Model-actor Riya Sen was back in the limelight when she flaunted her Goan sojourn bikini pictures on Instagram. She was at one of the most famous beaches in Goa-the Morjim beach. Also said to be home to the Olive Ridge Sea turtles, the beach which stretches over 3 km is ideal for an evening stroll.
The complete travel guide
Morjim beach is also called as 'Little Russia' as it has a huge settlement of Russian inhabitants. A lot of Russians are known to stay here for a few months before heading back to their country. Another suggestion would be to spend time with the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles and take a few snaps.
Reaching the beach
If you are coming from Goa International Airport, it will take 52 kilometres to reach the beach. A paid taxi will be the cheapest mode of transport. And if you are coming by train, you can catch local trains from Vasco Da Gama or Madgaon railway station.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Morjim Beach is from November to February. This will be a pleasant time for beach visits as the shacks will be open for beach parties.
5 Must visit places if you are at Morjim
• Chapora Fort- Situated by the side of Chapora river, this is hugely popular as the film Dil Chahta Hain was shot here. Remember that iconic frame where the lead actors are seen gazing at the sea, sitting at the Chapora Fort. Located 10 kilometers from Mapusa, the red-laterite bastion was built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the site of an earlier Muslim structure. Intended as a border watch post, it fell to various Hindu raiders during the 17th century, before finally being deserted by the Portuguese in 1892.
• Vagator Beach- This beautiful beach is covered with soft white sand and huge rocks and is surrounded by several palm and coconut trees. This beach is divided into two beaches named Big Vagator and Small Vagator. Towards the right side of the sea is the North Vagator Beach (Big Vagator) and on the left is Ozran Beach (Little Vagator). The view of the sunset through the rocks is an amazing experience and is also home to some of the popular beaches of Goa like Anjuna and Calangute, which make the place an idyllic gateway.
• St. Alex Church- The only Church in Goa done in Indian architecture, this is where you should be if you want some time for yourself. About 40 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 34 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway station and 9 km from Margao Railway Station, St. Alex Church is situated in the Curtorim of South Goa and is one of the oldest churches in Goa and is the first chapel church. It was built in 1597 on the banks of the Angoddi Tollem Lake and was later rebuilt in 1647. The Church looks truly glorious during the Christmas season when the youngsters from the village prepare a floating crib in the lake.
• Fort Aguada- Fort Aguada was built by the Portuguese between 1609 and 1612. Though most of the construction has been ruined tourists still visit this fort which was initially built to get protection from the invasion of Dutch and Marathas. This sea-facing fort is a relic of the Portuguese empire.
• Mandrem Beach. Located in North Goa close to the Goa - Maharashtra border is a small beach that stretches just about 790 meters on the coast of Goa. It is also home to tucked-away cafes, yoga retreats, and resort hotels and also offers high-end accommodation in a secluded setting. You can shop at their indie boutiques which sell designer jewellery. Also, superb shacks that serve seafood and continental cuisine.
And if you are interested in water sports you can try flyboarding (lessons and training provided and it's also very pocket friendly), Jet skiing, Surfing (You can easily find waves of about 3-5 feet high from September to January. The waves can reach up to 15 feet at times), Bumper ride and Boat ride.
To eat, party and shopping
Eateries: La Plage on Ashvem Beach for some international cuisine with an amazing view of the sea. Glavfish for its beautiful ambience, Hakuna Matata offers great food, amazing service, and live music. Marbella Beach Restaurant at Morjim beach for its local cuisine and amazing view and The Divine Gypsies, which is the best restaurant in Morjim Beach if you want to have quality food in a cozy location. This place is just wonderful for couples.
Nightspots: Club Fresh is a distinctive nightclub at Morjim beach with its design heavily inspired by the famous Nikki Beach Club in Miami. The Pan-Asian influences in cuisine and setting will impress. Boom Shack is ideal for nature lovers where you can party in the backdrop of Morjim beach and tuck into international cuisine. Ciel Goa offers the best of a club and pub experience to its visitors. You cannot find fault with its ambience and music. Bora Bora is for those who love to party late at night, with its wonderful outdoors and groovy dance floors. And finally, there is the Junk Club Resto Bar which is also the most crowded place on Morjim beach. Again, yummy food, drinks and great music.
Shopping: Flea market, Anjuna Market, Cosmos tribe, Calangute Bazaar, Miss Kitsch, and Saturday Night market where you get everything from chunky jewellery, casual wear, beach costumes to bags and shoes. You can also try Siolim Fishmarket, which is said to be the biggest fish market in Goa.
Traveller’s tips
• You should be careful about your belongings. It is highly recommended to carry all the cash and cards inside the wallet and keep the wallet in the side pocket to restrict any pickpocket from stealing your valuables.
• Although you will find all the international cuisines, yet never miss out on tasting the local seafood.
• You must apply SPF and UV protectors when you are going to the beach for fun.