Couple of Journeys

Best South Goa Itinerary (for 1,2,3,4,5 days in South Goa)

south goa travel

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

South Goa is one of the most beautiful regions in India. Below is my detailed South Goa guide to help you plan the best trip to South Goa. It includes the best things to do in South Goa, where to stay in South Goa as well as a South Goa itinerary for your stay.

I have visited South Goa over 20 times. To say I love it is an understatement. I find the place charming, picturesque and quintessentially Goan in all its ways. Its charm hasn’t reduced the way North Goa’s charm has due to overtourism. And yet, there is enough touristic infrastructure to help regular tourists have the best South Goa trip. A South Goa trip should be full of visits to the spectacular beaches, old forts, wildlife sanctuaries, aesthetic cafés, delicious restaurants, serene backwaters and scenic islands.

south goa travel

But to get the best out of your trip to South Goa, you need to plan it well. You need to break down your stay in a workable South Goa itinerary. Read this full post for all the details that you need to perfectly plan a South Goa trip.

south goa travel

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Top Things to Do in South Goa

South Goa itinerary and things to do in South Goa

If you don’t want to read the full article, here are my top things to do in South Goa

  • Admire the beauty of the Palolem beach
  • Absorb the scenic beauty of the secluded islands – Butterfly Island and Honeymoon Island
  • Take in the spectacular views from Cabo de Rama
  • Visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls

These are the top things to do in South Goa, but there is far more that South Goa offers. I would be writing all about it in this post.

South Goa – Map and Location

South Goa is to the South of Goa (duh!). It shares its border with Karnataka. It is bigger than North Goa. It is diverse as it has beaches, enormous wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls and springs. Here is a Goa map to get you oriented

south goa travel

How to reach South Goa

Goa airport

The airport of Goa is located in Dabolim, Mormugao region of South Goa. It is the only airport in Goa and connects Goa to the rest of the country. That’s also why most major regions in South Goa are closer to the airport than those of North Goa.

Margaon is the major train station in South Goa.

Cancona, Vasco de Gama are also the other major train stations in Goa.

Get down at Margaon if you are staying between Majorda and Cavelossim. For Agonda and Palolem, see if you can get off at Cancona. But many trains do not halt at Cancona.

The main bus stand in South Goa is in Margaon – The Kadamba bus stand. It connects South Goa to various parts of Goa and the country. See schedule.

From here, you can take local buses to various locations in South Goa.

Where to stay in South Goa

The major areas where you will find touristic accommodation in South Goa are

  • Colva – the most popular tourist hub in South Goa. It mainly attracts Indian tourists. It is a short drive away from Margaon.
  • Benaulim – a lovely family and couple-friendly area in South Goa. It attracts both Indian and foreign tourists. It is also a short drive away from Margaon. 📍 The Azaya Beach Resort here is exquisite – the best beachside resort for families and couples with a fantastic pool for the perfect sundowner. See photos and availability
  • Palolem – a lovely town to the southern end of South Goa. It is very scenic and has lots of things to offer to tourists who love nature and beauty. It is a good base for families and couples but even more so for solo travellers who don’t mind visiting a few offbeat locations and staying at a hostel. 📍 The Lost Hostel in Palolem is the best – excellent staff, engaging on-site activities and very clean. See photos and availability

For more ideas on where to stay in South Goa, read my article on the best areas to stay in Goa

south goa travel

  • a full list of the best areas to stay in Goa
  • best accommodation options for your travel type

South Goa Travel Tips

Hari's German Bakery, Bakery

  • It’s best to rent a vehicle for commuting within South Goa. The public transport system in Goa is not reliable at all for those visiting Goa on a tight time schedule.
  • There are very few tourist areas in South Goa that are self-sufficient from a tourist’s point of view. Thus you won’t find a supermarket, medical store, grocery store, beauty salon, garment shop, foreign exchange store, vehicle rental or a tour operator in many South Goan areas. If quick access to these facilities is important to you – please stay in Colva, Benaulim or Palolem.
  • South Goa has no real party places and the nightclubs in South Goa are not comparable in scale to the ones in North Goa. The silent noise party at Palolem has also stopped taking place in recent years. Do not rely on other articles on the internet recommending that as a party avenue.

south goa travel

  • Many tourist spots in South Goa like Cabo de Rama, Cola Beach, Butterfly Island, Mollem Wildlife Sanctuary, and Dudhsagar Waterfalls get very deserted and dark at night. Avoid staying back in these regions as far as possible.
  • Many beaches in South Goa like Agonda, Talpona and Galgibaga are turtle habitats and therefore subject to many restrictions. Respect the rules of visit at these beaches.
  • If you plan to go on a day trip to North Goa , stay in the northern regions of South Goa like Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva and Benaulim. Avoid staying at Agonda or Palolem as the distance from these regions to North Goa is approximately 2.5 hrs one way making the day trip impracticable.
  • Cabs to your accommodation would be available from the airport and Margaon train station without much difficulty. But hailing a cab from other locations is often difficult. Plan your commute whenever you visit such places.

Things to do in South Goa

I have a detailed post on the best things to do in Goa that comprehensively covers options for both North Goa and South Goa in a very structured manner. You can get more in-depth information in those posts. In this post, I will give an excellent overview of everything that could keep tourists engaged in South Goa

Visit the spectacular South Goa Beaches

south goa travel

The beaches in South Goa are calm and blissful. Their natural beauty is also fairly intact as opposed to the bustling beaches of North Goa. Here are some of the beaches in South Goa that you could visit on your South Goa trip

  • Palolem beach : clean, calm, vibey. Plenty of shacks and things to do in surrounding areas. Lots of boat ride options to nearby islands as well.
  • Talpona/Galgibaga : Further south of Palolem. Known for their natural beauty and turtle nesting. Almost no shacks. Best for introverts or couples looking to escape the crowds.
  • Agonda : Next to a cliff, scenic, calm, few shacks. Beautiful backwaters. (Choose any Agonda or Palolem as both have similar offerings. But Agonda has fewer tourists)
  • Betul/Mobor/Cavelossim : Stunning whitish golden sand, flat and soft. Almost always deserted. Many luxury properties are nearby.
  • Benaulim: Benaulim is one of the most family-friendly beaches in South Goa. Quite a few shacks and accommodation options are nearby. See my article on the best things to do in Benaulim here .
  • Colva: One of the most crowded beaches of South Goa. Central, very touristy. Many properties in the nearby area. Close to Margaon.
  • Majorda/Betalbatim: Deserted and scenic. Hardly any tourists visit these beaches. Betalbatim is also known to glow on certain nights.
  • Cola Beach /Butterfly Beach /Cabo de Rama: Very remote, with improper access involving hiking, boat rides, etc. but breathtakingly beautiful

Read my full guide with practical insights on the best beaches in Goa here .

Get the best views from Cabo de Rama

View from Cabo de Rama Goa

I don’t think there is any other viewpoint in Goa that comes close to Cabo de Rama. Cabo de Rama is truly magical. The place is a flat land overlooking the South Goan coastline.

Vehicles can be taken right up to the viewpoint. But at the viewpoint itself, there isn’t much to do apart from taking in the jaw-dropping beauty of Goa.

  • Appreciate the view, click lots of pictures
  • Enjoy light snacks at a small shop near the viewpoint
  • If you’re interested and if time permits, visit the fort nearby.

Avoid staying back after sunset in this area if you’re riding alone or with your partner on a two-wheeler. The road gets pretty dark.

Try out delectable food

south goa travel

You’ll find plenty of good eating places in South Goa. Here are a few must-try ones

  • Fisherman’s Wharf, Cavelossim – Authentic South Goan food served in a restaurant with the best riverside views. Yummy all the way! But I also find it too commercial now. Expect a waiting period of about 30 minutes on weekends and during peak tourist season. But the food and the views are still very impressive.
  • Mike’s place. Cavelossim : A simple tourist-friendly restaurant – excellent for a hearty breakfast or a filling lunch. On all of my visits here, the staff was very kind and there is ample seating area to accommodate enough guests.
  • Roger’s, Benaulim : One of the best seaside shacks in South Goa, excellent for candlelight dinners as well. It is right at the entrance of Benaulim Beach.
  • Goodfellas, Benaulim: The best wood-fired pizza in South Goa. I keep raving about it and ensure I visit it every time I am in Benaulim.
  • Ciarans, Palolem: The kind of food you long for at the end of the day served right by the beach. The food is far tastier than most beach shacks around.
  • Kinara, Cavelossim : Modest place serving authentic Goan food cooked with warmth. Excellent for a homely family lunch.
  • Kopi Desa , Palolem : Filmy vibe, smashing food, best for hanging out with friends. I love the place for its vibe, the posters and the kick-ass food choices.

There are many more charming places to eat in South Goa that are spread out all over. The list above is just the tip of the iceberg.

Get lost in nature

South Goa is packed with natural beauty. There are countless opportunities to admire Goa’s flora and fauna.

South Goa Tourist Attractions

A few that are a must-visit are

  • Dudhsagar waterfalls
  • Tambdi Surla temple and waterfalls + lots of surrounding beauty near Mollem
  • Cola Beach for the lagoon
  • Palolem and Agonda backwaters
  • Sal river near Cavelossim
  • Bondla Zoo + surrounding forest area (including it here since it now forms part of South Goa)
  • Kesarval springs

Engage in memorable experiences

Simply visiting beautiful locations is not enough. To enhance the quality of your experience, you should also engage in activities that feel rewarding such as

south goa travel

Kayaking in South Goa is one of the most pleasant experiences. You can book a kayak at Agonda or Palolem and go kayaking in the sea or even in the river near Cavelossim. The river kayaking presents many bird-watching opportunities as well. You can book a tour in advance to avoid disappointment. ( See photos, details and availability here )

  • Eagle-feeding

This unique experience is offered in the Palolem backwaters. Head early morning for the best experience.

  • Island hopping

There are a few islands off the coasts of Agonda and Palolem that mesmerise with their heavenly charm. Visiting these islands on a single trip of a few hours is possible from either of the beaches, but you will get more options from Palolem Beach.

