While north Goa offers a buzzing atmosphere for tourists, the southern coastline has a distinctly laidback feel. Wise Traveller spotlights some of the best beaches that have adventurers coming back year after year.
South Goa
South Goa can sometimes be a quick detour into how travel used to be here for those brave enough to have embarked on a tour to India. Paddy fields and coconut trees may give an idyllic, unpretentious approach, but they also sit close to some of the best beaches to be found anywhere.
Patnem Beach, for example, offers a fantastic chilled vibe with a wonderful beach and beach huts. The location is long on the memory but may well be too remote for some as it is, based on on what some observers say, largely untouched compared to its close, bigger neighbours. If lazing in the sun is your ideal holiday, then this is it.
Palolem is a favourite for the backpacker community as they beat a retreat across India, Asia and beyond. There are beach huts, palms, artful landscapes to die for, a decent nightlife to vibe to, and an opportunity to get closer to nature. Oh, and the sunsets are truly gorgeous, as well.
One of the more popular beaches in the Southern part of the state is Colva. If the crescent-shaped landscape doesn’t wow you, then clear waters, the people watching, and everyday life will keep you busy as you sip your drink from a nearby shack. It is also a place well-known for its great food.
With the enduring popularity of South Goa, it is no wonder that some of the beaches are being upgraded. No more so than Agonda. It still offers a peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle of India, but at least there are more accommodation options to explore. The environment, in general, is clean and welcoming and is a major draw for solos and families alike.
For a quieter, slower pace, Cavessolim could be a fantastic choice of beach to stay at for a few days. Offering a large sweeping beach with crystal waters and shacks on tap, you can get to grips with a remote holiday here.
The pick of the crop of other beaches along this shoreline is Varca, a beach renowned for its golden sands, upscale family residences, and great shacks for food and delightful sunsets.
Cansaulim is another one to look up for chilled vibes, while travellers recommend Arossim Beach as it is slightly busier.
Travellers have also recommended the likes of Cola, Betalbatim, Benaulim, Betul and Mobor. All offer different versions of the same thing: sea, sun, beach, peace, and to-die-for locations.
Whatever your desires, whether it is the need for activities or a remote location to find yourself, Goa can and will offer it all.
Andy Probert is an independent journalist who writes about global travel news, airlines, airports, and business. His work has appeared globally on the BBC, and in many national newspapers and magazines.
