VAGATOR BEACH

Vagator Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa which provide a wholesome escapade offering everything like sightseeing, water sports, shopping and tranquility. The beach is mostly famous among Westerners and a permanent residence for many of them and it is the best places to visit in north goa in 1 day. Vagator Beach is the place that enchants people of all ages.

Vagator Beach in Goa offers tourists and travel enthusiasts the opportunity to have an experience of a lifetime. It is situated on the absolute northern fringes of Bardez Taluka, on the opposite side of the river Chapora, which starts from Morjim in Pernem. Towards the south of the Vagator Beach lies Anjuna, one of the oldest tourist destinations in Goa. 

Vagator beach is adorned with picturesque red cliffs that look down to two freshwater springs that are a stone’s throw distance from the sea. The beach is mainly divided by a seaside headland which acts as a prime spot for car parking and several small stalls that sell clothes, food and an assortment of trinkets and souvenirs. When facing the sea from the headland, on the right lies the North Vagator Beach or locally known as ‘Big Vagator’, while on the left lies the Ozran Beach or what is known as ‘Little Vagator Beach’.

Highlights

• The Vagator beach in the Bardez taluka is sandwiched nicely between two freshwater springs and one of the most beautiful in North Goa.
• Comprising North Vagator Beach and Ozran Beach, it offers a relaxing time amidst white sands and beautiful landscapes of red cliffs and palm plants.
• The beach is famous amongst foreigners for its rave culture, nightlife, and party scenes. Locals love it for its serenity and beauty.
• Away from the madding crowd, this beach is an ideal destination to spend some romantic moments. From watching a lovely sunset, relaxing over the sand to an evening stroll, it offers many ways to enjoy memorable moments.
• The Anjuna Flea market is only a walking distance from the beach and another attraction for being the hub of handmade crafts, ornaments, clothes, and Goa souvenirs.
• Complete with various small eateries and cafes, here you can savour a range of local to seafood recipes at pocket-friendly prices.

How To Reach

From Panjim

Panjim is located 16 km south of Vagator Beach. If you are travelling from Panjim to Vagator Beach, then you have to travel approximately 21 km by road. One can reach Vagator Beach in 20 to 30 minutes from Panjim. There are also several buses and taxis for hire that can bring you to Vagator Beach. If you have hired a two-wheeler, then too, you can travel with ease. 

From Goa International Airport

The Goa International Airport is located 26 km south of Vagator Beach. From the airport to Vagator Beach, the time taken to reach the destination is slightly over an hour to 90 minutes depending on the mode of transportation you choose. 

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Vagator Beach is between November and March, which is the winter season in the Western Ghats. Goa, being a tropical region, experiences mild winters with temperatures that don’t go below 15-17 degrees Celsius. It is best to avoid the area during the summer months when the beach gets too hot. Even during the monsoon should be avoided when it is impossible to enjoy the sun, the beach and the waters in the torrential rain. 

Other Essential Information

Places to Visit near Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach itself is a very happening place. However, there is no dearth of exciting, interesting and historical places you can visit around Vagator Beach as well. Here are some places you can check out when you are there: 

Chapora Fort- Built by the Muslim ruler Adil Shah, Chapora Fort was built above the Chapora River in Bardez. It is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa because of the picturesque setting and adventurous terrain.

Our Lady of Piety - ChapelOffering a panoramic view from the summit, this church sits on top of a hill located in the village of Piedade, in Divar Island, Goa. The church, also known as ‘Our Lady of Compassion’ has a fascinating history of its own along with the history of the land upon which it rests

St. Alex’s Church- Located at a short distance from Vagator Beach in the popular tourist mecca of Calangute, this pristine white church is the only church in all of Goa that can boast its Indian style architecture consisting of ‘cupola falsa’.  

Morjim Beach- Check out the changing sky and the setting sun at the Morjim Beach which is considered one of the most tranquil and serene beaches in Goa. This is a quaint place to visit for a relaxing time and a dinner outing. 

Ozran Beach- Also known as Small Vagator Beach, this one is framed with gentle rocky formations and green hills. The Ozran beach is not very crowded and one can enjoy a relaxing sunset by the shore and spend the day with food and drink to the heart’s content.

