Goa – The name itself says it all! The mother of all beach places and parties in India, Goa is definitely the most popular destination for travellers looking for waterfronts, sunshine and a lazing pass time. Home to at least 30 popular beaches, Goa provides a fulfillment for the ‘’beach’’ wander lust in you as you move from Polem beach in the south to the Querim beach in the north. These beaches are set along the Goa coastline that is about 100 kilometres in length.
If you are planning to have an exclusive trip, it is good to check with travel agents who are specialized in travel destinations such as Goa. The traditional travel agents have extensively embraced travel technologies, and with the help of applications such as – tour management software or travel agency software, they can create a customized travel plan. Another advantage of going with the agents is the possibility of getting some good offers and discounts on your travel to the locations! And in case, you have an unplanned trip, these agents might just about help you with the tickets through the tour reservation system that helps in ticket booking and travel planning.
So now, let’s take a look at some of these very popular beaches:
Southern Goa Beaches – These beaches lie along the coastline of South Goa district and are closer to the major city in that part of the state – Margoa. Margoa is a historical town which represents the Portuguese culture and traditions.
1. Polem Beach
Located at the southernmost tip of Goa, Polem is a very quiet and secluded beach that is known for its clean and unspoilt waters. It is also characterized by white sands and rocks, and is an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is about 60 kilometres from the historical city of Margoa. The beach hosts some migratory birds and is the perfect place for a calm and serene vacation with the added advantage of bird watching.
2. Galgibaga Beach
Situated about 50 kilometres from Margoa this serene beach is about 2 kilometres in length and is characterized by silver sands. The beach has clear waters making it very suitable for swimming. It is usually less crowded and makes for a suitable spot for travellers wanting less noise. You will find very less number of shacks alongside the beach making it an absolute ‘’peace destination’’. The beach is also home to the Olive Ridley sea turtles.
3. Palolem Beach
Situated in Canacona and about 40 kilometres from Margoa, Palolem is perhaps the most popular beach in south Goa. It is a 1.5 kilometres stretch and is shaped as a crescent. The beach is filled with white sand and lined with coconut trees and shacks on the shore making it a picturesque setting. The beach is known for its party vibes. The nearest airport is the Dabolim airport and the nearest railway station is the Canacona.
Central Goa Beaches – These beaches are situated very close to the biggest city in Goa, Vasco.
4. Dona Paula Beach
Situated about 6 kilometres from Panaji, Dona Paula is a popular spot and hence is usually crowded. The beach is a favourite among travellers for most part of the year and is a calm place during monsoons. The place also hosts the National Institute of Oceanography.
5. Bogmalo Beach
Situated about 15 kilometres from Panaji, this beach is a great blend of natural beauty and commercial growth. It is an idea place for swimming and also has the Goa Institute of Diving. This beach is also close to the Goa BITS Pilani campus and is about 9 kilometres from the town of Vasco. The Dabolim airport is about 2.5 kilometres away making this place very accessible.
Northern Goa Beaches – These beaches lie along the coast of North Goa district and are closer to the capital city of Panaji.
6. Anjuna Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Goa, Anjuna is known for night parties and music all through the year. A major tourist attraction, it hosts a lot of foreigners all through the year. It is also characterized by the flea market set up on Wednesdays. There are also live acts and music performed in the shacks at the beach. It is one of the most cosmopolitan among beaches having representations from many parts of the world.
7. Sinquerim Beach
Situated a little more than 10 kilometres from Panaji, this pristine beach is quite popular among tourists and music lovers. The famous Sunburn music festival is held here in the month of December which hosts thousands of people. The beach is also known for the Aguada fort built by the Portuguese as means to ward off sea attacks. It also has plenty of water sports such as Boat rides, Water Scooters, Para-sailing etc.
8. Morjim Beach
One of the very secluded places of North Goa, Morjim is characterized by the presence of hillocks all around. About 30 kilometres from Panaji, Morjim is located on the northern side of the Chapora river estuary and also has large concentrations of Russian population. The beach is known for activities such as – alternative healing and kite surfing.
9. Querim Beach
The beach is situated in the northern most part of Goa and is about 60 kilometres from Panaji. It is a quite beach suitable for people looking for a non-party time. It is characterized by a fort converted to a hotel and a church that overlooks the sea. The beach is not safe for swimming but is known for para-gliding and sailing.
If you want to explore Goa in a luxurious way then the Southern Sojourn Journey of Maharaja Express Train will take you there. It has all the onboard luxury amenities that will make you feel like royals and you willl never get that service anywhere.