Best Beaches in Goa: North Goa & South Goa Beaches to Visit in October
You must’ve read a lot about the hidden spots or offbeat things to do in Goa but at the end of the day, the beaches in Goa are its crown. With the glorious 103 km of coastline hugging the Arabian sea, Goa is known for being a haven of beaches. Just imagine yourself on sun-drenched sands, enjoying the beauty of crystal-clear waters, and admiring the stunning sunset – oof, this might make you feel absolute joy. Not just that, at some of the beaches in Goa, you could go parasailing, scuba diving, chill at a shack, build sandcastles, or the best of all, spot turtles sometimes come to the shore up for air. It’s also funny how this small state may be tiny but brims with places to see in Goa so where else could we begin? And so, without much ado let’s dive deep into this best beaches in Goa list for your beach holiday with friends and family.
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Best Beaches in North Goa
Ah, North goa! A place where every beach speaks volumes about itself as it’s accompanied by sand, sunshine, laughter, and of course, parties – a perfect combination. Some of these beaches in North Goa are bustling during daytime while others give you oppourtunity to have private moments at sunset. However, the beaches of North Goa have one thing in common, they are all enchanting. So, let’s take off those shoes and start exploring the sandy paradise.
Top beaches in North Goa
Calangute Beach
Known as ‘queen of beaches,’ Calangute is where you go when you desire everything such as sun, sand, and sea food. This stretch of golden sands offers an ultimate beach experience, complemented by shacks, clubs, sun loungers and water sports in Goa. Whether eating prawns with a chilled beer or simply watching the waves, Calangute will never get you bored. It’s one of the best beaches in Goa for a complete experience.
Anjuna Beach
Known for its natural beauty backdrop, Anjuna needs to be on your list if you are a shopper or looking forward to enjoy sunsets while holidaying at beautiful places to visit in Goa. A hippie paradise with rocky outcrops, this beach is famous for its golden coastline, shacks, water sports, parties and nightlife in Goa. The best part about visiting this beach in Goa is that it has a flea market every Wednesday. You can buy bracelets made from beads or bangles and all sorts of tidbits that will get you all fascinated.
Ozran Beach
Tucked away and rather difficult to find, Ozran beach is worth discovering. Even though nudity is prohibited on any of the beaches in India, this remains one of the nude beaches in Goa that only few are aware about. This hidden gem in Goa caters well for both sunbathing enthusiasts and those who love walking along long dusty paths alongside the coastlines. The sights are breathtaking and atmosphere liberating; however please note it’s not an ordinary beach so come prepared.
Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach offers an alternative to the more crowded spots, making it a favourite among those in the know. With its dramatic cliffs, secluded bays and laid-back vibe, this beach in Goa is the perfect place to unwind. Whether you have your feet in the water, sit on sand or exploring rocky coastline, you will have an extraordinary peace at this tourist place in Goa which is ideal for relaxation purposes alone. This beach is also close to Chapora fort in case you want to go there and have your ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ moment.
Candolim Beach
Candolim Beach is positioned between Sinquerim and Calangute, offering a romantic evening spot. Stroll on the golden sandy beaches barefoot or pack a basket of food to eat privately by the shore. Couples in Goa seeking solace in an otherwise busy world will find Candolim beach absolutely perfect for relaxation as it transforms into a serene haven with sunset. It is one of the less crowded beaches in Goa.
Morjim Beach
Morjim beach is a slice of Russia in Goa, replete with Russian signages and many foreign settlers. This also happens to be one of the nude beaches in Goa due to its unique mixture of cultures. This is among the best beaches in Goa for its appeal to many who like sun bathing naked while feeling right back at home. If you’re looking for some fun activities in Goa’s this beach, you must know that dolphin sighting is something you can look out for. Given that a lot of Russians stay in this area, this is among the top beaches in Goa where foreigners come.
Ashwem Beach
Ashwem Beach is sandwiched between Morjim and Mandrem which makes it an amazing place to visit in Goa for any traveller who loves taking pictures under palm trees on white sands near cashew plantations. This also happens to be one of the nude beaches in Goa that attracts naturists. Ashwem is also the best to go fishing, basking or chilling out- there’s no better place than Ashwem. This beach is also one of the top attractions in Goa not only to enjoy but also simply walk around.
Baga Beach
There is a reason why clichés exist and Baga Beach proves to be one of them. It may not be classified as one of the nude beaches in Goa, but it is special in its own way. Baga hosts the famous Saturday flea market and numerous bars epitomises the Goan culture. Soaking up the sun, going on a banana boat ride or organising an impromptu party is what Baga Beach is super famous for. It is one of the most visited beaches in Goa with many things to do for anyone visiting this place. This also has to be one of the famous beaches for foreigners in Goa due to the high number of shacks around the shores.
Best Beaches in South Goa
South Goa beaches are like the laid-back sibling of the Goan beach scene. If North Goa is the life of the party, South Goa is a chill retreat where sand is thinner and sunsets are even more serene. These immaculate beaches in South Goa with coconut trees and palm border results in a picturesque combination of green, white, and blue colours. It’s also known as cleanest beaches of Goa as one can view the whole sun disappear in the vastness of Arabian Sea. These South Goa beaches have everything from water sports in Goa to chilling out at shacks. Let us explore these peaceful destinations in Goa that make each special!
