hotels here, including several hotels where package tourists are brought. However, the beach is quite uncrowded and calm. There are many cafes and beach chairs on the beach. The beach strip is wide, the sand is light and fine.
Majorda
Continuation of Utorda beach, there is no difference between the beaches. Geographically, the Majorda settlement area includes the beaches of Utorda, Majorda, Betalbatim and Colva. But the last Colva has become many times more popular among tourists than Majorda itself, so Majorba Beach is not crowded today. However, there are quite a few sheks on the beach, and in the village there are hotels (including 5-star ones). The sand, as throughout this 30-kilometer zone, is light, fine and creaky, like snow.
Betalbatim
Betalbatim is a very tiny village. There is no such developed infrastructure as in Colva or Majorda, but these neighboring villages in Betalbatim can be reached in just 20 minutes along the beach. Instead of palm trees, the coast of Betalbatim is decorated with pine trees.
They write that it is from this beach that you can sometimes see dolphins swimming quite close to the shore, but we have never seen them. Local fishermen can offer those interested boat trips along the coast to the dolphin habitats.
Betalbatim Beach has several beach shacks, but otherwise it is quite deserted. Suitable for a calm, measured holiday. The northern part of Betalbatim has its own name - Sunset beach.
Colva
Only we
In the morning there are no people at all on Varka, but by sunset people appear here (mostly Indians) and even one beach attraction was spotted - a parachute.
Other photos of Varca beach:
Cavelossim
Cavelossim Beach is the most prestigious beach in South Goa. In terms of its liveliness and infrastructure, it resembles Colva, but in comparison everything here is more fashionable. Cavelossim even has its own shopping center.
The beach has a large hotel area, most hotels are expensive.
Many famous five-star hotels are located here. For example, Leela Goa Beach Resort, where Putin lived during the BRICS congress in South Goa. The BRICS itself was held in another 5-star hotel in Benaulim - Taj Exotica. In addition to these, Benaulim also houses hotels of the global chains Radisson Blue and Holiday Inn.
The village also has its own Catholic church, Holy Cross Church.
The central part of Cavelossim beach is very crowded; the majority of vacationers are Russian-speaking tourists who come on package tours. Unlike Colva, there are no Indians vacationing on Cavelossim.
The area of Cavelossim beach is quite long - about 10 km. Instead of palm trees, coniferous trees grow on the beach.
In the central part there are many beach cafes, mostly with Russian signs and menus. Each cafe has a beach shower and toilet.
There is a very wide list of beach activities, prices for them:
If you move away from the central part to the left or right, you can get to deserted areas of the beach, without sun loungers and checkers.
Other photos of Cavelossim beach:
Mobor
Mobor Beach is a continuation of Cavelossim Beach; in fact, it is simply its southernmost part. If those who want a quiet, measured holiday without parties stay in the village of Cavelossim, then those who want a fun and party nightlife stay in the village of Mobor.
Mobor is home to the Party Zone club at the Holiday Inn Resort: it is considered to host the best discos in South Goa.
The beach itself is the same as in Kaveossima: snow-white fine sand, palm trees. The mouth of the Sol River is located on this beach: the river goes around the entire Mobor beach and flows into the sea. The beach is also distinguished by picturesque lakes with lotuses.
Here, as on Cavelossim, vacationers are offered a lot of entertainment: boat trips, fishing, parasailing, cycling, etc.
Betul
A natural extension of Mobor beach. The last beach of the 27-kilometer stretch of beach starting just behind the airport. It is famous for its fishing port, where boats and trawlers bring their catch. A fishing village that consists mainly of small huts of fishermen and their families.
There are few hotels in Betul, the most famous of which is Bamboo House Goa: the on-site Blue Whale restaurant offers a wide selection of locally caught seafood dishes.
The beach is very uncrowded and picturesque.
View point and Holy Cross Chapel-Baradi
On the way from Cavelossim to the next beach, Kolu, we highly recommend stopping by the Barady Church, which is located near the village of Betul. The cross at the chapel is considered miraculous and healing from illnesses.
From here you can see a very beautiful view of the palm plantations and the Sal River flowing into the sea.
