Tag Archives: Beaches
A guide to the top beaches in Karnataka
India’s home to some pretty spectacular beaches, but I think it’s fair to say that Goa is the destination that usually springs to mind when you mention beach breaks here. But there are plenty more options, including Kerala and Karnataka, and today I’m going to be focusing on the latter.
Now, whether you’re drawn to the idea of a relaxing beach holiday or you simply fancy having the option to hit the sand occasionally, location is all-important. I think that if you’re keen to find the perfect spot booking through a specialist tour operator (like TransIndus) is the best way to go, since they’ll be able to offer you expert advice that is hard to get at a more general travel agency.
Plus, doing so also gives you the freedom to pick from a selection of existing itineraries, group tours and trips tailor-made just for you. But, I’m not here to talk about holiday planning today, so let’s move on and take a look at some of the best beaches to visit in Karnataka.
Om Beach
Located just outside Gokarna is the lovely Om Beach, which is particularly charming thanks to its shape. You see, it’s formed of two semicircular coves that form an inverted Hindu symbol known as an om – and it’s this from which it takes its name.
This lovely beach is more than just a pretty face, though, since it’s a popular centre for water sports. So, if you want to do more than laze on the sand all day, this is bound to be the place for you. Water skiing, surfing and parasailing are just a few of the things you’ll be able to try.
Gokarna Beach
Also in Gokarna is Gokarna Beach, which is a little off the beaten tourist track. Thanks to its position near lots of local temples, it’s actually somewhere that’s more popular among pilgrims than tourists – though that’s not to say it’s not worth visiting. In fact, if you’re after somewhere that’s free of swathes of holidaymakers, this is a pretty reliable place to choose.
Murudeshwar Beach
Next up is Murudeshwar Beach, which is one of Karnataka’s best-loved stretches of sand. Like Gokarna Beach, it’s quite popular among pilgrims thanks to its proximity to a local temple (this one’s a pretty major pilgrimage site, which has helped make the beach as well-frequented as it is today), but it’s an equally big hit with holidaymakers.
Generally speaking it’s a decent spot for swimming, but I should warn you that the currents here can be strong from time to time – especially at high tide – so always check the conditions on the day and keep your eyes peeled for any warning signs.
Kaup Beach
If it’s a pristine, idyllic beach you’re after, Kaup is likely to impress. This unspoilt part of the coastline is around 12 km from Udupi (which is famous for the Krishna Temple) and is well known for its historic lighthouse.
This dates back to 1901 and opens to the public at select times of the day. Going inside is a nice way to add a little variety to your day, as well as sprinkle some culture into your beach break.
Maravanthe Beach
Last on my list is Maravanthe Beach, which is a prime destination if you like the sound of a little adventure below the waves. You see, this is one of the top local destinations for scuba diving and snorkelling, and the icing on the cake is that it’s wonderfully scenic.
In fact, it’s pretty impressive before you even get there – if you’re coming by road you get a great view on the approach, which includes the Kodachadri Hills and the Arabian Sea.
There you have it, some of the best beaches in India not to miss!
Family-Friendly Attractions in North Goa
North Goa is a wonderful destination to visit with the whole family, as there are so many great attractions that will appeal to parents and kids alike. Of course, its gorgeous beaches are one of the first things you’ll think of, but there is much more to the state than its coast.
If you’re thinking of planning a family holiday to north Goa, check out our suggestions of places to visit while you’re away. Should you still need to arrange accommodation and other practicalities, visit this website to get an idea of your options.
The beaches
You’ll want to spend at least a couple of days enjoying the seaside in Goa, India, as this is what the state is most famous for. There are numerous stretches of sand in the north, with the following a few of the best family-friendly places to head to.
Miramar, close to Goa’s capital Panaji, has plenty of amenities close to the sand, making it a good spot for families. Its location on the edge of the estuary of the River Mandovi means you’ve got an amazing view of the imposing Aguada Fort, which stands on a headland, as well as access to the calm waters of the Arabian Sea.
Sinquerim Beach is another great place for families to visit, especially if you have older children who will enjoy a few water-based activities. Parasailing, windsurfing and water skiing are among the sports you can have a go at if you’re feeling adventurous.
The broad sweep of sand is also great for little ones who just want to build sandcastles and paddle in the sea, while parents can grab refreshments from the various beach shacks and restaurants that run along the bay.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park
Goa is home to some truly fascinating wildlife and this is something that’s bound to capture the imaginations of your children. Pay a visit to the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park and you could spot the likes of Bengal tigers, porcupines, sambars, flying squirrels, bonnet macaques, Indian rock pythons, greater Indian hornbills and kingfishers.
This is just a brief overview of the creatures that inhabit the reserve, which is located to the north of Panaji. As well as the amazing wildlife, you can also visit the Dudhsagar Waterfall, which is the highest in Goa. The water tumbles down a cliff in the Western Ghats, throwing up clouds of white mist that make it look quite magical.
Go on a dolphin-watching tour
The waters off the coast of Goa’s beaches are just as full of life as its forests, with dolphin watching one of the most popular activities on offer. Book your family on a boat tour and you’ll head out from the beach in search of these playful marine mammals.
You can easily join one of these trips from north Goan beaches such as Calangute, Candolim, Baga and Sinquerim – although be prepared for the fact that many of the tours depart in the early morning to give you the best chance of seeing the dolphins.
