Calangute Beach
Calangute Beach is a popular tourist destination located in North Goa, India. It is known for its long stretch of golden sand and clear waters, and is often referred to as the “Queen of Beaches” in Goa. The beach is lined with shacks, restaurants, bars, and shops, and offers a range of water sports activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Calangute Beach is a bustling and lively place, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The beach has a vibrant nightlife and is popular for its beach parties, especially during the peak tourist season from November to February. It is also a great place to relax and soak up the sun, with many tourists enjoying the warm weather and sea breeze.
However, due to the high influx of tourists, the beach can get quite crowded, especially during the peak season. Visitors should be careful when swimming in the sea, as the waters can be rough and the currents strong. It is also important to respect the local culture and customs, and to keep the beach clean by disposing of litter in the designated bins.
Things to do
There are plenty of things to do in and around Calangute Beach, depending on your interests. Here are some popular activities and attractions:
- Water sports: Calangute Beach offers a range of water sports activities, including parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more. You can rent equipment and book activities from local vendors on the beach.
- Explore the nearby areas: There are many other beaches and attractions in the area, including Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, and the historic Fort Aguada. You can rent a scooter or hire a taxi to explore the area at your own pace.
- Visit the Saturday Night Market: The Saturday Night Market in Arpora is a popular attraction that features live music, food stalls, and vendors selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Take a yoga or meditation class: Many yoga studios and wellness centers offer classes and workshops in and around Calangute Beach, providing an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.
- Go on a dolphin watching tour: There are several tour operators that offer dolphin watching tours in the waters near Calangute Beach. You can see the playful creatures in their natural habitat.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Calangute Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. You can enjoy a drink or dance the night away at one of the many beachside clubs.
- Shop for souvenirs: The local markets in and around Calangute Beach are great places to shop for souvenirs, including handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. The markets are also a great place to try local street food and snacks.
Attraction around Calangute Beach
Baga Beach:
Located just a few kilometers north of Calangute, Baga Beach is another popular beach destination in Goa. It offers a range of water sports activities and has a lively nightlife scene.
Fort Aguada:
Built in the 17th century by the Portuguese, Fort Aguada is a well-preserved fort that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. It is located just a short distance from Calangute Beach and is a great place to learn about the region’s history.
Anjuna Beach:
Anjuna Beach is known for its flea market, held every Wednesday, and for its stunning sunsets. The beach is also popular for its beach parties and nightlife.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary:
This wildlife sanctuary is located on the western tip of Chorao Island, just a short distance from Calangute Beach. It is home to a wide variety of bird species and is a great place to go birdwatching.
Dudhsagar Waterfall:
This stunning waterfall is located about 80 kilometers from Calangute Beach and is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great place to go for a day trip.
Spice Plantations:
There are several spice plantations in the area around Calangute Beach, offering guided tours that provide an opportunity to learn about the different spices grown in the region and their culinary uses. It is a great place to experience the flavors of Goa.
Mangueshi Temple:
Located in Ponda, about 30 kilometers from The Beach, the Mangueshi Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Hindu temples in Goa. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Where to Stay
There are many options for accommodation in and around Calangute Beach, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some popular options:
- Novotel Goa Resort & Spa: This 5-star resort is located just a short walk from Calangute Beach and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, multiple swimming pools, and several dining options.
- Hard Rock Hotel Goa: The Hard Rock Hotel Goa is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Calangute. It features a rock-themed decor and offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and several dining options.
- Santana Beach Resort: This 3-star resort is located on the quieter end of Calangute Beach and offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant.
- Ondas Do Mar Beach Resort: The Ondas Do Mar Beach Resort is a 3-star resort located just a short walk from the beach. It offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Hotel Seagull: This budget hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from Calangute Beach and offers simple, clean rooms at an affordable price.
- Shining Sand Beach Hotel: The Shining Sand Beach Hotel is a budget hotel located just a short walk from the beach. It offers simple, comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
There are also many options for homestays, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals in the area, providing a more local and authentic experience.
Where to Eat
There are many restaurants and food stalls in and around The Beach that offer a variety of cuisines, from local Goan cuisine to international dishes. Here are some popular options:
- Pousada by the Beach: This restaurant is located right on Calangute Beach and offers a range of Goan and Indian dishes, as well as seafood and continental options. The restaurant has a great ambiance, with live music and a bar.
- Infantaria: Located in the heart of Calangute, Infantaria is a popular restaurant that serves a range of dishes, including Indian, Goan, and Continental cuisine. It is also known for its bakery and cafe, serving delicious cakes, pastries, and coffee.
- Souza Lobo: Souza Lobo is a well-known beachside restaurant located on Calangute Beach that serves a range of seafood dishes, as well as Goan and Indian cuisine. It has a great ambiance, with live music and a bar.
- Gunpowder: This restaurant is located in Assagao, just a short distance from Calangute Beach, and is known for its delicious Goan and Indian cuisine. The restaurant has a rustic and charming ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
- Fisherman’s Wharf: Located in the village of Sinquerim, just a short distance from Calangute Beach, Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular seafood restaurant that serves a range of Goan and Indian dishes. The restaurant has a great ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
- Britto’s: Britto’s is a well-known beachside restaurant located on Baga Beach, just a short distance from Calangute Beach. It serves a range of seafood dishes, as well as Goan and Indian cuisine. The restaurant has a great ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options, live music, and a bar.
How to reach
Calangute Beach is located in North Goa and is well-connected by road, air, and rail. Here are the different ways to reach The Beach:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Calangute Beach is the Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is located about 38 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Calangute Beach.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station to Calangute Beach is the Thivim Railway Station, which is located about 18 kilometers away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the railway station to reach Calangute Beach.
- By Road: Calangute Beach is well-connected by road to other parts of Goa and neighboring states. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from major cities like Panaji, Margao, and Mapusa to reach Calangute Beach.
- By Bus: There are regular bus services from Panaji and Mapusa to Calangute Beach. You can also take a bus from major cities like Mumbai and Pune to reach Goa, and then take a local bus or hire a taxi to reach Calangute Beach.
Once you reach Calangute Beach, you can easily explore the nearby attractions on foot, by renting a scooter or motorbike, or by hiring a taxi.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about The Beach:
- What is the best time to visit The Beach?
The best time to visit Calangute Beach is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. During this time, the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for beach activities.
- Is The Beach safe for swimming?
Yes, Calangute Beach is safe for swimming during the non-monsoon months from November to May. However, it is important to be cautious and take necessary precautions while swimming, as the sea can be unpredictable.
- Are there any water sports activities available at The Beach?
Yes, there are many water sports activities available at the Beach, including parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more. These activities are offered by local vendors and can be booked on the beach.
- What are the nearby attractions?
Some nearby attractions to Calangute Beach include Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Aguada Fort, and the Saturday Night Market. All of these attractions are located within a few kilometers from Calangute Beach.
- What is the nightlife like in Calangute Beach?
The Beach has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and shacks that stay open late into the night. Some popular nightlife spots in Calangute include Tito’s, Club Cabana, LPK Waterfront, and more.
- Is it safe to travel alone to The Beach?
Yes, it is generally safe to travel alone to The Beach. However, it is important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. It is also recommended to stay in a safe and secure accommodation and avoid walking alone on the beach at night.
- What are some popular local dishes to try in Calangute?
Some popular local dishes to try in Calangute include fish curry and rice, vindaloo, sorpotel, and pork vindaloo. There are also many seafood restaurants on the beach that serve fresh catch of the day, grilled or fried, along with many other dishes.
