Palolem Beach, South Goa

Just about a few years back, Palolem beach was an undiscovered beach with only fishermen occupying the place.But then it was discovered by tourists and now more and more tourists are reaching here for a perfect calm and solemn holiday in the lap of nature.You will not find the messy city life full of din and bustle here at Palolem beach.The cliffs that surround this beach make it a perfect beach to visit.


Palolem beach is a crescent shaped beach with hills of western ghat surrounding it. This palm shaded beach, with white sand and hills surrounding, it make it the paradise beach of Goa.It is about 2 kms long beach and one can view the whole of the beach from one end as it is semi-lunar in shape with the northern and southern ends full of small pebbles ane northern d many rocks.



The northern end of the beach has a small stream with an island in the middle.You can swim through the stream to reach the island.It is safer to swim during low tides but it would be advisable to abstain from swimming during high tides.You can also request some local fishermen to ferry you across to the island.

The southern end of the Palolem beach is a bit calmer than the northern end.With lesser shacks and less tourists coming towards this end of the beach, this part of the beach is perfect to retire and revitalize yourself.A sunbath here is quite soothing.Southern part of the palolem beach provides a perfect place for seclusion and an bewitching idyllic scenery.

Palolem beach is also famous for its fishing trips and Dolphin cruises.The best part is that the charges are lower than the other beaches of Goa.A dolphin cruise from Palolem beach is undeniably an unforgettable experience.You can request the local fishermen for this.

How to reach Palolem Beach-

The nearest city to the Palolem beach is Margao (locally known as Madgaon). Palolem beach is about 40 kms from Margao and regular buses from Margao drop tourists to Chaudi ( 2 kms from Palolem beach). The nearest railway station is Canacona which is 10 kms from Palolem beach.You may also hire taxis from either Margao or Panaji.Buses from Panaji can drop you to Chaudi.From Chaudi you can either hire a taxi or reach Palolem beach by just walking.

Where to stay near Palolem beach-

Being a newly discovered beach and less crowded one the options to stay near Palolem beach are limited.The accomodation near Palolem revolves round some rented huts and rooms having lesser facilities.But believe me staying in a hut or a fisherman's rented house is a great experience in itself.During high seasons some tents are also available which can be rented for staying. But getting a place to stay is a big ordeal during high seasons and you will get a place only when you are extremely lucky.

Eating out at Palolem Beach-

Unlike accomodation facilities , Palolem beach has plenty of places to eat.You will get many medium sized places to eat where you can get western recipes as well as goan cuisines alike.Like rest of Goa Palolem beach also offers some nice delicacies made of fishes.There are some restaurants on the north side of the beach which offer food right on the beach.You may also find some nice bars where you can enjoy chilled beer.One of the restaurant and bar present on the Palolem beach is Sameer restaurant.This can be a nice place to enjoy food and alcoholic bevearage and also, mingle with some people.



Images by: Jackol, bryce edwards, imsuarez, wnorixx

Baga Beach, North Goa-

Basically a continuation of Calangute Beach, Baga beach is located around 10 kms from the city of Mapusa. Unlike Calangute Beach, Baga Beach is more scenic , unspoilt and less commercialised than its southern counterpart ,probably because , there is lesser number of buses running towards Baga beach and lesser number of tourists come here.

The Baga river flows down from one side and gives an spellbounding look to the beach as well as it is a nice diversion for children.A group of black lava rocks lie at a place where river meets the sea.The exlosion of sea currents against these rocks looks pleasant.

One of the reasons why Baga beach is so famous is because it is more varied and not just a plain beach.Nestled between a rocky and wooded headland Baga is a perfect example of a place where land meets the sea.Furthermore, it offers an astounding view of sea and wooded cliff and has been commercialised to a lesser extent than Calangute Beach.

What to do at Baga Beach?

