Situated near the Chapora River estuary, Morjim Beach in North Goa is truly a nature lover’s delight. The beach is a popular nesting site for Olive Ridley turtles and therefore also known as Turtle Beach in Goa. Just north of Morjim Beach lies the tranquil stretch of Ashwem Beach. Morjim Beach in Goa is also home to a community of Russian expats living in the village, which is often referred as Little Russia. In the winter season, the beach is a great place to spot migratory birds in Goa.
Highlight of Morjim Beach
The Morjim beach is a protected habitat of the Olive Ridley turtle, which is an endangered species. Protection of these marine turtles and their habitat is undertaken by the local community through conservation efforts led by local NGOs. The Tourism Department of the Government of Goa has also aided the conservation of turtles by restricting seasonal structures to only a portion of the beach. These temporary Morjim Beach shacks operate during daylight hours only, so that the wildlife is not disturbed.
Activities on Morjim Beach
There are a few sea-facing cottages and beach resorts in Morjim. However, the hotels at Morjim are relatively expensive due to Russian population. The shallow depth of the sea and ample width of Morjim Beach is ideal for kitesurfing. The cross on the rock podium at the beach is a popular spot for the locals and tourists alike. Sights of swimming dolphins, turtles walking on the beach, and diving seagulls add to the beauty of Morjim Beach.
Nightlife at Morjim Beach
With a few beach resorts around the corner, nightlife at Morjim Beach is vibrant and considerably up-scale than neighbouring beaches. Hakuna Matata, Bora Bora, Plannet Bollywood, and La Plage are some popular beach shacks at Morjim to grab a quick bite. Besides Russian souvenirs, visitors can buy t-shirts, shoes, seashell bangles, and more at the Morjim Beach. Shri Moraji Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Shri Morjai, and Shri Bhagavati Temple are other points of interest near Morjim Beach in Goa.
Morjim Beach is located about 30 kilometres north of Panaji, the capital of Goa. Morjim village is connected via public transport with Panaji and other places in Goa. Two buses run between Morjim and Mapusa town. From Mapusa, one can easily take a bus to Panaji or any other destination in Goa. It may take around one hour to travel from Panaji to Morjim Beach. Travellers can also rent a motorbike or taxi to reach Morjim Beach. Although, it’s better to rent a bike to avoid traffic and enjoy Goa like the locals do.
Morjim Beach to Baga Beach distance: 16 km
Morjim Beach to Calangute Beach distance: 16.3 km
Thivim railway station is the nearest train station from Morjim Beach at 15 km. The distance between Morjim Beach and Dabolim Airport is about 52 km. Taxi rentals are available at both the airport and the railway station in Goa.
Being a public beach, there is no entry fee for Morjim Beach.
Being a public beach in Goa, Morjim Beach has no specific visiting hours. It’s open 24 hours a day. However, beach shacks are open in daytime only.
Monday to Sunday
5:00 am - 10:00 pm