What are the best beaches in Goa? Goa white sand beaches. Vagator – beach of Shiva and sacred cows

South Goa today looks like North Goa looked a few decades ago: relatively pristine beaches, little infrastructure and a calm atmosphere. If you're looking to escape the ever-increasing crowds of north Goa and enjoy a relatively relaxing holiday, then you'll love this region. There is a large selection of luxury hotels, historic villas and simple beach huts.

On this page:
1. South Goa on the map
2. How to get to South Goa
3. Beaches of South Goa
3.1. Palolem
3.2. Colva
3.3. Benaulim
3.4. Bogmalo
3.5. Cooking
3.6. Cavelossim
3.7. Arossim
3.7. Putnam
3.9. Majorda
3.10. Colomb
3.11. Agonda
3.12. Mobor
4. Sights of South Goa
4.1. Mormugao Port
4.2. Japanese garden
4.3. Church of the Holy Spirit
4.4. Fort Cabo de Rama
4.5. Cotigao Nature Reserve
4.6. Turtle Beach
4.7. Mallikarjuna Temple
4.8. Chandar
4.9. Seminary Rachol
4.10. Jama Masjid Mosque
4.11. Dudhsagar Falls
4.12. Big foot
5. Best shakes in South Goa
5.1. Cafe Del Mar
5.2. Gaffinos
5.3. Pipkins
5.4. Rogers
5.5. Johncys
5.6. Ciarans
5.7. Boomerang
5.8. Conclusion

South Goa on the map

How to get to South Goa

If you bought a ticket to one of the hotels in South Goa, then most likely a transfer is included in its price. Therefore, in this case, you will not need to worry about how to get to your hotel. If such a transfer is not included or you want to come to Goa on your own, then you will need to think about how best to get to the hotel or other accommodation where you decide to stay.
Depending on your budget, there are several ways to get to South Goa. The most convenient way is to take a taxi. Its cost will depend on how far your hotel is from the airport. For example, for a trip to Patnem Beach, which is located in the far south, you will have to pay about 2500 rupees, and for a trip to Colva beach you will pay about 1000 rupees. You can also get there by bus. Although this option is very cheap, it is still very inconvenient. Firstly, you will most likely need to travel on a crowded bus, and secondly, you will need to take a transfer to Margao.
You can order a transfer in a comfortable car from Dobolim Airport to any beach in South Goa. The cost of the trip will be slightly higher than by taxi, but in terms of quality and convenience, the transfer wins.

Beaches of South Goa

If you are going on vacation to South Goa, then the first thing you should definitely decide on is your vacation spot.
The leisurely pace of life, exotic beaches and beautiful villages of South Goa attract travelers from all over the world. South Goa is a good place to appreciate the rich Portuguese architectural heritage of the region. But still, South Goa is famous primarily for some of the best beaches in India, which are ideal for a romantic getaway or a getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the North Goa beach.
Below are the best beaches in South Goa that you should pay attention to first if you are planning a trip to this region of India.

Palolem

This is a rapidly developing resort area, which just a few years ago was a quiet beach. The popularity of Palolem is due to its good location in a bay near the town of Chaudi. Of course, the fact that Palolem is an unusually beautiful beach also played a role. In my opinion, this resort should appeal to absolutely everyone, although lovers of noisy parties may find it boring here. But still, Palolem has pretty good nightlife, and there is even a “silent” disco.

Colva

Often called the "pride of Salcete", Colva Beach lies 6 km from Margao. Colva is to South Goa what Calangute is to North Goa. But don’t think that it is as noisy here as in Calangute. Still, South Goa is a quieter region. However, Colva can be considered the noisiest and most crowded beach in South Goa, so those who like complete silence are unlikely to be able to relax here as much as they expected. However, if you go a little north or south from Colva along the coast, you can find some nice and quieter beaches.
On the other hand, if you love to party, then Colva might be the right place for you in Goa. Full moon parties are especially popular here.

