Calangute
is Goa's flagship beach and it plays an irreplaceable role in the
state's tourism sweepstakes. Stretching over an expanse of seven
kilometers, Calangute beach is known by the sobriquet the 'Queen of
Beaches' for its pre-eminence among the scenic beaches that dot the Goan
landscape. Due to its extreme popularity, Calangute beach beckons
tourists and backpackers from all over the world. Before becoming a tourist haven, Calangute was a nondescript fishing village frequented by the hippies in the 70's and 80's. But over the years Calangute has metamorphosed into Goa's numero uno beach destination endowed with a bustling infrastructure. The beach remains choc-a-block with tourists all year around.
Apart from a host of hotels and guesthouses stretching up to Baga, the village of Calangute offers all modern amenities like post office, banks, foreign exchange offices, all kind of eateries and medical facilities. Die hard shoppers can look for an exciting time in the Kashmiri-run handicraft boutiques and Tibetan stalls selling Himalayan curios and jewellery.
While enjoying a day in Calangute, one is unfailingly struck by the paradox that the beach itself has nothing much to offer with sand contaminated with red soil and the beach dropping steeply into the sea.
How to Reach Calangute Beach
Calangute beach is located 9 m from Mapusa while Panaji is 16 km away. Buses run frequently to Calangute from Mapusa and Panaji. You can also hire taxis or motorcycles from Mapusa to reach Calangute beach.
