Top 10 best beaches in goa
Top 10 best beaches in goa. Goa isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. I as travel writer keep talking about Attractions of goa and things to do in goa. Life instantly slows down when you smell the sea wind infused with coconut and sunscreen. Goa’s beaches have a distinct personality, ranging from bustling party spots to serene areas where time seems to stand still. Here is a list of the Top 10 Best Beaches in Goa that perfectly encapsulate the essence of this idyllic coastal destination if you’re thinking about travelling and are unsure where to go.
Each beach has its own personality: some are loud and energetic, some are calm and soulful, while others remain hidden and untouched.
Whether you’re a party lover, a honeymoon couple, a solo traveller, or someone simply looking to sit by the sea and do nothing, Goa has a beach that feels made just for you
1.Baga Beach:
Baga beach, the epicentre of Goa, is a fantastic place to chill out. It is the hub of Goa’s most visited tourist destination and is situated adjacent to the markets, pubs, and cafes. With her vast, golden sands that accommodate both people and cows, Baga is undoubtedly one of India’s most stunning beaches!
Baga beach is located in North Goa, very close to Calangute. It is a secure location suitable for all kinds of tourists. From a cheap 500 rupees dorm to an opulent stay at an international property, there are many different kinds of lodging available close to Baga.
As the sun sets, Baga transforms into a nightlife hub with famous clubs like Tito’s, Mambo’s, and Cape Town Café drawing party lovers from all over the world.
Best places to stay:
Snow Park, Baga Beach Resort, The Baga Marina, Era Santiago Beach Resort, Larios Beach Holiday Resort, The Baga Hideout.
Best for:
Nightlife lovers, water sports, first-time visitors.
2.Calanguate beach:
Calangute Beach is often referred to as the Queen of Beaches due to its massive size and popularity. Located close to Baga, Calangute attracts families, couples, and international tourists alike. The beach is wide, clean, and ideal for long walks along the shoreline.
It is actually a huge beach, a part of it is known as Baga and a part is also known as Candolim!
In perspective, Calangute in Goa is also flooded with tourists, which is a sight to behold! I’m not pointing the finger at anyone; I’m part of that mob too. However, unchecked crowd pull at Calangute is a direct cause of Goa’s appalling conditions during the long weekend and peak season! This is why I travelled to explore Goa’s boundless cultural riches and the far deep South or extreme North, which are only visited by a small number of people. It goes without saying that I was much happy!
Best places to stay:
Hotel dimaru boutique, Half hotel, Mela by half, baga beach place.
Best for:
Families, shopping, comfortable stays.
3.Anjuna Beaach:
Anjuna Beach has a distinct charm that makes it stand out from other Goan beaches. Anjuna has long been linked to Goa’s hippy culture because of its rocky coastline and free-spirited vibe. The beach has a laid-back, artsy, and slightly unusual vibe.
The well-known Wednesday Flea Market, which offers jewellery, clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs from all over the world, is one of Anjuna’s main draws. The relaxed atmosphere of these cafes and bars makes them ideal for spending hours observing the surf.
Because of the rocks, Anjuna isn’t the best place to swim, but it’s great for slow travel, sunset views, and photography.
Best places to stay:
The Musafir, Zululand Cottages, Wonderland Hostel, Nirvana hermitage, Passion de Goa.
Best for:
Backpackers, photographers, flea market lovers.
4.Vagator Beach:
Vagator is, in my opinion, North Goa’s finest beach. It is a tiny beach with a crescent form that is protected from the outside world by a cliff. Before the Russians arrived in large numbers and the population quickly followed suit, few people were aware of Vagator. Even though Vagator isn’t as crowded with tourists as Calangute or Baga, it can still be daunting given its smaller size.
A part of Vagator is also known as Princess Dream Beach where not many people step in. It requires a little uphill trek. Adjacent to this stands the beautiful ruins of Chapora Fort featured in the film Dil Chahta Hain.
Best places to stay:
The Yellow House, Blue Lagoon, Vagator beach resorts.
Best for:
Couples, sunset lovers, relaxed travelers.
5.Candolim Beach:
Candolim Beach strikes a beautiful balance between calmness and accessibility. It is cleaner, less crowded, and more peaceful than Baga or Calangute, yet close enough to enjoy North Goa’s attractions.