Benaulim

South of Margao is a beach resort called Benaulim. Here you will find the beautiful beach of the same name, fringed by coconut palms swaying in the wind. Benaulim is also popular throughout South Goa for its delicious seafood dishes. This beach is a decent place to relax, sunbathe and eat delicious Goan dishes. It is also a good place to watch dolphins.

Bogmalo

Bogmalo Beach is popular mainly among local residents. This small but beautiful sandy beach is ideal for relaxing in the sun. It is also a great place for those who want to explore the underwater world in the Goa region as you can find several good diving centers in Bogmalo.

Cooking

Varca Beach attracts primarily with its unsurpassed beauty. A large number of palm trees, golden sand, azure water and a long coastline make Varca one of the most attractive places in Goa. Zuri White Sands Hotel on Varca Beach has an interesting tourist spot called Dunes. This is a famous casino. Another attraction in the area is the Church of Our Lady.

Cavelossim

The village of Cavelossim in the Salcete region is a truly charming place to stay. This is one of those places that attracts with its beautiful sandy landscape and stunning sunset views. Cavelossim is considered one of the few places in Goa where you can relax all year round.

Arossim

This is one of the quietest places to stay in South Goa. If you are looking for a beach where there are practically no people except guests of coastal hotels, then Arossim is ideal for you. There are several luxury beach hotels in the area that provide the opportunity to enjoy a variety of Ayurveda treatments. There are also several restaurants and cafes here where you can try some delicious Goan dishes like casa sarita and vindalho. Hotel rooms in this area are expensive, but these prices are really reasonable.

Putnam

The small and beautiful Patnem Beach is an excellent place for a relaxing holiday in South Goa. There are good shakes on the beach with low prices for beer and seafood. In addition, there are good surfing conditions. Along the beach you will find several stalls selling Kashmiri trinkets and jewellery. Most of the tourists prefer to come to Patnem because of the serene atmosphere and indescribable beauty of the place. However, it is worth remembering that this is one of the southernmost beaches of Goa, so it is located quite far from many interesting places in the region.

Majorda

Majorda is quite a beautiful beach with many shakes. It is popular among young people, but older people also often come here to swim in the clear waters and enjoy decent food here. Majorda is said to be the place where the art of baking European breads was first learned in India. Therefore, you should definitely visit your local bakery.

Colomb

Sleepy Colombe Bay is ideal for a holiday, but since there is virtually no accommodation here, almost all tourists come here from other beaches in South Goa to enjoy the serene atmosphere. This place can be reached from Palolem Beach.
Colombes can be considered an ideal destination for a romantic getaway in South Goa. The beach boasts excellent cafes serving mainly Kashmiri, Italian and Swiss cuisine. Colombes is separated by Neptune's Point (a large rock) from Palolem Beach. Neptune's Point is where the famous weekly Silent Noise parties take place, that is, "disco with headphones."

Agonda

Although Goa has calmer beaches, Agonda seems to have some kind of magnetic energy that draws tourists towards it. I have repeatedly met people on this beach who came here from Palolem, Colva or some other beach in South Goa. Agonda is not the best place for swimming, but this beach is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon. The church in the center of the beach also adds to the beauty of the place.

Mobor

Mobor is famous for being located near the confluence of the Sal River and the Arabian Sea. This is definitely one of the best places to relax without being constantly interrupted by merchants. The beach offers water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing and banana boat rides. The beach borders Cavelossim, but is noticeably quieter than its neighbor.

Sights of South Goa

Once you have decided where you will be vacationing, you can start exploring places that are worth visiting. South Goa is a region very rich in attractions, but there are not so many iconic objects like the Taj Mahal, for example. However, in South Goa you will find attractions for every taste, and we will present some of the most interesting places below.

