ANJUNA BEACH
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Location: 8 kms west of Mapusa, North Goa
Best time to visit: October-March
Reputed among the beach lovers for its fluorescent painted palm trees and
acid house parties, Anjuna invites you for a memorable holiday experience.
The most popular activity on the beach is still the same as it was in the
past- dancing and lying on the beach slurping tropical fruit and savoring
the beauty of the otherwise calm sea. Don't forget to visit the famous flea
market, which will add to the fun.
BAGA BEACH
Factfile
Location: 10 kms west of Mapusa, North Goa
Best time to visit: December-February
One of the most picturesque beaches in Goa, Baga is basically an extension
of Calangute Beach. Baga's nightlife is the liveliest in the area and most
of the travelers prefer to spend the night at Tito's, which has a large
dance floor and a hefty sound system. For gourmets, the beach has a range of
restaurants that offer mouth-watering dishes ranging from traditional Goan
food to Italian pizzas.
BANAULIM BEACH
Factfile
Location: 7 kms west of Margao, South Goa
Best time to visit: November to March
A sleepy village in the past, today Benaulim is a must visit place on every
backpacker's map. A peaceful and welcoming place to unwind, Benaulim is safe
for swimming and indulging in several other exciting water sports. Several
restaurants here serve the most succulent seafood, which attract beach
lovers from every corner of the world.
BOGMOLO BEACH
Factfile
Location: 8 kms North West of Vasco De Gama
Best time to visit:
The beach is clean and not too crowded, the water reasonably safe for
swimming, and there are plenty of places to eat, drink and shop. Pricey café-bars
playing western music add to the festive mood on the beach. Bogmolo is also
famous for its diving facilities and there are many schools that offer
PADI-approved open water diving courses.
DONA PAULA BEACH
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Location: 7 kms from Panjim, North Goa
Best time to visit: October to March
Located on the south side of the rocky, hammer-shaped headland that divides
the Zuari and Mandovi estuaries, this former fishing village is today an
ideal spot to sunbathe and relax. The beach is also famous for water sport
facilities including water scooter rides and motor boat rides. Also visit
the ruins of the small military cemetery the British built to deter the
French from invading Goa.
ALAPPUZHA BEACH
Factfile
Location: Alappuzha, Kerala
Best time to visit: September-March
Reputed as the 'Venice of East', Alappuzha has grown in importance as a
backwater tourist center. With the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast
network of lakes, lagoons and several freshwater rivers criss-crossing it,
the beach is blessed with the immense natural beauty. Additionally, its
facilities for boat races and houseboat holidays make it a perfect holiday
spot. Here, you can also shop for the best of marine products.
KOVALAM BEACH
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Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Best time to visit: September-March
Its a palm-fringed bay in secluded coconut groves, which promises a relaxed
stay. Boundless blue waters of the Arabian Sea and miles of white sands make
Kovalam a paradise for the beach lovers. Here, you will get excellent
opportunities for aquatics, swimming and sunbathing. Also explore the
handicrafts, jewelry and cloth shops that are spread along the waterfront.
VARKALA BEACH
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Location: 41 kms from Thiruvanantpuram city
Best time to visit: October-March
Also a major Hindu pilgrimage, here high cliffs with rich mineral springs
rise majestically from the coastline. The 200 years old shrine of Lord
Vishnu and mineral water springs, known for their medicinal value, add to
the attraction of Varkala beach. A dip in the holy waters of this beach is
believed to purge the body and the soul of all the sins.