  • Heritage tour

If you want to visit some of the finest examples of local Portuguese structures, you must take this South Goa heritage tour that takes you to the Figueiredo Mansion, Menezes Braganza House and other heritage gems of South Goa. ( See the tour details and availability here )

If you want to skip the tour, you can also plan a quick stop at these places.

The many waterfalls in South Goa are also ideal trekking trails for those who enjoy trekking. You could go on a Dudhsagar trek, Tambdi Surla trek, and Netravali trek while in Goa.

It is best to hike in the late monsoon season when the rains subside but the greenery remains.

South Goa Itineraries

In this section, I will draw out quick itineraries that you can easily follow on your trip to South Goa. If the things to do in South Goa listed in this itinerary don’t match your travel taste, you’re free to make changes to it and pick another place from the list of places to visit in South Goa mentioned above.

1 day in South Goa Itinerary

south goa travel

If you have just one day in South Goa, here’s what you should do

Plan to stay at Palolem/Agonda ( see best-rated options in Palolem and Agonda )

  • Spend your morning on Palolem beach. Have breakfast in one of the shacks on the beach.
  • Follow with a trip to the nearby islands or go kayaking in the backwaters
  • For lunch, travel all the way to Benaulim and have lunch at Roger’s or Hideout. Relax on the beach here.

Catch the best sunset in South Goa from Cabo de Rama

2 days in South Goa Itinerary

south goa travel

Follow 1 day in South Goa itinerary.

Day 2: Visit Dudhsagar falls and the spice plantation. It’s a full-day tour with lunch included.

Check tour details here

3 days in South Goa Itinerary

south goa travel

Plan to stay at Benaulim ( see best-rated accommodations in Benaulim here – as stated earlier I love Azaya Beach Resort )

Day 1: Benaulim

If you have 3 days in Goa, it’s best to completely explore the magic in Benaulim for a full day.

Start with a breakfast at the German bakery , followed by lots of beach time. At the beach, you can have lunch at Roger’s or try out the delicious seafood at Johncy . Watch the sunset from the Southern Deck or have dinner at the best wood-fired pizza in town at Goodfellas .

Basically, spend a day chilling in the typical Goan susegaad (local word for laidback) style

Day 2: Palolem/Agonda

Start day 2 by going down south to the picturesque beaches.

Enroute make the following stops –

Quick Stop 1: Cavelossim Beach Quick Stop 2: Agonda Beach Brunch Stop: 📍 Kopi Desa near Palolem Beach

Once at the Palolem Beach, start by going on an Island boat trip.

Once you’re back, have a hearty meal at 📍 Ciarans .

For sunset, visit Cabo de Rama and after that, come back to Benaulim for dinner.

Day 3: Dudhsagar

Visit Dudhsagar falls and spice plantation. It’s a full day tour with lunch included at the Spice Plantation.

4 days in South Goa Itinerary

Tambdi Surla Temple

For the 4-day South Goa trip – follow the 3-day itinerary above.

Day 3: Dudhsagar/Spice plantations

Day 4: Temples and Museum

  • Visit one of Goa’s oldest temples – Tambdi Surla or if you don’t want to travel that far, visit the Shantadurga temple

Finish these off in the first half of the day.

  • For the second half, visit the Big Foot at Loutulim – a beautiful museum depicting the lifestyle of local Goans.

5 days in South Goa Itinerary

Big Foot Goa

If you can visit South Goa for 5 or more days, your experience is going to be far richer than typical tourists spending a couple of days in South Goa. You will be able to relax, take in the vibe of Goa, mingle with local Goans and admire the beauty of South Goa in an unrushed manner.

So here’s what I think you should do – follow the 4 day itinerary as above. And you can spend your last day in Goa doing one of the options given below

Day 4: Tambdi Surla/Shantadurga temple/Big Foot

  • Relax at a beach of your choice
  • Visit the offbeat Cola Beach
  • Check out the lighthouse at Betul
  • Go kayaking near Cavelossim
  • Visit the touristy Colva Beach
  • Check out the completely deserted Majorda/Betalbatim beaches
  • Visit India’s only naval museum at Vasco de Gama

Frequently Asked Questions – South Goa

south goa travel

How many days are enough for South Goa?

2 days in South Goa are enough for visiting all the touristy highlights. But a longer trip to South Goa feels more rewarding as it lets you absorb the natural beauty of South Goan beaches in a typical laid-back Goan style.

Is South Goa worth visiting?

South Goa is absolutely worth visiting for its natural beauty, serene beaches, delectable food, many waterfalls, treks and temples. It is far less commercial than North Goa and a trip to South Goa, thus feels, far more calming and rejuvenating.

Planning a trip to Goa soon? Read more articles

  • 46 best things to do in Goa – read article
  • 26 solid Goa travel tips – read article
  • Best places to visit in North Goa in 3 days – read article
  • The perfect Goa itinerary for 5 days – read article
  • How to plan a Goa budget trip: 12 super useful tips – read article

I have Goa – Planned for You – See my handy digital trip plan that includes the best places to visit, stay and do in Goa.

Goa: Planned for You (Cost-Saver Set)

Pin for later

south goa travel

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

south goa travel

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

Similar Posts

10 Things to do in Goa with Kids: Useful Ideas & Insights 2023

10 Things to do in Goa with Kids: Useful Ideas & Insights 2023

Want to travel to Goa with your kids and wondering what all you could do? In this post I…

46 Best Things To Do in Goa

46 Best Things To Do in Goa

In this post you will learn all about the best things to do in Goa. We will cover Goa…

12 Useful tips to visit Goa on a budget

12 Useful tips to visit Goa on a budget

I am super excited to be writing this post! Why? Because I am writing about my most favourite Indian…

What to pack for a Goa trip: A Practical No-Fuss List + Guide 2023

What to pack for a Goa trip: A Practical No-Fuss List + Guide 2023

Wondering what to pack for a Goa trip? Don’t worry, I have got the best goa trip packing list…

How Many Days Are Enough in Goa: Explained for Every Travel Type

How Many Days Are Enough in Goa: Explained for Every Travel Type

As someone who has been to Goa over twenty times and has written multiple posts on Goa, the one…

Best Time to Visit Goa: What to Expect, Weather, Activities, etc.

Best Time to Visit Goa: What to Expect, Weather, Activities, etc.

Goa is one of the busiest tourist destinations in all of India. But the experience of visiting Goa greatly…

south goa travel

  • Trekking & Travel Events
  • Travel Organizations
  • Himalayan Treks
  • Maharashtra Treks
  • Karnataka Treks
  • Travel Guides
  • Weekend Getaways
  • Trekking Tips & Advice

South Goa: The Ultimate Travel Guide For 2024

Table of Contents

Introduction to South Goa

Kayaking at Cola Beach in South Goa

South Goa, with its serene beaches, lush greenery, and laid-back vibe, is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

This South Goa travel guide by Nomads of India provides a comprehensive overview of the region’s attractions, activities, and accommodations.

From the popular beaches of Palolem and Agonda to the hidden gems of Galgibaga and Patnem, the article covers the best spots to soak up the sun, swim in the sea, and enjoy water sports.

The guide also includes recommendations for local cuisine, cultural experiences, and nature walks. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family looking for some fun in the sun, this guide has something for everyone.

How to Reach South Goa?

Colourful sunsets at Palolem Beach in South Goa

While exploring South Goa, you should make Agonda or Palolem your base and then travel to nearby places.

To reach Palolem or Agonda, you have multiple options:

Via Public Transport

  • If you are coming via train, you should ideally arrive at Margao railway station. You can take local cabs from the station, charging around INR 500 – INR 600 for a one-way trip to Palolem or Agonda.
  • Another option is to take a bus from the  Madgaon Bus Stand  to Palolem or Agonda. You can hire a rickshaw from the Madgaon railway station, and they will charge you around INR 70-80. The bus fare is INR 80 to Palolem.
  • If you are lucky, you can find shared cabs between Madgaon and Palolem; the charges are INR 100 per person. 
  • If you are coming from the airport, you can take the express bus to Margao bus stand and follow the instructions mentioned in pt. 2. 

Via Private Vehicle

  • Palolem is connected via road to all the major cities in Maharashtra & Karnataka. The distance from Mumbai to Palolem is around 630 kms via NH48 through Karnataka. This is the fastest way to reach South Goa, as the roads are far better than NH 66.

The Best Places to Stay in South Goa

Galgibaga Beach

There are 100s of options available at Agonda & Palolem and for all types of travellers. 

Here’s a specially curated list of stays by the Nomads of India team. All these places have a rating of 8.0+ on Booking.com. You cannot go wrong with any of these stay options.

Palolem Beach

  • Charming Nights
  • The Lost Hostel
  • O3 Beach Resort
  • Oxygen Palolem
  • The Ark Comforts

10 Off-beat Things To Do & Places To See

Kakolem Beach

  • Sadolxem Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in South Goa, especially on Instagram. However, most people come here, take photos & leave. But you can also take a unique private boat ride on the Talpona River with the local fishermen. An hour’s ride will cost you around an hour. You can also take food and alcohol with you on the boat, sit on the riverbank and have good lunch in the middle of nowhere. It is one of the most unique experiences that one has to experience when in South Goa. The river is calm, and you can even dive & swim. 
  • Galgibaga Beach is one the most secluded and cleanest beaches in South Goa, without a doubt. We recommend you go here early, around 7-8 AM, take a morning dip, and soak in the Vitamin D while basking on the beach. Galgibag Beach is about an hour’s scooter ride from Palolem.
  • Cola Beach for its famous lagoon. It is one of the most picturesque beaches in South Goa. You can kayak in the lagoon for half an hour for INR 200. The lagoon isn’t big and not deep, either. Be early so you can avoid the crowds. The sea here is rough, so we don’t recommend swimming here. However, you can have lunch or breakfast in the many sea-facing shacks.
  • To reach here, you need to walk down from the parking area. The last 1-2 kms of the road that leads to the parking is more of a mud trail and gets very difficult to control the bike; hence you should be careful while riding here.
  • Kakolem Beach is the best beach in South Goa, without a doubt. Like Cola, you must ride on a scooter to the  Kakolem viewpoint  and walk down the stairs for 15-20 mins. 
  • You rarely find anyone on this beach; there’s only a shack, and the same place offers beach huts. The beach is an ideal place to chill, read a book, have some pints of beer, and sunbathe.
  • Palolem Beach is one of the most happening beaches of South Goa, and also many water activities are conducted here. However, the most common one is kayaking. You can rent a kayak for an hour for around INR 300-350, and if you are lucky, you can even spot dolphins on the beach.
  • Patnem Beach is very close to Palolem Beach; you can reach here in 15 mins on a scooter. The beach is the best to have romantic sunset walks and a good dinner with friends and family. 
  • Butterfly Beach is the most famous beach; you can reach it here via boat or on a scooter; for the last 1-2 kms, you must walk to the beach through the forest; the trail is laid-out properly.
  • Note: The shared boats start only after 9:00 AM. The best way is to come here alone and early in the morning. If you are lucky, you may get the whole place and take a dip if you like.
  • Cabo de Rama in South Goa is a beautiful place for its scenic views and serene surroundings. The Cabo de Rama Fort is the main attraction, which offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape. The beach nearby is also pristine and relatively secluded, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. 
  • Overall, Cabo de Rama is a must-visit for those looking to experience the natural beauty and history of South Goa.
  • Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by living organisms. Betalbatim Beach is known for its bioluminescent plankton, which you can see glowing in the water during the night from November to February.