Mormugao Port

Mormugao Port is one of the oldest ports on the west coast of India, with a beautiful natural harbor that has tirelessly served the nation in its economic development for over a century. This port is the main loading point for iron ore for export, with an annual throughput of approximately 34 million tons per year. While ore is the predominant cargo, Mormugao has also seen steady growth in dry bulk, liquid and other cargo.

Japanese garden

Vasco is a busy city that is always on the move because it has a natural harbor and Dabolim Airport, the only airport in Goa. Located in this area, the Japanese Garden is famous for its ruins of the Fortaleza Santa Catarina mansion. The magnificent fort wall runs through the garden. It was of great importance for defense during the colonial era. Hotel Fortaleza Santa Catarina offers magnificent views of the Zuari River. Other attractions of this garden include a small beach and the Sri Durgamata Shiv Mandir temple.

Church of the Holy Spirit

Situated on a hill, the Church of the Holy Spirit was built when the Portuguese destroyed the Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Damodar that stood on the site in 1585. Soldiers of the Muslim army, however, destroyed the new church. Finally, in 1675, the structure you can see today was built. The exquisitely carved interiors are magnificent from floor to ceiling. In the church, the huge cross dates from the late 17th century.

Fort Cabo de Rama

This fort has a long history and, as the name suggests, is named after Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to local legends, Rama took refuge here with his wife Sita during his 14-year exile. The fort has fallen into the hands of Hindu, Muslim and Portuguese rulers and has seen some of the worst battles fought in the region. However, the fort began to deteriorate over time and it was only recently that the state government took measures to prevent further destruction. Fort Cabo de Rama gives a magnificent view of the entire coastline in the Colva Beach area (this includes many other beaches, not just Colva). Portuguese cannons have been preserved in some towers of the fortress. This is a great place to relax and take photos.

Cotigao Nature Reserve

This reserve is located in the Canacona district of south Goa. It was created in 1969 and today covers an area of 86 square kilometers, making it the second largest reserve in Goa. If you want to see a dense forest with tall trees and rare plants, where light barely breaks through the foliage, then Cotigao is the right place for you. The vegetation here is mainly moist deciduous, but there are zones of evergreen plants. There are six watchtowers in the reserve. There is also one “tree top”, which is located at a height of about 20 meters. Animals often come to the Talpona River to quench their thirst, and you can watch them in the evening or early morning from the watchtowers. Cotigao is also home to the Nature Interpretation Center, which provides fascinating and valuable information about wildlife.

Turtle Beach

Sea turtles seem to have a taste for the best beaches. Galjibaga, along with Agonda in South Goa and Morjim in North Goa, is among the group of beaches in Goa where Olive Ridley turtles lay their eggs between October and March. Sea turtles, unlike land turtles, are larger, heavier and prefer to live primarily in the water. Therefore, the female, after laying her eggs in a safe place on the sandy beach, returns to the sea. Within two months, these eggs hatch into baby turtles that head straight to the sea.
Goa has a program for the protection and conservation of sea turtles, which is the responsibility of the forest department. It ensures proper fencing of the nesting area. At any given time, you are likely to see three or four enclosed areas designed to protect the eggs from accidental damage.

Mallikarjuna Temple

According to Indian mythology, Mallika (another name of the goddess Parvati) and Arjun (another name of the god Shiva), after a long period of separation, were reunited at this place in Canacona. The Mallikarjuna Temple hosts two unique events during the traditional Sigmo festival (usually in March). The Viramel ritual occurs every year when the city administration cuts off the power supply between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. At this time, local youth, called "Gade", leave their houses and head down the street. She is followed by people with drums and other musical instruments. Their route is cleared before the procession and tourists are advised not to go outside during this time. The Shisharanni ritual is observed every odd numbered year. During this event, three people lie on the ground with their heads touching each other. A vessel with rice is held on their heads, and a fire burns between their heads, on which the rice is cooked.
The Mallikarjuna temple complex is located just a few kilometers from Palolem.

