The best beaches in west India is an overview of beaches to visit when you are travelling to India. I’m well aware there are many other beaches to discover but these are the ones I can highly recommend in Goa and Kerala. Goa is a crowded tourist destination with large beaches, many bars & restaurants, water- and sport activities, parties and music festivals. The beaches in Kerala are smaller and more laid back.

Candolim & Calangute Beach, North-Goa

Calangute is located in the north-Goa district. Calangute Beach is a crowded beach and popular among Indian- and international tourists. It’s the largest beach in Goa and a perfect spot to go parasailing. Or to watch the sunset. High season is from November until the end of March. Because of the strong currents during the monsoon swimming is not recommended. Monsoon is usually from June until September.

Another popular beach in north-Goa is Candolim. The town is located south of Calangute and less crowded than the other beaches in north-Goa. It can be busy on holidays and weekends. On the southern end of Candolim Beach is Fort Aguada. In 1612 Aguada Fort was built by the Portuguese to defend against the Dutch and the Maratha invaders. The fort, the lighthouse and the church are open to visit. The fort is a popular spot to watch the sunset or enjoy the view of the Arabian Sea.

Arambol beach, North Goa

In the northern region of Goa is Arambol, a traditional fisherman village. Arambol beach is very popular among international tourists. There is much to do on the beach such as several water- and sport activities, night parties and music festivals. Many tourists like the area because of the bohemian vibe.

Palolem Beach, South Goa

Palolem is a town in Canacona in southern Goa. It is considered to be the most laid back and beautiful beach of Goa. You can sleep in a shack on the beach. The better the view of the beach the higher the prices of the shack. The golden sand beach is huge and you can do all kinds of activities like yoga classes, play volleyball, make a boat trip or go for an Ayurvedic massage. If you don’t like the beach that much, Palolem isn’t the place for you. Everything happens at or close to the beach. It’s also a great place to meet people especially when you are travelling around in India. The backpackers are walking-travel-guides and they can tell you all about the places you should (or should not) visit.

Om Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna is small temple village in the state of Karnataka. The main temple of Gokarna is devoted to Shiva. Gokarna used to be an important pilgrimage village with seven Hindu pilgrimage centres. It is a laid back town surrounded by a green/boulder landscape. Gokarna Beach is located in the centre of