Candolim is quieter than Calangute which can be very manic, for a first timer I would recommend Candolim, Calangute is only up the road and a short ride in a taxi so you can get the best of both.

Debs

Sinquerim is even quieter and it's next door to Candolim.

went to calangute first two times and loved it,tried candolim this year for a change and loved it there too! my brother and sister-in-law came with us this year for the first time.we spent some days up in calangute and they definately preferred candolim,it was just too bustly for them.we're all going back to candolim in feb and i still want to try south yet! we did find the beach more quiet in candolim and also more flies on the beach in calangute,but still liked both