Chandar

The house of Menezes Braganza is located 9 km east of Margao. It belonged at the end of the 18th century and previously to the nationalist and journalist Luis De Menezes of Braganza. There is a series of magnificent rooms, in particular a magnificent drawing room with fine furniture and the largest private library in Goa.

Seminary Rachol

This seminary is located near the banks of the Zuari River, 12 km northeast of Margao. In 1521, the Portuguese, in their usual form, first built a church, then a prison, and later in 1574-1610 they built a seminary to impart philosophy and theology. It is in this seminary that the Museum of Christian Art is located.

Jama Masjid Mosque

26 km from Margao, in the town of Sanguem, the Jama Masjid mosque, built in the last century, is located, which was completely renovated in 1959. The new structure is distinguished by its harmonious proportions and elegant simplicity. This mosque has four minarets, while the entrance façade is flanked by two elegant towers.

Dudhsagar Falls

This waterfall is located quite far from all the beaches of Goa. Here water falls from a great height, forming one of the most impressive natural phenomena in Goa and the lifeline of the ecosystem in one of the local reserves. This is a popular destination for tourists, but access to the pool at the base of the falls is not easy. First, you need to drive a jeep for about 10 km through the Bhagwan Mahavir Nature Reserve, after which you will have to hike along a not-so-easy route.

Big foot

It is an arts, cultural and environmental center located in Lutolim, 9 km from Margao. Big Foot is an aesthetically developed outdoor area designed to illustrate Goa's traditional past. Set in an eco-friendly environment, the mock village helps to better understand the lifestyle and heritage of Goa. Local artifacts and crafts can be seen at the craft center and art gallery.
Why is this village called Big Foot? there are two reasons. The first is that there is a place where you can put your foot and receive blessings from lady luck. The second reason is the only designer dance floor in Goa, which is used as a space to promote art, dance, music and traditional culture. This dance floor is called Big Foot, that is, Big Foot.
The village offers exotic Goan cuisine with spices, vegetables and fruits selected from the local spice garden and orchard.

Best Shakes in South Goa

In terms of the number of shakes, South Goa is inferior to its northern competitor, but there are still quite a lot of beach shakes here. Therefore, I decided to offer you several establishments that are my favorites. All of these establishments offer excellent value for money.

Cafe Del Mar on Palolem

This shake is one of the best places to stay in Palolem Beach. Cafe Del Mar has a restaurant with free Wi-Fi, a beach dance floor, pool tables, foosball, beach loungers and a 24-hour bar. In addition, Cafe Del Mar owns some beach huts that are available for rent. They are built from biodegradable materials such as wood, bamboo and reeds and have many amenities. Cafe Del Mar is a great place for those who like to smoke hookah by the sea.

Gaffinos on Mobor

Gaffinos Shake, also known as GG, is located at the secluded end of Mobor Beach. It is mainly visited by guests of nearby five-star hotels such as Radisson Blu, Holiday Inn and Leela. There are usually a lot of Russians in Gaffinosa. Note that Gaffinos has a path directly to the sheik, so you don't have to walk on the sand. Sheik GG is known for its electronic music and excellent bamboo bar. It is also known for its silent parties every Friday.

Pipkins on Cavelossim

Pipkins is known for hosting large parties due to its large area and beautiful beach location. In fact, it is more of a place to relax and party with live music on Fridays, when they play retro, hip-hop and other genres of music. Here you can dance until late at night. If you don't like to dance, you can just have a drink and try delicious seafood. Pipkins Bar is well stocked and serves excellent cocktails. But first, I advise you to try grilled seafood dishes. The stew and french fries are also excellent here.

Rogers on Benaulim

This shake is known for its Thursday nights, when local bands perform some retro music and rock classics. Rogers offers amazing steaks and delicious mashed potatoes. This is a great place to eat while listening to the waves crashing on the shore.

