Exploring Colva Beach: Goa’s Serene Paradise for Adventure and Relaxation
For the previous 3 years, after relocating to Manali, in Himachal Pradesh, I have travelled to Goa at least once every year. And for some reason, I’ve noticed that I do so right after the monsoon & before the peak season.
“The months of late October & November,” I repeated inside my head, “are indeed the best time to visit Goa. This is when the weather starts improving & the beaches are also not too crowded yet.”
So this time, as I complete my yearly ritual (of visiting Goa, before the mountains start getting too much) I ended up at Colva. I heard Colva Beach is getting popular lately as local communities are trying hard to promote its visibility among Indian tourists. Sadly, it was too crowded, and felt like I am at Kanyakumari and not Goa, lol 🙁
But if you come a little early here or work a little to find a peaceful spot, the beauty at Colva Beach is nevertheless unparalleled.
Throughout this Goa trip, I was spending 4 nights at Colva, 3 nights at Benaulim, and 3 nights at Palolem, before moving a little north for 2 nights at Candolim, and calling it the trip. So let’s dive into the serenity and charm of South Goa & discuss begin with our…
Colva Beach Travel Guide
Colva Beach, a gem in South Goa, offers an idyllic escape for travelers looking to unwind and explore.
From soft white sands and calm waters to vibrant nightlife and historic landmarks, Colva provides something for every type of traveler.
This comprehensive guide that I’ve written after exploring the place for 4 nights and 5 days, will take you through all the essentials—things to do here, nearby destinations, practical travel tips, and insider recommendations—ensuring your trip to this beach paradise is unforgettable.
Also Read: Goa Travel Guide where I have compiled information from all my previous Goa Trips in one article.
Introduction
Colva Beach spans over 20 kilometers, making it one of the longest beaches in Goa. With white sands, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, it exudes a laid-back charm attracting leisure travelers and backpackers.
Historically, Colva was a summer retreat for Portuguese aristocrats, adding a layer of colonial heritage to its scenic beauty.
Today, Colva offers a mix of adventure sports, cultural experiences, and beachside relaxation, making it a must-visit destination in South Goa.
How to Reach Colva Beach
By Air
The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport, about 23 km away. If you are landing at the new Mopa International Airport, it’s a 63 km drive to Colva.
By Train
Margao Railway Station (also called Madgaon) is only 8 km away and offers connections to major cities across India.
By Road
Colva is accessible from Margao (6-9 km), and you can hire a cab or rent a scooter for an easy commute. Buses and auto-rickshaws are also readily available.
By Bike/Scooter Rentals
Renting a scooter (INR 300-500/day) is one of the most convenient ways to explore South Goa.
Watch this video below as we travelled from Manali to Delhi to Colva Beach. I recommend you use public transport from Goa Airport to Colva to save heaps. Where taxis were charging 1500 Rupees flat, we both travelled for 120 Rupees in public buses. You can find buses towards any direction in Goa right outside the Airport.
Here is the video from my Youtube Channel ‘FOOTLOOSE DEV’.
Best Time to Visit Colva Beach
November to February
This is the peak tourist season, with cool temperatures (24°C-30°C) and ideal weather for beach activities. This remains the best time to visit Colva Beach and other parts of Goa, but at the same time, every place is crowded and expensive.
March to May
Temperatures rise during this time, but Colva remains relatively quiet. Early mornings and late evenings are nearly pleasant for walks. This is when the least number of tourists visit Goa.
June to September (Monsoon)
Goa experiences heavy rains, which limit water sports, but the lush greenery makes for a scenic experience. Hotel rates also drop during this off-season.
Things to Do in Colva Beach
Water Sports and Beach Activities
Colva Beach offers a variety of adrenaline-pumping water activities, including:
- Parasailing: Enjoy aerial views of the coastline.
- Jet Skiing: Perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Banana Boat Rides: A fun experience for families and groups.
- Snorkelling: Some operators offer snorkelling trips to nearby coral spots.
Tip: Book your water sports in the morning to avoid afternoon crowds and high tides.
Dolphin Watching Tours
Early morning dolphin-spotting tours are a popular activity. Boats depart from the beach and take visitors into the Arabian Sea, where dolphins can be seen frolicking in the water.
