Goa is the perfect blend of natural beauty, lively nightlife, and tropical surroundings. Whenever you hear the word "Goa," images of palm trees, golden beaches, dreadlocks, hippies, and dance parties usually spring to mind. A beachside jewel of India, it became one of the '70s' favourite activities along the Hippy Trail.
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15 best beaches in Goa - 2021
Fine white sand, coconut trees along the coast, lonely sun loungers, endless expanses of the ocean and luxury hotels with excellent service - this is probably how many imagine an ideal vacation. Where to go for it? To the small Indian state...
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How is Climate in Goa
In Goa, the weather is tropical year-round, with long, sunny seasons between October and May. From late May to early or mid-October, the rainy season occurs, characterized by stuffy weather, cloud cover, and frequent rains. From March to May, the pre-monsoon period is the hottest of the year. Although it may get hotter than in other parts of India, the temperatures are not as high as in other parts. Also, this can occur following the monsoon season, in October and November, when temperatures can soar to 34 and 35 °C.
Best Time to Visit Goa
Goa's beaches are at their best between January and February during the dry season when temperatures are hot and sunny. In March, it's a little hotter, but overall not too hot. Despite the similar weather in December and January, a cyclone still has the potential to hit the area. You'll find a dry season between April and November, but it can get very hot, and cyclones can affect this area.
Culture in Goa
Following colonial rule, Goa has a distinct fusion of Portuguese and Indian culture. People and their lifestyles reflect the joyful spirit of the state. The rich heritage culture of the region has not yet been ruined by rapid industrialization that has become common in other parts of India. Known for their delicious food and live music, the locals are modest, kind, and fun-loving. Goa's vibrant culture is influenced by food and drink. It's a familiar name in the state for the Goans who practice 'siesta', where they close their businesses and give themselves a rest from 1 to 4 pm. Despite religious differences, the friendly natives are inclusive of one another.
Beaches in Goa
North GoaBeaches
The beaches in North Goa are considered to be more vibrant and atmospheric, often visited by both domestic and international tourists, and dotted with colourful beach shacks that offer food and refreshments. Some of the most famous beaches in North Goa include: Candolim beach is known for its endless stretch of soft sand and an uninterrupted string of wooden beach huts. The Calangute and Baga beaches are joined at their mouths by a long stretch of sand. They are both popular attractions for locals and tourists alike, with several activities to partake in on and around the beach.
While Anjuna is perhaps best known for its Wednesday Flea Market, the area also offers a nice stretch of sand to relax on. Another great beach option is Vagator, a more quiet and relaxing spot.
Beaches in South Goa
South Goa's beaches differ greatly from those of North Goa. Unlike North Goa, which is mostly about rows of beach shacks, flea markets, endless varieties of food and is very crowded, South Goa is ideal for those seeking solitude. South Goa's beaches are great for those who are not into partying and want a relaxing time. A few of the beaches are: Located next to the more famous Agonda Beach, Butterfly Beach is a blissful, tiny stretch of sand. Even in the peak tourist season, it seems to draw very few visitors.
Since it lies between two hills, Cola Beach is also known as the Secret Beach. A lot of people trek to Cola's clean waters from Agonda Beach. This is a great option when you only want to soak up the sun, sleep in hotels on the beach, or relax in the evenings. The Palolem beach in South Goa shot to fame after its silent parties gained public attention.
Best Things to do in Goa
- Beach Water Sports Adventures and experiences abound in Goa, including water sports. Goa's Calangute Beach, affectionately called the 'Queen of Beaches', is a popular water sports destination. A day at Calangute Beach means riding waves, plunging into the crystal clear water, or flying above the breathtaking coastline.
- Boat Tours: Boat tours are a favourite among adrenaline junkies as Grand Island is the ultimate all-in-one experience with top-notch facilities. It elevates the standards of the overall boat trip to see dolphins in the Arabian Sea. Jet-ski rides and banana boat rides are popular activities at Majorda Beach in Goa. People short on time for an overnight cruise also have a great option on houseboat days. Backwaters, lagoons, and sleepy hamlets are among the many things to see.