Are you enjoying this guide on South Goa?

We have 100s more such guides on similar off-beat experiences & we send out such guides, offers, hidden gems, and trekking destinations weekly via email. Subscribe to our newsletter to get them directly into your inbox.

The Best Season To Visit South Goa

Kayaking at Palolem beach in South Goa

South Goa, being a tropical destination, has a warm and humid climate all year round. However, the best time to visit South Goa depends on the traveller’s preference and their activities of interest. Here is a season-wise guide to help you plan your trip to South Goa:

  • Winter Season (November to February):  Winter is considered the best time to visit. The weather is pleasant and dry, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 33°C. This is the perfect time to indulge in water sports activities, sunbathing, and sightseeing. Moreover, South Goa’s famous Christmas and New Year celebrations draw many tourists. Because it is the high season, the prices for activities & accommodation are the highest during these months.
  • Summer Season (March to May):  The summer season in South Goa can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 35°C. This is the off-season, and you can expect lower prices on accommodation and activities. However, if you can withstand the heat, you can explore the beaches and participate in water sports.
  • Monsoon Season (June to September):  The monsoon season is from June to September. This period experiences heavy rainfall, and the humidity levels can be very high. The sea can also be rough, making it unsafe for water sports activities. However, you enjoy the rain and want to experience a peaceful and serene vacation. In that case, this is the best time to visit South Goa. The lush greenery and waterfalls are a sight during the monsoon season.
  • Post-monsoon Season (October to November):  The post-monsoon season is when the monsoon starts to recede, and the weather begins to clear up. This is a great time to visit South Goa as the rainfall reduces, and the landscape is lush green. The temperature during this time ranges from 23°C to 33°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities like trekking, sightseeing, and beach hopping.

In conclusion, the best time to visit South Goa depends on your preference and what you want to do during your vacation. However, the winter (November to February) is the peak tourist season when the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of activities to indulge in.

A 5-day Itinerary for South Goa

Boating at Talpona River

Day 1: Reach Palolem. Check-in & Relax. Go for a sunset kayaking ride on Palolem beach.

Day 2: Early morning go for a swim at the  Galigbaga Beach. Have breakfast & head to Sadolxem & Talpona River boat ride. Come back and go for a walk at Patnem Beach during the sunset.

Day 3: Early morning kayak and swim at Cola Beach. Breakfast & head to Kakolem for lunch and relax.

Day 4: Early morning hike & swim at Butterfly Beach. In the evening, go to Cabo de Rama. Have an early dinner.

Day 5: Relax and chill on Palolem beach and check out of your accommodation.

Butterfly Beach

  • Accommodation:  If you stay at a mid-range or a budget option, you can expect to pay around INR 2000 – INR 2500 on average for a room night for 2 people. 
  • Food:  One meal at cafes and shacks will cost anywhere between INR 400 and INR 700. (excluding drinks)
  • Boat ride at Talpona River: INR 700 (for an hour)
  • Kayaking at Palolem Beach: INR 200 – INR 300 (for an hour)
  • Kayaking at Cola Beach: INR 150 – INR 250 (for half an hour)
  • Parking Charges at Kakolem Beach: INR 100
  • A cab from Margao railway station to Palolem will be around INR 700.
  • Bus from Margao Bus stand to Palolem: INR 80.
  • Local Scooter Hire: INR 300 – INR 400 per day. (this changes from season to season)
Overall, you can expect to spend anywhere between INR 25,000 to INR 30,000 for two people for 5 days.

Final Notes

In conclusion, South Goa offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquility. From the serene beaches and lush green landscapes to the fascinating historical sites and vibrant local markets, South Goa has something for everyone.

The article covers the major attractions, activities, and accommodations in the region, making it a comprehensive guide for travelers planning a trip to South Goa.

The guide emphasizes the importance of respecting the local culture and environment, and encourages responsible and sustainable tourism practices. With its laid-back charm, warm hospitality, and diverse offerings, South Goa is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and enriching travel experience in India.

Read more such amazing & informative travel guides on our blog.

Grand Island Goa – An Introduction Click on the image for credits Goa is known for its pristine beaches, waterfalls, churches, and nightlife. But there is more to this than just its beaches. Scuba diving Grand Island in Goa is one of the premier scuba diving in India. With its crystal clear waters and abundant life, Grand […]

Hi, Nomads! Traveling is your drug, isn’t it? It gets your adrenaline pumping while giving you the kind of satisfaction nothing else can. You’re the unstoppable backpacker. You’re probably traveling even while reading this, eh? Or making plans to travel! But, before you pack your bags and set out for your destination, let’s take a […]

  • Travel Blog
  • travel guide
  • No comments yet.

Add a comment

Leave a reply · cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

  • Share via...

January 22, 2019: Colourful bungalows on Palolem beach.

©Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock

South Goa is the more serene half of the state, and for many travelers that’s the attraction. There are fewer activities and not as many bars, clubs or restaurants, but overall the beaches of the south are cleaner and not as crowded as those in the north.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Goa Chitra

Artist and restorer Victor Hugo Gomes first noticed the slow extinction of traditional objects – from farming tools to kitchen utensils to altarpieces –…

Goa, India - November 16, 2012: Menezes Braganza Pereira House - old colonial Villa-Museum of Portuguese era with beautiful paintings, furniture items and other decoration stuff of 16-18 century.

Braganza House

Braganza House, built in the 17th century and stretching along one whole side of Chandor’s village square, is the biggest Portuguese mansion of its kind…

Palácio do Deão

Palácio do Deão

About 8km southeast of Chandor is the busy small town of Quepem. Here the Palácio do Deão, the renovated 18th-century palace built by the town’s founder,…

Shri Chandreshwar Temple

Shri Chandreshwar Temple

Approximately 14km southeast of Margao near the village of Paroda, a number of hills rise out of the plain, the highest of which is Chandranath Hill (350m…

India, Goa, yoga on Patnem Beach

Patnem Beach

Smaller and less crowded than Palolem to the north, Patnem makes a quiet and friendly alternative. It’s backed by relaxed beach shacks and has a lively…

Agonda Beach.

Agonda Beach

Agonda’s beach is wide, quiet and picturesque, with a forestry department–staffed turtle centre at the northern end protecting precious olive ridley sea…

Usgalimal Petroglyphs

Usgalimal Petroglyphs

One of Goa’s least visited but most fascinating sights is deep in the countryside at Usgalimal: a series of prehistoric petroglyphs (rock art), carved…

Church of the Holy Spirit

Church of the Holy Spirit

Margao’s whitewashed main church (1675) remains in use as a parish church and is finely decorated inside. The impressive reredos (ornamental screen) is…

Plan with a local

Experience the real India

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

south goa travel

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of South Goa with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

South Goa and beyond

Cow and boats on Palolem Beach.

logo

The Best Travel & Tourism Blog of India

India Tours

  • International Tours
  • Destination Wedding
  • Medical Tourism

phone

Plan Your trip

21 best places to visit in south goa for a fun-filled vacation.

south goa travel

Embrace the Chill and grill vibes of South Goa….

If there was one word to describe South Goa, it would be ‘Laid-back’. The unhurried pace of life, exotic beaches and heritage villages beckon solitude seeking travellers from around the world. South Goa is the reliable source to estimate the rich Portuguese architectural legacy left behind.

Offering some of the best beaches that are perfect for romantic escapes, surreal villages that are quiet the place for history buffs and an intoxicated air that keeps the ambiance enlivened all the time, South Goa is the destination that you cannot simply ignore.

In South Goa, there are numerous famous tourist destinations where you can experience various shades. When the celebration is over, head over to some of South Goa’s tourist attractions to spend some time alone without being disturbed by the commotion of the throng. The beautiful butterfly and Palolem beaches in South Goa, as well as some of the historic settlements and popular sandy beaches there, are popular with tourists who enjoy taking leisurely strolls around them. Your days in South Goa will undoubtedly be incredible, and you may experience the thrill everywhere you go.

Let’s know about the best places in South Goa where you would want to go again and again.

Summary of 21 Places to Add in Your South Goa Tour Itinerary

Recommended Popular Goa Tour Packages

  • 5 Nights 6 Days Goa Beach Tour
  • 5 Nights 6 Days Goa Beach Honeymoon Tour
  • 10 Nights 11 Days Goa Tour with Golden Triangle India

Colva – Party Time!

Colva Goa

Often addressed as the pride of Salcete, Colva at a distance of about 6 kms from Margao is amongst the best places to visit in South Goa. Giving Calangute head-to-head fight, Colva stands as a place with a huge fan following. Colva’s popularity can be blamed for it being crowded as a solitude seeker may not like this place at all.

