Anjuna is the north Goa beach with the most character, a stretch where rugged rocks push out into the Arabian Sea and shape small coves between them. It has long drawn backpackers, artists and free spirits, and today it mixes upscale resorts and boutique cafes with the beach shacks and sunset bars that gave the area its reputation. Visitors can try parasailing, jet skiing and banana boat rides, or simply find a sunbed and watch the light change. The big weekly draw is the Anjuna Flea Market, which runs on Wednesdays and sells handicrafts, jewellery, clothing, spices and souvenirs. The stalls are a riot of colour, with silver and beads, block-printed fabrics, leather goods, lamps and everything between, and bargaining is part of the experience. The market is at its busiest in the dry season, when the crowds peak around Christmas and New Year, and many of the stalls are run by traders who travel the circuit through the winter, so the scene is thinner in the monsoon. The beach and the market sit close together, so a Wednesday visit lets you combine a market browse with a swim or a sunset drink. Nearby Chapora Fort and Vagator are within easy reach by scooter or taxi.
What to do
Arrive at the market in the afternoon, start with a slow lap to get the measure of prices, and then bargain politely, since opening quotes are usually well above the final price. Look for textiles, hand-stitched bags, brass and silver pieces and spice packs that travel well. Cash in small notes helps, and you should keep an eye on pockets in the crowd. After the market, walk to the beach for a drink at one of the cafes and watch the sun go down over the rocks.
The beach
Anjuna is not a long smooth strand like some of the south coast. The coves are scenic, and the water can have a strong swell and currents, so swim only where it feels safe and take notice of any lifeguard flags. Water sports are available, but agree prices up front and check that safety equipment is provided. Quieter mornings are good for a walk along the rocks and for photographs.
Planning
The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is dry and the market and the beach scene are in full swing. Wednesdays are market day, so book your transport early, because traffic around Anjuna slows noticeably. Entry to the beach is free, as is browsing the stalls.
Dress for sun, bring a hat and sunscreen, and wear shoes you can walk in on uneven ground. Anjuna pairs well with a fort visit, a night out in north Goa or a morning at Fontainhas, and works for couples, friends and independent travellers rather than anyone seeking a quiet beach.
What to expect
The experience
A free public beach with cafes and water sports, plus a lively Wednesday flea market of handicrafts, jewellery, clothing and spices.
Best time
November to February, with Wednesdays for the market and late afternoon for browsing and sunset.
How long
A half day if you combine the market, a swim and a sunset drink.
Tips
Bargain politely, carry small notes, watch your belongings, and swim only where conditions look safe.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Shoppers, sunset lovers and anyone who wants the lively side of north Goa.
- Families
- The market is colourful, but crowds and rocky coves mean children need close supervision.
- Couples
- Browse the stalls and then settle at a cliffside cafe for sunset.
- Pair with
- Chapora Fort and Vagator Beach, Fort Aguada and Baga.
- Time needed
- A half day, more on a Wednesday.
Good questions
Which day is the flea market?+
Wednesdays. It is busiest in the dry season and thinner in the monsoon, so check ahead if you travel outside November to February.
Is it free?+
The beach is free and so is browsing the market. You pay only for what you buy or the cafes and water sports you use.
What can I buy?+
Handicrafts, jewellery, clothing, spices and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected.
Is the beach good for swimming?+
Conditions vary, and the rocky coves can have swell and currents. Swim with care and follow lifeguard flags.
When is the best time to visit?+
November to February, when the weather is dry and the beach and market scene is at its liveliest.
