Quick Links

Goa is a beach destination through and through. The exact vibe of this Indian state cannot be replicated anywhere else on Earth. Among quaint churches, rowdy bars, and expansive farms, there are tight-knit communities of like-minded individuals who have transformed the parochial ex-colony into a global hub of Bohemian life. Prospective visitors are encouraged to put on their bathing suits and slather on some sunscreen; it's time to take a tour of the best beaches in Goa.

Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach might be one of the most popular beaches in Goa. It is arguably the party capital of India. Visitors who are looking for a spring break vibe with roving crowds and all-night parties will find exactly what they're looking for at this destination. Due to the high volume of visitors, commercial activity is thriving at Anjuna. Tourists will have no trouble finding suitable accommodation for every budget, and activities abound. Hire a banana boat, canoe, or surfboard, or for adventurous parties, book an afternoon parasailing -- the view from up high is spectacular, full of swaying palm trees, mysterious rock formations, and lively beach goers.

  • NOTE: Anjuna Beach is one of the most accessible beaches in Goa as it is located a mere 45 minutes from the airport.

Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach is the largest beach in North Goa. It is clean, safe, and remarkably amenable to tourists from all backgrounds. One of the biggest draws of Calangute is the wide array of activities on offer. Tourists can learn to surf, kayak, canoe, bodyboard, and parasail, but unlike Anjuna, the vibe is family-friendly and the people that Calangute attracts are not quite as pleasure-seeking.

  • NOTE: It takes a little more than an hour to get to Calangute Beach from the airport.

Related: These 8 Public Spaces Are The Most Serene In India

Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach is hippie central. It is quiet without being barren, and the crowd is markedly international. For decades Arambol has acted as a sort of regional hippie capital. On any given day, Russians and Israelis fill up the hotels and cafés that overlook the white sand beach and watery expanse. Commercial activity is less intense than on more popular beaches and the crowd is slightly more withdrawn. Here, young families with matching dreadlocks and mandala tattoos live a simple life, jetting around on rented Vespas and Royal Enfields. For a relaxed time in a laid-back atmosphere, there's no place like Arambol.

  • NOTE: It takes around one hour by taxi to get to Arambol Beach from the airport.

Ashvem Beach

Ashvem Beach is a true insider's secret. Located about 15 minutes from Arambol, Ashvem offers all the creature comforts of a mainstream beach without the madding crowds of Anjuna and without the discomfort of a high-strung ex-pat community in Arambol. Ashvem tends to host a mix of locals and foreigners who are usually passing through.

The best way to experience this locale is to rent an Airbnb and hire a scooter. Everything that one might need is around five to ten minutes away. It's especially easy to read a book in peace at one of the many understated beach shacks. Blackhorse is one of the finest beach shacks in all of Goa, with ample seating right on the beach and a steady supply of delicious local food and cheap beers.

  • Restaurant: Blackhorse
  • Address: MP28+38V, Mandrem, Goa 403512, India
  • Price: $, cash only
  • Attractions: Beach front, excellent service, wide-ranging menu

Visitors with a refined sense of vacationing might find that Ashvem is the best option for them.

  • NOTE: Ashvem Beach is a 15-minute scooter ride from Arambol Beach, and about an hour and fifteen minutes from the airport.

Related: Shake Your Palms: Best Beaches To Visit Around The World

Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach is in the south of Goa, which is generally known for being calm and out of the way. No mention of South Goa would be complete without mentioning Palolem. Due to the relatively lower volume of tourists in the south, hotels and resorts are remarkably luxurious and affordable.

The beach is crescent-shaped, which allows visitors to see both ends of the sandy shore from the center. Looking at the ocean, the beach faces Canacona Island, which is teeming with exotic wildlife. Rent a canoe for the afternoon and glide over the calm turquoise waters. Hop from one island to the next without worrying about permits or institutions. Here, the community is trusting and self-governing, which is perfect for visitors with good manners and a high sense of civility. Palolem Beach is a great destination for couples and families who are looking to have some clean fun and make lasting memories.

  • NOTE: By taxi, Palolem Beach is about an hour and a half from the airport.

Galgibaga Beach

Galgibaga Beach is definitely on the list of lesser-known beaches in South Goa. While many beaches in Goa hold the title of being the cleanest and most pristine, it is true beyond a doubt that Galgibaga lives up to its reputation. Located around ten minutes from Palolem Beach, Galgibaga is famous for being home to the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. There are a few beaches in Goa where turtles lay their eggs, but unfortunately due to uncouth tourism, the turtle eggs are trampled upon or, when they hatch, instead of following the moonlight into the water, the baby turtles are lured further inland by flashing party lights. Luckily, Galgibaga is well-preserved, and authorities have made some efforts to curb human incursion. Tourists are requested to only consider going to Galgibaga if their intentions are pure.

  • NOTE: Galgibaga Beach is about ten minutes from Palolem Beach by auto-rickshaw, and about an hour and forty-five minutes from the airport.

Next: Beautiful Beaches In The World That Will Take Your Breath Away