Beaches in Goa

Posted on Tuesday, October 19th, 2021 by MTI Team

Goa Uncovered

If you’re searching for the best beaches in Goa, you are at the right place. Goa boasts 105 km of spectacular coastline that extends across the Arabian Sea on the West Coast of the Indian Peninsula. With a never-ending list of picturesque beach settings, India’s ‘ideal beach holiday destination’ has long provided a stairway to paradise for those in search of the sand, sun, and sea. Everyone has Goa on their bucket list.

Whether the visit is for the first time or a regular affair, the state’s charm is irresistible to all. No wonder, USA to Goa flights get booked in large numbers every year. There is a lot that the Goa beaches have to offer – they are the true definition of lively nightlife, exciting adventure activities ranging from trekking to kayaking, colorful hippie markets, and groovy bars. Not just this, beaches near Goa are equally spectacular. However, with 2 types of beaches in Goa – North Goa & South Goa Beaches, get ready to be spoilt for choices. Please note that the top beaches in Goa are towards the North.

Nonetheless, there are a few famous beaches in South Goa as well. The southern region is of calm composure with scenic natural beauty hidden from the eyes of many, and ideal only for those who enjoy the tranquility. Visit Palolem Beach to admire the cleanest beach in India, Patnem Beach for the best therapeutic massages, and Agonda Beach to spot sea turtles. But the question arises – what are the top beaches in Goa one must-visit for a perfect beach vacation? The answer might vary from person to person as India’s sunshine state has something to offer to everyone. Goa is a favorite beach destination for all, whether you get it booked days in advance or choose last-minute flights to Goa India. Featuring pristine sun-kissed beaches, delicious Goan cuisine, and more-than-good beach resorts, Goa promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience intricately crafted for every traveler.

Here’s wishing you the best beach holidays in Goa to you and yours!

1. Agonda Beach

One of the most peaceful beaches of South Goa is famous for its endless pristine beaches that are lined with colorful shacks and huts dedicated to groovy bars, vegan cafes, boutique resorts, high-end restaurants, etc. While at the beach, one can also lie down under the lush green coconut and palm trees and admire the carpet of white sands on the banks of the sparkling waters.

Best Time to Visit: November to March are the best months to travel and explore South Goa as the climate is temperate and water sports are at their peak.
How to Reach: One can catch a bus from Panaji Kadamba Bus Stand or hire a taxi.
Famous for: Turtles nesting site.
Timings: Open to visitors 24 hours.
Location: Agonda Village, Canacona, South Goa

Things to do:

Engage in water sports such as kayaking, surfing, parasailing, jet-skiing, etc.
Visit Johnny’s Cool to sip on the rich variety of alcoholic beverages like beers and Kaju feni.
Taste authentic local cuisines at affordable prices in Mandala Cafe.

2. Palolem Beach:

The crescent moon-shaped beach is regarded as the hottest beach in Goa. The beach is popular for its picturesque natural beauty, nightlife, fun adventurous activities for the young, old, and everyone! The most attractive feature of Palolem Beach and its surroundings is that if one wishes, they can walk bare-footed as well as Palolem is covered in soft, white sands.

Best Time to Visit: Between November and February.
How to Reach: A bus from Panjim to Palolem Beach takes 3 hours and a train takes 2 hours. Hiring a cab will help you reach the beach in 1.5 hours.
Famous for: Ayurvedic massages that are an ultimate beach relaxing experience.
Timings: Open to visitors 24 hours
Location: Canacona, South Goa

Things to do:

Partake in water sport activities like windsurfing, kayaking, water scooter, paddling, etc.
Visit the Silent Noise Disco to enjoy headphone parties.
Order delicious seafood dishes at Havana Cuba while enjoying the beachfront view.

3. Baga Beach:

Everything about it from the coconut trees to the frothy white waves crashing the shore, with a distant rare sight of dolphins is truly picture-postcard perfect. Boasting of the best nightlife scenes, the perfect hangout for nature enthusiasts, a perfect retreat for couples, one of the famous beaches of Goa has it all!