Other photos from the observation deck near the Baradi Church:
Baradi Chapel on the map:Kanaguinim
12 km from the crowded Cavelossim is the wild Kanaguinim Beach. Small. an incredibly picturesque beach, hidden from prying eyes by rocks covered with greenery. Swimming on the beach is difficult due to the large number of stones protruding from the sea.
There is no tourist infrastructure on this beach: there are no sheks, merchants, or beach shops. Accommodation can only be found in the village of Kanaguinim, located 1 km from the beach: but this will only be a room in a private house, since there are no hotels here either.
Most often, those who come here just for 1 day are those who want to stay on a wild deserted beach without people and civilization.
Cola
Definitely the most heavenly beach in all of Goa. It is located between Cavelossim and Agonda, but is surrounded on all sides by rocks, which is why it can only be reached along a single road of terrible quality. The beach is accessible only 6 months a year. During the rainy seasons, this dilapidated road is washed away and it is simply impossible to get to the beach.
There is no infrastructure on Kola, except for the only cafe at the entrance to the beach.
The only hotels here are bungalow huts; there are quite a lot of them here. Room prices start from 3,000 rupees per night. We especially liked these houses on the mountain:
Kola Beach consists of three parts: the first is the most “crowded” (although it is, of course, wrong to call a beach with a couple of dozen people crowded), it is limited on both sides by boulders that can be easily overcome. The sand on the first part of the Cola is of an unusual black color, and the grains of sand themselves are large.
On the second part of the beach there are smaller houses, and there are only a couple of people on the beach. The sand here is coarse, mostly dark yellow in color with small black sandy areas. The second piece of Kola beach is also limited by huge boulders.
The third part of the beach is the emptiest. There are two hotels here, which offer an unusual type of accommodation - tents
- Cola Beach Sunset Bay Hotel. Cost of 1 night in a tent 6500 rupees for double occupancy.
- Cola Beach Exclusive Tented Resort Hotel. Cost of 1 night in a tent 5700 rupees for double occupancy.
There are sun loungers in front of the tents, but we didn’t notice any people.
The coarse sand here is completely yellow, there is no black sand.
this piece of beach is so deserted that you can try the famous Goan beach yoga (if you are embarrassed to do it in crowded Colva, for example):
Kola Beach ends with a beautiful green mountain with palm trees, when you look at it you immediately remember Andrei Mironov’s song “All covered with greenery, absolutely all, there is an island of bad luck in the ocean...”
We absolutely loved Cola Beach. However, it is not safe to swim in the waves here due to the boulders that stick out from the water along the entire beach. And yet, if you rank the best beaches in South Goa, then Kola will definitely top this list.
Other photos of Cola Beach:
Agonda
The village of Agona is very lively; along the coast there is a long beach street with many shops and cafes, from which you can go to the beach anywhere.
The entire Agonda beach is a wide strip of sand and a wide variety of beach houses and hotels. The length of the beach is about 2.5 km.
Of the vacationers here, there are more Indians and Europeans, there are very few Russians, unlike Colva, Benaulim, Cavelossim and Palolem. The beach is quiet and calm, but it cannot be called uncrowded.
In addition to many cozy hotels, there are also a large number of restaurants on the beach.
The sand on Agonda is quite fine, dark yellow in color, mixed with black sand.
In the southern part of the beach there are huge picturesque boulders protruding from the sea.
The beach ends with a mountain jutting into the sea.
Other photos of Agonda beach:
Butterfly
Butterfly Beach is an inaccessible, wild beach in South Goa. The length of the beach is only about 100 meters, there is absolutely nothing and no one on it (except for the same as you, possible tourists who came here by boat).
It is believed that you can only get there by sea, from the beaches of Agonda or Palolem (the cost of renting a boat is from 800 to 1100 rupees in both directions). You can also rent a kayak (there is such a service on Palolem beach), you will have to row for about 40 minutes (2.5 km by sea).
In fact, it is possible to get to Butterfly Beach by land, but it is a very bad road, in some places just a pile of stones. During the rainy season this road does not exist at all; it is flooded. It is quite dangerous to cross this road on a bike, and it is completely impossible by car; the safest thing is to walk.