However, if you travel a little far from Central Colva either towards north or south, your peace of mind can be resumed. On the other hand, if you are someone who loves to party, Colva can be the right place for you in Goa.

At the beach, Full Moon Parties are held on or before full moon night. The energy is crazy and so is the crowd, this is probably one of the best parties that can be attended in Goa. Dolphin sighting early in the morning is also an option here.

Highlight: Full Moon Party, Dolphin Sighting

How to Reach?

Margao is only at a distance of 6kms from Colva, so one can easily commute by auto or a bus. Bikes are also available at Margao and are a cheap option to reach Colva. For Margao trains are available from many cities of India.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Goa

Benaulim – Bliss for Seafood

Benaulim Goa

To the south of Margaon is a beach town called Benaulim . The town is like the feather in the hat of South Goa’s coastline as it comprises a beautiful beach fringed by swaying palms and coconut trees. Benaulim is also popular in all of South Goa for its soul-saving seafood. The beach is a decent place to relax, take sunbath and try scrumptious seafood. Like Colva, Dolphin sighting is also available in Benaulim.

Highlights: Seafood, Dolphin Sighting

Benaulim is at a distance of only 5kms from Margaon and can be reached easily by auto/bus/bike. For Margao trains are available from many cities of India.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Other Interesting Blog to Read

  • Best Places to Visit in North Goa

Vasco Da Gama- Land of turquoise waters and swaying palm trees

Vasco Da Gama Goa

Named after the famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco Da Gama is a gem in the treasure trove called South Goa. This small town is situated on the western tip of the Mormugao Peninsula, at the mouth of Zuari River. Despite being infamous as the crime center of Goa because of its suburban shanty town and a large red-light area, Vasco manages to create interest amongst the tourists as it adds a different aspect to the tourism of Goa. Other than this, Vasco is well-connected with the other parts of Goa, therefore to reach some beautiful South Goa beaches, one needs to travel to Vasco anyway.

Highlights: Baina Beach, Snorkeling

The best way to reach Vasco Da Gama is by taking a bus/cab from Panjim or Margao.

Also Read: Best Tourist Attractions in Goa

Palolem – Chilled out Party Vibe

Goa Palolem Beach

Spend a day taking in the tranquil surroundings at this 1.5 km stretch of white powdery sand bordered by tall coconut palms and bamboo beach houses. From either end of the Palolem Beach, which is also one of the best places to visit in South Goa, you can see the entire idyllic setting because of its curve.

There are several locations around where you can drop-in on a yoga class, and many resorts offer morning and evening sessions. Try some of the recently caught fish carried in by the boats or sample the superb South Indian food offered on the menus of the majority of Palolem eateries. Even for those who are prone to seasickness, a relaxing sail out to sea is well worth it just to see the lovely dolphins.

Highlights – Palolem Beach, Monkey Island, Yoga Classes, Silent Discos, Dolphin-spotting Cruise

The nearest bus stand is at Canacona or you can reach here within 30 minutes from Madgaon Junction Railway Station.

Best Time to Visit – November to March

Also Read: Popular Tourism Attractions of Goa

Betul – Offbeat gem of South Goa

Betul Goa

The coastal town of Betul is one of the offbeat destinations in South Goa. You won’t believe, a few years ago Betul was not even located on Google maps. Located at a one-hour distance from Margao, Betul is a mesmerizing town to spend your holidays in South Goa. The beauty of Betul beach is breathtaking.  Coconut trees dance in the rhythm of sea breeze, dolphins play in the turquoise water under the surreal blue sky, beautiful scenes of the Sal River merging into the Arabian Sea will blow your heart away and fresh goan seafood will delight your soul forever.

Highlights- Betul Lighthouse, Betul Beach, Betul Fort

Cab from Margao or a local bus would be the best way to reach Betul.

Best Time to Visit- November to February

Also Read: Top Things to Do in Goa

Bogmalo- Enjoy the blissful Watersports

Bogmalo Goa

Situated not so far away from Dabolim Airport, Bogmalo is a decent stop for those with spare two to three hours before their flight. This small yet beautiful stretch of sand is ideal to spend time basking in the sun. Also, it is a wonderful place to experience the underwater scene, at Bogmalo you can find the best dive operators in the entire Goa.

Highlights: Scuba Diving

Bogmalo beach is situated on the road to Dabolim airport, thus it is quite easy to travel to Bogmalo by a cab.

Also Read: Popular Water Adventure Sports Activities in Goa

Varca – blissful shores of glittering waters

Varca Goa

Known for its beach, Varca is a popular destination for tourists in South Goa. At a short distance from Varca is its beach, which is nothing short of unparalleled beauty. An array of Palm trees, sprawling golden sand, azure water and almost hawker-free coast makes Varca one of the most fascinating places to be in Goa. At Zuri White Sands Resort on the Varca Beach there is an interesting place for tourists called Dunes, which is a casino (Another thing Goa is famous for).

Highlights: The Our Lady of Gloria Church, Casino

Varca is situated at a short distance of about 10kms from Margao. Thus, the best way to reach Varca would be to take a cab or a bus.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Also Read: Scuba Diving in Goa

Cavelossim – Leave the chaos of cities in the shoreline

Cavelossim Goa

The last village on the Salcete coastline, Cavelossim is indeed a charming place to visit. It is one of those places that no sun-worshipper can resist going to as it is blessed with a beautiful sandy stretch and amazing sunset view. Apart from it, from Cavelossim there is a splendid view of the confluence of the Sal River and sea. Since a lot of tourism is expected here year-round, the beach strip is decked with shops selling jewellery and souvenirs.

Highlights: Resorts, Sun-bathing

Cavelossim is at a distance of about 7kms from Margao, therefore it is best to take a cab or a bus from Margao to Cavelossim.

Also Read: Hot Air Ballooning in Goa

Rivona – Mysterious and sublime

Rivona Goa

Located in the Sanguem taluka, Rivona is a hub of culture, history and architecture. If you want to experience something different than scenic beaches, Rivona is a place to be. It is less crowded and considered as an offbeat destination of South Goa.

Rivona is an ideal getaway to revel in the charms of history. It is one of the must visit places to visit in South Goa. Rivona is popular for its mysterious Caves which date back to the 6th century BC. It is also known as ‘Pandava caves’ as it is believed that Pandavas during their exile stayed in this cave. There is a step well at the bottom rock of the cave, which dates back to the 16th century. A sculpture of God Hanuman is there to give you holy blessings.

Rivona is also decked with water springs, verdant forests, hillsides and beautiful paddy fields. This place is different from other towns of South Goa.

Highlights – Rivona Caves, Rivona springs, Vimleshwar Temple

From Panjim you have to take a cab to Margao, then you have to reach Quepem. From Tilamal you can reach Rivona springs. The nearest railway head to reach Rivona is Margao railway station.

Also Read: Motorized Paragliding in Goa

Arossim- Solace calling

Arossim Goa

Now this destination of South Goa is for the solitude seekers. An excellent place to spend time amidst tranquillity Arossim is simply a perfect place in South Goa. If you like vintage, Arossim can be the best place to offer you some good ol’ Goan vintage furniture. There are a number of high-end beach resorts located here that render opportunity to enjoy Abhyanga (four-hand massage). The up-market here serves some scrumptious Goan dishes like Casa Sarita, vindalho and the mushroom xacuti. The resorts are pricey even for one night but it is all truly worth it.

Highlights: Abhyanga Spa, Clean and quiet beach

The best way to reach Arossim is via Vasco Da Gama. There are trains also available till Vasco and for Arossim one can take a bus or a cab from here.

Also Read: Luxury Cruising in Goa

Patnem- Overpowering golden sands

Patnem Goa

A small beach and a pretty one as well, Patnem makes a great destination to spend some quality time in South Goa. The beach is aligned with lovely beach shacks and has lively surfing and swimming options. The stylish strings of stalls fringing the beach sell Kashmiri trinkets and jewellery. Most tourists prefer coming to Patnem because of its serene ambiance and indescribable beauty. So, if you are in South Goa this is one place you should not miss.

Highlights: Wellness treatments

The nearest rail head of Patnem is Palolem, which is situated at a short distance from Patnem. One can get down at Palolem and then take a cab to Patnem. Margao is at a distance of 45kms from Palolem, so one can also hire a taxi from here.

Also Read: Bird Watching in Goa

Majorda- Sunset bliss of South Goa

Majorda Goa

Majorda is an organized beach with a lot of beach shacks. A stream separates the narrow ways from the beach. It is a gorgeous beach with a lot of young crowds basking in the sun and enjoying decent meals here. It is said that Majorda is the place that first taught the art of baking European breads in India, thus you will have an opportunity to enjoy some fine cookies and cakes here.

Mae De Deus is another attraction of Majorda, it is an ancient church, which was built in 1588 A.D. Majorda has its own charm so if you are here with your loved one; do not leave before the sun sets down because the view that time is simply priceless.

Highlights: Majorda Village, Goan Bakers, Mae De Deus Church, Water Sports

Margao is at a short distance of about 11kms from Majorda, thus it is convenient to travel by the bus or a cab to Majorda.

Also Read: Bungee Jumping in Goa

Colomb- Embrace the romance in the air

Colomb Goa

The sleepy bay of Colomb is ideal for a holiday as nothing rejuvenates the mind than a quiet and beautiful place. Colomb is both serene and incredibly beautiful; it can be a perfect romantic getaway in South Goa. The beach boasts about some excellent eat-out options predominantly serving Kashmiri, Italian and Swiss food. Colomb is separated by Neptune’s Point (a large rock) from Palolem beach. To make it more clear, Neptune’s Point is the same place where the famous Silent Noise weekly headphone parties take place. There are also some lovely and affordable resorts available here.

Highlights: Neptune’s Point, Beach Shacks, Silent Noise Party, Kashmiri Food

Colomb is a short distance from Palolem beach, which makes it a lot easier to be reached either by a cab or a bike.

