Calangute Holidays

Resting along the Arabian Sea, the northern Goan town of Calangute still retains the distinctly bohemian vibe and fun-loving atmosphere from its former hippie days. Restaurants, bars and clubs jostle for space on a brightly-lit strip, while its famous beach provides blissful blue waters to cool off in. And don't miss the obligatory full-moon bash.

Calangute Beach is the longest stretch of sand in Goa – so it's prime sandcastle-building territory. Thrill-seekers are rewarded with a pick n' mix of watersports, with surfboards, jet skis and banana boats up for grabs. Shacks dishing up Indian street food line the thriving beachfront.

Locals and tourists throng the busy Calangute market area, and the Baga Road's main shops do a roaring trade in everything from massages to mango ice cream. The famous Tito's Lane leads off the main beach, a seemingly endless row of late-night clubs and drinking spots.

In direct contrast to Calangute's wild ways is next-door neighbour Candolim. This sedate spot's dotted with Portuguese churches, swishing sands and sleepy streets. A 30-minute walk from there is 17th-century Fort Aguada, which wows visitors with panoramic ocean views and a quaint whitewashed lighthouse.