Not for nothing is Goa known as 'Goa Dourada', Golden Goa. With a coastline studded with some of the world's most beautiful beaches, Goa is India's answer to the Mediterranean. 

Panaji
Goa's capital Panaji has some fine beaches. To the north of Panaji, lie two of Goa's most popular beaches- Calangute and Baga. These two beaches together stretch for more than 7 km. Stroll along in the morning, as the brilliant rays of the rising sun fall upon the sea, and you wouldn't know the difference between the sea and the sands. Watch fishermen taking in the morning's catch. Visit any of the quaint eating places sprinkled along the stretch from Calangute to Baga, and discover the delightful ambience of old world Portuguese culture merging with modern Goa. You can also go to Candolim, one of the lesser known beaches of Goa. Or you can explore and discover your own beach, north of Baga, with secluded coves, swaying palms and the azure skies.

Sinquerim
It is one of the best beaches in Goa with international class facilities for water - skiing, para-sailing, fishing, scuba-diving and wind-surfing. You can stay either at the Fort Aguada Beach Resort, Taj Holiday Village or at the Aguada Hermitage which is situated on the hillside, overlooking the sea. Sinquerim also has a magnificent 17th century fort, which has now been converted into a prison.

Calangute
It is, undoubtedly, the most popular beach in Goa. You can stay here in any one of the many resorts and hotels that dot the beach, or you can spend your vacation with one of the families, which own houses near the beach.

Baga
It is a secluded and pleasant beach, with good recreational facilities like river cruises, water-skiing, yachting and fishing. Staying here is no problem, as there are many small and lovely cottages available.

Anjuna
This beach is known mainly for its free culture.

Chapora / Vagator
Just a 3 km stroll from Anjuna are these beautiful stretches of land, that are mesmerising, to say the least.

Arambol / Terekol
These are the northern - most beaches of Goa. Terekol has a wonderful fort, which has now been converted into a resthouse.

Bogmalo
Another of Goa's irresistible beaches, Bogmalo is a secluded, crescent - shaped cove. An exclusive beach, it has a single luxury hotel, the Sarovar Park Plaza Resort. South of this beach are the Velsao and Majorda beaches. The latter boasts of another fine resort - the Majorda beach resort.

Colva 
Virgin white sands form Colva, the longest beach (20 km) in Goa. There are small hotels as well as five star ones, like the Goa Renaissance Resort and the Leela Beach Resort.

Benaulim
A pretty fishing village, with quaint old Portuguese houses and a secluded beach. Perfect for a quiet little break. You can get the 'family house' accomodation here, which besides being easy on your budget, can give you terrific insight into the local tradition.

Betul
Completely untouched by tourism, Betul offers total seclusion and magical beaches.

Se Cathedral
Time seems to stand still as you enter the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, this church has 15 altars.

Basilica of Bom Jesus
Here you can view the embalmed body of Goa's patron saint, St. Francis, perfectly preserved, since his death almost 450 years ago.

Temples
The Ponda district has a 15th century Shri Mangesh temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Mardol has the Shri Mahalsa temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.