Colva Beach is not one of the traditionally known beaches of Goa. As compared to other popular destinations it is a more recent discovery. Colva Beach is Goa’s longest beach with 20 km of virgin white sands that are fringed with palms and drenched with the sun. The small village of Colva is situated approximately 40 kms from Panaji (Panjim), the capital of Goa. And it is also at a distance of 2km from the Benaulim beach where tourists often go to have some quiet moments.
The Beach
Colva has a reputation as one of Goa’s most romantic beaches. Off lately, the quiet life of Colva has been punctuated by the number of hotels and buildings that have come up here in quick succession of one another.
Many choose to visit this beach to experience a change from the crowded Anjuna or Calangute beach, because it is usually less crowded. There are many shacks lined up along the Colva beach which offers you delicious Goan cuisine to be washed down by innovative cock-tails. Sit in one of those shack, savour the mouth-watering food while looking at the vast sea in front of you.
Things to do and attractions
Nossa Senhora De Merces (Our Lady Of Mercy) Church:
Since the 17th century, the church is famous for its annual religious event, Fama of Menino Jesuse (Child Jesus). The predominantly Catholic community celebrates it on the third Monday of October every year. It is one of Goa’s most popular feasts and the occasion is marked with a grand fair.
Where to stay & eat in Colva beach?
As far as staying here is concerned, there are plenty of hotels offering accommodation at cheap rates, but its always better to book in advance.
Star Beach Resort: The chief advantages of this extremely ordinary four-story building are its proximity to the beach (a few minutes by foot) and its location – just off Colva’s main street. Rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, which is more than can be said for many of Colva’s properties. None of the rooms face the sea.
Shopping at Colva Beach:
As far as big shopping complexes or markets are concerned, Colva Beach still has to develop. But there are a lot of trinket shops and drink stalls on the beach where one can buy artifacts, antiques and gifts for friends waiting back at home. Open-air eateries serving seafood and Portuguese dishes are in abundance on the shore.
Reaching There
» By Air: The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji and 68 km from Colva.
» By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Karmali, 11 km away from Panaji. Panaji is 39 km away from Colva.
» By Road: There are frequent buses from Colva running to and from Margao (also Madgaon; 6 km away) from where one can take a bus to Panaji, which is 33 km further ahead.