Johncys on Benaulim

Shake Johnsys, located on the same Benaulim beach, has been operating here since 1985. It has come a long way to become one of the popular shakes in Goa. This is a great place for those who want to enjoy seafood and continental cuisine. This is the first beach shake in Benaulim, which once sold only rice, fried fish and boiled eggs. Today Johncys is open all year round, even during the monsoon.
Lobster, tiger prawns and black snapper are part of the extensive seafood menu at this joint.

Ciarans on Palolem

Situated on Palolem Beach, Sheik Ciarans overlooks the sea and is surrounded by swaying coconut trees. This is one of the most frequently changing places in Goa. Ciarans adapts to its customers, so the shake works differently each season. This is quite a popular establishment in Palolem. which even has a library. Even if you come here alone, the two friendly owners will happily keep you company.

Boomerang on Kolva

This shake is located at the very end of Colva Beach. There are beach volleyball and badminton courts, a massage area, pool tables, a bar with excellent cocktails and 18 hours of music. Boomerang is a great place for bachelor parties.

Conclusion

If you think that Goa is not suitable for you because of the garbage, a lot of people and constant noise, then this means that you simply did not pay attention to South Goa, but focused on the northern part of the state. South Goa is ideal for those who want to relax on a calm, quiet beach and not experience the discomfort of annoying merchants and beggars. Even there are noticeably fewer cows and dogs on the beaches of South Goa than on the beaches of the north. But remember that there are many holiday destinations in South Goa, so it is important to research these places thoroughly and choose the most suitable one for you.

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General information about Goa beaches

Before you go to local resorts, you need to decide on a hotel for your vacation. The most important characteristic when choosing a hotel is proximity to numerous attractions and a variety of beaches.

In Goa itself there are several dozen beaches, each of which is interesting in its own way. For example, in north Goa wild beaches predominate, where there are very few people, and where you can relax from the eternal noise and din of the Indian tourist capital. In the south of Goa There are both popular and wild beaches, each of which deserves attention.

What Indian beaches can be called the most attractive and interesting for relaxation?

Top 5 best beaches in North Goa

Arambol Beach

Arambol beach in Goa can be easily compared to sandy Patong in. Here also a lot of people, parties and various discos are held regularly. During the day, a dance school and yoga classes are held nearby.

The local sandy beach stretches for several kilometers, but people still don’t have enough space here. Popularity and crowdedness can be considered among the disadvantages of this beach. Among the advantages It is worth noting the magnificent sand, as well as the picturesque local views and the smooth entry into the water.

Arambol Beach is more suitable for youth recreation than for family time.

Mandrem Beach

If travelers do not want to be too far away from the fun nightlife, but still dream of relaxing on the beach, then Mandrem Beach is their ideal choice in Goa. This beach is located not far from Arambol, but it is much quieter here. The place is popular among married couples, the entrance to the water is very smooth, there are no stones at all.

Among the disadvantages, it can be noted that there are practically no shopping shops here, but precisely because of the low popularity of the beach, this picturesque place remains so not crowded.

Morjim Beach

This place is called "Russian village", since this is where Russians themselves most often vacation, and immigrants from Russia prefer to settle near the beach.

Local owners of small hotels, retail shops and discotheques quite often bring domestic DJs. That is why, if a traveler misses his native speech, he should go to Morjim Beach in Goa.

Main advantage This beach is the beauty and picturesqueness of these places. The main drawback is too many Russians and inflated prices. The holiday is suitable for both married couples and young people.

Vagator Beach

At one time, the beaches of Arambol and Vagator were popular with hippies. Those days are long gone, and the habit of rolling on the local sandy slopes incredible parties stayed.

The beach is surrounded by rocks, and because of this it seems much more picturesque than other places in Goa. In addition, Chapora Fort is located nearby. The presence of nearby attractions and the picturesqueness of the beach itself are perhaps the main advantages of this place.