Palolem
- a paradise beach with the famous palm trees reaching out to the water. But it is not at all like the one it is called in the guidebooks. Today Palolem has a very developed infrastructure and a fairly crowded beach.
The beach is located in a quiet bay, thanks to which it is protected from wind and waves.
Along the entire beach there are a wide variety of houses, the distinctive feature of which is that they are all built on stilts (unlike the Agonda houses). Also along the entire beach there are numerous beach cafes - shekis.
Snow-white crispy sand, calm blue sea, paradise beach bungalows “on legs” - that’s what Palolem means.
The southern part of the beach is the most crowded and noisy; the sand strip here is quite narrow. In the northern part, on the contrary, there are noticeably fewer people and a very wide sandy strip.
Southern part of Palolem: narrow strip of sand, close to the sheks
Wide beach of northern Palolem
If you are lucky, you will be able to watch the dolphins living near the beach.
Palolem Beach offers numerous entertainments: parasailing, boat trips, water skiing. It is also possible to rent a kayak here, the cost of 1 hour is 200 rupees.
Other photos of Palolem beach:
Colomb
A remote beach of South Goa, located with a small horseshoe-shaped bay. Suitable for a quiet, secluded holiday. The beach is very picturesque: golden soft sand and black boulders on the beach and in the water.
On the beach there are several beach cafes and small bungalow houses. There is a fairly well-known eco-complex Bhakti Kutir here, where you can rent a house made exclusively from eco-friendly local materials and where you will be offered organic food.
You can also stay in a more substantial hotel in a village located near the beach.
Colomb Beach has its own attraction - a rock called the Drum of the Pandavas (heroes of Indian legends, warrior brothers). It is believed that if you throw a stone at a rock and hit a certain place, you can hear the sound of a drum.
You can reach Colombes beach on foot from the neighboring Palolem beach (you can also go there by boat). You can also take a bus that goes from Palolem.
Putnam
Putnam Beach is an improved version of Palolem. Here is the same paradise beach with golden sand and good infrastructure, but many times fewer people. Due to its location in a small bay, there are no big waves on Patnem, so this beach is often chosen by families with children.
The length of the beach is about 1 km. On both sides, Patnem ends with rocky headlands. Among the trees in Patnem, you can find both palms and pine trees.
There is a small street along the beach where there are various shops selling clothes, souvenirs, and fruit. There are many beach cafes on the beach itself.
Not far from the beach is Canacona, the main city of this region. There are shops, ATMs and other amenities of civilization.
There are beach bungalows on the beach itself. There are also quite a few hotels in Canacona.
On the northern part of the beach is the Harmonica healing center, which offers a wide variety of wellness treatments and practices (including yoga and reiki).
Rajbagh (Raj Baga)
A sparsely populated and picturesque beach about 1 km long. The entire area behind the beach is occupied by a huge luxury hotel The LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort Goa, so mainly its guests relax on Rajbagh. There are no other hotels or any accommodation on Rajbagh.
Five star Lalit Hotel on Rajbagh Beach
There is only 1 beach cafe on Rajbagh and no vendors.
You can get to Rajbagh on foot from the nearby Patnem Beach (not along the shore), or by kayak rented in Palolem (but it will be a rather difficult swim).
At the southern end of the beach, a fairly deep Talpon river flows into the sea, which separates Rajbagh Beach from the next Talpon beach.
Talpona
Quiet, secluded, heavenly beach due to its remote location. There are practically no people here; at certain times you will be the only visitors to this shore.
Despite its desolation, Talpon still has several beach cafes with low prices.
You can rent a hut on the shore, and there is also some accommodation in the village near the beach.
Galjibaga (Turtle Beach)
Galjibaga Beach is considered to be the secret beach of South Goa. Indeed, few people know about him. Several kilometers of clean sand, a pine grove instead of palm trees and no sun loungers on the beach.
Galjibaga is famous among Goan regulars as one of the few places in Goa where you can eat the freshest oysters cheaply. We got a portion of fresh oysters with lime there for only 200 rupees for a portion of 7 oysters.