Best Time to Visit: From October to March to witness amazing nightlife and pleasant weather.
How to Reach: Situated 17 km away from Panaji, Baga Beach can be reached by autos and taxis.
Famous for: The vibrant nightlife of Baga Beach is known for hosting the wildest parties.
Timings: Open to visitors 24 hours
Location: North Goa, Goa

Things to do:

Visit the indoor snow park and play several games, sled in the sledding area, and relish beverages at the ice bar.
Spot dolphins in the sea on organized Dolphin Sighting Trips.
Engage in adventure activities like wakeboarding, windsurfing, kite surfing, etc.

4. Calangute Beach

Best Time to Visit: Between October and March, but mostly during Christmas and New Year.
How to Reach: Can avail taxis and auto-rickshaws from Panjim.
Famous for: Can relax under the bright sun whilst having the exotic flavor of drinks.
Location: North Goa, Goa

Things to do:

The beach offers water sports like parasailing, kayaking, windsurfing, water snorkeling, etc.
Shop in showrooms selling items from Kashmir, Tibet, Indonesia, Rajasthan, and other regions.
Spot dolphins swimming in the sea on boat rides.

5. Miramar Beach:

Once called the Gasper Dias Beach, the urban beach is a short distance away from Goa’s capital city, Panaji. The family-friendly beach is a popular tourist attraction with a handful of watersport activities and delicious food served at the many restaurants by the beach.

Best Time to Visit: From October to March as the weather is quite pleasant and one can even spot migratory birds.
How to Reach: Miramar Beach is 8 kilometers from Panaji and can be reached through taxis and autos.
Famous for: The longest beach of Goa is famous for water sports activities like parasailing, jet-skiing, deep-sea fishing cruise, etc.
Timing: Open to visitors 24 hours
Location: Near Panaji in North Goa

Things to do:

Birdwatching: In the winter season, a large number of birds migrate to Miramar Beach.
Dining & Drinking: By the banks of the beach, there are a variety of thatched-roof bars and lounges that serve great food and drinks.
Sunrise & Sunset Watching: The beach makes for an ideal place to start and end your day with the most beautiful view.

6. Coco Beach:

Sitting in a truly unique location, right by the mouth of the Nerul River on the Mondovi Estuary, Coco Beach is a popular tourist destination. With stunning views, an array of watersports, shacks & restaurants, local markets, and traditional Portuguese villas, the beach indeed is an incredibly mesmerizing place.

Best Time to Visit: From October to March as the weather is pleasant and breezy until the sweltering summer season.
How to Reach: Situated roughly 10 km away from Panaji, a taxi or cab can be taken along the Betim-Verem-Saligao road. Or board a bus to Coco Beach.
Famous for: Birdwatching, riverboat rides, sunbathing, and lip-smacking Goan seafood.
Timings: Open to visitors 24 hours
Location: In Nerul, North Goa

Things to do:

Explore Coco Beach by sailing across the Mandovi River.
Spot dolphins swimming and galloping through the water.
Enjoy water sports activities, especially the Banana Boat Ride.

7. Anjuna Beach:

Whether you are planning to visit it with your family or with your squad, Anjuna Beach has an adventure-filled weekend packed for all. One of the most popular and scenic beaches of Goa is truly India’s West Coast paradise and a party hotspot with the best nightlife one can experience in Goa. It has a rich past and was first discovered by the hippies. It is an ideal spot for nature buffs and visitors to flock to the beach on full-moon to admire the lucent full-moon casting a magical charm and the gentle sea breeze caressing the stress away.

Best Time to Visit: From November to March when the weather is slightly chilly.
How to Reach: The most convenient way to travel is by hiring a cab. However, the affordable way to travel is by taking a bus from Panjim KTC Bus Stand to Mapusa, and another bus from Mapusa to Anjuna.
Famous for: The magnificent Albuquerque Mansion, the Mascarenhas Mansion, and the Chapora Fort.
Timings: Open to visitors 24 hours
Location: North Goa, Goa

Things to do:

Buy boho jewelry, tote bags, spices, and more at the Wednesdays flea market.
Indulge in a variety of watersports like banana boat riding, bumping rides, water scooter, etc.
Join the Yoga, Reiki, Ayurvedic massages to relax your body and rejuvenate your mind.

Also Read: Popular Destinations That You Must Visit While You Are In Goa