Dominated by the red ramparts of Chapora Fort, Vagator's
broad white sandy beach - Big Vagator Beach also known,
as "Little Vagator" is undeniably beautiful, just
like a picture postcard.
For better, then, to head to the next cove south. Backed
by a steep wall of crumbling palm-fringed laterite, Ozran
Vagator beach is more secluded and much less accessible
than either of its neighbours. To get there, walk ten minutes
from Big Vagator, or drive to the end of the lane off the
main Chapora-Anjuna Road, from where a footpath drops sharply
down to a wide stretch of level white sand.
At this southern end of the beach, a row of makeshift cafes
provides shade and sustenance for a predominantly Israeli
crowd. Like Anjuna, Vagator is a relaxed, comparatively
undeveloped resort that appeals, in the main, to budget
travellers with time on their hands. Accommodation is limited,
however, and visitors frequently find themselves travelling
to and from Baga every day to find a suitable place to stay.
Eating Out and Nightlife
Vagator's many cafes and restaurants are scattered along
the main road and the back lanes that lead to Ozran Beach.
There are also several seafood joints behind Big Vagator
Beach, one or two of which serve Indian dishes in addition
to the usual fish rich Goan specialties. Nightlife focuses
on the Primrose café, out towards Anjuna, which boasts
a beefier than average sound system, and a later bar.
How to Get There
Road:
Buses leave Panaji (a 55- minute ride) and Mapusa (a 30-minute
ride) for Vagator every 15 minutes. From the bus stop it
is a 1-km walk over a hill to the beach. Most of the accommodation,
restaurants and cafes are located in this area. Panaji,
Goa is accessible by air from all the major cities of the
country. There are adequate train and bus connections also
from other cities.
|