A deserted and heavenly beach, very similar to our beloved Paradise Beach, which is located in the state of Maharashtra, not far from the Arambol beach of North Goa. In the pine grove, which begins after the sand, there are several cafes that serve fresh seafood. There is no other infrastructure on the beach.
Galdzhibaga is also famous for the fact that there is a turtle nursery on this beach. They say that some turtles lay their eggs directly on the sand, but they do not come ashore during the day, only at night.Field
This is the last beach of South Goa, immediately after which another Indian state begins - Karnataka. The field scourge is a crescent-shaped sandy strip approximately 700 meters long. Palm trees mixed with pine trees grow along the sandy strip. On both sides the beach is fenced with green capes jutting into the sea.
The beach by the field is completely deserted; few people and rarely ever reach the farthest beach of Goa. Mostly local fishermen live here, but there are also several beach cafes. Also, for those who want to spend a longer time on the paradise deserted beach, there are several bamboo huts on the beach that can be rented for only 200 rupees per night.
You can get to Polem by bus, which comes from Margao or Panaji (you will have to walk about 1.5 km from the highway through rice fields), as well as by auto-rickshaw, taxi, rented bike or rented boat (you will need to agree with the owner of the boat when you will need to be taken back).
Stretching 100 km along the western coast of India, Goa attracts beach lovers from all over the world. Reviews are full of impressions from people with different incomes, needs and worldviews. The best beaches of Goa are scattered along the coastline from north to south. Some people are attracted by the snow-white sand, while others want tranquility and guarantees of safety for a family holiday. Still others are looking for informal entertainment or comprehensive service.
The best beaches in north Goa
In North Goa, all beaches are different. Each has its own characteristics and zest. Therefore, travelers rarely linger on just one. The reviews recommend looking at each one and choosing the best one for yourself, which will make you feel good and comfortable.
The best beaches of northern Goa are also the most popular among tourists:
- Arambol. One of the most remote beaches to the north. According to reviews, this is a crowd of informal people, adherents of various spiritual practices and simply creative individuals. People often live permanently. Everyone is united by the common ritual of Sunset - sunset. The beach is wide and crowded in the evenings.
- Calangute- motley anthill. During the season, the beach is noisy and fun. Located close to other resorts. It boasts walking distance to markets, shops and a full range of services for package tourists.
- Baga. A picturesque sandy beach with a river of the same name flowing into the ocean. According to reviews, the tourism industry has been gaining momentum recently. The village has a miniature Saturday night market and a very active evening life.
- Candolim, perhaps not the most convenient: the descent into the ocean is quite steep. However, in northern Goa in Candolim you can relax no less respectably than in the southern resorts.
- Anjuna, according to reviews, it’s not even a beach, but a center of cultural life thanks to numerous noisy parties and entertainment. Every Wednesday, Anjuna is filled with noise and color - a flea market opens, a real event in Anjuna.
- Vagator. The epicenter of Goa trance. Its sands have their own atmosphere. During the day it is sparsely crowded, in the evening it is unforgettable and very unusual. Nearby is the picturesque Chapora Fort.
- Morjim. A small beach separated from the village by palm trees, pleasant establishments for tourists, a calm atmosphere and a high probability of encountering Russian speech. In addition to compatriots, sea turtles are a living attraction.
- Mandrem. The center of peace and comfort between Arambol and Ashvem. Good hotels, white sand coastline and beautiful views with tropical exoticism.
- Ashvem. Flowing sand, no rocks, impressive volcanic rock formations and tranquility.
The best beaches in south Goa
When comparing holidays in southern and northern Goa, the differences are significant. Reviews say that here are the best beaches, suitable for a respectable, relaxing holiday with a touch of bourgeoisie. Clean, beautiful and good. More expensive than in the north, but the audience is more predictable and there is almost no informal entertainment.
The best beaches of south Goa are actively flooded with people in November. These are mainly package tourists craving traditional entertainment and relaxation. The best of all on the south coast are:
- Cooking. Comfortable hotels, almost white sand and convenient descent into the waves of the Arabian Sea. The beach breathes peace and tropical exoticism. Ayurvedic treatments and massages replace all other entertainment for vacationers.
