Our family is planning a beach holiday in Goa early next year. We all know that there are many beaches in Goa, different kinds with a different atmosphere. Before deciding which beaches to visit in Goa, we would like to get a list of beaches in Goa, so we can decide which beaches to visit. It would be good to get some very brief information about the beaches listed.
Hello, @Aarush, welcome to the forum! (Images from Abhishek Kumar, Zerohund, Klaus Nahr and Klaus Nahr) Overview Goa can be subdivided into two regions, namely: North Goa and South Goa. The beaches of Goa are scattered all along the coastlines of the north and the south. The most central beaches are usually the crowded and noisy ones. The further you go to the north or to the south, the more serene and beautiful the beaches become. Goa has over 50 beaches that one can visit which means that even a full week in the state won't be enough to fully explore its coastal areas. In this guide, we would list all of the available beaches in Goa that one can visit, from the north to the south. This way, you can choose for yourself which beaches are best for you on your trip to Goa. Beaches in Goa ✰ Pernem (Northernmost Side) ✰ (Images from Serg Serg, Ankur P., Paul Mannix and Anshul) 1. Querim Beach - Querim Beach is the northernmost beach of Goa, located close to its border with Maharashtra. The nearest railhead to the beach is the Pernem Railway Station, which is about 21 kilometres away. There are direct trains from Delhi to the Pernem Railway Station. The beach is usually approached by tourists from Arambol, through a 20-minute trek. The sands here are quite creamy white in hue but there are some rocks strewn in the southern areas which makes the shores a bit rough to walk in barefoot. Even the waves are on the rougher side so swimming might be a bit difficult. There are not much beach shacks so you can truly enjoy the serenity. Located nearby is a hillock, where you can see the Tiracol Fort from. You can even ride a ferry from the wharf here to reach the Tiracol River and the Tiracol Fort itself. The nearest hotel is the Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel though it's on the other side of the beach, in the Maharashtra side. You can opt to stay in Arambol instead as there are more hotel or resort options there. Water sports are non-existent in this beach but you can always bring your own equipment for surfing or other similar activities. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Couples and Serenity Seekers 2. Kalacha Beach - A little to the south of Querim Beach is the Kalacha Beach, which is also known as the Paliem Beach. It is also approachable by trekking from Arambol, about a 15-minute walk away. Surrounded by a cliffside and golden sand shores, this beach is a hippie's paradise. In fact, it's not rare to find tourists in music sessions or yoga sessions around the beach. It is also famed for its Sweet Water Lake, which is located just at the back of the beach, at the northern side. This lake, being surrounded by lush foliage of forests, is a nature lover's haven. It's not uncommon to find various species of birds and even monkeys around the lake area as well. Because of its short distance with Arambol, Kalacha Beach is usually visited as a day trip from the former. Restaurants and accommodation options here are very sparse so it's best to stay in the nearby Arambol instead. For water sports, the only activity done here is paragliding. Water Sports Available - Paragliding Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Adventure Seekers and Couples 3. Harmal Beach - Harmal Beach is the northern extension of the Arambol Beach. It has vast stretches of white sand shores and clear blue waters. Surrounded by lush coconut trees, the Harmal Beach is yet another can't be missed attraction in the north. It has this balance of commercialism and rurality. There are some beach shacks and resorts around but it isn't as crowded or chaotic as the central beaches still. From time to time, you can spot some foreigners doing yoga in the shores. Hawkers and vendors are very few in the beach as well. However, water sports are still not available in this area and if your main aim in visiting Goa is to have some adventure, then this might not be the best beach for you. But if you want a bit of a laid-back beach, where you can laze around while enjoying the water, then Harmal Beach is a good choice for that. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Solitude Seekers 4. Arambol Beach - Now we go to Arambol Beach, the main beach of the northernmost side of Goa. Arambol Beach was once a very quiet and unknown beach in North Goa. Fast forward to today, this haven has been a favourite amongst tourists, mostly foreign ones. The sands here are very silky and white, while the water remains clear. There are a myriad of beach shacks offering authentic Goan delicacies to tourists. There is even a small market here selling some local handicrafts where you can buy your souvenirs from. During evening time, there's a lively drumming circle here that allows for joining from anyone. At times, music circles also occur spontaneously in the shores of the beach. Just like the former beaches, water sports are not readily available here though you can always bring your own equipment if you have them. Resorts, guest houses and home stays are very plenty here which is why it is thronged by a number of tourists. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Moderate Best For - Hippies 5. Mandrem Beach - Next is the Mandrem Beach, another relatively uncrowded beach in North Goa. This beach is frequented by mostly foreign tourists, mainly Russians. It still remains off the radar of many tourists though so there's this exclusivity to the beach. The best feature of the Mandrem Beach is its flat seabed that slopes gently for a few kilometres. Thus, if you have little ones with you, they can enjoy swimming in the water here. By late afternoon, the beach suddenly becomes rougher which is why water sports like kite surfing, paddle boarding and surfing are done in the beach by that time. As far as accommodation options go, there are plenty here but the Riva Beach Resort is one of the most popular resorts. There are also numerous yoga schools away from the shores of the beach, closer to the jungle areas. Beach shacks and restaurants can be found plenty in the beach-side too so there are no worries in case you get hungry. This beach has this relaxed vibe to it, not too quiet but not too noisy either, perfect for those seeking a beach that has a good balance of activities. Water Sports Available - Kite Surfing, Paddle Boarding and Surfing Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Couples and Surfers 6. Ashvem Beach - Ashvem