The beach is ideal for swimming, morning yoga, and evening walks. Luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and classy beach shacks give Candolim a slightly upscale feel. If you want to relax without feeling isolated, Candolim is a great choice.
The Candolim-Calangute Road is dotted with a number of shops and restaurants for the tourists to shop and hangout. People who are seeking a quieter staying place in Goa usually book their hotel near Candolim Beach.
Best places to stay:
Lemon Tree, Whispering palms, Radisson Hotels, Villa Sol Areia (Boutique hotel), Green Concept Resorts
Best for:
Couples, peaceful stays, long walks
6.Mandrem beach:
The North Goa’s rugged beaches never stop. One of North Goa’s lesser-known beaches, Mandrem is only reachable after navigating several flimsy bamboo bridges and well manicured gardens! For local surfers and swimmers, Mandrem is a paradise. On the shore, there is a center for rescued dogs.
Few people are aware of Mandrem yet. Few people find it intimidating to have to leave their car far away and walk a little. However, I strongly advise you to travel to Mandrem and take a few hours to relax in the sun. With a river running in the background, the beach is dotted with a few beach houses and shacks.This beach is recommended my me to swimming in top 10 best beaches in goa.
Visit Chique Shanti, The Lazy Dog, Cafe Mandrem, and Lama’s Place, which are all close to Mandrem Beach.
Mandrem beach huts: Riva Beach Resort, Dune’s Holiday Village, Sea Scallops, and The Cool Huts
A stunning beach bungalow with a view of the sea and a verdant setting in Goa is another lovely property!
Best places to stay:
The Cool Huts, Sea Scallops, Dune’s Holiday Village, Riva Beach Resort
Best for:
Swimming
7.Morjim beach:
Despite it has a rocky section and frequently has corals buried in the water, Ashwem Beach is essentially an extension of Morjim Beach. Morjim is ideally situated in the market area and is easily reachable by road. Although there are several cafes, motels, and guest houses nearby, I personally did not want to stay at Morjim for longer. I go for Arambol in North Goa if I have to be around the market and people!
Morjim is clean, spacious, and far less crowded. It’s perfect for people who enjoy reading, meditation, or simply listening to the waves. Beach cafés here are subtle and peaceful, not loud or flashy.
Best for:
Peace seekers, wildlife lovers
8.Colva beach:
One of the most popular destinations in South Goa is the crescent-shaped beach of Colva, which truly boasts pristine water! During the tourist season, Colva’s pristine water made it easy for me to see seashells and Jhunuks, which are tough to discover on Goa’s normal beaches. It is adjacent to a fishing community. The beach provides room for cows, fishing boats, and worshippers who come to the adjoining church, which is the subject of numerous stories.
If you want to explore South Goa and then head into the deep south, Colva is a good area to leave your boat for a few days. I suggest that you do your usual grocery shopping at Kedar Super Market. One of the more developed beaches in the south is Colva, which has good internet access and many nearby homestays. There are lots of options for water sports, candlelit dinners, and other enjoyable activities on the beach itself. Colva beach has a unique marine mood, thus you might easily refer to it as the Baga of south Goa!
Best for:
Families, budget travelers, quiet evenings
9.Arambol Beach:
Arambol Beach attracts a unique crowd—artists, musicians, yogis, and long-stay travelers. The atmosphere here feels open-minded and creative, with spontaneous drum circles and yoga sessions often happening at sunset.
The beach has a relaxed, welcoming feel, and nearby cafés serve healthy food, smoothies, and international cuisine. Arambol is perfect for travelers looking for meaningful connections and slow living.
Best for:
Yoga lovers, creatives, long-term travelers
10.Butterfly beach:
Butterfly Beach is one of Goa’s hidden gems. Small, secluded, and surrounded by dense greenery, this beach is accessible mainly by boat or a short trek. It feels untouched and intimate.
The calm waters and peaceful environment make it ideal for couples and adventure lovers. Dolphins are often spotted here, adding to its magical charm.This is the last beach that i have discuss in my blog.
Best for:
Couples, offbeat explorers, adventure seekers
Also read: Ten most famous churches in goa