- Cavelossim. A small town within which you can find everything you need for a comfortable holiday. According to reviews, respectable Europeans relax in Cavelossim. One of the features is the opportunity to see dolphins not far from the shore.
- Utorda. There are mainly hotels on the coast. Clean, picturesque, nice uncrowded beach. There is a spa, a small cafe and a choice of beach sports: parasailing, volleyball, boats and jet skis.
- Majorda. A small exotic village with the embodiment of all tourist desires: white sand and a feeling of detachment from the problems of civilization. Palm trees, cozy restaurants, private attractions and an excellent selection of water activities.
- Colva. According to reviews, the architectural eclecticism of the village on the southern coast attracts tourists, including Indian ones. All the joys of nightlife and a great beach holiday are available.
- Cola. Picturesque thatched bungalows, well equipped and comfortable inside, a freshwater lake close to the shoreline and the exotic beauty of tropical palm trees everywhere. It is nice and peaceful here like nowhere else in Goa.
- Agonda. You can have a good lunch or dinner in a romantic setting - there is a choice of restaurants and cafes. White sand, thickets of palm trees and bungalows among them. Cola Beach is inferior in terms of convenience, but it is also a very good beach holiday without crowded parties.
- Palolem. Water sports, excursions, fishing and even dolphins not far from the shore. According to reviews, it is gradually becoming crowded and noisy, thanks to numerous hotels of different star levels. There is a good selection of restaurants and cafes on the beach.
- Dona Paula. Covered with a romantic flair. According to legend, the daughter of the governor crashed on a cape on the shore of Dona Paula. That's why it's called that. In addition to the beautiful legend, there is good infrastructure here.
The best beaches of Goa, India: beach holiday season in Goa. Photos and reviews about the most beautiful beaches.
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Any Diving Sandy Beach
sand beach
Vainiginim Beach
Goa, Vainguinim Beach
If there is a place of paradise on earth, then, without a doubt, this is Wainiginim Beach. It is located in North Goa - this is the part of the country that is chosen for a relaxing holiday. Unlike the northern part, which is more suitable for lovers of club life, in the south you will find a relaxed holiday.
The first thing a foreigner who finds himself in Goa for the first time should know is that it is not like the rest of India, one and two - that he will now have to live on the beach. Regardless of whether you rented a house or not, and despite the various “stars” of your holiday destination, all of Goa is concentrated in the coastal area. The beaches of Goa are under the jurisdiction of the state, so no one can build a villa on them, take a piece for themselves and not let anyone in. This ban is also supported by an important fact: it is impossible to build within 500 meters from the coastline in Goa. But nevertheless, this ban is necessarily circumvented by the local residents: they build their temporary bungalows on the dearly beloved sand, after which they play with the constructor, assembling and disassembling the buildings, depending on the rainy season.
The small width of the state of Goa is a guarantee that, despite all the prohibitions, life is focused on the sand. Whether you want to buy some socks - although you're unlikely to need them - or are thinking about breakfast, whether you need a bar or accommodation - everything is provided here. On the beach. All you have to do is find the name you need. If in another part of the world you need to get to the beach, then in Goa the shore has already reached you. If you need to find a travel agency, tour desk, cafes and restaurants in the country - everything is here on the sand.
Beaches of Goa
If we talk about South Goa, it is quiet and calm. But North Goa is a real adventure for young partygoers. And this is the problem - you can hang out on the beach for a long time.
Basically, the coast in Goa is sandy, the depth of the water gradually - and not immediately - increases, and the sea has a constant temperature in the region of +26 - +28. Don’t believe the white sand and coconut palms: this was an advertisement for the Bounty, and in Goa the sand is any color, but not white. The same applies to the water: it is muddy, but you cannot find local fish in it. The whole of Goa is 100 kilometers of sandy coastline.
The sand on the beaches of Goa is not sifted, but you can meet girls who collect garbage in baskets. It's not far: spontaneous landfills begin right next to the palm trees.
The small state of exotic India attracts many tourists to its coast every year. The best beaches of Goa are popular with married couples, fans of extreme sports, and young people. Everyone can choose a vacation to suit their taste.