There are various things you can do at Baga beach. The easiest thing to do is just laze on the sand and have a nice sun bath or enjoy a bottle of beer.You can also enjoy some water sports here. Infact , Baga beach is famous among western tourists because of water sports and fishing trips. Or, you can also enjoy some Goan food on beach or have a nice candlelit dinner with your spouse, family or friends.

Goa Baga beach is an option for those who want to be away from the hustle-bustle found on the other beaches. Baga beach in Goa looks as if it has come alive out of a painting… majestic white waves rushing to wipe out the feet imprints left by you on the brown sand while the wind continues to flirt with the palm trees.
source

How to reach Baga Beach-

Buses leave from Mapusa to Baga beach but the number of buses are less and you may have to wait for a while. You may hire taxis and motorcycle taxis to reach here.Alternatively, you may first reach Calangute beach and then walkk down the beach to reach Baga Beach. But the walk is long and may be tirin g for some.

Places to stay near Baga Beach-

Being primarily a fishing village ,Baga doesn't hve enough places for accomodattion.Small houses on rent and some rooms ready for hire are available in around the village.During high seasons , it is difficult to find a place to stay. Reasonable budget houses and rooms for rent are also available on the quieter north side of the river.

Eating out at Baga Beach-

The beach once full off fisherman's houses has been replaced by some nice restaurants and small thatched roof eating places.Infact, Baga beach boasts of best restaurants in Goa.From standard beach shacks to swish pizzeries and terraced cafes, everything is available here at Baga.

You can get a romantic candlelit dinner at the beachside to a traditional Goan meal at the shacks and restaurants. Baga offers one of the most swanky and exotic nightlife in whole of Goa.
Source

Images by: Photofusion ,Prince Roy and Valliravindran

Vagator Beach, North Goa-

Vagator beach, situated north of Anjuna beach and separated from it by a cliff and some grasslands ,is undeniably one of the best beaches when it comes to scenic beauty.Vagator beach is divided into three parts by a seaside cliff.To the north of the headland is the north Vagator which is the main part and to the south is a smaller beach called Ozrant beach or mini vagator.The area just at the foot of the headland comprises the third part of the vagator beach and is called as Tel Aviv beach.


North vagator beach-

The north vagator beach is the largest and main part of the vagator beach.It is studded with visitors and tourists during high seasons.Generally it is more crowded than its southern counterpart.White white sands, black igneous rocks scattered around the beach and lush greenery and shade provided by coconut and palm trees ,north Vagator beach is a delight to watch.You will enjoy bathing and partying here.Even a bare-footed walk down the beach is an unforgettable experience.


Ozrant beach or Mini Vagator beach-

This is the southern counterpart of the main vagator beach and is separated from it by a cliff on the seaside.It is largely a secluded beach or you can say an undiscovered beach.The beast thing you can do here is retire and relax and revitalize yourself.Just take a book with yourself and start reading it in the calm of Ozrant beach.There is a spring named Zor on the mini Vagator beach or Ozrant beach and bathing here to get clear of salty water is an awesome experience.


Tel aviv beach-

The smallest part of the Vagator beach and situated on the foot of the cliff is somewhat a mixture of its northern and southern counterpart.To the north of the cliff towards the main Vagator beach there lies another spring.Taking bath here in this spring is refreshing.

How to reach Vagator beach-

Vagator beach is situated about 22 kms from Panjim, the capital of Goa and around 10 kms from Mapusa.Buses from panajim as well as Mapusa run every 15 minutes towards the Vagator beach.From the bus sstand you can reach Vagator beach by just walking for a few minutes. Alternatively , you may hire taxis and motor-cycle taxis to reach here. You may asl your hotel manager to arrange for your transportation by taxis.

Places to see around Vagator beach-

Chapora fort-

To the south of the main vagator beach, on a cliff lies the Chapora fort. The view of the sea and the beach from this site is astounding.Chapora fort was originally built by Adil Shah of Bijapur.The red laterite bastion, crowning the rocky bluff, was built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the site of an earlier Muslim structure.Although the fort today is ruined but the view of the sea from this site is bewitching.

