If it is outdoor sports facilities you are seeking when you are in Goa, there are a few challenges that you can test your physical abilities against.
The first round of contenders comprises of a pint of chilled beer and a sinful plate of fried fish. If you manage to work your way around these, then it's time to battle the susegado spirit of Goa, which in lay interpretation, simply rebels against any form of exercise. But if you really have your mind set on burning some calories by sweating it out playing some outdoor and indoor sports, here's what you can do.
Goa’s prime government run sports facility is located at Campal.
The Campal Sports Complex has a well-managed swimming pool complex, which has an Olympic length pool, a diving pool and a facility for kids. Next to the swimming pool complex is the indoor stadium, which houses three wooden floored badminton courts and a few table tennis tables. Access to all government run sports facilities can be availed by purchasing a daily gate-pass or by applying for an annual membership, which can be easily availed.
The Campal Sports Complex also has regulation-sized hockey, football grounds and track and field event facility.
Fatorda, near Margao is South Goa’s answer to Campal. Although smaller in size, the Fatorda Sports Complex has all the requisite sports facilities found in a sports complex, including a swimming pool. Fatorda is also host to Goa’s only cricket stadium, where official international matches are organised by the Board Of Cricket Control of India.
Smaller towns like Mapusa, Vasco also have minor sports complexes functioning under the aegis of the state government.
If it's tennis you are crazy about, check out the courts available at
Club Tennis De Gaspar Dias located right opposite the central bandstand at Miramar. Entry to the elite club is only by membership. This is one of the few places in Goa to have an exclusive billiard, snooker and a cards club.
Goa’s finest and nationally renowned basketball facility is run by Salesian fathers and is located at the
Don Bosco High School . The courts, which have been constructed to international specifications, regularly host national basketball tournaments. The only shooting range in Goa is located at Maulinge, a remote village in North Goa. The range is managed by the Goa police.
A handful of star resorts in Goa have golf courses laid out on their in their respective premises. The
Taj Exotica located in South Goa has a three-hole course. The seven starred
Intercontinental in Canacona, South Goa has a regulation 9-hole golf course on its expansive property. The Leela, also located in South Goa also has a 12-hole golf course. The
Ramada resort also offers a golf course for the avid golfer.
The numerous starred resorts which dot this tourist state have the best sports facilities. Most of these hotels have their own manicured tennis courts, badminton courts, etc.