Beach is sandwiched between the Mandrem Beach and Morjim Beach. The beach has long stretches of golden sands with mixtures of greyish sands. The water is indeed clean and enjoyed by surfers due to the waves. As compared to the previous beaches, Ashvem Beach enjoys a long coastline so you can certainly find a secluded spot even in peak tourist season. Various resorts are available close to the beach like the Marbela Beach Resort and Palm Grove Beach Resort. Beach shacks line the most central part of the beach too so dining options are varied. Water sports here are very limited though and the only way to enjoy such activities is to bring your own equipment. Ashvem Beach is a surfer's paradise though as the waves here are a bit rougher and higher. Water Sports Available - Surfing (Own Equipment) Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Surfers and Solitude Seekers 7. Morjim Beach - Last on this section is the Morjim Beach, located near the Chapora River. This beach is very special and a bit on the delicate side as it is a nesting ground for the endangered species of turtles, the Olive Ridley Turtles. Tourist activities like parties and water sports are restricted here. Though you can still enjoy the vast white sand beach at your leisure. The water here is very shallow too and you can reach a kilometre long with the water still just within your waist. In one end of the beach, the shores turn a bit rocky but very picturesque especially around sunset. There are a number of beach shacks and cafes on the shores as well. Most tourists in the beach are foreigners, mainly Russians. Surfing can be enjoyed by late afternoon however facilities for such activity are very limited, it's best to bring your own surfing board. For viewing the nesting of the turtles though, the season for that is winter, from November to March. Resorts are a bit further from the shores though still at a walkable distance. Water Sports Available - Surfing (Own Equipment) Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Wildlife Lovers and Serenity Seekers ✰ Bardez (Northern Side) ✰ (Images from Dinesh Kumar, David Jones, Paul Mannix and Nanasur) 8. Vagator Beach - The Vagator Beach is also known as the Big Vagator Beach. It is just a short distance away from the Chapora Fort. The unique feature of the Vagator Beach is its rocky shores. The rocks strewn along the shores are huge, that you can sit in some of them and enjoy the views in front of you. Swimming here might be a bit more tricky but for viewing the sunset, Vagator Beach is a prime choice. There are also water sports available here, like parasailing, jet skiing and banana boat riding. As compared to other commercial beaches, the rates for water sports here are more economical. Some beach shacks line the shores of the beach though they aren't that many that the area becomes too busy. Hawkers and vendors aren't as intrusive here as well. For accommodation options, there are a few here but the nearby Little Vagator Beach has more to offer. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Sunset Lovers 9. Ozran Beach - So next we have the Ozran Beach, which is also known as the Little Vagator Beach. It is located to the south of the Vagator Beach. Just like the former beach, this beach has huge rocks strewn amidst its golden shores. However, the rocks here are even bigger and looks quite picturesque whether in day time or sunset. Just on the opposite side are the numerous shacks, interspersed along them are palm trees which add to the laid-back vibe. The beach is usually approached by a short trek from the Vagator Beach through a cliffside. For swimming though, the beach isn't that suitable for that, as the seabed is a bit rocky and the waves can be quite rough. At the southern side of the beach, there's a carving of the Lord Shiva on a rock, supposed to be created by a foreigner during the early 20th century. A number of well-known restaurants such as Thalassa and Antares can be found on the shores of the beach. There are also plenty of resorts within a walking distance from the beach like the Ozran Heights Resort and Alcove Resort. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Photographers or Photography Enthusiasts 10. Anjuna Beach - Now we're reaching some of the busiest beaches of Goa, starting with the Anjuna Beach. This beach doesn't have the usual silky white sands but it does have powdery golden sands. Along shores close to the water, there are coral-like rocks strewn around. The water is clean as well though the seabed won't be as comfortable or as flat. Almost the entire area of the beach has shacks and stalls selling various snacks and beverages. Water sports like parasailing, bumper boat riding, banana boat riding and jet skiing are available here. Rates are cheaper too as compared to the nearby beaches of Baga and Calangute. For families though, this is not the best beach as the premises might not be as safe for children. Mostly, foreigners flock to the beach, both Western and Russian ones. You can definitely stay here though as there are many hotel and resort options, ranging from budget ones to luxury ones. For dining, various cafes and shacks line the shores too, the best rated ones are the Elephant Art Cafe and Cafe Lilliput. Of course, you also can't miss the Anjuna Flea Market, which occurs every Wednesdays. Here you can find various local handicrafts, clothes, textiles and many more. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Bumper Boat Riding, Banana Boat Riding and Jet Skiing Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Adventure Lovers and Shopaholics 11. Baga Beach - If you want to be where the action is, it's no doubt that Baga Beach should be your top choice. Baga Beach, with its lively crowds, vibrant night life and assortment of water sports, would surely make for a memorable holiday. The beach has firm and golden sands, perfect for making sand castles. The water, though not as clear, is still safe for swimming. The best part about Baga Beach is that it offers a myriad of fun water sports that both adults and teens can enjoy. From parasailing, to banana boat riding, to jet skiing, to dolphin spotting and many more, you can do them all here. You can even bargain for the prices but generally the rates here are higher. There are also booths for tattoos and massages in the beach area. Beach shacks are found in abundance here and the most popular ones are Britto's and Shining Star. You also can't miss partying when in Baga, especially with the famed Tito's Lane just a walking distance from the beach. Resorts, hotels, luxury properties and guest houses are also available here. For backpackers, you can also find beach huts or hostels around. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Banana Boat Riding, Jet Skiing and Dolphin Spotting Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Water Sports Lovers and Party Lovers 12. Calangute Beach - This is yet another commercialised beach of Goa. Most of the tourists here are Indians so if you want to be closer to the local culture, then this is the place to be. Late afternoons can be quite busy here so it's best visited during the mornings. The sands here are golden in colour while the water is a bit on the foggy side. For adventure lovers, there are many water sports to enjoy here. The most popular water sports here are parasailing, dolphin spotting, banana boat riding, speed boat riding, jet skiing and bumper boat riding. It is also one of the few beaches that offers wind surfing for tourists. Calangute Beach is very busy though and there are beach shacks plus activity stalls everywhere. It can be a bit chaotic so it's certainly not recommended for families. But for bachelors or a group of friends, this is a happening place that you can explore. There are plenty of three-star and four-star resorts around Calangute as well. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Dolphin Spotting, Banana Boat Riding, Speed Boat Riding, Jet Skiing, Bumper Boat Riding and Wind Surfing Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Bachelors or Groups of Friends 13. Candolim Beach - Despite its proximity to the Baga Beach and Calangute Beach, Candolim Beach remains on the more serene side. The sands here aren't too silky nor soft, they are in fact, quite grainy and brownish in hue. They are perfect for making sand castles though as they are quite firm. The water remains clear too, especially if you stay in a resort with a private part of the beach itself. However, the seabed does not slope gradually so can be a bit dangerous for non-swimmers. It has the same water sports as well, parasailing, dolphin spotting, banana boat riding, speed boat riding, jet skiing and bumper boat riding. With the lesser crowds, you can enjoy frolicking in the water or just strolling around in your bikini, for females. Resorts are abundant and just within walking distance to the beach as well. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Dolphin Spotting, Banana Boat Riding, Speed Boat Riding, Jet Skiing and Bumper Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Water Sports Lovers 14. Sinquerim Beach - The Sinquerim Beach is located just a short distance away from the Aguada Fort. Most tourists visit Sinquerim for the fort and not really for the beach, so it remains relatively uncrowded as compared to the nearby beaches. It has this exclusive vibe because the Vivanta By Taj Holiday Village is also located close to the beach and fort. There are limited shacks and restaurants here but if you want to stay in a more serene place but still be able to easily access the commercial areas of Goa, Sinquerim Beach is a good option. The shores have lovely golden sands which are very soft and powdery. The water is a clear greenish blue as well, perfect for swimming. Not many people know that Sinquerim Beach also offers water sports and you can enjoy it here fully because there are lesser crowds. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Banana Boat Riding, Speed Boat Riding, Jet Skiing and Bumper Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Few Best For - History Lovers 15. Coco Beach - Coco Beach is just a small beach close to the Nerul River. It is not a favourite beach of tourists because it has been ill-maintained for the past few years. However, this is the best place for dolphin sighting as this is the boarding point for such boat trips. Rates here usually start at Rs. 300 per person and this includes a dolphin sighting trip, plus passing by attractions like the Fort Aguada and Jimmy's Bungalow along the way. Thus, this is a cheaper alternative for dolphin spotting as rates are usually double or triple in other beaches. The beach itself isn't too remarkable and not apt for swimming or even lazing around. There are a few shops selling some clothes and sun gears but aside from that, there's nothing else to do here. Even dining options and resorts are very limited in this area. Water Sports Available - Dolphin Spotting Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Wildlife Lovers 16. Kegdole Beach - Last on this section is the Kegdole Beach, a small stretch of beach close to the Mandovi River. It is just a short distance away from the Reis Magos Fort. This beach is little known to tourists yet and mostly frequented by local Goans. If you want a bit of isolation but don't have much time to go to the South Goa, then this is a great alternative. There are no water sports here nor much tourist facilities. You would have to make do with guest houses or home stays as this is not yet that developed. But the white sands and clear blue are sure to entice you. For families though, this beach might not be as suitable as it won't be as comfortable or accessible especially if you have little ones with you. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Some Best For - Bachelors and Offbeat Travellers ✰ Tiswadi (Central Side) ✰ (Images from Debjeet, Sahil, Goan Photos and Quirrow) 17. Miramar Beach - Barely five kilometres away from Panjim is the Miramar Beach. Since it is the closest beach to the capital, it can get crowded especially on peak tourist season. It has all the features of a normal beach, golden sands, blue water and palm-lined shores. Also not missing are the beach-side food stalls, which offer delicious Indian snacks such as pav bhaji, dahi puri and pani puri. Unlike other commercial beaches, the Miramar Beach is missing beach shacks and sun lounges that could have added a few more points to its rating. On the other hand, water sports are plenty here, from banana boat riding, to dolphin spotting and water scootering. The Miramar Beach is just a great scenic attraction after exploring the state capital, as the sunset views here are quite stunning. Water Sports Available - Banana Boat Riding, Dolphin Spotting and Water Scootering Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Sunset Lovers and Water Sports Lovers 18. Caranzalem Beach - Situated in the middle of the Miramar Beach and Marivel Beach is the Caranzalem Beach. Chances are, you haven't even heard of this beach even if you have been to Goa. This is relatively a small stretch of golden sand beach, which is mostly frequented by locals. There are no tourist facilities here, no restaurants, beach shacks or even food stalls. Resorts are located a bit further from the shores but within walking distance. However, options might not be as varied. Water sports cannot be enjoyed in the beach as well since it is not yet developed. For long morning strolls or even serene sunset views, this beach won't disappoint. Because there are no crowds, you can even enjoy games such as football and cricket while on the shores. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Couples or Lone Travellers 19. Marivel Beach - The Marivel Beach is located close to the National Institute of Oceanography in Bambolim. This beach is just small and not really suitable for those who want adventures. The sands here are on the darker side which makes it seem like the water is muddy. But the water is actually clear though not as wide. There are no shacks nor resorts nearby the beach and it's best to make it a day trip from Dona Paula, since it is just a few kilometres away. There are also no water sports here since this is yet another undeveloped beach in the state. During early morning, you might even spot local fishermen gathering their catches in the shores of the beach. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Local Culture Viewing 20. Dias Beach - This beach is an extension of the Dona Paula Beach, to its western side. The Dias Beach is not really known by many tourists because it is a very short beach, just like the Marivel Beach. It is mostly frequented by locals and the availability of tourist facilities here are limited. There are two resorts located near the beach though, the O Pescador Beach Resort and the Prainha Resort by the Sea. In a way, these resorts almost have private access to the beach which makes it a bit exclusive. These resorts can provide for water sports facilities but there are no proper booths in the beach for such activities. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Local Culture Viewing 21. Dona Paula Beach - The Dona Paula Beach is mostly known for its vantage point, overlooking the confluence of the Zuari River and the Mandori River. According to local legends, this is also the point where the lovers, Dona and Paulo, committed suicide because their families wanted to keep them apart. As such, a statue was built here to commemorate their immortal love. In some versions, the story goes that Dona Paula was a daughter of a Portuguese leader and when she died, locals built a statue for her in the hillock to keep her memory alive. Whatever the real story is, there's no doubt that this is one of the best spots in North Goa for sunset viewing. The main beach is located below the vantage point, where water sports such as parasailing and wind surfing can be enjoyed. There are various dining options and accommodation options near the beach as well that one can choose from. Water Sports Available - Parasailing and Wind Surfing Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - View Lovers 22. Vainguinim Beach - There are only two resorts located close to the Vainguinim Beach, the Cidade De Goa and Sandalwood Hotel. Access to the beach is via these hotels as well, which are mainly luxury ones. As such, the beach remains very well-maintained and clean. The sands are golden yellow in colour and it's not unusual to find small crabs washed away by the waves. The water is very clean and calm enough to enjoy swimming in. There are no tourist facilities like shacks or water sports. But if you stay in any of the resorts, they can provide for such facilities for you. If you have kids with you, they would enjoy collecting seashells and building castles in the powdery sands. For the adults, it's a beach where you can just laze around and enjoy sun bathing or frolicking in the water. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Luxury Travellers 23. Odxel Beach - The Odxel Beach is tucked away, hidden by the property Bay 15 Cabanas by the Bay. Though you can access the beach freely, it's not easily seen from the main road area. As such, it remains under the radar of many tourists. Odxel Beach is mainly a rocky beach but the rocks here are very gorgeous, with their reddish hues. The areas where sands can be found have many seashells strewn all along them. The water isn't too suitable for swimming, not because it isn't clean, but because of the rocky seabed. The entire beach looks very picturesque, especially if you love photography. But for those who love adventure or swimming, then this beach won't be that suitable for you. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Photographers and Lone Travellers 24. Bambolim Beach - Overshadowed by the Dona Paula Beach, the Bambolim Beach is yet another underrated beach in North Goa. Owing to the presence of five-star property here, the Grand Hyatt, the beach has been relatively well-maintained over the past few years. The shores of the beach aren't that silky soft but sparkles because of the presence of the small pebbles. The water is very clear, perfect for just dipping your feet in or just enjoying the views. Most of your needs can be acquired from the hotel because there are no proper shacks or restaurants close to the shores of the beach. But if you want some time away from the crowds, then consider this isolated beach in North Goa. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Serenity Seekers 25. Siridao Beach - Just to the eastern side of the Bambolim Beach, almost like an extension of it, is the Siridao Beach. This is the least beach on this section and just like the former beaches, it remains pretty much isolated and serene. A mixture of brownish sands and reddish rocks flank the various areas of the shores. The water is very clear and suitable for strolling. The presence of numerous seashells add to the natural appeal of the beach. This is mainly a fishing beach and it's not unusual to find local fishing boats on the shores. There are not much options for dining or hotels nearby so it's best to stay in the Bambolim Beach and make a day trip to this beach instead. Keep in mind that this beach isn't developed yet so tourist facilities like shacks, changing rooms and water sports won't be available here. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Nature Lovers ✰ Mormugao (Southern Side) ✰ (Images from Public Domain, Mark, Holiday IQ and Goa Villa) 26. Grandmother's Hole Beach - Despite the tacky name, this beach is actually one of the hidden gems of Goa. To understand why this beach has such a name, it's because it is accessible only by passing through a hole in the Fortaleza Santa Catarina Fort ruins. The hole though is not merely a small opening now, but rather a proper passageway. According to local stories, this is the place where a grandmother used to wait for his sons to come back from the sea in. Devoid of commercialisation, no shacks, no hotels nor any restaurants, you can certainly feel like you're in a rural side of Goa here. The beach has golden shores and clear blue waters that one can enjoy. But you cannot stay here as there are no proper tourist facilities so it's best to visit this place during the day only. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Soul Searching Individuals 27. Baina Beach - This beach is merely 20 minutes of walking away from the Vasco Da Gama Railway Station. Though not as spectacular as the other beaches of the south, its ease of access is its unique feature. It is also easily accessible from the Goa International Airport. Shores lined with golden sands and coconut trees, plus clear blue waters, it makes for a nice getaway for those in a rush to enjoy the sea. This beach is not that developed though so there are no proper resorts nearby. You have many attractions to explore around though like the Our Lady of Candelaria Church and Ayyappa Temple. But it's best to stay in other southern areas as this region is isolated and there aren't much facilities here in case you encounter emergencies. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Day Getaways 28. Hansa Beach - Next is the Hansa Beach, which is located close to the Indian Navy Base in Goa. As such, access to this beach is very restricted, only families of the Indian Army can visit the beach premises. It is well-maintained though because the army regularly cleans it. It is also very picturesque as it is surrounded by hills on two sides, which are verdant and teeming with greenery. There are no resorts, hotels or accommodation options nearby. Beach shacks and restaurants are also very limited too. This beach remains pristine because it is under the management of the Indian Navy. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Access is Restricted 29. Bimbel Beach - The Bimbel Beach is also a beach managed and owned by the Indian Navy, as it is located close to the Indian Naval Aviation Museum. This is a fairly small stretch of beach, even smaller than the Hansa Beach. As such, access to the beach is restricted and there's not much information about the features of this beach as well. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Access is Restricted 30. Bogmalo Beach - The Bogmalo Beach is probably Mormugao's most popular beach. It's a great stopover before reaching the beaches further to the south. The sands are almost golden in colour and powdery in texture. The water is clear though not as beautiful as the other beaches of the south. It is the best beach to stay in that is close to the Goa International Airport and the Vasco Da Gama Railway Station. It is not a happening beach though, there are no parties nor water sports here. There is only one resort, the Bogmalo Beach Resort, which is a luxury property. There are however a few guest houses that one can opt to stay in. There are some beach shacks though selling delicious Goan dishes that one can enjoy. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Quick Stopover 31. Hollant Beach - Yet another hidden gem of Goa is the Hollant Beach. This fairly secluded beach is located just a short distance from the Bogmalo Beach. It is frequented by locals and remains unknown to many tourists. On the adjacent side of the beach, there are lush jungles covered by wild plants and coconut trees. The beach itself is small, almost crescent-shaped and has shores lined with creamy sands. There are no proper tourist facilities here so be prepared and bring your own snacks or beverages. Resorts are also further from the beach, so you need to walk a bit to reach them. The nearest resort is the Devasthali Resort which is around a kilometre away from the beach. No water sports are available here so if you want a bit of adventure, you have to bring your own equipments. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Offbeat Travellers 32. Cansaulim Beach - Easily the most beautiful beach of Mormugao is the Cansaulim Beach, close to the border of the district with Salcette. This beach is connected with the Arossim Beach of Salcette as well. This beach has long stretches of white sand, which are thankfully, maintained by a luxury property located here which is the Heritage Village Club. The water here is incredibly clear but the waves can be rough at times. The depth isn't too deep though so even the children can enjoy frolicking in the water. Since there are direct trains from Delhi to the Cansaulim Railway Station, you can access this beach easily as well. It is under 20 minutes of walking away from the mentioned railway station. If you're planning for a short getaway to Goa and looking at serene beaches in the south, the Cansaulim Beach is an easy option. A few water sports are available as offered by the resort here as well. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing, Banana Boat Riding and Water Scootering Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Serenity Lovers ✰ Salcette (Middle Southern Side) ✰ (Images from Stacey, Klaus Nahr, Vinoth and Thangaraj) 33. Arossim Beach - Next is the Arossim Beach, which is just a few metres away from the Cansaulim Beach. These two beaches has the same features actually. The Arossim Beach also has a luxury property in its shore, which is the Park Hyatt. It has the same white sands and clear blue water with shallow depth. Access to the beach is usually by the hotel so crowds are more elite in a way. There are various beach shacks on the shores that serve delicious Goan cuisine. For water sports, there are some facilities for jet skiing and speed boating in the beach. But usually, the hotel can provide for the facilities that you need for various water sports as well. If you love strolling around the beach, the Arossim Beach has vast stretches of sands suitable for that. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing and Speed Boating Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Couples and Serenity Lovers 34. Utorda Beach - Close to Majorda is the white-sand Utorda Beach. Most of the beaches from this point are stunning and it's the same case with the Utorda Beach. If you love a beach with some activity but without the crowds, this beach serves that purpose. Apart from the fine powdery sands, the water here is very clean and suitable for swimming. Two luxury resorts, the Planet Hollywood and Kenilworth Beach Resort & Spa, are located within walking distance to the beach. Facilities for usual water sports like jet skiing and banana boat riding are here too. Some shacks and cafes line the shores so you won't have to worry about your tummy aching. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Adventure Lovers Avoiding Crowds 35. Majorda Beach - Next is the Majorda Beach, another bustling beach yet isn't as crowded as the central beaches of Goa. This is yet another white sand beach with a very fine and silky texture. The water is very calm and remains shallow for quite a distance. Big name in the hospitality industry, the Alila Diwa, is located close to the shores of the beach. Water sports like parasailing, jet skiing and water scootering are all available here. In case you get hungry, there are many beach shacks that can cater to your needs. Yet the beach remains serene because it is rarely frequented by tourists. With an air of exclusivity, this beach is another good option when in South Goa. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing, Parasailing and Water Scootering Accommodation Options - Moderate Best For - Adventure Lovers 36. Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach is just a short distance away from the Majorda Beach yet is off the radar of tourists. Perhaps this has to do with the approach to the beach, since only two wheelers can access the roads leading to it. You can also access it by foot but it requires a bit of walking by doing so. The beach is very peaceful, away from the commercial beaches, as it isn't easy to find. The shores have golden sands and the water is quite clear. There are fishing boats owned by local fishermen all around. There are no facilities here though, it's not the usual developed beach in Goa. There is only one food stall and it mainly sells snacks plus a few beverages. No water sports available too except if you bring your own gear for surfing. Do not miss the sunset here as it is every bit worth it. But for staying options, they are further from the beach so it's best to reach Majorda for more resorts or guest houses. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Isolation Lovers 37. Betalbatim Beach - For families, Betalbatim Beach is a good choice for a beach destination in the south. This is especially true for those people who are just looking to find the perfect beach, wherein there are a good number of resorts or shacks nearby to choose from. It's an idyllic beach, where you can enjoy lazing around. But for those who love adventure, there are a couple of water sports that one can do here as well. Resorts like Beleza By The Beach, Nanu Resort and Coconut Grove are within walking distance from the beach. On the shores itself, there are some beach shacks serving Goan delicacies. But they're not as plenty as the ones in Baga or Calangute so there's still some sort of privacy in the area. The beach itself has fine white sands and sometimes, seashells can be found at some areas as well. The waves in the water aren't that high so even the little ones can have a great time spending time in it. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Families 38. Colva Beach - Colva Beach is one of the most popular beaches of South Goa. The sands here are white with specks of silver which gives it a unique appearance. The sand is very silky too, perfect for long strolls around the beach. The water here is very calm too, though there are waves but it isn't too strong. It is a hub for many water sports like parasailing, wind surfing, speed boating and water scootering. However, a bit of a downside, is that the rates for water sports here are slightly higher. There are many three-star properties that are close to the shores of the beach, which means even those in a budget can enjoy a stay here. Beach shacks are plenty around the shores too. This beach, as compared to the other beaches of the south, can be very crowded though especially during peak tourist season. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Wind Surfing, Speed Boating and Water Scootering Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Families and Adventure Lovers 39. Sernabatim Beach - This is another white-sand beach in South Goa, but less frequented unlike its nearby neighbours. The Sernabatim Beach has vast stretches of white sands that are very powdery and fine. The sands are lined by various seashells, in different shapes and sizes which can be a fun sight for the little ones. There are some three-star resorts that can be found just on the shores of the beach. Even restaurants like Xavier's and Furtado's are located in the shores. Still, despite these tourist facilities, Sernabatim Beach remains hidden from the radar of many tourists. It's rare to find a tourist who have this beach in his or her itinerary. But if you're someone who enjoys solitude and doesn't mind a few days of just idyllic beauty surrounding you, Sernabatim Beach is a prime choice for that. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Moderate Best For - Solitude Seekers 40. Benaulim Beach - Next is the Benaulim Beach, located close to the Chitra Museum of South Goa. This is one of South Goa's livelier beaches, with an assortment of both budget and luxury resorts around. For budget stays, there's the Fern Beiramar Resort or the Lotus Beach Resort. For luxury stays, try out the Taj Exotica or the Joecons Beach Resort. Beach shacks also line the shores of the Benaulim Beach like the FantaSea Beach Shack and Esco's Sun 'N Moon. Onto the beach itself, it has white powdery sands and water with very mild waves. The water is actually shallow for many metres so you can enjoy wading around for a distance. Water sports available in the beach are jet skiing and parasailing. Benaulim Beach, though popular, isn't still as crowded as the beaches of the north. Thus, one can still enjoy some serenity and tranquility while in here even during peak season. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing and Parasailing Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Families and Adventure Lovers 41. Varca Beach - Varca Beach is a long stretch of creamy sand beach connected to the Carmona Beach. Its sands are very soft enough for your feet to sink in it. The water here is a clear blue, almost transparent in appearance. The surrounding coconut trees can render you speechless, as if the entire beach came out of a postcard picture. There are also facilities for water sports here like parasailing, jet skiing and banana boat riding. Best part is that they offer packages for water sports so you can enjoy several for a discounted price. When it comes to accommodation options, there are various budget and high end ones. For those who have money to spare, luxury resorts like the Zuri White Sands Resort and Club Mahindra Resort are located within walking distance from the beach. Water Sports Available - Parasailing, Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Moderate Best For - Families and Couples 42. Carmona Beach - Carmona Beach is also known by the name Zalor Beach and is one of the lesser known beaches of the south. It is located at the far end of the Varca Beach and hence, not visited by as many tourists. It is set amidst a rural village known as Carmona, hence the name. Accommodation options here are fewer and they are located further from the beach. The Jose Menino Colonia Resort is perhaps the most known name when it comes to the hospitality industry here. Onto the beach, it has the same features as the Varca Beach, long stretches of white sand and clear blue water. However, shacks and water sports here are more limited. It's best to visit the beach during day time only as you won't find much of your necessities around. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Serenity Seekers 43. Cavelossim Beach - Three features make the Cavelossim Beach one-of-its-kind, these are: white sands, black lava rocks and river views. Located amidst an estuary between the Arabian Sea and the Sal River, the beach sports a lovely ambience. The sands of the shores are purely white and in some sections, the black lava rocks give a contrasting appearance. In one side of the beach, the mountains lend their green beauty to the surroundings as well. All these aspects make the Cavelossim Beach a must-visit attraction in Goa. A number of luxury properties like the Dona Sylvia Beach Resort and Radisson Blu can be found close to the shores of the beach. Water sports are also available here though their rates are on the higher side. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Families and Couples 44. Mobor Beach - On the southern end of the Cavelossim Beach is the Mobor Beach. This beach has white sands as well and clear waters. Seashells can be found in many sections of the beach as well. Luxury hotels like The Leela and Holiday Inn Resort can be found near the shores of the beach as well. There's this exclusivity to the beach because it is mainly high end resorts that flank its sides. Water sports are also available though not as many as those in central Goa. This isolated beach is perfect for the honeymoon couples, those who want some relaxation and time away from the busy city life. Water Sports Available - Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Couples 45. Betul Beach - Last on this section is the Betul Beach, located near the mouth of the Sal River. The shores of the beach is a creamy white with particles of seashells and other aquatic animals washed to it at times. Small crabs can be sometimes seen at the shores as well. A unique feature of this beach is that the waves are quite rough. This makes for a suitable beach for the surfers. The waves come at unpredictable highs and lows so it's definitely a surfer's paradise. There are only a few accommodation options here so it's best to stay in the nearby Mobor Beach and just visit the Betul Beach during day time. Water sports or even tourist facilities are very few here so make sure you leave all comforts behind. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Isolation Seekers ✰ Canacona (Southernmost Side) ✰ (Images from Pradeep, Martin Frey, Christian and Tharobster) 46. Kakolem Beach - Kakolem Beach is also known as the Tiger's Beach. While it is approachable by road from Cola Beach, it's best approached by riding a boat that can take you safely to the beach. This is a very small stretch of beach surrounded by jungle, hence the name Tiger's Beach. Some locals even believe that tigers used to roam in this beach. The sands here are silky and soft white but the addition of sharp rocks add to the edgy vibe of the beach. Keep in mind that this is an isolated beach, there are no tourist facilities nor water sports available. There are no houses nearby as well so in case of an emergency, it's hard to get help. Thus, only visit this beach during day time and make sure you reach the main city before the sun sets as well. Bring essential snacks and beverages plus a first aid kit, in case accidents occur. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Thrill Seekers 47. Cola Beach - Next is yet another isolated beach, the Cola Beach, located about 20 minutes away from Palolem. But the road to reach the beach is on a dirt track, especially around the last one kilometre. Thereafter, you have to trek, a downhill climb, to reach the beach slash lagoon proper. For a long while, the Cola Beach has been unknown to many tourists. Recently though, more and more tourists have been frequenting the beach and hence, there are now proper accommodation options near it. The Cola Beach is a small stretch of beach that has a confluence with a small lagoon. The lagoon, surrounded by forests, is very charming especially for the nature lovers. As of now, there are three main resorts in the beach, providing both tented and cabin accommodations. The main water sport that one can do here is kayaking, amidst the green and serene lagoon. Aside from these, facilities around the beach are very limited. Water Sports Available - Kayaking Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Nature Lovers 48. Agonda Beach - For a truly rustic beach experience, you can head to the Agonda Beach. Instead of tourists, at least most of the time, cows and horses are your companies here. Instead of parasails, enjoy the views of the various bird species in the skies around the beach. Pure white sand and calm waters, the best combination for beach bums, would also greet you here. Just a few beach shacks and resorts, not too many that they can hinder the ultimate serenity surrounding the place. All these features make for a serene getaway and you won't need to reach another island or another country as Goa offers you Agonda Beach instead. If you're a certified beach bum, who would rather laze in the sands than indulge in tiring water sports, Agonda Beach is for you. If you're someone who's tired of the noise and crowds, Agonda Beach would welcome you with open arms. Water Sports Available - Dolphin Spotting Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Beach Bums 49. Honeymoon Beach - A short boat ride away from the Palolem Beach is the Honeymoon Beach. This isolated beach is a haven for the couples as it offers ultimate seclusion and privacy. However, it does come with its downsides, like lack of tourist facilities and proper accommodations. Still, if you want to get away from it all, hire a private boat from Palolem and reach this beach instead. Though it's fairly small, the sands are pure and white while the water is very calm, inviting and luring you to swim in it. Do bring some snacks and water as there aren't any shacks here. You also need to reach Palolem before sunset as it can be dangerous to stay here during night time. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Honeymoon Couples 50. Butterfly Beach - Also approachable by a boat ride from Palolem Beach is the Butterfly Beach. Some even trek to reach this beach, from Leopard Valley Road, but this is only suitable for the young and physically fit individuals as it traverses through jungles and the cliffside. The beach itself is in a form of a butterfly, with two mountains flanking its sides forming the wings of the supposed butterfly. Swimming here can be a bit dangerous as the water is on the deep side. Huge rocks can be found near the shores which give the beach its unique look. On the adjacent side, the mountains provide for a perfect backdrop with their greenery and height. There are no water sports nor resorts here so you need to reach Palolem Beach back before the sun sets as well. