Situated on the west-coast of the Konkan in India, Goa is the perfect getaway for domestic and international tourists with pristine beaches, pleasure-seeking bohemian culture, laid-back beach shacks, coconut palms and the ubiquitous Portuguese white-washed buildings and baroque churches. Approximately two-dozen beaches line the Goan coastline with intimate coves, sleepy fishing villages or a lively party scene – depending on what your preference is. However, for those that look for ultimate peace, quiet and tranquil, these are the best kept secrets of Goa – popular beaches with pristine waters and soft sandy terrain and yet a less crowded than a commercial beach!
Pearls of the South
Butterfly Beach
A tiny semi-circular bay on the high north end of the Palolem Beach, Butterfly beach is a fairy experience, filled with butterflies, soft sand and blue waters with the privacy you need (why? Because it’s only accessible by water or you have to hike there!) Well known for a plethora of marine life all over the coast and dolphins on a lucky day, this is the perfect hideout for when you want to escape crowds. In the high season there are boats from Palolem taking tourists for a day trip. But it is also possible to go by foot on a one and a half hour walk in the jungle. The trek starts on the road to Agonda at around five kilometers from Palolem. There is a bridge and a bend in the street. Locals are more than helpful to guide you.
How to go: Hire a car for a trip to the South for a day of hiking/boating and beaches!
Cola Beach
Elusive and quaint, this beach is hidden at the end of Palolem beach has not more than a dozen visitors at a time. Less crowds, means less service – in some ways, this is a good thing. Pack a picnic basket and an overnighter for a day at Cola Beach and an evening at Palolem’s shacks – you could stay overnight at one of the not-so-expensive beach shacks of Palolem or Agonda and return to the North the next day.
How to go: Hire a car or join a transfer from North to South Goa.
Kakolem Beach
One of South Goa’s pearls, the Kakolem Beach is one of the most isolated and truly wild beaches of Goa. Also known as Tiger beach, this beach is a haven with pure soft sand, large stones and breath-taking views. Hire a boat from south Goa’s more populous areas for a day trip to this serene beach!
How to: Make this one of the stops on your South Goa beach hunt. Stay overnight in Palolem after your day full of discovering mesmerizing beaches!
Xendrem Beach
Located in between Galjibaga and Polem beaches in the luscious Canacona region, this place is usually difficult to find on maps – however, the locals will be happy to guide you in the right direction. A 400m stretch of golden sand, dotted with lava rocks and high trees and woods, the Xendrem Beach is paradise perfect. Grab a picnic basket and take a day to soak in all that the beach can offer – make sure to carry enough supplies, there are no shacks serving at this beach.
How to: South Goa Day trip – hire a car and stay overnight in South Goa for a complete experience.
Delights of the North
Morjim Beach
North of the Chapora River is a Russian-frequented beach in the Northern parts of Goa – vast stretches of white sand and calm waters of the Arabian Sea. Whether it’s café-hopping or just sun-bathing on the many loungers at the shacks, this beach is a perfect spot for a beach day!
How to: Hire a car or rent a bike and ride 30 minutes to the beach!
Keri (Querim Beach)
A quiet paradise located north of Arambol, Querim beach is a magical haven backed by palm & Cashew trees and soft golden sand. A serene spot for a private day trip is what this beach offers. Pack a picnic basket, and don’t expect much crowd or too many shacks (just enough for some fresh seafood) – spend a day just with yourself!
How to: Rent a car and spend the day at this magical beach!
Arambol Beach
Also known locally as Harmal, Arambol is one of the northernmost beaches of Goa’s stunning landscape. First emerged as a mellow paradise for long-haired stayers escaping the busy scene – now Arambol is known for its delightful hikes and serene beach front. With a string of beach-shacks and some accommodation operations, this beach is gently curved and safe for swimming. Head onward to Mandrem for the end of your beach day and a stunning sunset.
How to: Hire a car for a beach day in Northern Goa
Ashwem Beach
Located between Arambol and Mandrem Beaches, the Ashvem Beach is a haven for yoga enthusiasts – with various yoga retreats lining the beach. Vast stretches of sand and privacy is what Ashvem offers along with an evening of solitude. Palm fringed delights, powdery sands, clean waters and a good selection of restaurants around make this perfect for a beach day!
How to: Hire a car or bike and drive 35 minutes to the beach
Goa is one of the most famous holiday destinations in India. Tourists are coming to Goa for holidays as after being in lockdown for so many months, it seems like a well-deserved treat!
So welcome to land of the sweetened sun, sea, sand, seafood, spirituality & the susegado life!
Like Dennis Wilson once said, ‘On the beach, you can live in bliss’. We sure do believe so!
Written By Taryn Rodriques
Week 48, November ’20