Anjuna Beach

The local beach is considered one of the most inconvenient for relaxation, since it is strewn with shells, and the entrance to the water is sometimes stone. Then why do many travelers tend to stay near Anjuna?

The thing is that the local beach is adjacent to largest tourist market. There are so many different souvenirs and nice little things sold here that your eyes will definitely run wild. Prices at the market are very affordable, so it’s better to buy souvenirs here.

Top 5 best beaches in South Goa

South Goa is considered more picturesque and attractive for recreation, and that is why those tourists who are not limited in funds tend to go here. Since 4* and 5* hotels are located here, a holiday in the southern part of Goa is considered more expensive and luxurious. Local beaches are also distinguished by the highest comfort. Which of them are considered the most popular?

Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach is one of the southernmost beaches in all of Goa, famous for its magnificent landscapes and optimal conditions for relaxation. There are many shops and several cafes here, so the beach is very popular.

Main advantage, because of which the beach is very popular - optimal price-quality ratio in local shops and restaurants. Despite the status of this place, it is very popular.

Colva Beach

Another incredibly popular beach is Colva, also called "tourist heart" of Goa. The beach is very popular due to the numerous hotels located nearby.

The many kilometers of sandy shore will allow every tourist to find their own spot on the beach, and the presence of numerous shops guarantees a colorful shopping experience.

The main disadvantage of the beach- there are really a lot of people here, so those who like privacy should look for other places to relax.

Cansaulim Beach

The right beach for romantics and lovers of a relaxing holiday. There are practically no people here, but the sandy shore itself leaves only positive emotions. Entry into the water is very smooth, while the sea is calm and clean.

Travelers will also be sure to be pleased with the picturesque local landscapes. The only drawback- complete absence of any entertainment.

Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach is suitable for those who adore relax in comfort. Local hotels offer very high prices for accommodation, but not far from the beach itself there is a campsite where you can pitch a tent for a small fee.

There is several restaurants, interesting cafes, but discos and other nightlife are absent. That is why Agonda Beach is preferred by family people and members of the older generation.

Varca Beach

A very popular beach, where a large number of tourists from hotels located nearby usually gather.

Varca Beach offers travelers a lot of different entertainment. So, for example, here you can rent a boat and go to the open sea, admire the dolphins. A very picturesque place for those who are not afraid of noise and crowds.

If a traveler does not want to have problems with finding a sun lounger on the beach and with crowds, he should choose hotels in Goa with their own beaches. It is in such hotels that vacation becomes much more comfortable, but it is much more difficult to experience the colorfulness of the country.

So, which hotels offer the best beach holidays?

Cuba Mandrem Retreat 3*
This hotel does not have its own beach, but Ashvem, Mandrem, Morjim are nearby. Among such diversity, you can easily choose exactly the beach that seems the most picturesque and fun. The hotel itself has 3 stars, and holidays here almost always remain budget-friendly.
Beleza By The Beach 4*
The hotel has its own private beach adjacent to Colva Beach. Since only hotel guests can relax on the local beach area of 2 hectares, there are never any problems with the lack of sun loungers. A very interesting and picturesque place to relax.
Ocean Palms Goa 4*
The hotel itself is 4 stars, located near Calangute beach and offers optimal conditions for relaxation. The local picturesque beach will delight you with its sparse crowds, and the presence of a spa complex and fitness center on site will satisfy even the most demanding travelers.
Spazio Leisure Resort 3*
The hotel itself has only 3 stars, but offers optimal conditions for a beach holiday. Nearby is Anjuna Beach, where you can always have an interesting and bright relaxation. In addition, the hotel itself has free parking, a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool.
Alila Diwa Goa 5*
This 5 star hotel has a private beach adjacent to Majorda Beach. Relaxing here is always interesting and pleasant, because the local species pleasantly surprise with their diversity, and the presence of numerous restaurants and cafes does not allow you to get bored. The hotel itself offers many attractions for tourists, from the Spa to its own library.