The main directions are north or south of the state. Which beaches in these places are worth visiting?
The best beaches of Goa in the north
Lists of special places for a seaside holiday definitely include Anjuna Beach. This is the heart of the state, once popular with Rastafarians and hippies. The spirit of freedom and music is alive here and now. The local market is full of exotics and colors, and along the coast you can relax in many bars to suit every taste. You just need to swim in the sea carefully - there are coral reefs here.
For those who want a calmer and more measured vacation, it is better to go to Arambol beach. This place also deserves to be included in any list listing the best beaches in Goa. Reviews about Arambol note a creative, inspiring atmosphere. Here you can practice yoga on the purest white sand in the morning, and dance in the open air in the evening. It is best to live in guesthouses in these places - they are located on the first line of the beach. There is a fresh lake nearby
Sweet Lake, where the banyan tree grows, famous for the meditation of the entire famous four Beatles under its crown.
Fans of youth recreation can go to Vagator Beach: there are quite low prices and varied nightlife. In addition, the place is very picturesque, surrounded by rocks and famous for its beautiful sunset.
When looking for the best beach in North Goa for families with small children, pay attention to Mandrem. Fine sand, quiet and clean water are ideal for families on any budget. The colorful surroundings will not let adults get bored, and children can collect starfish on the shore.
The best beaches of Goa in the south
The southern part of the state stands out for its famous lack of waves.
Surrounded by a beautiful bay, it is perfect for a family holiday with children. If you wish, you can rent a kayak or boat and go visit the dolphins. In the evening, cafes and bars open along the coast.
For romantic solitude, you should go to Varca Beach. There is pure warm water and silence here. For accommodation you can choose either an affordable bungalow or a five-star hotel. Of course, prices here are quite high, but this is typical for the entire southern coast. When listing the best beaches in Goa, it is also worth mentioning Cavelossim, Colva, Utorda and Majorda. These places are similar to Varca Beach in their privacy and wide choice of places to stay.
Finally, the pearl of the south - Cola. A small bay surrounded by hills looks extremely picturesque. The river flowing into the ocean creates a blue lagoon, a quiet and secluded place full of magical landscapes. There is only one restaurant and several hotels. But there is also a drawback - big waves. Therefore, swimming with children will not be very convenient, which means it is better to choose another beach for a family vacation.
If you are traveling to Goa for the sea and beaches, do not miss this article. I will tell you about all the beaches of North Goa, share their characteristics, location on the map, personal photographs and videos, and my opinion about each beach, if you are interested. The opinion is subjective. Goa opens up differently for everyone.
12 beaches of North Goa – review, photos, videos
Kerim Beach - the northernmost beach
There are no palm trees on Kerim Beach. Coniferous trees grow there, creating an unusual mystical landscape on the beach. Plus sparsely populated areas, light sand and green deep sea. Kerim Beach is mesmerizing. Only a complete introvert and a desperate lover of solitude and peace can stay there for a long time.
There are a couple of cafes on Kerim beach, and guest houses are easy to find nearby. For shopping and entertainment, it is better to go to neighboring Arambol.
The sea on Kerim is beautiful, but dangerous. Waves are frequent, depth begins immediately. Not the best place to relax with small children.
Kalacha Beach - the beach of the Beatles and Sweet Lake
Kalacha Beach is famous for its Sweet Lake, an unusual landscape, large stones in the sea and a banyan tree under which the Beatles smoked and meditated. There are big doubts about the last fact. But the rest is all true. And the landscape, and the lake, and beauty.
On the beach there is a cafe, several bungalows and a small market.
The sea is different – when there are big waves, and when it’s calm and calm.
Arambol – the beach of yogis who are enlightened and have found themselves
The most controversial beach in North Goa is Arambol. The first time I came to Goa, I fell in love with Arambol. The last time he disappointed me.
As for the beach and sea itself, Arambol is incredibly beautiful. A long and wide sandy beach, a long descent into the sea, the blue color of the water merging with the sky - it will take your breath away.
In the village of Arambol there are many shops, guest houses, hotels, cafes and restaurants. Prices for everything are higher than the average for North Goa.