Also Read: Popular Waterfalls in Goa

Chandor- Portuguese Vibes

Chandor Goa

On the bank of River Kushavati, Chandor is a sleepy town in South Goa. This destination has made its mark as a significant stop for its collection of Portuguese architecture. Between the 6th and 11th century, this village was called Chandrapur and was reckoned as the most spectacular city of the Konkan Coast. Today, Chandor is a small village with important relics dating back to the Portuguese era and a Hindu temple and headless Nandi Bull built in the 11th century. The Portuguese mansion at Chandor can be an excellent venue for weddings and parties.

Highlights: Fernandes House, Feast of Three Kings (January 6), Archies Art Gallery

The best way to reach Chandor is by a cab from Margao.

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Goa

Agonda- Relax and Sunbathe!

Agonda Goa

Someone said that Agonda is an ideal beach destination for those who ‘Quit on Monday’ and it is not an overstatement for sure. Yes, there are indeed quieter beaches in Goa, where you would like to spend time on the first day of the week but Agonda seems to have some magnetic energy pulling one towards it. Not that ideal for swimming though, this beach can be a great place to spend a lazy day. An evening stroll can also be equally ideal at Agonda. A Church in the center of the beach further adds to the beauty of this place.

Highlights: Dolphin Sighting, Hill Hiking, Samdarshi’s meditation Ashram (winter), Cola Beach, Yogamea Yoga School

Agonda is only 10kms from Palolem and can be easily reached by a cab or a motorbike from Palolem.

Also Read: Information About Aguada Fort Goa

Loutolim- Revel in the charms of Portuguese architecture

Loutolim Goa

Loutolim is an apt place to witness the legacy of Portuguese architecture. An unhurried village, Loutolim is a treasure trove for the history buffs; however, most of the edifices are closed for the tourists. The most popular places to visit here would be Casa Araujo Alvares and a whitewashed Church Salvador do Mundo. Loutolim is also known for its ancestral museum. BigFoot is yet another place of interest for the tourists, where you can touch the BigFoot mark on the rock and make a wish. Loutlim certainly have the caliber to take one into the glorious past of this region and one may do nothing but stand in awe after visiting this small yet majestic place in South Goa.

Highlights: Salvador do Mundo, Casa Araujo Alvares, Big Foot Museum, Miranda House, Roque Caetano House and Salvador Costs House, Sant Mirabai

Loutolim is only at a short distance from Margao, so the best way to reach here from Margao would be to take a cab or on your own motorbike.

Also Read: Best Wildlife Places to Explore in Goa

Mobor – Thrilling vibes and blissful solace

Mobor Goa

Mobor is renowned for offering beachside bliss. Situated quite close to the location where River Sal meets the Arabian Sea, Mobor is certainly a place to cherish. It is a romantic escape in South Goa and the heaven for solitude seekers. One would love to bask in the sun here without being interrupted by hawkers. Watersports like water-skiing, wind-surfing and jet-skiing can be enjoyed on Mobor beach. The beach shares its border with Cavelossim and is comparatively quieter.

Highlights: Blue Whale Shack, Leela Kempinski

Mobor is at a short distance from Margao thus it is ideal to take a cab or bike ride to reach here.

  • Best Luxury Holiday Vilas in Goa

Assolna- Colonial charms and bliss vibes

Assolna Goa

Situated on the south side of River Sal, Assolna is yet another surreal place in South Goa. Assolna is famous for its colonial era palacios (None are open to the public) that are simply a delight to witness. Casa dos Costa Martins is a place that one might find interesting as this palace has a very Indian touch to its architecture.

Highlights: Portuguese Palaces, Jewellery and Trinkets

The best way to reach Assolna is by a ferry from Cavelossim.

  • Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Goa

Netravali- Solace seekers and Nature Lovers, Get Ready

Netravali Goa

Wildlife, waterfalls or bubbling lake. What’s your pick? We think you should see the bliss of all. Visiting Netravali in South Goa is an experience of a lifetime. Pristine wilderness of Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, blissful bubbling lake of Netravali, cascading waterfalls, cool weather and majestic mountains would be the most blissful sights to behold in the shores of Netravali. It is one of the best places to visit in South Goa for a family vacation. Serene vibes of Netravali will compel you to leave your worries in the chaotic cities. It is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and solace seekers.

Highlights – Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary and Bubbling Lake

Margao Railway Station is the easiest way to reach Netravali. Buses and taxis are also available to reach Netravali from Margao and Panaji.

Best Time to Visit – October to March

  • Best Weekend Getaways from Goa for Couple

Betalbatim – Untouched and Pristine Beach Life

Betalbatim Beach Goa

One of the famous South Goa tourist places, Betalbatim is a one-kilometre-long stretch of sand between Colva Beach and Majorda Beach. The captivating expanse of golden sand has been perfectly developed for offering an exotic beach life.

Betalbatim Beach in Goa, in comparison to other Goa beaches, is relatively undeveloped and undiscovered by beachgoers. With a length of nearly one kilometre, it provides spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. In fact, for obvious reasons, the northern portion of the beach is frequently referred to as Sunset Beach.

Highlights – Watersports, Nightlife, Food Tours, Dolphin Sighting, Our Lady of Remedios Church

It takes about 40 mins to reach the beach from Panjim, which is around 32 kilometres away.

Best Time to Visit – November to February

Also Read: Beach Destinations Wedding in Goa

Mollem – Jungle Safaris in A Historical Place

Mollem National Park Goa

Mollem National Park, which spans an area of 240 square kilometres in the Western Ghats, is situated in Goa’s Sanguem Taluka, not far from the Karnataka border. One of the best places to explore in South Goa, the reserve also contains a number of temples from the Kadamba Dynasty. The Goa state capital, Panaji, is 60 kilometres to the southeast of the national park, which is situated close to the town of Mollem.

The park’s primary attraction is its jungle safaris. Vehicles are permitted inside the reserve, which enhances the pleasure of viewing the wildlife in comparison to other parks. The park’s hiking routes are also well-known. The Tambdi WaterFalls, Devil’s Canyon, Sunset Point, and the Tambdi Surla temple from the 12th century are a few of the park’s further attractions.

A large variety of birds, including the fairy bluebird, wagtails, three-toed kingfisher, drongo, golden oriole, and big Indian hornbill, can be seen in the national park. Some of the birds that can be found here are local residents. The area is home to a wide variety of butterflies, including the Blue Mormon, Crimson Rose, Tailed Jay, Malabar Tree Nymph, Tamil Yoeman, Plain Tiger, and Lime Butterfly and visiting South Goa cannot be completed without visiting this park.

Highlights – Jungle Safaris, Wildlife Spotting, Birdwatching, Temple Visits

Panaji, the capital of Goa is around 60 kilometres from Mollem National Park.

South Goa can be a paradise for solitude seekers as well as honeymoon couples. We hope our list of places to visit could be of some help to you.

For Goa holiday deals & special offers you can contact us at [email protected] and for inquiry about other India holiday tours you can also call us on +91-9212777224.

Other Important Goa Tourism Resources

  • Complete Goa Tourism Guide
  • Popular Tour Packages for Goa
  • Goa Beach Tourist Information

Like & Follow our social media accounts at Twitter , Facebook , Linkedin & Instagram for getting the latest updates & offers on holiday packages.

Disclaimer: This content is written by our team of expert Travel Writers with deep research. In case you find any incorrect information or missing information, please do send your valuable inputs at [email protected]. We will update the content as soon as possible with respect to your inputs.

We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the summer, monsoon & winter weather goa.

Summer Season - Summer in Goa starts from March and ends in May. The temperature ranges from 32 to 36 °C. Travelling is economically feasible in goa during summers because it is an off season to travel in Goa. The weather is extremely harsh which is not very favorable to enjoy the bliss of Goa.

Monsoon Season- Monsoon starts from June and ends in September. The temperature ranges from 28 to 30 °C. It is not a peak season to travel to Goa as you will not be able to enjoy the bliss of scenic beaches due to high tide. But Goa looks beautiful in Monsoon. There is less crowd and people come here during monsoon to enjoy the pleasant weather.

Winter Season - Winter in Goa starts from November and ends in February. The temperature ranges from 21 to 28°C. The weather is pleasant and people can enjoy amazing watersports. It is the best time to visit Goa. The Sunburn festival is also celebrated in December.

How many minimum days are required to explore the best of South Goa?

South Goa is a tranquil paradise for beach lovers and solace seekers. People visit South Goa to feel the serenity of scenic beaches. It is less crowded and offers solace to nature lovers. If you want to enjoy the best of South Goa then at least a week is required. There are many beaches in South Goa. Some of the popular beaches are - Colva, Palalem, Butterfly Beach, Benaulim Beach etc. If you want to enjoy the bliss of South Goa completely then a trip for a week would be enough for you to do so.

What are some of the top adventure activities to do in South Goa?

Some of the top adventure activities to do in South Goa are –

  • Parasailing
  • Jet Ski Ride
  • Banana Ride
  • Bumper Ride
  • Speed boat ride
  • Scuba Diving
  • Flyboarding

How to reach Goa from Delhi?

By Air - There are direct flights to reach Goa from Delhi. Dabolim Airport is the fastest way to reach Goa from Delhi as it has two terminals - Domestic and International. All domestic daily carriages have daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Chennai etc.

By Train - Nizamuddin Goa Express is easily accessible from Delhi to reach Goa. There are regular trains from Delhi to Margao. Trivandrum Express and Goa Sampark Kranti are also the best options to reach Goa.

What are some popular night clubs in South Goa?

Some popular night clubs in South Goa are -

  • Silent Noise Club - Silent Noise Party
  • Saturday Night Flea Market - Aguada
  • Leopard Valley
  • Colva Beach - Full moon parties
  • Alvoc - Colva
  • Smuggler’s Inn - Palolem
  • Liquid Lounge - Majorda

What are the top things to do for couples in South Goa?

Some of the top things to do for couples in South Goa are:

  • Breakfast with Dolphins
  • Private Party
  • Seafood Walks
  • Wildlife Spotting
  • Spa and Ayurvedic Massages Session
  • Sightseeing
  • Couple Photography

Which are the most scenic places to explore in South Goa?