Going to an unfamiliar country for the first time is always scary, so it’s better to take note of the advice of experienced travelers in advance.

Firstly, you should choose a hotel based on the availability of a private beach, because then your vacation will be more eventful and varied.
Secondly, travelers better spare no expense and go to the open sea to look at dolphins. The impressions will remain unforgettable.
Thirdly, it is better to come to freely accessible beaches, especially popular ones, in advance, as early as possible in the morning. The fact is that on popular beaches the sunbeds are occupied very quickly, and by the middle of the day there are no more places left, so you have to wait your turn.
Fourthly, it is better to purchase souvenirs and various gifts for relatives away from the most popular beaches, because the prices here are as high as possible.

The best beaches in South Goa - video

Let's now take a closer look at the best beaches in South Goa and watch the video.

Local residents communicate with decorum and nobility, without imposing services and showing enviable politeness. Only recently in Russia has word spread about the delights of these places, and “Subtleties” is pleased to present to you the five pearls of beach holidays beloved by tourists in South Goa.

5. Majorda

Accommodation here is quite affordable (in bungalows and guesthouses), and rooms in comfortable hotels are in short supply and are snapped up very quickly. Attractions are located 40 km away - in Papaji and Old Goa. And 50 km away is the Dudsagar waterfall, which can be reached by taxi for 1300 INR round trip.

Getting to Benaulim is easy: take a taxi from the airport. The tariff is fixed - 900-1200 INR.

3. Kolva

Kolva is a busier place, the village is located 10 km from the major population center - Margao. This most popular resort in South Goa has a fairly developed infrastructure: good hotels, restaurants, shops and plenty of beach activities. Here, unlike neighboring beaches, life is in full swing until nightfall. In the evenings, people walk along the main street - Colva Beach Road, visiting bars and shops. Many tattoo parlors offer their services, but the quality of work, according to reviews, is not at the highest level.

A prepaid taxi from the airport costs between 800-1100 INR.

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2. Palolem

According to Forbes magazine, the paradise beach of Palolem is among the TOP 10 best in the world. This quiet, beautiful place in the very south of Goa is loved by both Indians and visitors: there is beautiful nature, a wide and long coastline with white sand, crystal clear and calm water. There are many water activities on the beach, and restaurants and bars with free sun loungers for visitors are scattered along the shore.

In the evening, you can stroll along the shopping street with souvenirs and dance in the local disco clubs. At one of the discos, complete silence reigns: everyone dances in their own rhythm to the selected sound track, sounding in personal headphones.

A taxi from the airport will cost from 500 to 2200 INR depending on the class of the car. Fixed price, no haggling.

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1. Agonda

Agonda is also one of the best beaches on the planet according to TripAdvisor, BBC and several other publications. It stretches for 3 km along a beautiful bay, framed by gentle hills and palm groves. This is a calm and secluded place, it is safe here, however, you should swim in permitted areas to avoid undercurrents.

The coastline is 2.5 km long and about 50 m wide, with golden sand. The entrance to the sea is gentle, the water is clean, the bottom is flat, without stones, only a few huge boulders rise. There are waves here, but you can find calm bays for swimming. The beach is full of eateries. You can stay in a house, bungalow or hotel.

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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: you cannot build within 500 meters of 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.

We compare the resorts of South and North Goa: where is it better to relax? We describe the most famous beaches. We choose the best for different categories of vacationers.

Have you decided to relax in Goa? Surely you are faced with the question of which resort to choose. It is difficult to say where it is better - in the north or south of Goa, this is subjective. Let's take a look at how parts of the state differ, which ones have special features, and who is best suited to them. Based on this you can make your choice.

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North or South Goa: which is better?

North Goa suitable for those who do not seek to emphasize their importance and social status. The north of the state became popular thanks to the hippie movement. Now its beaches are chosen by supporters of other informal movements, young people leading a wild nightlife, and downshifters. There are few expensive hotels here, more budget accommodation - guesthouses and the private sector.