Chapora village-

The village around the Vagator is called as Chapora.The village gives a perfect reflection of the life in Goan villge. Chapora village is largely a fishing village and the fishermen here are quite extravagant in their words while describing their catch.If you are nice enough to them ,they might take you to the sea on a fishing trip.

Places to stay near Vagator Beach-

The options to stay near vagator beach are limited and mostly comprise of rented houses and a few resorts. Getting a place during high seasons is near impossible.

Eating Out at Vagator Beach-

There are many cafes and restaurants on the lane that lead to Ozrant beach.You may enjoy ssome goan cuisines and specialities at the sea-food joints placed around the main vagator beach.There are many fruit sellers on the north vagator beach and you can enjoy some food made of coconut there.

Enjoy this video on Vagator beach-

Images by: special k files ,Argenberg ,c0nd0r2
Video by: RC501

Anjuna Beach, North Goa-

Located about 18 kms from Panjim and 9 kms from Mapusa, Anjuna beach is popularly known as the freak capital of the world for its Trance Parties and the Hippies.The Village of Anjuna is a five square mile enclosure nestling between the Arabian Sea and the Hill overlooking the beach.Just take a look at what different websites has said about Anjuna beach Goa.

It has an unusual arrangement of red laterite rocks, spread across the white sands, known as the Jewel of Anjuna or Ozran. Anjuna attracts a variety of tourists and is especially popular among foreign backpackers, especially during the Christmas and New Year season.The sea at Anjuna is particularly safe for bathing, while the soft white sands are great for sun bathing, a favourite activity of the sun-starved European tourists.Source

The beach is known for its swaying palms, soft sands and natural beauty. It has an unusual rocky formation overlying a cove of white sand and black rock that juts into the Sea. This area was known as the Jewel of Anjuna and called "Ozran". It was a famous early haunt of the hippies who discovered it in the sixties. The beach is adjacent to Chapora fort. Another must see is the "Albuquerque mansion" located nearby. source

What to see at Anjuna beach-

Although tourists come to this beach due to variety of reasons but the most exciting things you can do at Anjuna beach are-

1) Enjoy full-moon parties
2) Shop on wednesday flea market

Flea Market-
Every wednesday a flea market is organised here at Anjuna beach. It is held at the northern end of the beach and you can shop here for some handicrafts from kashmir and Tibet and gujarati and rajasthani clothes. But be cautious while purchasing from here.You have to bargain to get things at reasonable prices.If you are good at bargaining , you can get commodities at virtually throw away prices. Even if you don't wish to buy anything, I will advice you to just visit this market and you will surely end up buy something.

Full moon parties-
Anjuna beach is also famous for its moonlit parties. You will get a nice confluence of Indian dance and goan dances with the western music.If you are in goa to see the west meeting the east then I would suggest you to take part in the parties organised at Anjuna beach.

Sunbathing-
Bathing is relatively safer at Anjuna beach.Particularly at the southern end of the beach the sea is kept calm by a rock headland. Southern end is calm and quiet and is good for solitude lovers.

How to reach Anjuna beach,Goa-

You can hire taxis and motorcycle taxis to reach this beach.It takes just around 15 minutes to reach here by taxis.If you have tight budget you may reach here by buses. There is regular bus service from both Mapusa and Panjim.

Where to stay near Anjuna Beach-

Although there are limited options available if you wish to stay near Anjuna beach.There are a few resorts near this beach but most of them are full during high seasons.You may stay in the houses of the villagers and fishermen residing here as paying guest.You have to make prior booking in resorts if you wish to stay near Anjuna beach through internet or other sources.

Nearby places to Anjuna beach-

Chapora fort- Near to the Anjuna beach lies the Chapora fort which used to be a Muslim ruler domain prior to Muslim invasion.Except for some ruins the fort is well preserved.

