Colva, Goa

Keynotes on Colva, Goa

Famous for: Golden white sandy beaches

Visit duration: Usually half a day

Ideal for: Weekend or day trips 

Best time to visit: October to March recommended

Best visited with Family or solo

Accommodation: Luxury resorts, villas and budget hotels available 

Languages spoken: Konkani, English, and Hindi is understood by most residents – Portuguese is spoken by the older generation 

Located in the Salcete region of South Goa, Colva in Goa is a serene coastal village well-known for its beautiful beach sharing its name. Gorgeous white beaches, constantly monitored by lifeguards, running parallel to the elaborate stretch of coconut palms attracts vacationers – both solo travelers as well as groups with kids and elderly.   

See more South Goa Beaches       

The small town was once a popular hangout for hippies in the 60s’ trying to escape the crowd of Anjuna. Colva in Goa is still considered as a popular resort town, but now the beaches are less crowded and more charming. The main beach, 25 km (15.53 miles) long, extends from Bogmalo to Cabo de Rama making it a popular destination among the Portuguese colonizer of the region. Back in the day, the place was one biggest retreat of the Goan rich and famous – evident from the still existing gorgeous villas and mansions.

Let’s check some of the biggest attractions of this beautiful beach town, and uncover some of its charming features.

Colva: Its Beach and What You Can Do Here

The Colva Beach, one of the popular hangouts of hippies during the Flower Era, is an unending seashore lined by coconut palms – and a popular family destination. Surrounded by beach shacks, small restaurants, hotels and pubs, this place is always swarming with vacationers. You can indulge in water sports, or just relax at the beach – the choice is yours. 

Here are some of the things you can do at Colva Beach.

1. Swimming

At Colva Beach, swimming is an absolute must. Here the waves are very gentle, making them ideal for a swim. You might be an adventurous traveler or person who likes to relax, but dipping feet at this stunning beach is a must for you – if you don’t you might be missing something. And, after a refreshing dip in the sea, you can always quench your thirst with fresh tender coconut water found very easily here.

P.S: The beach has designated zones in the ocean marked as safe for swimming as well as the area is constantly under the observation of the lifeguards ensuring the safety of the vacationers.  

 
2. Adventure Sports   

You can try your hand at water sports – parasailing, water skiing, or banana boat ride - at Colva Beach. The entire experience can cause an adrenaline surge in your body, enjoy it. Remember to follow the instructor's advice and safety precautions mentioned before your ride, you keep yourself safe. 

3. Dolphin Trips

The Dolphin Trips are a common thing in Goa lasting close to an hour. Usually, these trips are organized by the local fishermen communities who take the tourists into the sea in the hopes of spotting dolphins. Colva in Goa is no exception, and you will find several boat owners running such trips throughout the day. Ideally, early morning trips are most suitable for sighting these beautiful creatures or else head for the tour around sunset.

P.S: Midday tours could be a bit hectic and hot, and better be avoided.  

           
4. Relaxing

An ideal spot for relaxation, the place attracts tourists especially due to its beautiful white beach and charming colonial atmosphere. Vacationers could be found enjoying themselves to the tranquil environment and losing themselves to the amorous Goa. In the evening, you can head for a walk or enjoy the sunset while sipping your beer.  

5. Shopping

No trip to Goa or its beaches is complete without shopping for sarongs, jewelry, small trinkets, and souvenirs. The place is filled with shacks selling their ware or street vendors who will approach you to buy from them.

P.S. If you find something interesting, do bargain before finalizing the purchase to get a good deal

        
Our Lady of Mercy Church

Another important fixture of Colva is an 18th-century church, Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Merces or Our Lady of Mercy Church, which has been associated with several legends and myths. According to many, the church is the home to Menino Jesus (Baby Jesus) which is believed to possess healing powers. Currently, the statue of the Baby Jesus is only available for public viewing during October for the once a year Fama festival.

Nightlife of Colva

Colva’s nightlife is vibrant and lively mostly due to its people and electrifying environment. The small town radiates a beautiful ambiance, which can be quiet addictive forcing you to come back. Usually, the pubs and shacks house cheap beer and delightfully flavorful cuisines, making it a favorite among the Indian crowd. Apart from that, many bars have live music playing thrilling Indian and international numbers.

Some Important Pointers for Tourists

1. During the peak tourist season, the prices might surge up. To avoid booking hassles and other issues, to the necessary confirmation early.

2. Monsoon season is not ideal for swimming in Goa as the water is quite rough. Also, watersport activities are closed during this time.

3. Sunset in Colva is exciting, and must not be missed at any cost

4. Do not forget to carry your sunscreen, sunhat, gasses, and beachwear

    
How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport (25.6 km / 15.9 miles) – From the airport private cabs can be hired to reach the town. The entire trip would take an hour to complete.

Travelers can also board the Vasco – Karwar bus or Vasco - Assolda bus from the airport. Get down at Madgaon. Board the bus on the Margao - Colva Beach route, and get down at Colva. The entire trip would take around 1.5 hours, and the ticket costs around INR 90.    

• Nearest Railway Station: Madgoan junction (7.1 km/ 4.41 miles) – Taxis and app-based cabs are available to reach the destination, and the trip would take around thirty minutes to complete. Board the Margao – Karwar or the Margao - Molkopon bus, and get down at Margao. From Margao, board the Margao - Colva Beach bus. The trip would be completed in one hour thirty minutes.  The tickets cost around INR 100.      

• How to commute: In Colva, rented two-wheelers are the most suitable for exploring this beautiful town. For around INR 500, you can book them for the entire day.     

• The favorite holiday destination of the colonial Portuguese, Colva is a beautiful destination – ideal for a holiday or relaxing weekend.