Beach Resort Guide
Goa
Goa Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
Goa is the smallest state in India, and it is one of the most tourist-friendly. A former Portuguese colony, Goa has long been popular with overseas travellers and was part of the hippy trail in the 1960s. And the hippy legacy lives on in the laidback spirit and relaxed pace of life that still characterises modern day Goa. It's like no other state in India and has a deserved reputation as an easy place to travel around; English is widely spoken. From secluded eco-camps and beach huts to exclusive resorts and international hotels, Goa's accommodation options are boundless and the golden sandy beaches are a veritable paradise for sun-seekers. But explore beyond the coastline into the hinterland to discover beautiful scenery, a rich culture and warm, welcoming people.
Who goes there?
Goa's laidback charm and easy pace of life still attracts hippies and backpackers, but it's also become a popular destination for the package tourism industry and now attracts plenty of young families. As well as many foreign visitors, Goa is also popular with domestic tourists so it still feels very real and authentic. Approximately 1.3 million tourists visit Goa each year.
Where in the world?
On India's west coast in a region known as Konkan, Goa is neighboured by the states of Maharashtra in the north and Karnataka in the east and south. The enticing waters of the Arabian Sea run along the coastline. Panaji (Panjim) is the state capital and, whilst hectic and a little rundown in parts, is a fantastic place to explore and feels as much Mediterranean as Asian - a legacy of its Portuguese history.
When to go?
The best time to visit Goa is from late October to February, when the climate is near perfect, with low humidity and hot days. The monsoon hits between June and the end of September.
Beach
Goa is blessed with over 105km (65 miles) of coastline that's peppered with many beautiful beaches ranging from quiet hippy hangouts to bigger resorts that cater more to Western tastes and standards.
Arambol in the far north of the state is perhaps the most hippyish of the resorts (and still attracts plenty of backpackers) and is blessed with miles of unspoilt beaches. Between here and the capital Panaji (Panjim) are the resort villages of Calangute, Baga and Candolim which cater more to package tourists with plenty of facilities and are popular with families. Of these, Calangute is the largest and most popular resort.
Heading south from the capital there are many more beautiful beaches to choose from including Colva which is the most developed area along the southern circuit with luxury hotels and resorts. In the very south of the state is the quieter Palolem which is a beautiful fishing village that's sandwiched between two lush headlands.
Arambol in the far north of the state is perhaps the most hippyish of the resorts (and still attracts plenty of backpackers) and is blessed with miles of unspoilt beaches. Between here and the capital Panaji (Panjim) are the resort villages of Calangute, Baga and Candolim which cater more to package tourists with plenty of facilities and are popular with families. Of these, Calangute is the largest and most popular resort.
Heading south from the capital there are many more beautiful beaches to choose from including Colva which is the most developed area along the southern circuit with luxury hotels and resorts. In the very south of the state is the quieter Palolem which is a beautiful fishing village that's sandwiched between two lush headlands.
Beyond the beach
Whilst Goa's beaches are the state's crowning jewel, it's well worth taking a break from the sun lounger to explore the historic towns and verdant countryside. The state capital of Panaji (Panjim) and its second town, Margao, are both worth visiting to experience life in Goan towns. Both have many grand colonial-era buildings and provide visitors with a fascinating contrast to village life along the coast.
Goa is also home to several excellent national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Named after an Indian ornithologist, the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is close to the capital and is home to a variety of different birds.
In the west of Goa on the border with the state of Karnataka is the Dudhsagar Waterfall. At its best during the monsoons when the falls are raging, it is a spectacular sight and attracts visitors throughout the year.
Goa is also home to several excellent national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Named after an Indian ornithologist, the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is close to the capital and is home to a variety of different birds.
In the west of Goa on the border with the state of Karnataka is the Dudhsagar Waterfall. At its best during the monsoons when the falls are raging, it is a spectacular sight and attracts visitors throughout the year.
Family fun
Whilst there aren't really any attractions specifically for children, Goa is a place that's very family-friendly with plenty of things to keep younger visitors occupied ranging from 4-wheel jungle excursions to elephant safaris.
As well as all the usual beach activities, many of the bigger resorts offer watersports facilities. But visitors should be aware that the sea can be quite rough and is renowned for its strong currents. Boat tours are another great way of travelling around and visiting outlying areas and off-shore islands.
Another popular option with young and old alike is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in northeast Goa. It has a deer park, botanical gardens, natural jungle habitat and a small zoo to explore.
As well as all the usual beach activities, many of the bigger resorts offer watersports facilities. But visitors should be aware that the sea can be quite rough and is renowned for its strong currents. Boat tours are another great way of travelling around and visiting outlying areas and off-shore islands.
Another popular option with young and old alike is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in northeast Goa. It has a deer park, botanical gardens, natural jungle habitat and a small zoo to explore.
Retail therapy
Stalls and beach hawkers abound in all the major tourist destinations and Goa is a great place to pick up traditional souvenirs. Popular items include leather goods, carvings, ethnic clothing, woven goods, carpets, jewellery and handicrafts.
There are numerous markets throughout Goa but one that is particularly popular is the flea market that's held every Wednesday on the beach at Anjuna.
There are numerous markets throughout Goa but one that is particularly popular is the flea market that's held every Wednesday on the beach at Anjuna.
A night on the town
Goan nightlife varies from village to village but is usually characterised by a non-commercial feel and laidback vibe. All but the smallest and remotest tourist villages have some kind of bar that plays live music or has DJs. The bigger resorts tend to have nightclubs. But in general, evening entertainment in the resorts tends to be quite low-key and usually involves dining out with family or friends in one of the many open-air restaurants. The all night beach raves that made Goa famous in the 90s have now largely been reined in as the state tries to cater more towards package tourism; however, beach parties still do take place and are popular with the backpacker crowd.
Eating out
Goa's proximity to the ocean ensures a constant supply of fresh fish and has a well-deserved reputation for its excellent seafood dishes. Mouthwatering curries that blend Goan, Indian and Portuguese influences are also spectacular with plenty of meat, fish and vegetarian options. And in the tourist areas visitors can find everything from Chinese noodles to Italian pizzas, all cooked with a unique Goan twist. Establishments vary from street stalls right through to top-class restaurants where reservations can be needed.
Getting around
Taxis abound and are reasonably priced so are the easiest way of getting around. For shorter journeys, an autorickshaw (that quintessentially Indian form of transport) is quick, cheap and great fun. The bus network is comprehensive, cheap and efficient and is a great way to experience real Goan life; but be warned, they can get very crowded so be prepared to stand. Motorbike hire is also popular with tourists and thundering along beachside roads on a motorbike with the wind in your hair is, for many, an unforgettable experience. Would-be motorcyclists should be aware of road safety issues and carry the correct paperwork.
Exploring further afield
A two- or three-day stay on a houseboat as it gently cruises up the Mandovi River is a popular trip and a great way to experience less touristy parts of the state. There's plenty to keep you occupied without leaving Goa, but it is possible to do three-day trips that take in the spectacular sights of New Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal in the north.
Splashing out
Goa is more expensive than elsewhere in India but it still represents excellent value when compared with European destinations. And for a really special treat, book yourself a traditional ayurverdic massage or aromatherapy treatment. Yoga is popular too and daily classes are a great way to unwind and get into the laidback vibe of this fantastic state.
Flying in
Goa Dabolim Airport (GOI)
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