Your ultimate Goa beach-list

North Goa. Filled with palm trees swaying in the wind and small coves where the sea hugs the cliffs, this rocky stretch is great for sunset photographs that can end up as desktop wallpapers. It comes alive every Wednesday with the flea market, where you can pick up chunky jewellery, footwear and curios.

North Goa. A favourite among locals and tourists alike, this one’s surrounded by small tattoo stalls, besides yoga and meditation centres. Word is that a short walk away lies a pool with yellow clay, believed to possess healing powers.

North Goa. Clichés are clichés for a reason. On this beach, you’d be among the thousands that throng here every day, so join the crowds making the most of their time. Sunbathe on one of the many beach chairs, embarrass yourself on a banana-boat ride, throw a spontaneous party in one of the tiny shacks.

North Goa. Known as the ‘queen of beaches’, this bustling zone is where you go when you want all of it. Watch the waves, sample some seafood at one of the many eateries, or just people-watch—you could be here all day.

North Goa. Nestled between Sinquerim and Calangute beaches, this one’s recommended for a romantic evening out. Walk barefoot on the golden sand or pack a basket for a private picnic by the sea.

North Goa. This beauty is as untouched as it gets. It’s visited by very few, so take a dip in the blue waters or go crazy Instagramming the gleaming white sand and colourful huts.

North Goa. Located 3km from Panjim, the ‘Chowpatty of Goa’, as it’s often called, boasts great views of Fort Aguada. It’s perfect to visit with the family, so plan an afternoon of beach football with the #famjam.

North Goa. Don’t be surprised if you see Russian signages in the shacks and shops on this stretch. It’s because the beach is a favourite among Russian tourists and expats.

North Goa. The old Chapora fort towering over this beach starred in the blockbuster film Dil Chahta Hai. Go ahead and recreate that iconic picture of Aamir, Saif and Akshaye looking out at the blue sea—we won’t judge.

South Goa. One of the few beaches still relatively untouched by stores and restaurants (and people), this one is ideal for a lazy afternoon spent reading under coconut trees. If you visit in September, keep your eyes open for the nesting Olive Ridley turtles.

South Goa. Located 2km from Colva village, this fishing beach is surprisingly serene. If you spot a local, ask them where you can see the traditional rosewood furniture and handicrafts the area is known for.

South Goa. Its proximity to popular resorts and tourist attractions means it’s one of Goa’s busiest. Thankfully, it’s also one of the state’s largest—almost 20km—so you can get away for long walks. #DND

South Goa. Looking for a beach party? This pristine stretch comes alive with locals and tourists dancing late into the night. If you’re worried about the noise, though, add to your list the silent parties that happen every Saturday.

South Goa. The water sports here make it perfect for adventure junkies. Start with a morning lesson in windsurfing and try your hand at jetskiing. End your evening by hiring a catamaran and watching the sky turn into every shade of pink.

South Goa. One of the cleanest and quietest beaches in the state is home to some exclusive resorts and hotels. Get cosy in one of the many beachside shacks around and enjoy chilled cocktails and spicy Goan seafood. #MealWithAView

South Goa. Because it’s cut away from the beaches in North and South Goa, it’s very hard to visit this one and not feel like the place isn’t for you alone. Get a taste of the good life, go for a swim in the blue waters and take a dolphin-spotting cruise to one of the nearby islands.

South Goa. Located 15km from Margao, this will have you thinking of the Maldives—pristine white sand, swaying palms and thatched daybeds. Pick a spot, hang a hammock and watch the world go by.

South Goa. Paradise would probably look like this beach. Located in Canacona, it brings together swaying palms and a river. Soft waves crashing on golden sand, the endless Arabian Sea, and a clear, coconut-tree-lined freshwater lagoon are the icing on the cake.