If you love basking under the sun, feeling the mellow tropical breeze, scouring little shops and restaurants, and walking on soft white sands near the beach, Candolim is the right place for you! Situated in the southern province of India, this town is a popular place for European and American tourists alike, a bustling space that is a great place to vacation and enjoy a multitude of experiences: beaches like Vagator and Anjuna or the archaic relics of the Fort Aguada in Sinquerim.

Candolim is an excellent province to explore the party scene and then retreat and relax in your resort. And if you still have some energy left, you can dive into the pristine beaches or visit historical sites, savor delicious Goan cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant festivals that grace this region. It is no wonder that Candolim in North Goa is often chosen as an exclusive getaway.

If you’re not sure of where to start in Candolim, here’s your guide!

Read on to find out what to do, see and eat in Candolim. 

Fancy the Beach?

Candolim is nothing without the beaches, the warm waters are inviting and enticing to help chill and rejuvenate in the morning, whereas, after dawn, the vibe completely switches to a lively and fun environment where you could dance to the rhythm of the waves. Stop by the neighboring Sinquerim beach or venture further north to the famous Calangute beach to build sandcastles, or simply relax with a book in hand if you wish for a quieter backdrop. That’s not all, the beaches satisfy the explorers as well. If you are an aquatic odyssey adventurer, you can dive into water sports like skiing, surfing, or even a banana boat ride!

Timeless Historical Landmarks

Prepare for some Fort-fied fun and treasure trove, as this area in Candolim was once governed by the Portuguese during the 15th Century. Candolim is a significant village in Goa for its history, as it dared an anti-Portugese revolt in 1787. Some of their golden monuments are listed below-

Fort Aguada – Was constructed in 1612 to defend their territory from the sea. As per the historians, the Fort played a crucial role in the Portuguese, for heightening its control over Goa and keeping its power.

Se Cathedral – A top fantasy of this area. It was built to immortalize the victory of the Portuguese against the Muslim enemy. Since the victory was accomplished on the day of Saint Catherine’s Feast, it was named after her.

Goan Delicacies

Entice in some Goan delicacies! The Goan culinary creations will surely leave an everlasting memory that ignites your tastebuds. Originating from its Konkani roots, it was inspired by the Portuguese colonizers of 451 years and then the Sultanate rule that preceded it. It was only in 1510, the Portuguese general Alburqueqe introduced the use of vinegar, potatoes, chilies, cashews, pineapple, bread, and all other meats. Before the Portuguese, flat bread like rotis and chapatis were consumed, later changed to bread like Pao.

Some great recommendations to try while visiting are– crusty pao bread, pork vindaloos, and sorpotel. In addition to that Goan fish curry, prawn balchão, squid masala fry, and feni, a local spirit made from cashew or coconut, for a truly authentic experience. Unleash your foodie and devour the best of the best seafood delights in Candolim, Goa.

Night Party Revelry and Casino

If you Party like there is no tomorrow, Candolim has a vibrant night party that serves beachfront clubs and chic lounges to serve the purpose of a lively nightlife experience. Sip on some refreshing cocktails and dance to the beats of renowned DJs. For a party animal, the entertainment options are endless. Although if you are traveling with family and wish for a calmer ambiance, you can go to the beach and relax with ease. Casino Royal and Carnival Casino, MV Caravela, and Casino Palms are great places to go with family and friends and try your luck at the Casino. You will never realize when the sun goes done with all the fun going on, and if you are lucky you would be going home with good big bucks!

Cycle to Fort Aguada

Another must do in Goa, is to visit the most prized monument of Portugese-Fort Aguada. The Fort is so enormous it stretches all the way in the peninsular region to the tip of Bardez. Strategically located in the Mandovi River, it acted as the chief of defense to protect the Portuguese from Dutch invaders. The best way to explore Fort Aguada is by cycling to the Fort. Not only is it reducing carbon footprint but it works as a great exercise to energize yourself. This is an experience you must truly experience and is one of the best ways to explore the 17th-century fort and places near it.