Visit the Church of Our Lady of Mercy
Built in 1630, this church holds the miraculous statue of Baby Jesus, drawing visitors and devotees alike. The annual Fama Festival in October is celebrated with great fervor, featuring traditional Goan music and food.
Stroll Through the Colva Market
Explore the local markets for souvenirs, beachwear, and Goan handicrafts. You’ll also find shops selling fresh seafood and spices, ideal for culinary enthusiasts.
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
Benaulim Beach (2 km)
Known for its quieter atmosphere, Benaulim is perfect for those seeking peace. Enjoy swimming or indulge in Goan delicacies at beachside cafes. If you are staying at Colva, I suggest rather than visiting Benaulim, plan to stay for a day or two here (depending upon the number of days you have in hand). For example, I planned for 4 nights at Colva because there were more things to do here and 3 nights at Benaulim to get a hang of it.
Betalbatim Beach
Dubbed the “Sunset Beach” of South Goa, Betalbatim offers romantic sunset views and is less crowded than Colva.
Margao Town (8 km)
Margao, the cultural hub of South Goa, is known for its Portuguese architecture and landmarks like the Holy Spirit Church and Goa Chitra Museum.
Cavelossim and Majorda Beaches
Take a day trip to these nearby beaches, which are known for luxury resorts and water sports. Again, if you have more days in hand, plan to stay for a at least a night at Cavelossim.
Where to Stay: Accommodation At Colva
Colva Beach offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets:
- Luxury Resorts
- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
- Beleza by the Beach
- Mid-Range Hotels
- The Golden Crown Hotel & Spa
- Baywatch Resort
- Budget-Friendly Stays
- Colva Residency
- Casa Colva
Tip: Booking during the off-season (June-September) can get you discounts of up to 30-40%.
Where Did I Stay & Why I Recommend It…
I stayed at a beautiful rental apartment that I found on Airbnb and spent all 4-nights there.
If your budget is not too high and you want a home-like setting with all necessities like a kitchenette, a washing machine, a living room with a TV and sofa set, a balcony, a place to dry clothes and other things you can expect to make your stay comfortable, I suggest you book a rental apartment.
Unlike hotels, rental apartments offer a more practical holiday experience while not being too expensive. For me to find such a package in a hotel, I would need a suite-room.
Where a suite-room in a good hotel would only be 7000 Rupees or above, a similar setting in a rental apartment costs around 3000 Rupees.
The building where this apartment was located also offered a pool and a gymnasium. It was moreover just 700m away from Colva Beach. I will soon be doing a few Instagram Reels about the place that you can watch on my Instagram Channel ‘Footloose Dev’.
Also leaving you with the phone number of the owner of the place. Sapna: 8410280706.
Food and Nightlife Scene Around Colva
Beach Shacks and Restaurants
Colva’s beach shacks serve a variety of Goan delicacies like prawn curry, Goan fish thali, and bebinca (a traditional dessert). Popular shacks include Pinacolada, Big Boss, and Boomerang.
Nightlife in Colva
Colva has a relaxed nightlife, with many bars and shacks hosting live music, karaoke nights, and beach parties. If you prefer a quieter night, enjoy a stroll under the stars along the shoreline.
Essential Travel Tips for Colva Beach
- Sunscreen and Hydration: Always carry sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be intense during the day.
- Cash Transactions: Many beach shacks and local shops accept only cash, so carry enough with you.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches and temples.
- Scooter Safety: If you rent a bike or scooter, always wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Colva Beach suitable for families?
Yes, Colva Beach is family-friendly, with shallow waters for swimming, kid-friendly resorts, and dolphin tours.
Q2: What are the top activities at Colva Beach?
Water sports, dolphin watching, beachside dining, and exploring nearby churches are popular activities.
Q3: How far is Colva from the airport?
Dabolim Airport is about 23 km away, and the new Mopa Airport is approximately 63 km from Colva.
Conclusion
Colva Beach offers an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to unwind, explore, and indulge. Whether you want to bask in the sun, enjoy thrilling water sports, or experience Goan culture through food and festivals, Colva has it all. With nearby attractions like Benaulim Beach, Betalbatim Beach, and Margao, it’s also a great base for exploring South Goa.
Plan your trip today and experience the serenity and charm of Colva Beach, one of Goa’s most beloved destinations!