With 103km of coastline lapped by the Arabian Sea, a trip to Goa is all about the beach. Stretch out on the sand and you’ll enjoy beautiful water and sublime sunsets when you visit these beaches in Goa.
And the beaches in Goa promise plenty of variety too. You can chase the party, look for the hippie life or escape the crowds. You might even see some sea turtles. This is what to expect from the top beaches in Goa and the reason that sets them apart from the rest.
Baga Beach
EXPECT VIBRANT NIGHTLIFE
Baga Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa. And it’s not just for the white sand or beautiful water – although you will find that – Baga completely transforms once the sun goes down.
After dark, it’s the party capital of Goa. Get your dancing shoes on and head to one of the famous clubs at Baga – you’ll find Cafe Mambo, Cocktail & Dreams, The White Goa and more.
Calangute Beach
THE LARGEST BEACH IN GOA
Right next to Baga Beach, Calangute Beach is referred to as the ‘Queen of Beaches’.
And while Baga is all about the night, the Queen is much more focused on the day.
Head here if you want to take the water on a banana boat ride or jet ski ride. Or get up in the air with some parasailing. You’ll also find plenty of beachside shacks, serving food all day long.
Anjuna Beach
HIPPIE VIBES AT THE BEACH MARKET
You can’t talk about Goan beaches without mentioning those hippies. They’ve been flocking here since the 60s. And still do.
This is the spot to enjoy the hippie culture – at the relaxed Wednesday flea market. A little less relaxed are the trance music parties held here – they are major crowd pullers for tourists and backpackers though.
Anjuna is the epitome of Goan life – beach shacks in the day, partying at night.
Arambol Beach
BOHEMIAN FLAVOUR
Less crowded than Baga Beach and Calangute Beach, it’s still a popular spot with backpackers and foreigners. As the sun sets, something happens every evening at Arambol. One day it’s a live drum circle. The next a beach side flea market, or some firework performances.
During the day, explore the nearby freshwater lake – also known as Sweet Water Lake.
Candolim Beach
AWAY FROM THE CROWDS
Stroll along this uncrowded beach in North Goa and escape the crowds. It’s also super close to the famous Aguada Fort. A visit here means a little beach time and a glimpse of Goa’s history at the fort.
Plus, it’s the first beach you come to travelling from Panjim towards North Goa.
Colva Beach
THE LONGEST BEACH IN GOA
Stretching almost 2.5km in length, Colva is known for its beauty. Stretch your toes on white sand while you take in one of the best sunsets in Goa. You’ll find plenty of beach shacks along the sand – just soak in the moment, all day long.
Vagator Beach
DRAMATIC RED CLIFFS
Visit Vagator Beach in North Goa and marvel at the striking red cliffs surrounding the sand. The dramatic cliffs make for the perfect backdrop to witness the beautiful Goa sunsets. And just like Anjuna, Vagator Beach is also famed for the party as soon as the sun goes down.
Morjim Beach
OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLES
Also known as ‘Little Russia’ – due to its popularity with Russian tourists – Morjim Beach, is quiet and less crowded.
What really sets Morjim Beach apart, is the nesting site for olive ridley sea turtles. During the nesting season, the beach is packed with people trying to witness hundreds of recently hatched baby turtles swim into the waters.
Unlike other beaches of Goa, there aren’t too many beach shacks or hotels. Those you will find are on the north side. The southern side is the protected area for the turtles. You’ll also see the confluence of the Chapora River and the Arabian Sea at the southern end of Morjim Beach.
Betalbatim Beach
THE GLOWING BEACH OF GOA
Betalbatim beach is a serene and relatively less touristy pick.
It’s also famed as the glowing beach of Goa. Splash in the surf once the sun goes down and (if you’re lucky) you’ll see bioluminescent algae illuminating the shoreline at night. In the daytime, it’s also a hub for adventure sports including water skiing, parasailing, windsurfing and scuba diving.
Cola Beach
FRESHWATER LAGOON
A real hidden gem of Goa, Cola Beach is secluded and pristine. The nearby freshwater lagoon, surrounded by towering palm trees, is an idyllic place for a swim and one for the memories.
It’s not easy to reach Cola Beach – it’s one of the most isolated beaches in Goa. There is no direct road to the beach. Instead you’ll be dealing with a 1.5-2 km muddy and bumpy detour off the concrete road. Choose your transport wisely and here’s where to stay.
Now you know about the best beaches in Goa, let’s discover the best ways to get around, places to stay and the top festivals. Let’s build that bucket list.
Thinking of travelling to Goa? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
