Introduction

About 6 kilometers (3.75 miles) from Margao (Madgaon), Colva in South Goa is a glorious stretch of white sandy beach. Supposed to be the largest Goan beach, Colva opens up a scenery of sandy beach dotted with coconut palms lacing the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea, with souvenir stalls and concrete hotels jostling for space on the beachfront. The idyllic beach atmosphere is enhanced by a motley mix of colonial style villas and ramshackle fishing huts across the beach. There are ample snack bars strewn around a central roundabout.

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the shallow waters - the current is not that strong here. Colva gets busloads of visitors daily. The evenings are particularly lovely on the beach; set out on a long stroll, witness a breathtaking sunset, view the distant horizon as small fishing boats sail back with their day’s catch. The beach is a shell collector’s delight - you will find some beautifully patterned shells scattered along the coastline.

If you intend spending a few days in Colva, you can stay at one of the hotels or beach resorts nearby. Accommodation here ranges from swish campuses of chalets and swimming pools to a fair selection of spic-and-span guesthouses. Most mid and top range places invade the main beach road, while the budget rooms lie amid the more peaceful palm groves and paddy fields in the north.

When hunger pangs strike, proceed to a beach shack and tuck into seafood delicacies and round it up with a tipple of Feni. Colva is South Goa’s most popular party venue, though not an established rave party destination, nightlife here is quite lively. Splash is the most happening nightspot down in the dunes south of the beachfront area, it boasts a big MTV satellite screen and music to match. Just as popular is the late bar and discotheque that serves great food and drinks. To the south of Colva Beach is Ziggy’s air-conditioned dance floor with a sociable terrace spruced up with comfortable wicker chairs. If you prefer a place less pretentious and more affordable, try Johnny Cool, midway between the beach and Colva crossroads. Men Mar on Vasco Road is also a decent place serving beer and snacks. South Goa’s most popular beach, Colva is a must-do on a Goan holiday.

Special Attributes

The beach is a shell collector’s delight - you will find some beautifully patterned shells scattered along the coastline.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Colva is about 26 kilometers (16.25 miles) away from Dabolim Airport. From the airport you can take a pre-paid taxi or bus to Colva. Margao (8 kilometers/5 miles), one of Goa’s main railheads is the nearest railway station from Colva. Buses depart every 15 to 30 minutes from Margao's bus station at the old market for Colva. Auto-rickshaws are also available from Margao's Municipal Garden to Colva. Minibus, bus, auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available for local transport.

Enjoyed by

Families, Honeymooners, Backpackers, Senior Citizens

Exposure

You will be under the open sky of Goa. The sun can get harsh near afternoon, so you are advised to carry sunshades, a sun block cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August, September, October

Facilities

There are ample accommodation options and shack cafes lining the beachfront.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

You can experience a spectacular sunset on the beach.

Type of site

The largest South Goan beach