Are you looking for a romantic destination? Are you seeking a family vacation? Do you want the best destination for honeymoon? Do you want an adventurous break? Do you want to enjoy a beach-side party? If your reply is ‘Yes!’, then our solution to your questions is ‘GOA’. The numerous beaches dotted across the coastline of Goa offer something for everyone. Taste the special drink of Goa “Feni”, or enjoy fine dining among live music performances in the resorts overlooking the wide expanse of water, or dance to the tunes of traditional Goan music. Here is the list of some of the top beaches in Goa:
Miramar Beach
Once you arrive at Panjim, the capital city of Goa, the Miramar Beach is the very first beach that you will encounter. Located at just 3 km from the capital city, the Miramar Beach is the place to drench yourself in the ocean and indulge in a dolphin spotting tour. It is a lovely golden sand beach. While on your dolphin tour in the shared boat, you may see big vessels, and the guide may show you the bungalow named “Diamond Merchant” where Bollywood film “Haseena Maan Jayegi” was shot and Goa’s oldest Jail, from the distance. The beach offers a nice view of the Fort Aguada. It is frequented by the tourists. My stay at this beach was very short as I preferred to go on a boat tour.
Dona Paula Beach
The eponymous village of Dona Paula has become one of the top tourist attractions in Goa. Visit the Dona Paula Beach for the best views of the sunset. Due to its historical importance and scenic splendor, it was chosen as the site for filming scenes of Bollywood Movies such as “Ek Dujje Ke Liye” and “Singham”. I preferred to visit this beach during the sunset, and stayed there till dark. I loved watching the waves hitting the big stones on the shores and creating white froth. I stood on the illumined platform raised up on the beach for the sweeping views of the beach.
Candolim Beach
The next beach in my list is Candolim. It is about 13 km away from Panjim. The larger part of the Candolim beach is occupied by the Fort Aguada beach resort and several tour companies. The expanse of sand is wide at this beach. It is spotted with beds for sunbathing. About 100 meters from the beach rests one bulk ore carrier named River Princess. Due to this vessel, the water currents make it dangerous to swim in the nearby location.
Calangute Beach
Calangute beach is located near the airport. It is the beach where people flock in as they arrive Goa. It is mostly jam-packed. The travel agencies here help the tourists with the bookings for other beaches. This beach also has a lot of internet cafes. Almost all the basic facilities are available at this beach. Adjoining the beach are large showrooms selling handicraft items from several parts of India. The waves are rough on this beach.
Baga Beach
The Baga beach is popular among the tourists for water sports. It is a bit quieter than the Calangute beach. But, during night, the beach seems to awake from sleep. It has a vibrant nightlife. Do not miss to visit Tito’s and Cafe Mambo.
Chapora Beach
The Chapora Beach has a history of Hippie culture that still clings to its air. Swimming in the waters here is a strict no-no. But other water activities will keep you busy. Be sure to taste the scrumptious ‘Bebinca’ found in the local market here. The market also sells a variety of knick-knacks like earthen pots, candelabras and other souvenirs. The ruins of the Chapora Fort tower above everything else. Like any other Goan beach, night brings a different color to Chapora as well.
Anjuna Beach
The dark reddish sand and big boulders characterize the Anjuna Beach. As our cab driver stopped at the beach, we felt thirsty, so treated ourselves with coconut water. The price was high, though. We had to descend a few steps to reach the beach. On the either side of the steps, people had something or other to sell. I bought some necklaces and earrings as a souvenir for my nieces. The panoramic vistas compelled us to click some pictures. While going back, I relished fresh pineapple. It was very delicious.
Image Credit : Ramnath Bhat, Miran Rijavec Stan Dalone, Aaron C, Debjeet20