India Beach Resort Guides: Goa Beaches
A former Portuguese colony, Goa has long been popular with overseas travellers and was part of the hippy trail in the 1960s. And the hippy legacy lives on in the laidback spirit and relaxed pace of life that still characterises modern day Goa. It's like no other state in India and has a deserved reputation as an easy place to travel around; English is widely spoken. From secluded eco-camps and beach huts to exclusive resorts and international hotels, Goa's accommodation options are boundless and the golden sandy beaches are a veritable paradise for sun-seekers.
Beach:
Goa is blessed with over 105km (65 miles) of coastline that's peppered with many beautiful beaches ranging from quiet hippy hangouts to bigger resorts that cater more to Western tastes and standards.
Arambol in the far north of the state is perhaps the most hippyish of the resorts (and still attracts plenty of backpackers) and is blessed with miles of unspoilt beaches. Between here and the capital Panaji (Panjim) are the resort villages of Calangute, Baga and Candolim which cater more to package tourists with plenty of facilities and are popular with families. Of these, Calangute is the largest and most popular resort.
Heading south from the capital there are many more beautiful beaches to choose from including Colva which is the most developed area along the southern circuit with luxury hotels and resorts. In the very south of the state is the quieter Palolem which is a beautiful fishing village that's sandwiched between two lush headlands.
Beyond the beach:
Whilst Goa's beaches are the state's crowning jewel, it's well worth taking a break from the sun lounger to explore the historic towns and verdant countryside. The state capital of Panaji (Panjim) and its second town, Margao, are both worth visiting to experience life in Goan towns. Both have many grand colonial-era buildings and provide visitors with a fascinating contrast to village life along the coast.
Goa is also home to several excellent national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Named after an Indian ornithologist, the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is close to the capital and is home to a variety of different birds.
In the west of Goa on the border with the state of Karnataka is the Dudhsagar Waterfall. At its best during the monsoons when the falls are raging, it is a spectacular sight and attracts visitors throughout the year.
Family fun:
Whilst there aren't really any attractions specifically for children, Goa is a place that's very family-friendly with plenty of things to keep younger visitors occupied ranging from 4-wheel jungle excursions to elephant safaris.
As well as all the usual beach activities, many of the bigger resorts offer watersports facilities. But visitors should be aware that the sea can be quite rough and is renowned for its strong currents. Boat tours are another great way of travelling around and visiting outlying areas and off-shore islands.
Another popular option with young and old alike is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in northeast Goa. It has a deer park, botanical gardens, natural jungle habitat and a small zoo to explore.
Exploring further:
A two- or three-day stay on a houseboat as it gently cruises up the Mandovi River is a popular trip and a great way to experience less touristy parts of the state. There's plenty to keep you occupied without leaving Goa, but it is possible to do three-day trips that take in the spectacular sights of New Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal in the north.
Splashing out:
Goa is more expensive than elsewhere in India but it still represents excellent value when compared with European destinations. And for a really special treat, book yourself a traditional ayurverdic massage or aromatherapy treatment. Yoga is popular too and daily classes are a great way to unwind and get into the laidback vibe of this fantastic state.
Beach:
Goa is blessed with over 105km (65 miles) of coastline that's peppered with many beautiful beaches ranging from quiet hippy hangouts to bigger resorts that cater more to Western tastes and standards.
Arambol in the far north of the state is perhaps the most hippyish of the resorts (and still attracts plenty of backpackers) and is blessed with miles of unspoilt beaches. Between here and the capital Panaji (Panjim) are the resort villages of Calangute, Baga and Candolim which cater more to package tourists with plenty of facilities and are popular with families. Of these, Calangute is the largest and most popular resort.
Heading south from the capital there are many more beautiful beaches to choose from including Colva which is the most developed area along the southern circuit with luxury hotels and resorts. In the very south of the state is the quieter Palolem which is a beautiful fishing village that's sandwiched between two lush headlands.
Beyond the beach:
Whilst Goa's beaches are the state's crowning jewel, it's well worth taking a break from the sun lounger to explore the historic towns and verdant countryside. The state capital of Panaji (Panjim) and its second town, Margao, are both worth visiting to experience life in Goan towns. Both have many grand colonial-era buildings and provide visitors with a fascinating contrast to village life along the coast.
Goa is also home to several excellent national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Named after an Indian ornithologist, the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is close to the capital and is home to a variety of different birds.
In the west of Goa on the border with the state of Karnataka is the Dudhsagar Waterfall. At its best during the monsoons when the falls are raging, it is a spectacular sight and attracts visitors throughout the year.
Family fun:
Whilst there aren't really any attractions specifically for children, Goa is a place that's very family-friendly with plenty of things to keep younger visitors occupied ranging from 4-wheel jungle excursions to elephant safaris.
As well as all the usual beach activities, many of the bigger resorts offer watersports facilities. But visitors should be aware that the sea can be quite rough and is renowned for its strong currents. Boat tours are another great way of travelling around and visiting outlying areas and off-shore islands.
Another popular option with young and old alike is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in northeast Goa. It has a deer park, botanical gardens, natural jungle habitat and a small zoo to explore.
Exploring further:
A two- or three-day stay on a houseboat as it gently cruises up the Mandovi River is a popular trip and a great way to experience less touristy parts of the state. There's plenty to keep you occupied without leaving Goa, but it is possible to do three-day trips that take in the spectacular sights of New Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal in the north.
Splashing out:
Goa is more expensive than elsewhere in India but it still represents excellent value when compared with European destinations. And for a really special treat, book yourself a traditional ayurverdic massage or aromatherapy treatment. Yoga is popular too and daily classes are a great way to unwind and get into the laidback vibe of this fantastic state.