Best Beaches in Goa

The essence of Goa’s charm lies within its wealth of beautiful beaches, which are undoubtedly the most popular natural attractions. Effortlessly strung out along the coastline, there are around 30 beaches to experience in Goa, each with its own appeal and each catering for every type of holiday.

Palolem beach

Let’s start with Palolem beach, Goa’s fashionable tourist hangout. Although busy during the peak summer months, don’t let this deter you from lazing the day away under the gorgeous sunsets. An idyllic stretch of shoreline, Palolem was popularised in the 1970s as an ‘off the beaten track’ sanctuary, and although the impact of mass tourism can be seen in abundance, Palolem is still the best place for first-time holidaymakers to experience Goa’s natural beauty.

Morjim and Ashvem beaches

For those looking to get in touch with nature, Morjim and Ashvem beaches are nothing short of breathtaking. Only a short drive from the tourist hubs of northern Goa, Morjim and Ashvem are protected beaches home to Olive Ridley turtles who lay eggs here every year. The surrounding landscape has thankfully managed to fend off any major construction too, meaning the shoreline and shallow waters are certainly some of Goa’s cleanest. For an atmosphere that’s a world away, Morjim and Ashvem have to be seen to be believed!

Anjuna beach

Located about 18km from Panaji, Anjuna beach is the unconventional and original hippy hangout of Goa, home to the famous Wednesday flea market and destination of choice for first timers visiting Goa. With beachfront accommodation and a variety of traditional dining, Anjuna’s soft white sands are only a short walk away from the historic highlights of Chapora Fort and the Albuquerque Mansion, for those looking to do some sightseeing.

Because of the rocky headland towards the quieter, southern end of Anjuna beach, the sea is a lot calmer here and safer to swim in, an important consideration if you’re visiting Goa with a young family. However if you’re looking for something a little more exciting, the northern end of Anjuna beach offers bungee jumping and an array of water sports, perfect for keeping you active.

Beach Safety

Although most beaches in Goa are attended by lifeguards during the day it isn’t recommended to swim at night time, or visit the beach alone in the evenings. It is also important to be mindful of swimming during the months of October and November, as the seabed will still be settling from monsoon season and may be unstable. Always look out for warning flags along Goa’s beaches that indicate unsafe swimming conditions.

“With its perfect symmetry and the lush palm forest that lies behind it, Palolem Beach in southern Goa is anything but a well-kept secret. One way to escape the crowds of Palolem is to rent a bicycle and head north, to the tranquil Goan beach of Agonda, or south to idyllic Karwar, which is technically in the northern part of Karnataka state.”