The land of Goa forms a tiny emerald on India's western coastal area. In spite of being the smallest state, this is among the most captivating and charming Indian state and is often regarded as the land of sun and sand. Because of its beautiful golden and silvery white sand beaches, Goa has emerged as an international beach tourism destination. The breathtaking exotic sea beaches of the state attract tourists from all over the country. Apart from offering spectacular sunset views, these sun kissed sea beaches are the location of varied kinds of adventure activities like banana ride, jet skiing, paragliding, scuba diving, wind surfing, swimming, snorkeling and many more. Some of these beaches are even famous for the carnivals and night parties held there.

Major Beaches in Goa

According to the geographical location of the sea beaches in the North Goa district or the South Goa district, the picturesque beaches of the state are divided into the following:

North Goa Beaches

The sea beaches of North Goa are said to be quite hot and happening and has got a cosmopolitan touch since, they are mostly visited by the cosmopolitan crowd.

Anjuna Beach: This is among the most happening sea beaches in the state. Known for its nightlong parties, this beach is equally important among artists, researchers, foreign tourists etc. The thatched semi open air restaurants in the beach specialize in dishes prepared out of fish as well as western food. Swimming and satisfying the taste buds with watermelons, coconuts and pineapples are some of the common activities in the sea beach.

Baga Beach: Nestled within the wooded and rocky headland, this sea beach has got many undisturbed nooks, which are known for their unspoiled natural beauty. Apart from the fishing expeditions and water sports, this beach is known for offering one of the best nightlife in the entire state. It has even got various types of restaurants.

Candolim Beach: Away from the busy city life, this beach is one of the best places, where one can spend time in isolation and solitude. This beach can be best enjoyed by relaxing with some good food under a hired beach umbrella. However, one can even enjoy this beach by experiencing the different kinds of water sports like parasailing and water skiing. Fishing is another good option there.

Dona Paula Beach: This beach is known for carrying an aura of myth and romance. Besides visiting the Governor House of Goa, called Cabo Raj Bhavan, one can enjoy exploring the shops, which sell straw hats, spices, jewelry, handicrafts and even port wine and Feni, the famous drink of the state

Miramar Beach: The peaceful atmosphere of this beach makes it an ideal place for relaxation. The view of some migratory birds like Gulls and Plovers attracts the nature lovers most. The sparkling of the soft silvery sand on a moonlit night just adds on to the natural beauty of the place.

Apart from the above mentioned sea beaches, North Goa has got many other sea beaches, names of some of which are given below:

Aguada Beach
Arambol Beach (Harmal Beach)
Bambolim Beach
Calangute Beach
Morjim Beach
Sinquerim Beach
Vagator Beach

South Goa Beaches

Known for their calm and quietness, these sea beaches of South Goa are more popular among people, who love to spend an ideal peaceful vacation:

Benaulim Beach: This fishing beach is among the tranquil destinations in Goa. Besides enjoying swimming in sea water that is free from jellyfish, this south Goa beach is even known as a food lover's paradise for the restaurants serving succulent seafood.

Bogmalo Beach: This less crowded beach is among the state's cleanest sea beaches. This beach is more popular to people, who love fishing. Apart from that, one can even enjoy swimming or drinking Feni.

Colva Beach: This is the most popular Goa beach. Being a sun kissed and palm fringed beach of white sands, this beach can be best enjoyed by taking a sunbath or a stroll on a full moon night that even adds on to the romanticism in the air.

Majorda Beach: This sea beach of south Goa is famous for being its delicious breads and varied kinds of sea food. Besides relaxing under a beach umbrella, one can even enjoy fishing and swimming there.

Palolem Beach: Popularly called the "Paradise Beach of Goa", this picturesque beach in the southern part of the state is generally less crowded. The major attraction of the place is the small island, which can be reached by swimming during low tides. Apart from that, the beach offers Dolphin cruises and fishing options at reasonable rates.

There are several other south Goan beaches. To name a few of them are:

Agonda Beach
Betalbatim Beach
Betul Beach
Cavelossim Beach
Movor Beach
Varca Beach

Last Updated on 23 January 2012

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