Places to stay near Vagator Beach

Whether you are looking for a shack or a resort or a hotel, Vagator Beach has some great options for accommodation that you can check out: 

The Garden Leone Resort-Stay at the Garden Leone Resort during your visit to Vagator Beach. The resort is a beautiful mix of Portuguese inspired villas and cottages. Spend leisure time amidst the beautiful garden landscape and the indoor swimming pool. The Garden Leonne resort has all the amenities that are required for a perfectly comfortable stay. 

Urja Resort-Check in to the Urja Resort in Vagator which is a mere 640 meters from the beach and has some of the best services and housekeeping facilities. Sporting its own in-house bar and swimming pool, the resort is at close proximity to shops and stores that will enrich your vacation experience.

Palm Grove-Palm Grove is a great place to consider staying in when visiting Vagator Beach. The resort comes with its own bar and open garden that overlooks the beach. Guests staying at the Palm Grove can also enjoy facilities like free airport transfers.

Bloo Resort-Situated right on Vagator beach road, the Bloo resort is one of the most lavish places to stay at Vagator Beach. Guests at this resort enjoy a complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Along with that, guests have quick and easy access to the beach as well. 

Portuguese Villa-The Portuguese Villa features a garden, swimming pool and the poolside view from most of its rooms. The famous Chapora Fort is also a quick 3-minute walk from the villa. The entire property is air-conditioned with 3 different types of bedrooms and is equipped with all the amenities and requirements for a comfortable and lavish stay.

Shacks at Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is littered with some of the best beach shacks that goa has to offer.

Curlies Bar and Restaurant - For the ultimate Goa experience, check out this beach shack which offers great local food, cocktails and a night club, all on the sandy shores of Vagator Beach

Cafe Lilliput Cafe Lilliput -is one of the oldest beach shacks in Goa, offering a lively combination of amazing Goanese and European food, as well as a popular party conducted by renowned DJs. 

Boom Shack -The Boom Shack is a popular haunt for tourists and locals alike. You can enjoy a drink and some good food that come with a fantastic view of the sea. 

Shining Star Beach Shack - Head to Shining Star Beach Shack to try some of the best seafood in the area that are sourced fresh everyday from the markets of Goa. They also have a lively nightlife scene, with gigs conducted by local musicians and DJs. 

Sam’s Beach Restaurant -A trip to Goa is incomplete without a trip to Sam’s Beach Restaurant, which is a modern version of the famous beach shacks. Check it out for the incredible food and drinks on the menu as well as the breathtaking view of the ocean. 

Things to Carry at Vagator Beach

When visiting Vagator Beach, there are certain things and items that one must always carry to make the most of their tour and travels to the beach. 

The right footwear: when visiting Vagator Beach, make sure that you carry the right kind of shoes depending on where you are travelling. Crocs, floaters or flip flops are ideal for walking in sandy places.

Swimsuit: If you are visiting one of the most famous beaches in the country, it is absolutely imperative that you carry your favourite swimsuit for a great time in the water. 

Sunscreen: Carrying a good sunscreen to protect your skin from a tan and sunburn is an absolute must. 

Water bottle: It is always advisable that you carry your own water bottle for emergencies.

 Traveller’s Tip before Visiting Vagator Beach

Here are some tips for travellers before visiting Vagator Beach:

Make sure to make a list which accounts for all your belongings. Having a list will help you maintain a record of what you are carrying and will be able to keep a track of each item.

Do not book in advance unless necessary. Unless it is the peak tourist season (around December and January) you will always find a good hotel or place to stay in Goa. More often than not, you will be able to find quaint, budget accommodations that are not listed online.

When travelling from the airport to the beach, the only mode of transport available is a cab or taxi which can be expensive. To save costs, you may find some fellow travellers who are also heading to the beach. So you share a prepaid cab and split the cost.

If you are a fan of Indian food then you will definitely love the Goan dishes. But bear in mind that Goan food is generally spicier than the typical Indian food. Feel free to inform the restaurant where you are eating, about your spice tolerance.

Medical Facilities near Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach has several medical facilities and clinics in its vicinity. Here are some places whose numbers and addresses you can keep handy from beforehand in case of emergencies: 

St. Anthony’s Hospital and research centre

Dr Milind Colvalcars Mapusa Medical clinic centre and IVF Angels Goa 

Chandsi Clinic

Heritage Ayurveda Centre

Dr Kolwalkers Galaxy hospital

Dr Gaitonde's Dental care

Apart from this, there are medical provisions and first-aid kits available at all the resorts and hotels for guests and travellers.