Goa Beaches

Beaches are the mostsignificant aspect of tourism in Goa. The 125 kilometers of Goan coastline is dotted with numerous palm-fringed sandy beaches which offer the perfect destination for a romantic honeymoon or an ideal vacation. Goa in the west coast of India is a holidaymaker's paradise. A firm favourite with travellers from all corners of the world, the beaches in Goa attract thousands of beach lovers and regular tourists from far and wide.

The beaches are packed up with thrill with water sports ranging from parasailing to jet skiing, windsurfing to speed boating. The beach shacks serve all the sea food, the grilled and the roasted and spicy Goan cuisine. Feni is a local drink that can be enjoyed on a beach. It is easy to find cheap accommodation in a beach resort or hotel very close to the beach in Goa. Beaches in Goa can be classified into the beaches in North and the beaches in South. The beaches of these two regions have different characters. The beaches of Goa in the north are the more popular ones and host a lot of parties and carnivals, while the beaches of south Goa are relatively quieter, and appeal to those looking for relaxed solitude. North Goa Beaches are Candolim Beach, Sinquerim Beach, Baga Beach, Bambolim Beach, Arambol Beach, Vagator Beach, South Goa Beaches, Benaulim Beach, Palolem Beach, Agonda Beach, Mobor & Cavelossim Beaches.

Other excellent options for a wide range of water sports include swimming, river cruising along the Baga, Candolim and Calangute beach strips, dinghy sailing, parasailing, scuba diving, water skiing, water scootering, windsurfing, jet skiing and banana boat riding.

Goa Carnival

Goa’s most colourful and popular festival Goa Carnival is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year. This three day extravaganza of fun, frolic, amusement and merry-making takes place in the month of February. Though essentially a Christian festival, all people of Goa, irrespective of their faith and religion take part in this festival. The word Carnival has been derived from the Latin word "Carnavale" which means to throw away meat. The main highlight of Goan carnival is to have fun by indulging in singing, dancing, feasting, etc. before the 40 day abstinence period of Lent before Easter.

The land of Sun, Sand and Sea is a treat for beach and sea lovers during this season in particular. The 'Carnivale’ is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years. Goa carnival is one of the most enthusiastic celebrations of western style in India. A hot favorite among revellers all around the world, the Goan carnival is known for its riotous merrymaking. You will be entertained thoroughly with beautifully decorated floats, live music and dancing of many ethnic origins. Specialty of this carnival is the rich blend of cultures and religions that is seldom witnessed anywhere else. You will have wide choice of food and drinks including many Indian as well as International cuisines.

The carnival is meant to be a feasting-drinking-merrymaking orgy just before the austere 40 days of Lent. Huge parades are organized throughout the state with bands, dances and floats out all night on the streets, and grand balls held in the evenings. The carnival concludes with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Club National in Panaji on the final day.