The north is famous for its trance parties and outdoor youth festivals. Most beaches are noisy and crowded, so their cleanliness suffers. In addition, you will have to get used to the sight of sacred cows on the beaches, which are prohibited from touching here.

Are you used to measuring the quality of your vacation by hotel stars? Then you better relax at the resorts South Goa. There are expensive and respectable hotels, clean and mostly uncrowded beaches. The main disadvantage is the lack of leisure. Apart from beach activities, there will be practically nothing to occupy yourself with.

For a vacation with children, choose a hotel with a large territory and its own beach, special meals, babysitting services and animation. All this can be found in some hotels in the south of the state. According to tourists, it is better for young people to relax in the noisy and not very decent North Goa.

On the beaches you can go diving, surfing and kiting, or go on an excursion. Vacationers in the south are entertained with trips to the Cotigao nature reserve and the Cabo de Rama fort, in the north - to the abandoned city of Hampi palaces, to Panaji and Old Goa.

Prices traditionally higher in the south, and in the north everything is more accessible. Do you want to buy local crafts as souvenirs? Visit local markets: jewelry and leather goods, glasses, bags, clothes made from natural fabrics - all this is in abundance. In the northern part of the state, the flea market in Anjuna and Panaji is very popular. In the south, there is a good market only in Margao. Colva and Cavelossim mainly sell food and spices.

So where is the best place to relax? South Goa differs from North Goa not only in its beaches: it has a calm atmosphere. The south is more often chosen by foreigners, with the exception of Kolva. There are no large shopping centers, only small shops in villages. People come here for a relaxing beach holiday, fishing, and water sports.

North Goa has more developed infrastructure. Active nightlife, crazy parties and on-air discos attract young people, locals and informals.

Where is the best place to relax in North Goa?

The beaches of North Goa are significantly inferior to the South in their beauty; they are even found with grayish coarse-grained sand. The most popular beaches are in Anjuna, Arambol, Morjim and Calangute.

Quiet and calm in Aguade And Mandrem, so people come here with children. Relatively clean beach with grayish-white sand Arambol. Tourists in their reviews note that this beach is the best place to relax. This place is loved by travelers who come to Goa for a long time. Along the beach there are guesthouses and bungalows, numerous shacks (beach cafes). There is a yoga center. The crowd here is very diverse, the beach is long - everyone can find a suitable place for swimming.

Young people prefer a noisy, crowded beach in Anjuna. However, swimming is slightly spoiled by pebbles and algae. Very popular beach Calangute, where there are many entertainment venues on the coast. The favorite place for fans of Goan trance and illegal parties is the beach Vagator. Nearby is the village of Chapora with a fish market and cafe.

For lovers of water sports - windsurfing and kiting - it is better to relax in Goa on the Russian beach Morjim, as well as on the beaches of Ashvem and Candolim. Divers prefer Baga Beach.

Where is the best place to relax in South Goa?

The beaches in the south of the state are clean and uncrowded. The sand is fine, golden or white. The most deserted beaches are Velsao, Cansaulim, Arossim and Utorda.

Well-maintained beach Bogmalo surrounded on all sides by palm trees. It is famous for its restaurants serving good seafood. A diving school is also open here.

Beach Palolem with white sand is located south of all the others. There is a convenient gentle entrance to the sea and dense vegetation. People like to come here with children to watch dolphins swimming to the shore. There is a large beach not far from Palolem Agonda. Agonda and Palolem have the most diverse contingent.

Beach Colva Popular with locals, especially crowded on weekends. If you wish, you can find privacy here too, just move a little away from the center.

Benaulim practically deserted. People come here not just to relax, but to live. From the shore you can often see dolphins frolicking. Mobor- a wide beach with clean yellow sand, there are many expensive hotels here. There is a beach a little further Cavelossim. Both places are popular with couples, elderly and respectable travelers.