The most scenic places to explore in South Goa are:

  • Vasco Da Gama

Published: 19 Oct, 2022

About the author

Nidhi Singh

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

Recent Trending Posts

south goa travel

May 30,2024

22 Best Places to Explore in Himachal Pradesh, North India Himalayas

south goa travel

May 21,2024

Best Eco-Tourism Destinations in India

south goa travel

May 20,2024

15 Best Destinations in India for Solo Women Travellers

  • Hill Stations
  • Travel Deals
  • Amazing Facts
  • Travel Experience
  • Travel Tips
  • Travel Alerts
  • Travel Videos
  • Edu-Tourism
  • Inspirational People

Popular Posts

south goa travel

May 30,2014

20 Highway Dhabas that You Must Stop By

south goa travel

February 12,2014

Top 15 Places for Honeymoon in North East India

south goa travel

September 6,2014

12 Best Beaches in Maharashtra

south goa travel

October 31,2013

Top 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

south goa travel

Top 10 Places for Spa Services in Delhi

International posts.

south goa travel

November 8,2023

10 Best Beaches in Thailand

south goa travel

November 3,2023

Tourism Update – Enjoy Visa Free Holiday Travel in Sri Lanka

south goa travel

Thailand Tourism Update- Indian Travelers Now Get a Visa-Free Entry to Thailand!

Explore best places to visit in india by month.

image

Best Places in January

image

Best Places in February

image

Best Places in March

image

Best Places in April

image

Best Places in May

image

Best Places in June

image

Best Places in July

image

Best Places in August

image

Best Places in September

image

Best Places in October

image

Best Places in November

image

Best Places in December

India tourism important information resources, north india.

  • Uttarakhand
  • Jammu & Kashmir

South India

  • Pondicherry
  • Andhra Pradesh
  • Mahararashtra
  • Dadra Nagar Haveli
  • Daman & Diu

Luxury Trains

  • Maharaja Express
  • Palaces on Wheels
  • The Golden Chariot
  • The Deccan Odyssey
  • Majestic Tourist Train

Quick Links

  • Kumbh Mela Haridwar 2021
  • MICE Tourism

An Ultimate South Goa Travel Guide to 15 South Goa Beaches

An Ultimate South Goa Travel Guide to 15 South Goa Beaches

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This post contains a South Goa beaches guide listing all the beaches in South Goa, India.

Time and again, I reiterate my love for the beaches of South Goa. What's not to love about them? Right from the virgin beaches to colourful beach shacks and organic cafes in the most picture-perfect forested setting - there's nothing to not love about this region of Goa. In all honesty, I feel terrible about writing this post because I don't want South Goa to end up being crowded and touristy like North Goa. Nonetheless, I'm excited to showcase the relatively unexplored half of Goa.

South Goa Travel Guide

Almost every one of the South Goa beaches is pristine and unspoiled by crowds. Additionally, there are many different and unique type of beaches in South Goa. On one hand, there are Palolem beach and Patnem beach, which are popular, have lively beach huts and host some of the best S outh Goa beach resorts. On the other hand, beaches like Cola beach and Cabo de Rama beach are cliff-side beaches that are hardly known to visitors. Not to mention the many other unknown one. So, this South Goa travel guide covers all the South Goa beaches along with all the things to do in South Goa, nightlife in South Goa and restaurant recommendations.

Pinterest graphic for South Goa beaches guide

South Goa Beaches Map

Map of South Goa Beaches

Travel Guide to the South Goa Beaches

Without further ado, let's dive into this list of the best beaches in South Goa with this perfect South Goa guide. Do note that this is not an exhaustive list, but rather, a list of the most noteworthy beaches in South Goa.

1. Bogmalo Beach

Bogmalo beach in South Goa beaches

Bogmalo beach is the closest beach to the Goa International Airport, located just 5 km from the airport. This beach has scores of beach shacks, with Joet's , John Seagull and Claudi's Corner being the most popular beach shacks on Bogmalo beach. Joet's is my go-to place on a weekend when there's live music playing. During the dry season, they have seating in the open-air as well so you get an uninterrupted view of the ocean. While there are quite a few hotels in the vicinity of the beach, Bogmalo Beach Resort is a 5-star hotel located right next to the beach with rooms facing the ocean and an infinity pool also overlooking the sea.

Find hotels in Bogmalo on Booking.com

2. Grandmother's Hole Beach

Granmothers Hole beach in South Goa beaches

As weird as the name sounds, Grandmother's Hole beach is actually quite pretty. Located just 7 km from the Goa airport, the beach is a cliff-side beach. To get to the beach you will have to pass through a park called Japanese garden and climb down a beautiful set of stairs. This place looks fantastic during sunset. Once you climb down, walk towards your left towards the rocks. Sitting on these rocks, watching the waves crash at them is the best feeling. Some parts of the beach could use a little cleaning up but the part of the beach towards the rocks is absolutely beautiful.

3. Utorda Beach

in South Goa beaches guide

Utorda beach is one of those South Goa beaches that are only known to locals. The charm of this beach lies in the fact that there are hardly any visitors or even beach shacks on the beach. This makes Utorda beach untouched, ideal for the times when you want to enjoy having a whole beach to yourself or for a nice quiet dinner without too many people around. The famous Planet Hollywood resort is located close to this beach. Apart from locals, the only people on the beach are those who are staying at this resort. Come to Utorda if you want to visit a beach sans any tourists.

Find hotels in Utorda on Booking.com

4. Majorda Beach

Majorda beach in South Goa beaches guide

Majorda beach lies at a distance of approximately 12 km from Margao city, 11 km from Madgaon junction railway station and 18 km from Goa International Airport. This beach is similar to Utorda beach in terms of the lack of crowds but has a few more beach shacks compared to Utorda. Even during the busy month of December, I've found very few people on this beach, most of whom are locals looking for a quiet dinner in the midst of the tourist season in Goa (see picture above). Majorda beach has nothing substantial to offer other than the clean, crowd-less beach.

Find hotels in Majorda on Booking.com

5. Betalbatim Beach

Betalbatim beach in South Goa beaches guide

Betalbatim beach lies just a little ahead of Majorda beach, located at an approximate distance of 20 km from the Goa international airport. Just like Utorda beach, Betalbatim beach too has lots of free space with very few tourists and a handful of beach shacks.

Find hotels in Betalbatim on Booking.com

Must Read: The Most Instagrammable Spots in Goa

6. Colva Beach

While Colva beach, by itself, has nothing much to offer, it remains popular among the Indian crowd. It's not a beach where you expect to find much calm, let alone, any room to relax by yourself due to the swarm of people. Nevertheless, Colva has some good food joints. Mickeys beach shack is one of the popular beach shacks among the locals. The Red Ginger is popular for its Asian cuisine. The major plus point of this beach is its close affinity to Margao city. However, due to the crowd at this beach, I don't recommend going here.

Find hotels in Colva on Booking.com

7. Benaulim Beach

Beanualim beach in South Goa beaches guide

Benaulim beach is located approximately 10 km from Margao city and 26 km from Goa International Airport. Now, this beach is one of the most popular South Goa beaches. The long stretch of the virgin beach, the number of water sports activities, and the plentiful beach shacks along with the line-up of beautiful resorts and hotels (see picture above) make this one of the most sought-after South Goa beaches among locals and tourists alike.

Roger's is the most popular beach shack on Benaulim beach. During the on-season, there's a waiting list to get a table here, especially one facing the ocean. If you're looking for a resto-bar with music and a fun crowd, go to The Southern Deck . It's a popular hang-out spot of those looking for a night of dancing. Apart from that, I also love Farmhouse Bistro , which lies a little ahead of the Benaulim beach. It has the most spacious and beautiful settings, that includes ponds, wooden bridges, and ducks, to name a few things.

Find hotels in Benaulim on Booking.com

8. Cavelossim Beach

Cavelossim beach in South Goa beaches guide

Cavelossim beach is popular among a handful of locals as well as foreign tourists residing in the resorts nearby. The area is home to a bunch of beautiful resorts. However, the main appeal of Cavelossim beach lies not in the beach itself, but rather, in the number of great restaurants in its vicinity.

One of my absolute favourite restaurants in South Goa, which is arguably one of the best restaurants in Goa is located at Cavelossim, known as Fisherman's Wharf . It happens to be located on the riverside. You can sit there on a quiet afternoon and enjoy freshly prepared food while watching the lapping waters of the river. This restaurant is a must-visit if you're in the vicinity. Star Light Riverside Restaurant is another one of the best seafood restaurants in Goa which is located on the riverside, just 5 km from Cavelossim beach.

The Fisherman's Wharf Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Find hotels in Cavelossim on Booking.com

9. Cabo-de-Rama Beach

South Goa beaches guide - Cabo de rama beach South Goa

Cabo de Rama beach is a cliff-side beach in South Goa, located roughly 28 km from Margao city and 48 km from Goa International Airport. While this beach used to be frequented only by locals at one point, it has gained popularity among tourists as well. One of the reasons why this beach is one of the best beaches in South Goa is because apart from the clear water and clean sand, there's even a freshwater lagoon and coconut trees providing shade from the sun on this beach. Thus Cabo de Rama beach is the perfect beach for a picnic. Not just that, the cliff at Cabo de Rama is perfect for laying out a picnic blanket and watching the sun go down with a couple of drinks in hand.

There is a nice resort called The Cape at the Cabo de Rama cliff, which has huts overlooking the ocean. Each hut comes with a spacious balcony, open-air bathtub, an open-air shower and the most incredible view. The resort also has a restaurant with a view of the ocean where visitors can dine in, even if they're not staying at the resort.

Find hotels in Cabo de Rama on Booking.com

10. Cola Beach

Offbeat South Goa beach - Cola beach

Cola beach is one of the unexplored and untouched beaches in South Goa. The beach is located approximately 15 minutes from Agonda beach. However, there is no concrete road for a short stretch before arriving at the beach, which requires off-roading for a little while. Keep in mind though that both 2-wheelers and 4-wheelers can navigate through this stretch. Once you reach the end of the road, you'll be at the top of a cliff with steep steps to get down to the beach. As you climb down these steps you'll get an enchanting view of the beach and lagoon. The hill is dotted with huts and the only people on the beach are the ones staying in them and a few other curious souls. Furthermore, the shacks and lounge chairs there are mostly unoccupied. Apart from an untouched beach, there's an iconic lagoon at Cola beach. You can kayak, swim or simply play around in the lagoon, where the water is fairly shallow. My picture above, taken before I learned to take decent photographs, does not do justice to the untamed beauty of Cola beach.