Mascarenhas Mansion-The L-shaped seat along the length of the porch is of expensive wood. It has some of the finest stained glass floral etchings.

Albuquerque Mansion-
This Albuquerque mansion was built in 1920. Octagonal towers and an attractive Mangalore tile-roof border this magnificent mansion.

Eating out-

The beach itself and the village has some good places to eat where you can enjoy some goan cuisines as well as western food.Most of these places are simple semi-open air sites roofed by palm leaves.You can also get some fruits on the beach but don't eat them before properly washing them.






Images by Judepics, nlmAdestiny, Arjunpandey, namit_in_us

Calangute beach, North Goa-

image by jo.in.pink
Discovered by hippies in 1960s ,Calangute beach is also called as the 'queen of beaches'. Located in North Goa and around 8 kms. from Mapusa city and 15 kms from Panjim, the capital city of Goa, it is most commercialized beaches in Goa and crowded by tourists all the year round.

Why one should visit Calangute Beach in Goa:

Calangute beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa and suited for everyone.Whether you are a solitude lover or a party lover or if you love to shop or enjoy some nice cuisines, Calangute has got something to offer to you.This is why Calangute is called as 'queen of beaches'.



image by wnorrixJust take a look at how some of the websites have described calangute beach on their pages-

Once you reach Calangute beach in Goa, then you can spend your vacation soaked in the serenity of the sea, sun and sand. Goa Calangute beach is often crowded with people, children making sand castles, colorful crowds surging towards the sea,
hippies busy remembering the good old times and the young and old alike lazing on the golden sands. This picture of a perfect tourist haven is completed with shacks and stalls under the shade of palm trees selling everything from fried prawns and beer to trinkets made of seashells.
Source

image by diametrik

Fun in the sun, sand and sea along with great opportunities for feasting on fresh seafood and feni is what a day on the Calangute beach essentially means. Frolicking families, eager hands making sand castles, colorful crowds surging towards the sea, hippies busy remembering the good old times and the young and old alike lazing on the golden sands are some of the images that characterize this Queen of Beaches. Source

image by diametrik

What to do at Calangute beach-

Eating out- If you are fond of eating then certainly Calangute beach has a lot to offer you. You can enjoy some very nice Goan cuisines in the restaurants and bars situated on the beach.In goa you will particularly get some good servings of sea foods.

Night life- Due to repeated crack down by Goa police the night life here at Calangute beach is somewhat calm.You won't find any rocking parties like on Anjuna Beach but you can always enjoy a bottle or two of beer in hippies hide outs. Most of the bars are closed on the beach by 10 'O clock.



image by diametrikShopping- As I have said earlier , Calangute is the most commercialized beach of Goa, so, always have a good bargain on the commodities sold here. India beaches have some good words to say about the shops around the Calangute beach, Goa.

At the Calangute beach you must check out the Saturday bazaar for some good bargains. The market offers a wide range of items from daily food items to souvenirs. Then there is the Tibetan market that offers gems and silverwork, wooden statues of the Buddha's besides Hindu deities. You may pick up the Kashmiri carpets, embroidery, and papier-mâché boxes from the Calangute beach that makes excellent gift items. For some exclusive art pieces pay a visit to the Cocoon Art Gallery.

image by diametrik

Water sports-Calangute also makes a perfect beach site if you want to indulge in some water sports activities. Parasailing, water skiing and wind surfing at the Calangute beach starts in the afternoon when the wind is blowing just in the right direction and it goes on till sunset.

How to reach Calangute beach ,Goa-

Calangute beach is situated around 8 kms from Mapusa city and 15 kms. from Panjim. Regular buses can drop you to the beach and it is cost effective. Alternatively, you may hire a taxi or a motorcycle-taxi to reach here.It takes only a few minutes to reach here from Mapusa or from Panjim.



image by diametrik

Where to stay near Calangute beach Goa-

There are numerous options available when you wish to stay near this beach. There are many hotels and resorts in and around this queen of beaches. You may hire or rent a room or a house from the locals residing here.