- Beach Shack: The beachfront shacks that serve mouthwatering food are an intriguing aspect of this tiny city that will draw you in as you eat and sip your drinks under the sun. Curlies Beach Shack is one of the best shacks in Goa, located right next to South Anjuna beach. Bobby's Shack, situated in Candolim beach, is one of the best beach shacks in North Goa. The delightful Candolim Beach Shack is famous for its Christmas and New Year celebrations and its elaborate Sunday supper, known as Sunday Roast.
- Adventure Sports: Adventure activities in Goa are a wonderful manner to interrupt far away from the everyday grind and revel in complete rest and rejuvenation. The most popular land-based adventure activity in Goa is bungee jumping. A variety of bungee jumping options are available at reasonable rates - kinds of bungee jumps, couple bungee jumps, water-dip bungee jumps, etc. Various are quite popular. The land of beaches also attracts more guests every year with its water activities like parasailing, banana boat rides, jet-skiing, speed boat rides, bumper rides, etc.
- Waterfalls: The cascading waterfalls of Goa often make the bucket list of everyone who visits. Waterfalls near Goa, situated in the Western Ghats, will surely refresh your soul in no time. An excursion to Goa should include a stop at Dudhsagar Falls since it is a visual treat. There is nothing like the Bamanbudo waterfall in Goa; it's like a water slide that delights the heart and soul.
- Nature: A popular jungle resort and a key attraction for school children and nature lovers, Bondla is one of Goa's four Wild Life Sanctuary. With its mini zoo, sprawling deer park and botanical gardens, the city attracts tourists all year round. Goa's second-largest wildlife sanctuary, Cotigao, for a picnic along the mangroves is home to bison (gaur), samburs, cheetahs, wild boars, langurs, langur monkeys, and panthers at night. In the vicinity of the sanctuary lies Jeevottam Partagal Math, a university that specializes in Vedic studies. For a picnic along the mangroves, the Salam Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island near Panaji is the perfect location.
Accommodation in Goa
Budget Stay
Goa has accommodation options for travellers of all budgets and types. A wide array of luxury resorts, beach huts, backpacker hostels, yoga retreats, Portuguese mansions. This region offers and heritage hotels are offered in this region.
Villa Option in Goa
There are a variety of great hotels offering excellent services and amenities in Goa, but sometimes you just need a different kind of accommodation, something that goes beyond the standard room. Villas in Goa are often the best option for a vacation because they provide many more advantages over hotels in terms of price, privacy, facilities and luxury.
Guest House
The cost of staying at a Goa guest house is comparatively lower than that of a hotel, making it more affordable. The guests are provided with a homely environment.
Homestay
While looking for the right accommodation, homestays are the new trend and a wonderful option to consider. Luxury and comfort are combined in Goa's homestays. A few even feature Portuguese architecture and decor.
Rental Home in Goa
There is also serenity at yoga retreats or renting an apartment or house in Goa if you are looking for an authentic experience.
Car and Bike Rental
A very enticing option for getting around the place in Goa is to rent a bike! The ease of riding your bike means you can go wherever you please, whenever you please. Bike rentals are affordable.
How to reach in Goa ?
Getting to Goa from other parts of the country is easy. Every day, there. Are multiple hour-long flights between Mumbai (formerly Bombay) and Goa, India's financial capital.
- By Air: Dabolim Airport in Goa is located near Vasco Da Gama and around 30 km from Panjim. With flights going and coming to the airport from both domestic and international carriers, one can easily save some time by booking a flight.
- By Train: Madgaon (MAO), Thivim (THVM) and Vasco Da Gama (VSG) are the two major railway stations connecting Goa with the rest of the country. Taking a ride on the Konkon railway is a great option if travelling from Bangalore or the southern parts of India to Goa.
- By Bus: A section of NH 66 runs along the western coast of the Indian peninsula and through Goa. It is a pleasure to drive on the roads here. To drive in India, however, you will need a valid international licence (if you do not hold an Indian passport).