Galgibaga/Turtle Beach
The quiet Galgibaga beach is South Goa is perhaps one of few hidden treasures that Goa has left. The beach is known as one of the three places in Goa that form the nesting grounds of the Olive Ridley turtles, a protected species. The northern portion of this beach is protected as the turtles nesting grounds and gives the beach its nickname, Turtle beach.
Where to Go
This beach is located in the deep south of Goa, on the banks of the Galgibag river. It is about 56km away from Colva, which is a popular beach resort in South Goa and 54km away from Margao, the cultural capital of Goa.
When to Go
As with most other beaches in Goa, the best time to visit is in the winter months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the seas are not so rough. In the summer, despite the heat the beaches are still a great place to be. During the monsoon month the beaches are less frequented because the seas are rough with dangerous undercurrents and inclement weather.
What to Do
Since Galgibaga is one of the least frequented beaches in the South of Goa, there are no beach shacks like there are on most of the other Goan beaches. However there is a resort where one can enjoy a pleasant and peaceful stay, away from the crowds and the bustle of the rest of the state.
The beach itself is a pristine stretch of golden brown sand, fringed with coconut palms and other trees. The seas in the area are known to be quite rough and not always safe to swim in, so caution is advised when venturing out for a dip.
The most famous aspect of Galgibaga is the nesting ground of the Olive Ridley turtles which is protected area at the northern end of the beach. The government of Goa is doing a sterling job of protecting the turtles habitat and nesting area at this beach and at Agonda and Morjim, the two other beaches which are frequented by the Olive Ridley turtles.
