Colva is perhaps the most loved beach of Goa. Along with Benaulim, it’s a southern base of for backpackers on a laid-back Goa holiday due to its blend of beauty, peace and choice of some of the best options of cheap accommodation in Goa. It’s certainly the most popular beach of south Goa, though much less crowded than its northern counterpart, Calangute as it has been discovered only recently and there’s been some Government control over its development.

It shows off miles of unending soft sand on sunny beaches fringed by gently swaying coconut palms. While taking a stroll on this beautiful Goa Beach, silver carpets of bangdde (mackerels), laid out for drying can be seen shimmering on the golden sands. Walks or rides (4 km) to Benaulim beach through picturesque countryside is another pleasure available here.   

Teams of fishermen operate all along the coast to the south till Benaulim, and it’s worth waking up early to watch them haul in their nets. The main Colva village though is quite ordinary.

Dolphin watching boat trips are available from Benaulim beach to the south.

Many midrange and cheap restaurants near the beach specialize in excellent western fare. Many of the hotels have attractive restaurants serving delicacies from the cuisine of Goa and India, along with bars and discos. Avloc is an extremely popular chill-out nightclub which features varied theme nights and sporting events on big-screen TVs. Splash is another popular club. Taj Exotica Goa at Benaulim has some exceptional up-market restaurants.

The Church of Our Lady of Mercy (1581) in Colva is famous for its miracle statue of Menino Jesus, allegedly found on the African coast, which is thought to cure illnesses. Fama of Menino Jesus is celebrated in mid-October with a colorful possession and a fair. Specially blessed lengths of strings are sold nearby.

There are numerous midrange, budget and cheap options available close to the beach. Vista De Colva, Longuinhos Beach Resort and Willam’s Resort are three of the better midrange Goa hotels.