Goa Beach, Beaches in Goa-

Image via WikipediGoa is a place famous for its beaches. Goa is surrounded from its western side by Arabian sea and thus it has very exotic beaches with palm trees and golden sands.The effect of Goa beaches are soothing and mesmerizing.Many of the beaches are mighty long like, Colva beach in South Goa and Calungut beach in North Goa.Many of them like Palolem beach are secluded and perfect for newly married couples and peace lovers.So, no matter what you need your Goa vacations to be, it has a perfect beach for you.

You can also enjoy discotheques, dolphin cruises and fishing trips on these beaches.Or, you can have a nice sun bath if you want to retire on golden sand of Goa beaches.The hills of the western ghat alongside beaches adds to the beauty of the goan beaches.

Here in this article ,I will list some of the beaches of Goa with small description.The details of the each of these beaches has been provided in separate posts.


Anjuna Beach,Goa
Image by Swami stream

Goa Beach- Beaches in North Goa-

Calungut Beach- This beach is called as queen of the goan beaches and is the second most longest beach of Goa.Located about 8 kms from Mapusa city it is the most commercialized beach of Goa.

Vagator beach- Located around 9 kms from Mapusa city. A beautiful view of Chapora fort can be seen from this beach.


Flea Market, Anjuna Beach
Image by Arjun pandeyBaga beach- Basically it is extension of Calungut beach. It lies 10 kms west of Mapusa city. It is more calm and relaxed than its northern counterpart, Calungut.

Anjuna beach- Located around 8kms from Mapusa city it is famous for its palm grooves and full moon parties.Bathing here is safer than others and you can enjoy a nice sun bath here.





Image by

Subhash Chandra

Goa Beach - Beaches in South Goa-

Dona Paula Beach- This beach situated in South Goa about 4 kms from Panaji is famous for ita water sports. A beautiful love story is attached with this beach ,that is why, it is also called as 'Lover's Point'.

Benaulim Beach- A very quiet and largely undiscovered beach famous for fishing trips. You can spend whole of your day here relaxing and spending your days in solitude.

Colva Beach- The longest of the Goan Beaches called as 'king of goa beach'. It was largely a secluded beach a few years back but now many visitors have started flocking here.anyways ,you can still find a lonely southern corner to spent your day in solitude.
Palolem Beach
Image by Jackol A very beautiful beach with white sand and you can enjoy collecting shells here.

Palolem Beach- Also called as 'Paradise beach' or 'Paradise of Goa beach' .This beach is arc shaped and swaying palm and coconut trees add to its beauty and grandeur.A will call it as stunner for people loving solitude.

Goa vacations & holidays-

Image by PhotoFusion.
Though it may be the smallest state of the country in terms of area, the entertainment and vivre of Goa will always keep you on your toes. On one hand, you can enjoy the serene panoramic views of the place which is adorned with golden beaches and the sparkling blue sea. On the other hand is the exuberant and vivacious nightlife that will keep you rocking all the way from midnight till 5 in the morning. 'The Beachotheque' is the new discotheque where you can dance away your night with family and friends. Titos is another place on the beach that can lift up your spirits. Apart from this, the spray from the pounding waves of the sea caressing your hair can leave anyone mesmerized by its feel. It is also a great place for bird-watchers as different kinds of migratory birds pay a visit to this beautiful State during transit.

Besides, Goa is also famous for its churches, temples and mosques. Shri Bhagvati, Brahma temple and many more can be explored. With the dominant religion of the Goans being Christianity, the culture and religion of the place is exhibited the best through churches like the Se Cathedral Church, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St. Paul and many others. In addition, the Bom Jesus Basilica, which is also counted among the World heritage sites, draws millions of tourists to Goa. Fontainhas situated in Panjim has also been a famous site reflecting the culture and zeal of the Goans. You can visit and explore Goa within a span of 2-3 days, but this wouldn’t be fulfilling. To enjoy the real fun of finding sea-shells or crabs beneath stones on the sun soaked beaches along with spiritual fervor and festivals of the place, a long relaxing trip will definitely be a good idea.