Arambol is good for families with children - the sea is beautiful, there is infrastructure, hangouts for mothers and babies, and even sour cream in stores.
Arambol is good for those who like to travel to the astral plane using special means. It’s easy to find a party and everything else there.
Arambol is good for creative people, for yogis, for those who are looking for themselves.
Mandrem - the beach of glamorous scumbags
Mandrem goes after Arambol. The same sea and the same beach line. In Mandrem, real hotels and fancy restaurants have been built. There you can even meet people in white pants and hats.
Prices in Mandrem are no lower than in Arambol. Many Russians. Few European pensioners. Quiet, calm, impressive.
Ashvem - the most beautiful beach in North Goa
It is impossible to describe in words why Ashvem is better than neighboring beaches. But it is definitely different from other North Goa beaches. Either the air there is different, or the wind, or the current brings mysticism and the desire to fly. There are few sheks and bungalows on the beach itself. And that’s probably why the slightly deserted Ashwema beach is fascinating.
My favorite place in North Goa by far.
Morjim - the most show-off and expensive beach
Russian village and all that. There, the cult director Pyotr Buslov came up with the idea of making a film “Motherland” about Russians in Goa. Buslov lived in Goa, in Morjim, for several seasons, so he studied the theme of the film very well.
The sea in Morjim is like in Arambol. There are a lot of party places, a lot of guest houses and a lot of Russians.
Vagator – beach of Shiva and sacred cows
The second beach in my personal top of North Goa beaches. Moreover, Vagator and Ashvem are almost on the same level. Although the beaches are different in appearance.
Black stones scattered in disarray along the beach create a fantastic landscape. Cows love this place too. Also, be sure to find the famous face of Shiva on Vagator.
Anjuna - the beach of the last hippies
Anjuna is a favorite place for partygoers, young and not so young. This is where the famous market days take place, with the Flea Market open on Wednesdays. Here, by the sea, songs ring from coastal cafes, here they break away and forget all the sorrows and hardships of their cold homeland.
I don’t like the sea in Anjuna - there are a lot of stones, some kind of algae. But you can find a place to swim if you wish.
Baga - the most civilized beach in North Goa
Baga is a village for glamorous holidaymakers, lovers of nightclubs and expensive cafes. Prices are the highest in all of North Goa.
The beach is different from the beaches of Arambol or Mandrem. The sand here is yellow, the sea is deep. In Baga, on one side of the beach there is a cape and a river along the cape. Thanks to this cape, there are almost no big waves in Baga. Swimming is convenient and fun, even when there are huge waves in neighboring Calangute and Candolim.
Calangute - the most visited beach in North Goa
Calangute never sleeps! It's fun, party-like and relaxed at the same time. This is the favorite beach of European pensioners. There are also enough of our packagers here. Among independent tourists, Calangute is not particularly popular.
Calangute has the most shops, supermarkets, cafes, expensive hotels and cheap guest houses.
The sea is deep almost immediately, the sand on the beach is yellow and loose.
Candolim - the most convenient beach
Candolim is similar to Calangute. The same beach line, the same sea, the same guests, the same pensioners. There are no problems in choosing accommodation, renting a bike, local street food, pizza or burger, Tibetan cuisine, or pharmacies. Internet in Candolim and Calangute is the best among all places in North Goa.
Sinquerim – a beach with history
Which North Goa beach is suitable for families with children?
- Arambol
- Candolim
- Morjim
- Mandrem
Because there is a good safe beach, shallow sea, there are shops with the usual products and cafes with a Russian menu. It's easy to find friends for yourself and your child.
Which beach in North Goa should an organized tourist stay on?
- Vagator
- Calangute
- Candolim
Because there are many tour agencies, supermarkets, pharmacies, taxis, restaurants, casinos and decent hotels.
And lastly, even if you stay on one beach for the entire vacation, take a ride along the rest of the beaches of North Goa. This is the only way to find your beach and your favorite place.
You can book a hotel in Goa either on site or online. Booking is full of hotels and guest houses.
Flights to Goa
And if you have not yet decided on tickets to Goa, look at the table for the cheapest fares for regular flights to Goa.