Cruise through the largest river in Goa

Take a cruise on one of Goa’s largest rivers called Mandovi River, which moves along into the Indian Ocean in Panjim. A calm cruise during the day turns into a party boat at night! Dance along the waves and party all night with DJs and folk dances, adding a quintessential showdown for your Goan getaway!

Panjim Offerings

Situated near Candolim is the Goan capital of Panjim. Highly recommended if you love ancient architecture, it is covered with Portuguese buildings in Fontainhas. Live in the past while in the present in Panjim and discover the long-lost gems of India.

When is the right time to visit?

Since the town is conterminous with the beaches, it often experiences a muggy climate during the summers.

Ideally, it is advisable to visit from September to the end of February for a pleasant climate and a jovial stay. December is the time tourists make the most by going to popular festivals like Sunburn amongst the other celebrations like Christmas and New Year’s. 

In the months from March to May, the weather gets moderately humid and the sea becomes coarse,  the hotels and homestays become cheaper during this time, making it the best time to spend some intimate moments with family. 

Similarly, July to September is a convivial time to visit because of the monsoon season, it is also highly popular because of the Sao Jao festival, known as the fertility feast of Saint John the Baptist, held during late June. During the fest, men jump onto the overflowing wells to fetch local alcohol bottles called Feni, creating an exciting cultural learning opportunity.

Where to Stay, You ask?

Nestled near Candolim Beach just 300 meters away is a 13000 square feet uber luxury villa called Azara Beach House that fulfills all your needs. With 5 spacious bedrooms, it has ample space to accommodate 10+ guests for your vacation. Among these features, it also has a mesmerizing private pool with an in-house chef to satisfy your food needs. Plus, the lush greenery around the property serves the purpose of your Instagramable pictures. If you are looking for a private setting for a big crowd in a luxury space, or an escape into solitude in modern luxury, this will be the right place for you. 

Plan your itinerary for the day

We have planned an itinerary for you, take a look and make your trip memorable.

Morning – Wake up a little early in the morning to have a tour of Fort Aguada. But keep in mind that the later you travel, the busier it gets, especially during the season. Make sure to go no earlier than 8:30 AM, since that’s when the fort opens. Take a quick stroll around the Fort and then you can relax for breakfast at an Artisan Bakery for some great coffee and breakfast.

Afternoon – You can a trip to Calangute Beach (rent a scooter to experience the scenic rides), for it is known to be the “Queen of beaches” stretching all the way from Candolim to Baga. With the heat at its greatest, relaxing near the beach is your top choice for some cool breeze. However, if it’s too hot you can head to St. Lawrence Church and Church of Lady Hope to view the archetypal reredos. And for lunch, you can try the popular Brittos or St Anthony for some lip-smacking seafood.

Early Evening – After a long day, head back to your villa at Azara Beach House and take a dip in our mesmerizing pool whilst relishing refreshing cocktails. Our Butlers will be at your service for anything you need. After you have reenergized yourself, wear your shorts and flip-flops and take a walk to Candolim Beach which is 300 meters away from the property and watch the beautiful sunset.

Night – At Night the Candolim changes to a whole new setting, more alive and vivacious. If you are a party person, clubs like Titos, Mambos, Darlings, and Thalassa are your best bet, for a great night. Although if you are with family and partying is not your scene, Amavi and David’s offer lovely food and good music for a soulful night.

Candolim encapsulates the essence of a beautiful Goan getaway with its beach, historical places, scrumptious cuisines, and zesty setting. Whether you seek a nice relaxed vacation or an adventurous cultural front, this province has it all. Entice yourself in an unforgettable journey through Candolim and let its charm and beauty leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

Needless to say, pack your bags, and get ready to curate a beautiful experience at Azara Beach House in the enchanting land of Candolim, Goa.