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Couples and Adventure Seekers 51. Palolem Beach - This is considered as one of the most commercial beaches of South Goa. It is sometimes referred to as the Baga of the South, though it doesn't really resemble it in terms of crowds or beauty. Yes, it might be one of the most crowded beaches of the south, but it remains relatively clean and peaceful still. Not to mention that it has an assortment of resorts and restaurants all along its shores. The good news is that the properties here are on the three-star side so they're still very affordable. You also can't miss the Silent Noise Party that occurs here during some days of the week. This eccentric party is held at the Neptune Point. Instead of music blaring from speakers, guests are given their own headsets where they can listen to their own choices of music from. It is also here that the German Bakery is located, where Continental dishes are served, but they're best known for their delectable pastries and desserts. Water Sports Available - Dolphin Spotting, Banana Boat Riding, Water Scootering and Bumper Boat Riding Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Adventure Lovers and Party Lovers 52. Patnem Beach - Just a short distance from the Palolem Beach is the Patnem Beach. In contrast, Patnem Beach sees less of the crowds but boasts of quite wild waves perfect for surfing. The vibe here is very laid-back and it serves as the best backdrop for yoga classes or training. In fact, various yoga schools and centres are located amidst the shores of the beach. The most popular ones are Kranti Yoga and Lotus Oasis Yoga. The serene atmosphere and the almost hippie vibe attracts the music lovers too. You would find rare music circles comprised of foreigners and locals around the shores too. When it comes to accommodation options, Patnem Beach is a backpacker's paradise as both budget resorts and beach huts are located here. Beach shacks like Tantra Cafe and Roundcube Beach Cafe are also worth trying out here. Water Sports Available - Surfing Accommodation Options - Plenty Best For - Budget Travellers and Yoga Enthusiasts 53. Rajbagh Beach - A river separates the Patnem Beach from the next beach, which is the Rajbagh Beach. On the southern side, the mouth of the Talpona River can be found, which then separates the Rajbagh Beach from the Talpona Beach. Access to Rajbagh Beach is very restricted as the area is owned by the Lalit Golf & Spa Resort. But you can still access it across a rocky path from the Patnem Beach. It is truly a beach that you can have all to yourself. Crowds rarely gather here and the few people you see are just guests from the five-star property. The long stretch of white sands, the immaculate cleanliness and the clear water are very enticing all together. The management does it best to preserve the beach by keeping the animals aways from the area. Although you can request for water sports from the property management, the beach itself don't have such facilities nor beach shacks. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse (High End) Best For - Luxury Travellers 54. Talpona Beach - Next is the Talpona Beach, which is separated from the former beach by the Talpona River. It is one of the few beaches in Goa where pine trees can be found adjacent to the beach. The shores have lovely golden sands and clear blue waters. Though relatively calm, there are sudden bouts of waves that can catch you off guard. As compared to the Rajbagh Beach, the accommodation options here are fewer and so are the dining options. But this is definitely more affordable so even if you're on a tight budget, you can still fit this into your itinerary. But if you're a fun loving and adventure loving individual, the Talpona Beach won't have as much activities to offer for you. For couples though, a simple picnic alongside the water can be very romantic especially since there are no prying eyes to spy on you. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Sparse Best For - Couples 55. Galgibag Beach - Galgibag Beach is a long stretch of beach that merges with the Galjibag River to the south. Just like the former beach, it has shores lined with pine trees which give it a unique appearance. Most parts of the beach has white sands but there are some areas flanked by large rocks as well. This is a beach teeming with wildlife too. For instance, it's a nesting ground for the Olive Ridley turtles that lay their eggs here every year from December to March. It is also not unusual to spot dolphins swimming amidst a distance from the shores. During low tide, keep your eyes open for sting rays swimming in the water. On many days, small and large crabs are washed away to the shores of the beach as well. For swimming though or even water sports, the water isn't that suitable due to the strong undercurrents. Further, hotels and restaurants are away from the shores as the government wants to preserve this place as it is an important biodiversity hotspot. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - None Best For - Wildlife Lovers 56. Polem Beach - Polem Beach is Goa's southernmost beach, located close to its border with Karnataka. This is essentially the last beach before the border with Karnataka and the tourists here are mainly from the neighbouring state. The sands here are golden with specks of white and grey, not as powdery but quite stunning in itself. It is also a bird watcher's paradise as many raptors get their food from the shores, which are mainly the tiny crabs that fall easy to their beaks. A few shacks line the shores too, which serve mainly seafood dishes. The nearest resorts are the Coastal Jewel of Goa and Kamaxi Beach Resort. But you can also find various guest houses nearby if you're in a budget. Water Sports Available - None Accommodation Options - Few Best For - Offbeat Travellers Conclusion With this list, you can now plan your journey to Goa. If you're someone who loves vibrancy, night life and shopping included, then your best option is to reach the northern and central side of Goa. If you're someone who loves a bit of serenity, then the northernmost and southern side of Goa are your best options. Looking for some offbeat beach getaways? Then choose any beach destination from the southernmost side of Goa, except maybe for Palolem Beach. Good luck and I hope this helps you!