Find hotels in Cola on Booking.com

Must Read: A Guide to all the Old Goa Attractions

11. Agonda Beach

Agonda beach travel guide, South Goa

Agonda beach is yet another one of the gems among all the South Goa beaches. Frequented mostly by foreigners and very few Indians, Agonda is a secluded beach known only to a handful. I love Agonda beach due to the vibe here. While there are shacks lined up along the beach, there's a road that goes parallel to the beach. There is myriad of cute little shops selling bohemian dresses, bags and decorative items on this road. Additionally, there are numerous boutique and vegan cafes on this stretch. Walk along this road to soak in the bohemian vibe.

Blue Planet Cafe is a vegan/ vegetarian cafe serving organic food that is located just 2 minutes from Agonda beach. The cafe is set inside a forested area with only trees and birds for company. The menu here has some exciting vegan and vegetarian breakfast items and meals. All the food here is prepared freshly with fresh organic produce. They even have wooden chalets for visitors to stay. Do check this cafe out while you're hopping along the beaches in South Goa.

Find hotels in Agonda on Booking.com

12. Butterfly Beach

It's very likely that you have heard the name of this very popular beach in South Goa. Not only is it exclusive and hard to reach but also incredibly pretty! To reach Butterfly beach, you can hire a private boat from either Palolem or Agonda beach. A private boat can cost anywhere from Rs 2000 and up. But you will have the advantage of spending a lot of time on the beach or in any manner you like. On the other hand, you could also take a boat tour which will show you multiple beaches and sights. The downside of this is that the itinerary is fixed and you will have a very limited amount of time on Butterfly beach. That being said, you can choose what is best for you.

You can also come here by road but be warned that there is no paved road to reach Butterfly beach. Take the drive through the forest on uneven ground at your own risk.

13. Palolem Beach

Palolem beach huts + Palolem beach Goa guide and viewpoint

No South Goa travel guide is complete if it hasn't this beach. It's not difficult to guess why Palolem beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa, not just in South Goa. Coupled with colourful beach huts and a fantastic crowd, Palolem is the place to be if you're looking for the freedom to wear whatever you like, without any unwanted eyes on you. I highly suggest staying in a beach shack right by the beach. Spend an entire day bathing, eating and reading a book in one of the many colorful huts on the beach. Next, have a romantic dinner on the beach then head to a night club, such as Silent Noise , nearby. Silent noise is a unique night club where music is played on headphones and not on a loudspeaker. It doesn't get better than this. There are some popular cafes in Palolem such as Little World , Art Resort Cafe , Ferns and Magic Italy . Read my complete guide to Palolem Beach Goa  to discover more about this beach and to read my guide to the Palolem beach huts.

Find hotels in Palolem on Booking.com

14. Patnem Beach

Patnem beach in guide to the beaches of South Goa

Patnem beach, located 40 km south of Margao city, lies at a distance of just 2 km from Palolem beach. The road leading up to the beach is a vibrant and colourful narrow lane dotted with shops selling colourful beachwear and other knick-knacks. The beach is equally cheerful, lined up with huts which appear rustic yet bright. Almost all the shacks have lounge chairs outside for visitors to sit and enjoy on the beach. Alternately, you can sit inside the shack, sip a cocktail and observe the waves from a distance. I had the best day out at Patnem. Because Patnem beach is very similar to Palolem beach in terms of the look and feel and is located close to Palolem, you can explore both these beaches in one go. Read my entire experience of chilling at the beach huts in Patnem beach .

Find hotels in Patnem on Booking.com

15. Galgibaga Beach

Galgibaga beach - South Goa travel guide to the beaches

Galgibaga is one of the undiscovered hidden beaches in South Goa and for good reason. It is so unique, quiet and beautiful that I feel bad about mentioning it here, afraid that it might get popular and spoiled by over-tourism. Galgibaga is at a distance of 8.5 km from Palolem beach. The unique thing here is that from the beach, you can see a lagoon of sorts and the highway bridge right behind it. It's hard to describe how hauntingly beautiful it looks and even pictures won't do justice. But if you're up to visit something offbeat in South Goa, then checkout this beach.

Nightlife in South Goa

Silent Noise

At Silent Noise, wireless headsets allow those people that want to party to do so, while nobody else is disturbed by the noise. You can rock all night long while anyone passing by can't hear a thing. Each headset has 3 music channels. You can change the channel on your headset and dance to your tune. Silent Noise is located right next to Palolem beach. It's situated at a prime location and is a unique nightclub in Goa.

Leopard Valley

Leopard Valley is the perfect combination of a jungle, pool, music and fire shows. Located close to both Agonda and Palolem, it's a great spot in the middle of nowhere. This being said, ensure that you have a ride back to your hotel/ resort as there won't be any taxis nearby. All in all, it's going to be a great experience.

South Goa Restaurant and Cafes

Restaurants and cafes in South Goa Travel Guide

Palolem Beach: I love to grab breakfast at Little World , a vegan cafe in Palolem. The decor at Art Cafe is worth dying for! Also checkout Casa del Mar for a beach dinner here. You also can't miss Zest , Kopi Desa and Fern  for chill vibes and good food.

Patnem Beach: Patnem also has an abundance of restaurants and cafes. My favorite one here is the Jaali Boutique Cafe .

Agonda Beach:  I have three favorites in Agonda - Blue Planet cafe , Zest Agonda and The White .

Cabo de Rama Beach: You can't not go to The Cape when you're here!!

General: If you're passing through Margao, don't miss The Kitchen on Top  which is a roof-top restaurant with the best menu and food! I also love Fisherman's Wharf in Cavelossim for the river-view and the romantic vibes.

There are many more amazing restaurants in South Goa but I've only listed my absolute favorites in this South Goa travel guide.

Planning a Trip to Goa?

Here are some articles you will find useful if you're planning a trip to Goa:

  • Insider's Guide to Goa
  • Goa Itinerary for 3 Days
  • 15 Best Places to Visit in North Goa
  • Top 10 Things to do in Panjim, Goa
  • The Best Offbeat Places in Goa

Did you Enjoy Reading this South Goa Beaches Guide?

If you liked reading my travel guide to the South Goa beaches that I've put together based on my experiences of living in Goa, then follow me on my social media handles Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to see more pictures, discover offbeat destinations and to be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

Be the 1st one to get the juice on Goa!

Join and get exclusive travel tips, free printables and more!

Goa travel blog posts by The Spicy Journey

13 Comments

south goa travel

“I feel terrible about writing this post because I don’t want South Goa to end up being crowded and touristy like North Goa” Well said. Let’s keep South Goa, at least its beaches a secret. Personally living just 4-5 kms from Colva beach myself, I don’t get to see much of it, due to hectic work days – but then yes, I need to do that more often. It does seem, you are quite a ‘beach-bum’ yourself, if I may say so. Who doesn’t? …that too when Goa is blessed with so many of them, endless stretches of pure happiness. I personally would choose beaches like Arrosim, Utorda, Majorda… it gets quieter as you walk that side. Good post.

south goa travel

I agree. Utorda and Majorda are great beaches for a quiet walk.

Pingback: Offbeat things to do in Goa - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: Patnem Beach - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: How to Take Your First Solo Trip - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: The Best Restaurants in North Goa - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: The Most Instagrammable Spots in Goa - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: Hampi in 2 Days - Itinerary - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: Goa 3 day Itinerary - Places to Visit in Goa in 3 days - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: Cabo de Rama Beach - The Perfect Picnic Spot - The Spicy Journey

Pingback: Palolem Beach Goa - What to See, Eat and Do - The Spicy Journey

south goa travel

I loved reading your post. I too have been to South Goa and found some beaches clean and secluded with a fewer shacks in season. Loved this post as it reminded me of my trip.

south goa travel

Hi, really it is amazing reading your blog.It is very informative for everyone.

Comments are closed.

India Travel Blog

10 Places to Visit in South Goa to Encapsulate Your Joys

What do you expect from the best places to visit in South Goa apart from its pristine beaches? Maybe lush greenery, wildlife encounters, or the silvery waterfalls’ hike.

If that is so, you would be spoiled with choices because South Goa and its nearby vicinity around 80 kilometers (approx.) are dotted with spice and cardamom plantations.

Goa Tour Packages

Goa Tour Packages

Customizable Itineraries, Seamless Transfers

View Goa Tour Packages

The Western Ghats traverse through South Goa to Karnataka and Maharashtra and thus, lush greenery is an added bonus when you explore the best tourist attractions in South Goa.

Places to Visit in South Goa

South Goa is famous because it is cleaner, softer, and more idyllic than its cousin district. Beaches in South Goa are made up of finely grained white sands.

Even churches in South Goa are newly made and still depict Portuguese grandeur. If you are a water baby, you will be spoiled with watersports at South Goa Beaches

Party people will have the chance to groove on the silent noise parties at Palolem Beach. Shutterbugs would have ample moments to capture butterflies at Butterfly Beach.

Bookmark the 10 Best Places to Visit in South Goa

1. palolem beach.

Palolem Beach in South Goa

  • Where to Party at Palolem Beach: Silent Noise Disco, Leopard Valley, Neptune, Sundowner
  • Water Sports at Palolem Beach: Scuba diving , Windsurfing , Banana Ride, Dolphin Sighting Trip, Water scooter, Paragliding, Dinghy sailing , kayaking, paddling
  • Where to Eat at Palolem Beach: Draupadi, Crystal Goa, Havana Cuba

Visit this fantabulous beach on the South Goa trip if you are looking to bask under the palm-shaded trees amidst the white sands. Palolem Beach is one of the best places to visit in South Goa for couples.

It is in a crescent shape with colorful beach huts and sunbeds for relaxing. It is also one of the famous beaches in Goa for silent disco parties held at the beach after dusk. Watersports, accommodations, places to eat, and shopping add icing to the cake when you are at Palolem Beach.

