Abstract:

If you are new to surfing in Goa then this guide will help you know about some of the best surf spots in Goa and how surfing in Goa has now become one of the most sought-after fun sports.

 

Introduction

Goa is not just a famous tourist destination but is also a house to a lot of beaches. With its warm and mild climate and the picturesque beaches in Goa, it is hard to turn down a fun day surfing in Goa. The prices for surfing in Goa are also quite affordable which makes it the best part. Previously surfing only used to be allowed for locals and vacationers however recently there has been a high amount of professional surfers in Goa with a few surfing techniques up their sleeves. If you are also starting as a surfer in Goa then here is a comprehensive guide to surfing for beginners and some of the best surf spots in Goa. 

 

Surfing Culture and Community in Goa

When it comes to surfing culture and community in Goa, there are a wide variety of places where people can explore surfing. Initially, it used to be less of a sport and more of a fun activity, however, now people are turning this around to be a sport and organizing competitions too.

One of the best parts about surfing culture and community in Goa is that for beginners there are instructors who will guide you on how to surf through the waters. The instructors are also well-versed in a myriad of languages from Russian to Konkani which makes it easier to communicate as well.  

 

Best Surf Spots in Goa

Goa has some of the most famous spots for surfing right from North Goa to South Goa. However, if you communicate well with some of the locals they might also throw in some hidden spot recommendations. Here however is a list of both North and South famous surf spots in Goa.

A. Best Surf Spots in South Goa

1. Varca

Varca Beach has white-tinged sand with a very shallow sand ledge. This can cut down the size of the waves. Make sure you do not get your hopes up for larger waves.

2. Betalbatim

The Betalbatim beach tends to merge with the Arossim beach which is almost to the north of Goa. This creates a large sweep of sand and works well with onshore westerly swells. It is also pretty close to Vasco da Gama which makes it one of the best locations to surf.

3. Agonda

With light easterly winds, Agonda Beach has some of the nicest surfing spots and can hold up a wave of about 4 to 5 feet long. Apart from surfing, here you can also choose from little beach shacks and curry houses for the perfect little Goa adventure.

4. Palolem

Palolem Beach has more of a hippy vibe with lower waves for surfers. It is hence the perfect spot for foamers who would like to take a short surfing time out during the golden hour. The levels are hardly above chest level outside monsoon here.

B. Best Surf Spots in North Goa

1. Baga

Baga Beach which is located at the extreme northern end of Calangute Beach is good at drawing in some of the best wells. The waves can ride up to 5 to 8 feet long which can take your thrills to the next level.

2. Calangute

Calangute is almost similar to Baga Beach and has a small wave break but is also one of the best beaches to surf at. Here you can surf between the heavier monsoon midseason to get good waves.

3. Arambol

Arambol Beach has arguably one of the best surf spots in Goa. Situated in North Goa, the waves go up to 7 feet and sometimes you might be ducking deep into the waters. However, it is still fun to ride these waves at Arambol.

4. Aswem

The Aswem beach is one of the most famous spots when it comes to surfing in Goa. It also has one of the top water sports camps and is frequented by professional suffers. The beach can open up to 3-foot-long beach waves.

 

Best Times to Visit for Optimal Surfing Conditions in Goa

When you go on a surfing trip to Goa, weather becomes the most important agent in deciding when to go. It is especially during the monsoon season that you can find some of the most thrilling moments due to the wind swells. Here are two very distinct seasons that most surfers like to go in:

1. Monsoon season

The monsoon season starts right from the end of May to August. You might want to hit the Arambol beach a bit around June to July and you can catch up with the most fun monsoon season. It can provide you with up to 10 to 12-foot rare waves. You can either go early in the morning or you can go off at sunsets for these waves. However, make sure you follow all the surfing safety tips before you go onto these large waves.

2. Dry season

The dry season comes right after the monsoon season and can go from November to March. The Indian Ocean currents during this season are much calmer than other seasons. It is quite normal to have a flat sea day during this season. While you can get a decent swell it will still be a risk.

Travel Tips and Transportation in Goa

Goa is one of the most gorgeous places to visit, be it for surfing or not. It is hence important to keep some of the travel tips handy especially if it is your first time in Goa. If you are not up to surfing then you can explore some of the following places as well.

1. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Goa might be one of the smallest states in India, but it still has some of the best wildlife viewing experiences. Especially if it's monsoon you can get treated by some of the best wildlife viewing conditions. To get this, you can take a safari to Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary which also consists of a treetop viewing platform where you can look up lorises, pit vipers and some of the other most amazing creatures.

2. Patnem and Palolem beaches

South Goa's serene beaches include Patnem and Palolem where you can stay away from the waves and find some wonderful yoga studies and salt-washed beach shacks that will provide you with a unique experience.

If you are worried about transportation in Goa then here are some of the ways you can reach Goa.

1. Via Flight

The Goa International Airport also called the Dabolim Airport is one of the main airports that serve the state of Goa. It is located right in the middle of the state and is about one and a half hours away from Arambol Beach which is the highlight of surf spots.

2. Via train

If you want the real Indian experience then traveling by train is a must add to your list. Most of the long-distance trains run between Kochi or Mumbai to Madgaon junction. From there you can travel for two hours to reach North Goa or travel for an hour to reach South Goa.

With these options for transportation in Goa, you can easily find your way through to the surf spots in Goa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Goa a popular destination for surfing?

The serene beaches with wonderful tides and scenic views make Goa one of the most popular destinations for surfing. It also houses a few of the most famous surfing schools for beginners.

Are there surfing lessons available for beginners in Goa?

Yes, there are individual surfing lessons available for all those who are beginners in surfing at Arambol Beach and many other sites. Some of the schools can be provided as follows:

A. Vaayu Warerman’s Village, Mandrem

B. Banana surf school, Morjim

C. Surf Wala, Arambol

Can I surf in Goa if I have never tried it before?

Yes, while you can surf in Goa even if you have never tried it before, it is recommended you take some of the easy surfing lessons before you get into the water.

Are there specific beaches in Goa known for great waves?

There are a lot of beaches that are specifically known for their great waves and some of them can be provided as follows:

1. Calangute Beach

2. Arambol Beach

3. Baga Beach

4. Anjuna Beach

5. Candolim Beach

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