Anjuna and Vagator Beaches
Goa, a popular holiday destination in India, is famous the world over for its exotic beaches. The beautiful Vagator Beach is located about 23 km from Panaji. And the Chapora Fort, built by Adil Shah, overlooks the Vagator Beach at the northern end. Anjuna Beach is one of the most popular locations in the area. The moonlit beach parties here—filled with music, dance, and fun—attract thousands of tourists from across the world. Another factor adding to its fame is the flea market held at Anjuna Beach. Dating back to the 1970s, this weekly market (every Wednesday) has a variety of items ranging from artifacts and handicrafts to imported electric items. If you are good at bargaining, you may find a handsome deal.
Benaulim Beach
Benaulim Beach is less than 2 km south of Colva and 40 km away from Panaji, the state capital. It is a comparatively quiet beach with a peaceful atmosphere, but it can get busy on weekends with local visitors. The restaurants here serve the most competitively priced seafood in Goa; the reason being Goa’s proximity from the sea to the Margao market and its fishing community. Benaulim's accommodation consists mostly of small budget guesthouses and a few mid-range hotels scattered near the beach. However, with the opening of star resorts such as Taj Exotica, a Mediterranean-style 5-star resort, this place is attracting tourists like never before and fast gaining popularity. The village surrounding Benaulim beach is well-known for handicrafts.
Calangute Beach
Calangute used to be the famous hippie hangout during the 60s and 70s. Calangute Beach, 15 km (nine miles) north of Panaji, is called the “Queen of Beaches” for its unique beauty. Calangute makes an ideal beach site if you want to indulge in watersport activities such as parasailing, waterskiing, and windsurfing. The Kerkar Art Complex and the St. Alex Church are major highlights in this area. At Calangute beach you can spend the day lazing under the sun and enjoy the evenings savoring locally caught and prepared seafood. Several mid-range to value restaurants and cafes offer tasty local and international cuisine. The bars in the vicinity cater to a mixture of tourists and host a wide variety of music.
Candolim Beach - Fort Aguada
The Candolim Beach in North Goa is a perfect alternative to the crowded beaches of Calangute or Anjuna. 15 km from Panaji, it can be very easily reached from Mapusa and Calangute. For those who prefer a serene and tranquil beach environment, this is the one of the best options. The area provides abundant opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and diving. Being a prime tourist destination, the area has a number of hotels and guesthouses in the close vicinity of the beach. A must-see landmark at Candolim is Fort Aguada on Sinquerim beach—the best-preserved Portuguese fort in Goa.
Cavelossim Beach
The white sandy Cavelossim Beach is a much quieter in comparison to Goa beaches such as Anjuna, Calangute, and Candolim. It is an ideal location to relax, sunbathe, swim, or try out the various watersport options available. At dusk, guests can view a spectacular Goan sunset. There are several beach shacks offering a range of Goan dishes and seafood at reasonable prices. A variety of hotels and beach resorts offer opportunities for a comfortable stay at the beach. Facilities are also available for dolphin watching.
Panaji
Panaji (Panjim), situated on the southern banks of the Mandovi River, is the capital of Goa. Panaji is one of the busiest towns in Goa. Over the years, it has developed into a vibrant city bustling with commercial and tourism activities. The town has preserved its Portuguese heritage considerably well. It has beautiful, red-roofed houses with stucco walls built in Latin style, many with well-appointed gardens. The capital city is dotted with places worth seeing. The Church Square, or Municipal Garden featuring the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, is the central point of Panaji. Other notable landmarks and tourist interests include the Fontainhas area, the Goa State Museum, the Goa Velha (location for the famous Procession of the Saints at St. Andrew's Church), Idalcao Palace, and Institute Menezes Braganza. Miramar Beach is roughly 3 km from Panaji.
Uttorda Beach
Located between Majorda and Colva, Uttorda Beach is known for its seafood and casual beachside dining. Although surrounded by fields, the sun and sand make the area a popular tourist destination. The less-travelled areas of Uttorda Beach are filled with fishing villages, local culture, and Christian history dating back to the 17th century.
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