Benaulim Beach
Without a shadow of doubt, this has to be one of most beautiful beaches among those located in Southern part of Goa. Miles away from hustle bustle of city, this South Goa beach, Benaulim Beach brings everything you want for both leisure and relaxation. On weekends, it turns into one of the vibrant spots in Goa for locals and travellers. Make sure to stay vigilant as you might just spot dolphins! For all those adventurous fellows who want to get into some water activities in Goa during their stay, this place offers parasailing and jet skiing along with many other activities. This is also said to be one of the foreigners beaches in Goa due to its quietness and cleanliness.
Colva Beach
Next in line amongst the best beaches in Goa has to be the Colva Beach. This South Goa beach stretches about 2.4 km with coconut palms being on its borders for the most part. There are comfortable villas, beach shacks, and lively discos open till late night hours around this beach in South Goa. Whether it is wanting to go out for a party in Goa or simple stroll along the shoreline, everyone can find something interesting in Colva, making it among the best places to visit in South Goa.
Also Read: Sun, Sand, and ‘I Do’: Reasons Why You Should Plan Your Wedding in Goa: Best Beaches in Goa: North Goa & South Goa Beaches to Visit in OctoberAgonda Beach
Agonda beach is lined with colourful shacks and fringed with palm and coconut trees on its one side, while on other hand Arabian sea gently kisses sparkling sand. It is one of the least crowded beaches in Goa, where you can soak up the sun all day long. A variety of seafood cuisines and cool drinks are available at cosy shacks here making them an ideal place for relaxation among peaceful destinations in Goa.
Varca Beach
Varca Beach gives a private space for thalassophiles. The best way to enjoy your day at the beach is to pick a spot, place your beach umbrella, stretch yourself across that fine sand taking pleasure from sunlight as well as peace found there. The atmosphere of this beach makes it perfect for slow walks with loved ones, capturing poetic sunrises and sets, and enjoying nature photography. Moreover, it’s great for playing some fun beach games like volleyball too. Varca is definitely is one of the most top beaches of South Goa.
Butterfly Beach
Butterfly Beach in South Goa is like finding your secret piece of heaven. You can only reach it if you go by boat or take short walk through the jungle. It’s great for Instagram photos because of where it is located and how it is shaped, making it one of the best places to visit in South Goa. This would be on top of your list as far as tourist spots in Goa are concerned particularly if you crave adventure.
Cola Beach
Cola Beach in South Goa possesses a unique beauty where the sea meets the river, making it one of the must visit places in Goa. The most exciting thing to look forward to here is kayaking in the Cola Beach lagoon, also often referred to as the Blue Lagoon, located very close to Agonda and Palolem Beach.
Glide through serene waters where streams meander down lazily into oceans and enjoy breathtaking views around. This is also one of the hidden gems in Goa and guarantees both thrills and leisure to anyone who steps foot there.
If you’re someone who has covered all these beaches and are looking for places to visit in South Goa other than beaches, you must know about the hidden gems in Goa that are worth exploring.
Also Read: Plan the Ultimate Bachelor and Bachelorette Party in Goa: Best Beaches in Goa: North Goa & South Goa Beaches to Visit in OctoberBest Time to Visit Goa
If you are thinking about a good time to visit Goa, know that there is no correct time. While many travel to Goa in December for Christmas holidays, you will now be surprised to know that Goa has now become a destination for all seasons. Different seasons offer different experiences so the right season to spend your holiday in goa depends on you.
The most popular time to visit Goa is from November to February. This is because during winter times, heat and humidity give way to pleasant sunny days and gentler waves. Goa in December with the Christmas spirit engulfs everything, local bakery counters overflow with traditional kalkal, dodol, neureos etc. This is also a peak tourist season which means that flights and hotels in goa will be more expensive at this time. Goa in January due to better weather conditions has less congestion than December although both months are bustling.
March signals the beginning of increasing temperatures leading to full summer by April. From March until June the weather in Goa is at 35°C and there is nothing but dry scorching sun throughout summer.
Monsoons in Goa arrive between June and September bringing heavy rains along with them. Although one cannot easily access the beaches in Goa due to heavy rain but it does portray Goa’s green surrounding. Goa in July and August Goa suits those who adore nature and seek non-conventional out-of-the-way activities because it’s transformed by rain into picturesque scenery making an excellent trekking or waterfall discovery time.
Also Read: Best Time to Visit Goa: Get All Your Answers Here: Best Beaches in Goa: North Goa & South Goa Beaches to Visit in OctoberExperiences and Activities in Goa
Beaches in Goa are not only about beautiful sunsets and golden sand! Get ready for a stunning variety of activities in Goa suitable for adventurers, party lovers and those who came here for nothing but relaxation. Here are some of the best things to do in Goa:
- Stay in a private pool villa in Goa: Whether you find calmness in a South Goa stay, or the buzzing life of North Goa’s villas, there is no better time to getaway with friends and family in a private Goa villa.
