Goa is one of the best tourist spots in India renowned for its spicy cuisine, shopping bazaars, churches and of course- for the beautiful beaches as well.
This little state tucked away on the western coast of India is a mini paradise with the Arabian Sea on one side and lush green hills on the other.
If you're headed to Goa for some fun and siesta, be sure to visit these top beaches: Calangute Situated in North Goa, this beach is called the 'Queen of Beaches'.
Thanks to the hippies who discovered this pristine spot in the late sixties, Calangute Beach is today a tourist haven.
Besides enjoying some sun-bathing and swimming in the clear waters, the beach is perfect for simply lazing around and offers water sports activities too.
Visit the St.
Alex Church located nearby, buy some jholas (embroidered handbags) for loved ones or simply dig into some mouthwatering seafood here.
Baga Baga is an extension of Calangute village and is well-known for its water sports facilities.
Tourists can try parasailing, wake boarding, windsurfing or take a jet-ski ride at really nominal rates.
Dolphin spotting trips are also arranged and if all you want to do is read a book quietly, then simply lie down on one of the many beach chairs that are laid out here and enjoy a massage.
Shopaholics will enjoy the flea market that's held close by and the bars here stay open till late night for party lovers.
Candolim The white sands of the Candolim Beach are ideal for a game of beach volleyball, for a romantic walk or for tourists who would rather stay away from the usual chaos.
Besides offering various water sports activities here, tourists can enjoy a spot of fishing.
In fact, yoga and meditation classes take place quite regularly here as well.
If you want to view the beautiful sunset closely or take a few photographs, simply sign up for a beach excursion where a guided boat will take you to the middle of the sea.
Dona Paula Otherwise called the 'Lovers Paradise', this beach is named after the daughter of an Indian viceroy who is rumored to have taken her own life because her family objected to her love affair with a fisherman.
The beach is also the meeting point of the Zuari and Mandov rivers and gives tourists a good view of the Marmagao Harbour.
Water sports enthusiasts should visit the Dona Paula sports club which offers excellent facilities like water- scooter rides, jet-skiing etc.
After a day of fun and relaxation on the beach, head to the famous Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and spend some time with nature.