Ganesh chaturthi, Christmas and New year’s eve, Diwali and Easter Sunday are some of the festivals that are most enjoyed by Goans. The music played at the festivals make it full of fun and frolic. Enjoying all these adventures and the beauty of Goa becomes all the more exciting when you visit the place on the packages offered by www.t2india.com. They take care of all your needs and make sure that your stay is a comfortable and the most convenient one.

Goa is also one of the most visited holy pilgrimage sites for Christians. The liveliness and spirit of the place brings millions of visitors to Goa adding onto the charm of the place. For more information on Goa packages and tourism, log onto www.t2india.com.




Sudipta Banerjee is well known author who writes on the topics related to tour operators in India, India Travel and Hotels In New Delhi for the site www.t2india.com.

How to reach Goa-

Image via WiGoa is located on the western coast of India and is well connected to all major cities in India.

Reaching Goa by air-

Regular flights to and from Dabolim airport connect Goa from other cities of India.Air India ,Indian airlines and many other private airways operate from this place.Dabolim airport is 29 kms. away from Panjim,the capital city of Goa.You can hire a taxi or a bike-taxi to reach Panjim from Dabolim.You can get information on flights from here.

Reaching Goa through railway-

Image by madpaiAll the major cities in India are well connected by railway.Trains from across the country reach Margaon and Vasco. With advent of Konkan railway, it is not hard to reach Goa by train.I have travelled on konkan railway from Mumbai to Goa on a couple of occasions.The train passes from numerous tunnels and through the hills covered by lush green trees.The expreience is captivating.

You can take trains from Delhi (1,874 km), Mumbai (490km), and Bangalore (430 km) to reach Goa comfortably.Get further information on railways from here. Get information on Konkan railway from here.


Reaching Goa by road-

Image by bbjee
Private as well as state corporation buses operate between nearby states and different cities in Goa.Panaji, Mapusa, Margao and other cities are well connected from nearby states through roadways. State corporation buses from Goa, Karnatka, Maharashtra operate on a regualr basis.



Distance of different places in India from Goa-

Delhi- 1875 km (Connected through railway)
Mumbai- 590 km by road and 490 km by railway
Bangalore- 598 km
Hyderabad- 700 km
Mysore- 596 km
Kochi- 830 km

Vacation in Goa-

Image by PhotoFusion.About an year ago I visited Goa on my vacations and that was the one of the most memorable moments in my life. Goa holidays are full of enjoyment and you always enjoy the scenic beauty formed by confluence of Goa beach and hills of western ghat. Goa is a place where east meets the west and the mixture of cultures make it a very exotic place to visit.

Goa, on the west coast of India is a land of swaying palms, miles of golden sands, lush greenery, an incredible cultural heritage, magnificent churches, temples and monuments and a unique cultural synthesis of the east and west.


Goa is a southern state of India ,one of the smallest states and most visited tourism place in India.It is particularly famous for its beaches
and churches.Before british rule ,Goa was under the control of Portugal and so, you can see a mixture of culture of british ,portugal and India.






Goa holidays are full of colour for everyone, whether you are married or single, young or old, black or white, Goa has got a great vacation for you. I have visited Goa for around seven times and it still attracts me for a great vacation.It is a clean state and its atmosphere is soothing and mesmerizing.If you are looking for peace ,Goa can be a place for you.If you are looking for some rocking cruise parties ,again, Goa will not let you down.

I have described various places in Goa in great detail , just take a look at the links below and get some great reasons to spend your vacations and holidays. Enjoy your time in Goa with your friend and family.