Visit a spice plantation
An educational, but fun, thing to do in Goa is to visit one of the spice plantations. This is an excellent opportunity to show your children where food and flavourings come from, with many of these sites growing produce such as pineapples, coconuts, cashew nuts, chillies, cloves, cinnamon and pepper.
Typically, a spice plantation tour will involve wandering among the various plants with a guide who can tell you what everything is, followed by a traditional meal cooked using fresh ingredients from the plantation.
Most popular attractions in Antigua
The small Caribbean island of Antigua lies near the centre of the Caribbean chain sandwiched between St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat and Guadeloupe. Once an important station for the British Navy it has many historical and cultural attractions, as well as the natural ones such as beaches, rainforests and reefs. There’s plenty of special offers in Antigua to make the most of, and once there, here’s a list of the most popular attractions in Antigua.
The beaches
Antigua is home to 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Some are perfect for lazing on the sugar white sand, others are better for activities including snorkelling and windsurfing or walks and romantic picnics. Some of the best are the five secluded Hawksbill Beaches, quieter than the popular Dickenson Bay, but still with plenty of facilities. They are ideal for swimming or snorkelling on the reefs further out. From here you can also take a boat out the uninhabited Prickly Pear Island.
Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour
Other than its beaches one of the most famous attraction on the island is Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and shadow of British Navy’s influence in Antigua. In the middle stands the restored Georgian naval dockyard once the home of the British fleet during the Napoleonic Wars. The Dockyard Museum is well worth a look to learn about the history of the area.
The rainforest
While the exterior of the island is full of idyllic beaches, old English forts and naval bases, the interior is filled with lush emerald green rainforest, home to many types of birdlife. The best way to see the interior is on a hike or nature trail, of which there are many around the island. Another great way is to go on a rainforest zipline canopy tour over the treetops.
Devil’s Bridge
Situated on the island’s northeastern point, Devil’s Bridge sits within one of the island’s four national parks – Indian Town Point. Devil’s Bridge is a natural rock bridge which was created by waves and surf pounding it over centuries and provides a spectacular sight surrounded by blowholes and wild surf. There are many hiking trails nearby, as well as excellent picnic spots. One of the best is to Long Bay, which is also great for snorkelling.
The reef
It’s not only the island that has attractions here though as the views under the waves are just as popular. A trip to Antigua can’t be complete without a spot of snorkelling or diving to see them. There are four main types of coral reefs around the island – barrier, bank barrier, patch and fringing, which are home to a vast array of species, from sea turtles to clown and angel fish, manta rays, lobsters and lionfish. The reds, oranges and purples of the coral gardens can be viewed both snorkelling right off the beaches or on an organised scuba trip further out. One of the best places for snorkelling and diving is the Cades Reef on the southwestern part of the island.
Top Reasons To Visit The Canary Islands
Being a relatively known tourist destination, there are many top reasons to visit the Canary Islands. This archipelago is an Atlantic territory of Spain and it is located off the west coast of Africa. It shares close proximity with Morocco, Cape Verde and two known Portuguese territories such as the archipelagos of the Azores Islands and Madeira Islands. The Canary Islands are composed of seven atolls, each of them uniquely beautiful. The first civilization to inhabit this archipelago were the Phoenicians, around 1,000 BC, right after establishing their capitol in North Africa. It is interesting to note that in ancient times, the Canary Islands were believed to be the lost islands of Atlantis. Anyone with a fascination for this legendary location can probably choose to believe that Atlantis is not just a myth. But Atlantis or not, it was not called “the lands without sorrow” for nothing.
1. Vacation means fishing, surfing and cruising
An island vacation wouldn’t feel right if one does not enjoy the recreations akin to the pleasant surroundings. Fishing in the Canary Islands is a splendid experience especially in Tenerife. There is big game fishing with a wide array of angler selections such as yellow fin tuna, white marlin and wahoo. Fuerteventura is a windsurfer’s and outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. There are plenty of great places to stay as well, just check out On The Beach for accommodation in Fuerteventura, they have some good options.
2. A magical trek along the Magic Isle
La Gomera has earned the moniker Magic Isle. Being a haven for walkers and casual outdoor enthusiasts, strolling around the Magic Isle is definitely one of the top reasons to visit the Canary Islands. The rough terrain provides a good challenge to many intermediate trekkers, providing some sense of adventure while not being too dificult. Have a talk with one of the friendly locals and notice their “Whistled language” which was documented by the Romans back in ancient times. This whistled speech is called Silbo Gomero.
3. Seafood diet is so good it is see-food diet!
Another of the top reasons to visit the Canary Islands has a lot to do with their diverse cuisine. Canarian cuisine is a great treat for health conscious eaters as it often makes use of ingredients based on fish, vegetables and fresh fruits. Because of its close proximity to North Africa, it is not surprising to find Moroccan cuisine in the mix with the standard Spanish culinary genre. For meat lovers, one can always enjoy a nice hot stew or have a piece or two of the succulent barbecue steaks.
4. Fantastic Drink Options!
Canary Islands have four wonderful types of drinks. The wines are of excellent quality fermented from the vineyards of La Palma and Northern Tenerife. It’s a good addition to a romantic dinner. Barraquito is a special brewed coffee admired for its caffeine strength and tea-like constitution. The special ron miel is a sweet rum made from honey, similar to mead. Lastly, nothing beats a good cold beer!
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