Miramar Beach is also known as ‘Gasper Dias Beach’. The identity of the beach is derived from the word ‘Miramar’, which in Portuguese stands for ‘viewing the sea’. Miramar Beach is the place the Mandovi River meets the Arabian Sea. From the seashore throughout the river is a gorgeous view of Fort Aguada. One can see migratory birds such as gulls and plovers at the seaside from November to March.
Miramar Beach Goa is said to be one of the cleanest beaches in Goa and it offers the opportunity to view the stunning sunset. It is a romantic getaway for adventure freaks, beach lovers and honeymoon couples. At Miramar beach, one can get pleasure and satisfaction with some interesting activities like fishing, bird watching, shopping and strolling around.
Miramar beach is listed amongst the most popular beaches of Goa due to its location. Located in the Capital of Goa; it is very easily accessible by tourists as well as the locals. Named Porta de Gaspar Dias by the Portuguese; today it is called Miramar beach. This beach is also a hot spot to celebrate local festivals. Clean, filled with soft sand; it is quite a destination for evening walks and early morning strolls.
Things to do in Miramar Beach Goa
It’s a local den; so there is nothing much on the beach itself as far as water sports activities are concerned. However, near to it is the Cabo Raj Bhavan Hillock which is famous for its adventure activities. A place dedicated to water sports; you can enjoy the water sports here.
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Walk, swim and play on the sand – that is something which locals, as well as tourists, like to do here. Several local shops selling souvenir items are lined up in one corner of the beach. You can shop for local stuff here, but nothing exotic. If you wish to buy something different then you have to walk to the main market of Panjim.
Explore eating Goan food and cuisine in the local well–maintained eateries. Try these shops only if you have a tough stomach otherwise it is a good idea to have the food at your hotel or in Panjim. If you are trying out the local food; then go for GOA chaat whose taste is a little different from that of North India.
A lot of Clubs and Bars are there for binge drinking. If you are looking for a good night out party; then drive to Panjim or Dona Paula which offer better services, but at a little higher cost than the ones in Miramar Beach.
Shopping in Miramar Beach Goa
Shopping at Miramar Beach means shopping for local stuff, including designer dresses, scarfs, hats, seashell bangles, jute shoes, artificial jewellery, showpieces and stuff like these. A lot of things like these are sold in the local beach side shops. For something exquisite, you will have to look into the shops of Panjim.
How to Reach Miramar Beach Goa
One can first reach Panjim; the Capital of Goa by air. From there one can then easily reach on foot to Miramar beach. One can also hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the beach. The nearest railway station is Karmali Railway Station about 12 kms away. Other stations are Margao and Vasco Da Gama railway stations. By road; the bus stand is just 3kms from the beach. It takes only 15 minutes to reach the beach by bus.
Tips for Travellers To Miramar Beach
The best thing to do here is take morning and evening walks and try out the local stuff like Shawarma and Bhel Puri which are sold here in every second shop. Other fast food items too are worth trying if you are not that cleanliness crazy. This beach is quite crowded with a number of local people coming here.
So, keep an eye on your pockets. It is a good idea to keep a little cash and card . Do not carry too much cash with you. Always keep your kids close by, and do not allow them to go out of sight. Try to keep your travel guide by your side to be on the safer side.
Nearby Attractions in Miramar Beach
A lot of places are around Miramar beach. The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is a beautiful church which one ought to see. This church is also known for its spiritual sense, location and weddings which are held here. The Goa State Museum is a second such place which is filled with Portuguese era furniture, ancient coins, glasses, Hindu and Jain sculptures, ages old dresses, knives and things like these. It’s a heaven for those who love history and would like to know more about Portuguese.
There is this Archaeological Museum within the premises of Convent of St. Francis of Assi, which is popular amongst tourists. The St. Lawrence Church is just a walk away and good to be in the evenings. Dr. Salim Ali was a famous Ornithologist or bird observer. Dedicated to him is the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which is good to visit in the early hours of the day. Dona Paula Beach is another fantastic beach which is easy to reach and good to spend time in. Other places one can visit include Assagao, Reis Magos Fort and St. Michael’s Church.
