Four or five years ago, Candolim, at the far southern end of Calangute beach, was a surprisingly sedate resort, appealing to an odd mixture of middle-class Mumbaikers, and Burgundy-clad Sannyasins taking a break from the Rajneesh Ashram at Pune. Now, large-scale package holiday complexes jostle for space behind the dunes and the increasingly crowded beach has sprouted ranks of sun beds. The beach front is less crowded as compared to the other touristy beaches in Goa and as such visitors can enjoy the cool sea breeze at their best.

Things to do and see on Candolim Beach
The beautiful stretch in Candolim is idyllic for water-sports lovers. But newbie adventure seekers are suggested to be cautious during their play with waters. Apart from enjoying the adventure water-sports, the beach offers other activities of sightseeing, nightlife and visiting forts and historic churches.

Aguada Fort
Immediately south of Candolim, a long peninsula extends into the sea, bringing the seven-kilometer white sandy beach to an abrupt end. Aguada Fort, which crowns the rocky flattened top of the headland, is the best-preserved Portuguese bastion in Goa.

Candolim Church
Built in 1560 and dedicated to Our Lady of Hope, Candolim Church makes worth a visit. The sheer white church is embodied with stained glass panels and enhanced by the rich paddy fields, that stretch all the way across the Nerul River.

Water sports
Candolim beach is a popular site for water-skiing, Jet-skiing, catamaran sailing, dolphin-spotting and fishing. A number of water-sport operates can be easily encountered on the beach, which offers all the said activities. Tourist can also go for backwater cruises, organized by the Marquis Beach Resort and other beach shacks. The Half-day crocodile safari cruise is among the many cruises themes.

Nightlife
Besides the beach shacks in Candolim, the glitzy nightlife at 10 Downing Street and Geoffery's pub, situated near the Taj Holiday Village is must-enjoy one. The pubs play music that never cease. The night parties also offers drinks and eatables till the wee hours.

Candolim Beach Shopping
For shopoholics, the best bet is Rust, a lifestyle store. The complex has colorful studio pottery, furnitures and antique pieces, which appeals visitors at affordable prices.

Eating at Candolim
Candolim's numerous beach cafes are a cut above your average seafood shacks, with pot plants, state-of-the-art sound systems and prices to match. The main road is also dotted with restaurants serving the usual selection of fresh fish dishes, with a handful of continental options thrown in. Peacock Pub, La Fenice and Bob's Inn serves some fabulous English and Italian dishes, while Stone House and Viva Goa are known for its Goan sea food. Visitors can have royal meal at Banyan Tree at the Taj Holiday Village and Caravela at the Taj Aguada Beach Resort.

Getaway from Candolim Beach
Coco Beach and Nerul
Beach lovers, visiting Candolim can easily assess the beautiful Coco beach. It is situated 5 km right after the Nerul Bridge. The beach is an ideal spot for undergoing dolphin-spotting trip and boat rides, which are arranged by Coco's popular Mario Mendes St Francis Shack. While covering a joyful ride through the Nerul River, riders can behold the illuminated sight of Our Lady of Hope Church, reflecting on the glassy water.

Reis Magos and Queg de Velim
Situated just ahead Nerul, Reis Magos and Queg de Velim is 8 km away from Candolim. The charm of visiting here lies in stepping towards the Church of Three Kings. This fort is nestled atop the cliff and forms the second line of defence of the Mandovi River. A mini mela is organized annually on 6th of January, which commemorates the visit of the three Kings namely Gasper, Melchoir and Balthazar.

After having enjoyed the serene atmosphere of Reis Magos Fort, visitors can proceed towards the cove of Queg de Velim. This beach is on the Mandovi River and is special for its number of scenic beauty and couple of shacks.

Place of accommodation on Candolim Beach
Staying in Candolim is not a big deal. There are number of hotels located on the beach front, all of which provides a scenic view of the Candolim beach. Taj Fort Aguada Beach Resort, Taj Hermitage, Taj Holiday Village , Conqueral Holiday Home, Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort, Per Avel, D'Mello's Guest House, Whispering Palms Beach Resort are a few to name.

When to visit Candolim Beach
The best time to visit Candolim Beach is from October to March

How to reach Candolim Beach
By Air :
The nearest Dabolim Airport is 45 km away from the. On reaching, visitors can hire the available pre-paid taxis and reach the Candolim Beach

By Rail:
Thivim Railway Station is 19 km from Candolim. The station premises are available with auto-rickshaws and pre-paid taxis, which help visitors reach the beach.

By Road:
The Mandovi Bridge to Porvorim follows the CHOGM Road to Candolim. Another option lies in turning left under the Bridge and getting Candolim via Betim, Verem and Nerul.