- Water Sports: All beaches in Goa are like an amusement park for those into activities and water sports. The thrill is real – from jet skiing up to windsurfing! Take a chance to go parasailing and see how it feels like to be a bird looking at the coast from above or enjoy riding on banana boat.
- Snorkelling: Explore marine life while snorkelling as its one of the best things to do in Goa. At places like Grande Island Goa, there’s clear water with vibrant life underneath and amazing coral formations. Don’t miss this underwater adventure activity in Goa.
- Scuba Diving: If you want more than what snorkeling offers, try scuba diving. The basic steps will be explained by licensed trainers prior to deep water dive. Scuba diving in Goa is not only about discovering shipwrecks but also colourful fishes among other things found undersea including caves.
- Parasailing: Rise above all using parasailing as your means of transportation, this thrilling activity gives a new perspective of Goa’s beaches. Feel the wind on your face and your heart skip a beat as you fly over the sea surf.
- Beach Parties and Nightlife: For beach parties, no place beats Goa. You must check out Anjuna and Baga for the best nightlife in Goa that are filled with bustling shacks serving beer till dawn breaks. This is where people dance all night long!
- Famous Beach Shacks and Clubs: Goa would be incomplete without visiting its famous beach shacks. Tito’s, Mambo’s, Curlies are among preferred destinations in Goa. Enjoy tasty seafood, sip cocktails and indulge in the vibrant environment.
- Wellness and Relaxation: If your aim is to relax, then you cannot go wrong with Goan beaches. Some notable tourist attractions in Goa offer ocean front yoga classes that allow visitors to unwind and find their inner selves. The sound of waves makes a perfect background.
- Yoga on the Beach: Start your day with a sunrise yoga session on the beach. A peaceful place for stretching and meditating while being cooled by gentle southern breeze and listening to soft lapping of waves.
- These activities in Goa ensure there’s never a dull moment when you are vacationing here. Whether it is adventure or relaxation or both combined that you seek, the beaches in Goa have something unique for everyone.
A Stay in Goa
Mawi Infinitty Villa
Step into Mawi Infinitty and be instantly transported to a breezy beach house in Goa. White-washed and covered with beautiful interiors, this home is just few steps away from Arambol Beach. It has many open spaces overlooking the calm ocean, beautiful sand and breathtaking sunsets. The villa has a cabana with fairy lights on it, vertical garden full of green shades and an exclusive swimming pool. All meals can be enjoyed at the alfresco dining area while evenings can be spent at the open deck overlooking a stunning beach like no other. This beach getaway among the best villas in Goa is all about blissful living.
Villa Kinara
Located in Bardez’s sleepy village of Reis Magos, Villa Kinara offers an idyllic holiday. The place aptly named provides picturesque views of river with sounds of birds chirping that is just music for the ears. Aesthetics are combined so well in this villa with modern interior and shack-like exterior which gives guests an oppourtunity to enjoy the sun while relaxing on their cabana chairs or rest on them right by their private infinity pool. The quietness by the river can be experienced at Villa Kinara that tops among some of the most peaceful stays in Goa.
La Bougainvillea
La Bougainvillea is beautifully designed Portuguese heritage home with aristocratic touch situated right in Goa. This 5BHK villa is great for hosting large group holidays because it comes furnished with everything from your dreamy four-poster curtained bed where you can laze around, bathtub where you get a good soak and not forgetting your swimming pool where you can splash around when you do not want to go anywhere else during hot afternoons. The veranda would look like a vintage postcard if not for the red brick roof that completes the picture perfectly. This spacious villa is one of the best homestays in Goa for a staycation.
Bay View
Would you like to experience an authentic Goan lifestyle? Bay View villa at Varca is all about it. Luxurious homes offering chic sanctuaries and breathtaking views of the sea are promised by this house. Jump into the pool or simply enjoy modern interiors where every detail whispers elegance. Unwind, have delicious home-cooked meals and feel Goan at Bay View.
Tarika’s Olive Villa
Looking for something more than beach shacks and sunburn on your holiday in Goa? Tarika’s Olive Villa is just what you need! A luxurious three-bedroom home located in Varca, this place is pure luxury. You can swim in the shared swimming pool leaving behind all your worries after taking a refreshing dip inside which will refresh your mind and soul. Inside there are contemporary interiors that silently speak elegance everywhere with olive colour tones dominating them as well as being accented with sleek furniture, sumptuous fabrics and modern yet inviting design touches. Vibrant energy of Goa waits just outside your door step since everything important is easily reachable from here, making it one of top places to visit in Goa.
The beaches in Goa are an amazing blend of adventure, relaxation and paradise. Be it the peaceful beauty of the beaches of South Goa or the lively atmosphere on the beaches of North Goan, there is something for all. Hence, slather on the sunscreen and prepare to explore Goa’s sandy pleasures that lure tourists from different parts of the world annually. See you at the one the beaches in Goa, where the waves don’t judge.
