GOA BEACHES
Goa possesses one of the finest stretches of sandy coastline in India. To the average tourist interested in having a good time, “the beaches" is what Goa is all about. It has been widely publicized in the media, movies and adds to the mystique of Goa. This is not without reason because the tropical climate, the coconut trees, the white sand beaches all have been immortalized and add to the romantic allure of Goa.
Goa is now the major tourist destination of Indians on the move especially the newly weds on their honeymoon and the upwardly mobile Indian gentry, besides foreign tourists coming in hordes in winters.
The beaches in North Goa have been commercialized, especially Calangute. Hotels with shops and restaurants to cater to every taste occupy the road parallel to the beach. In South Goa, however, there are a few isolated virgin beaches for those in search of peace and tranquility.
The beaches in Goa are clustered into two regions, in North and South Goa coastlines. The capital Panaji and nearby Miramar and Bambolim beaches, lie in the middle.
The North Goa coastline extends from Fort Aguada and Sinquerim beach areas and goes upwards along the coastline to Chapora beach and fort. The Sinquerim, Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, Chapora, Morjim beaches are along this stretch of coastline.
The other coastline extending south of Vasco da Gama and Bogmalo beach and going down along the coastline to the southern tip of Goa and ending with Polem Beach. The Bogmalo, Velsao, Majorda, Colva, Benaulim, Betul, Canaguinim, Agonda, Palolem, beaches are along this stretch of the coastline.
We visited many beaches in Goa. The virgin Arrosim Beach in South Goa near our hotel was however the best liked by us for peaceful and serene surroundings, no crowds, just enjoying within the group with leisure.
The other beaches visited were Agauda Beach, Calungate Beach, Baga Beach and Miramar Beach.
Miramar beach in Panaji, lies 3 kilometers from town centre and about 1-kilometer ahead of the convergence of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi River. The beach has fine silvery sands, which makes it ideal for taking long walks and soaking up the sun. The Miramar beach is parallel to the main road, expands up to 2 kilometers and given its fine location, one can catch a charming and magnificent view of the sea. The Miramar beach is pretty popular among tourists and it also offers accommodation of good hotels near the shore.
Calangute Beach
Calangute beach is popularly known as the "Queen of all Goan beaches" and is 16 kilometers from Panaji,. This beach was originally known by the name "kolli gutti", which means "land of fishermen". During the Portugal rule, the name got distorted and came to known as Calangute beach. The place around Colangute beach is abundant in coconut trees, which add to the scenic surroundings.
The Colangute beach provides tourist with variety of food and drinks. It is an ideal place to check out the local cuisines. There are many music concerts held there every now and then and is a favorite among music and art lovers. An art gallery called Kerkar Art Gallery is located on the beach.
The Colangute beach today is one of the busiest beaches in Goa thronging with locals and tourists. The beach has a leveled shoreline and not rocky at all. This makes it ideal for indulging in daring adventure sports and diving. Various water sports are offered at the beach. However, due to its crowding, is not meant much for people searching for peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Anjuna Beach
Anjuna Beach is another popular beach of Goa. Anjuna is situated 8 kilometers west of Mapusa and 18 kilometers from the capital city, Panaji. It overlooks the sea and thus gives a splendid look of the shoreline. The village of Anjuna is nestled between the Arabian Sea and a small hillock. The Anjuna Beach