Whether you are here with friends or spouse, or family, swim in the protected zone under the lifeguards’ supervision on the beach. Also, the beach shacks at Palolem Beach are quite luxurious and are made keeping the taste of the international travelers in mind.

Begin Your Love-filled Journey with Goa Honeymoon Package for 4 Days

2. Agonda Beach

agonda beach

  • Where to Party Near Agonda Beach: Silent Noise Disco, Leopard Valley, Snoopy Bar, and Restaurant
  • Watersports at Agonda Beach:  parasailing, jet skiing ride , banana boat ride, kayaking, surfing
  • Where to Eat at Agonda Beach: Simrose, Fatima’s Corner, Madu’s Beach Hut

This beach in South Goa is one of the four turtle nesting sites in the state and is considered among the South goa places to visit in 3 days. There are beach huts, and plenty of bars dotted around the shoreline of Agonda Beach.

Agonda Beach is sandwiched between Cola Beach and Palolem Beach and remains less crowded even in peak months. You will find beachfront accommodation at Agonda Beach and even affordable beach huts to unwind without going broke.

The best thing about Agonda Beach is that hawkers are not allowed, which gives tourists the feeling of lazing around at some postcard-worthy beach. Because of this, it has become one of the top places to visit in Goa for couples. Lush green coconut and palm trees are peppered around Agonda Beach.

Couples, family tourists, and transformative trip lovers will love doing yoga and meditation on the beach. Due to the undertow and currents, Agonda Beach is the least preferred beach for swimming, so dodge this idea.

Plan your Trip to North and South Goa

3. Benaulim Beach

benaulim beach

  • Where to Party at Benaulim Beach: Club Eutopia, Club Margarita, Zoya, Pedro’s Benaulim
  • Watersports at Benaulim Beach: Boat ride, parasailing, banana ride , jet skiing, kayaking, dolphin spotting
  • Where to Eat at Benaulim Beach: Esco’s Sun and Moon, Cavatina Cuchina, Joecons Beach Shack

Several kilometers of white sands constitute the beauty of Benaulim Beach. This beach is one of the safest places to visit in South Goa for swimming because lifeguards remain alert on the shoreline.

The silverfish sands and huge varieties of watersports at Benaulim Beach make it a local’s favorite beach for an evening stroll. There are beachfront restaurants flanked across Benaulim Beach where you can enjoy food with the views of sweeping views of the Arabian Sea.

Benaulim Beach is your answer to the best beaches in Goa for the family because here, you will come across a glimpse of the typical handicrafts of this area. If you’re coming to Goa with friends, Benaulim Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa for nightlife.

It is located next to Palolem Beach in the South district of Goa. Cottage theme hotels, beach resorts, and luxury accommodations options could be availed near Benaulim Beach.

Also read: Top Places to Visit in Goa in 5 Days for Complete Rejuvenation

4. Colva Beach

Colva Beach

  • Where to Party at Colva Beach: Boomerang Beach Bar, The Gatsby Pub, Ziggy’s Club
  • Water Sports at Colva Beach : Parasailing, kayaking , banana ride, speedboat, windsurfing, jet ski
  • Where to Eat at Colva Beach: The Garden, Sandpat Beach Shack, Barbeque Bay

Colva Beach has the enigma of outranking the nightlife of North Goa. This beach and its vicinity are dotted with luxurious amenities, including air-conditioned resorts and affordable tourist cottages.

One of the best places to visit in south Goa at night , Colva Beach has discos that invite hip crowds where parties go till the wee hours.

The virgin white sands and the coconut groves serve as a perfect Instagram backdrop to amp up your social media game in the sunshine state of India.

Watersports, eating opinions, and shopping ideas at Colva Beach are no different than the other beaches of Goa.

Delightful Goa Vacation

  • Best Party Places in Goa
  • Best Beaches in South Goa for Families
  • Best Cottages in North & South Goa for a Pleasant Stay

5. Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach

  • Where to Party Near Butterfly Beach: Kopi Desa Agonda, Leopard Valley, Silent Noise Club
  • Things to Do at Butterfly Beach: Dolphin spotting, photography, sunset viewing
  • Where to Eat Near Butterfly Beach: The Zest, Olive Room, Kanvas

Butterfly Beach is one of the best honeymoon places in South Goa for couples, where colorful butterflies are seen along with goldfishes and redfishes.

The beach is nestled in the valley and has a striking resemblance to the butterfly shape, and thus, it got its name. Dense tree vegetation adds to the beauty of this beach.

Tourists can visit Butterfly Beach on a ferry or a boat from the Palolem or Agonda Beach. It is the easiest way to reach the beach. Else, be prepared for a tremendous 3-4 kilometers (approx.) hike through the forest.

Dolphin sightseeing in the morning and witnessing stunning sunset changes its hues is one of the romantic things to do in South Goa for couples.

Well, you won’t find any sort of places to eat or any sort of tourist activity at Butterfly Beach because it looks more like a tiny beach cove. But fret not as you can carry snacks and mineral water on a boat to Butterfly Beach.

The boats arrive from Palolem Beach and Agonda Beach from 9 AM to 6 PM every day except monsoon (July to September).

Also Read: Water sports activities in Goa you can enjoy with family & friends

6. bogmalo beach.

Bogmalo Beach

  • Where to Party Near Bogmalo Beach: Lobby Label, Sunset Bar, Ruby Bar
  • Watersports at Bogmalo Beach: Parasailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, jet skiing
  • Where to Eat at Bogmalo Beach: Dom’s Sea Restaurant, Joet’s Bar And Restaurant, Tony’s Beach Club

Situated in the small fishing village, Bogmalo, the golden sand of this beach is flanked by coconut and palm trees on both sides. There is one diving institute in Bogmalo Beach where you can learn diving courses.

Bogmalo Beach is one of the closest beaches in Goa to the airport but is still unexplored by mass tourism. So if you are looking to enjoy swimming, and sunbathing, visit Bogmalo Beach for a day well spent.

You won’t find any dull moments because Bogmalo Beach is bordered by excellent nightclubs, restaurants, and accommodations for all types.

Couples or family travelers can become shopping sprees and purchase shell jewelers, fashionable clothes, and beachwear items from the stalls. Did we mention that the nightlife in and around Bogmalo Beach can challenge the legs grooving nightlife of North Goa?

Also Read: 10 Famous Beaches in South Goa

3 Days Trip to Goa

4 Unique Places to Visit in South Goa That Are Not Beaches

Crunched between two Western Ghats states, South Goa is bordered by Karnataka and Maharashtra. Thus, greenery is in abundance in this district of Goa. Hard to believe? Check at these 4 unique places to visit in South Goa other than are not beaches.

1. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Entry Timings: 7 AM to 5:30 PM, every day
  • Entry Fee: ₹ 5 (approx.)
  • Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)

How about a wildlife refuge in South Goa? If that sounds like something that you wish to visit, bookmark Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. It is one of those few places to visit in South Goa during monsoon, where greenery is a sight to behold.

Multi-storied forests, tall trees, and deciduous, and semi-evergreen vegetation is the highlight of Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary . Take your binoculars with you and traverse across any of its 8 trails varying from 500 m to 5 km.

Private vehicle entry is allowed by the forest department, but still, people traverse by hiking. Earlier, there used to be leopards and tigers, but now the chances of spotting them are rare.

You can spot the rarest of rare species of birds and animals like mouse deer, Malabar trogon, Indian pangolin, white-bellied woodpecker, and four-horned antelope.

Note: Additional charges for the camera and the private vehicle would be applicable.

Plan Your Goa Luxury Honeymoon Packages

2. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple

Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple

  • Entry Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM (approx.)
  • Travel Tip: Wear Indian style attire that covers your whole body

Elevate your spiritual wellness at one of the ancient temples of South Goa. Touted to be one of the six great sites of temples of Lord Shiva in the Konkan area, Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple and its magnificent craftsmanship will take your breath away!

Gokulashtami Festival is a very famous festival held here annually every August, which invites spiritual tourists. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple’s history dates back to 950 years from Kadamba Dynasty.

3. Netravali Lake

Netravali Lake

  • Entry Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM (approx.)
  • Travel Tip: Don’t pollute the freshwater lake by throwing anything. Be a responsible tourist.

Either call it Budbudyanchi Tali, Bubble Lake, or Netravali Lake, it is the same thing. Netravali Lake is located in the middle of the spice farm in Netravali Village, Sanguem, which is a freshwater lake that dates back to 300-400 years. It is a water reservoir and a part of Gopinath Temple.

Watch the bubbles in the lake creating concentric circles due to the aquatic plants emitting methane gas as their base.

Also Check Goa trip plan for 4 days

The bubbles at this freshwater lake look phenomenal because when this stepwell was constructed, the layer of sand was stuffed below the surface when the lake’s construction work was being carried out.

The lake has an outlet at one end where the water comes out and is used for irrigation purposes by farmers. Allow the Tiger Fish to nibble the dead skin off your feet. Enjoy the tickling by keeping your feet stationary.

Also Read: Hidden Places in Goa that Tourists Don’t Even Know Exist

4. Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

The milky, foamy cascades of this 4-tiered waterfall cascade from the height of 1,020 ft (approx.) make it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. It has a lush green deciduous forest setting.

The beauty of Dudhsagar Waterfalls increases multiple folds in monsoon when you traverse through Mollem National Park and Mahaveer Sanctuary as the falls could be accessed from here. You will find a small pond at the base area where you can swim.

Trekking option in monsoon is suggested from the Kulem Railway Station (12 km) and Castlerock Railway Station (14 km). However, jeep safaris are best for family tourists during early summer and winter. Get ready to soak up the sun in Goa.

Unlock the adventure with our 3-day Goa package !
  • Best Places to Visit in South Goa With Friends
  • Beach view hotels and resorts in Goa
  • Mumbai to Goa Cruise Voyage By Angriya Cruise

If you want to explore the places to visit in South Goa other than its secluded beaches, make your way to offshore casinos in South Goa.  Book South Goa tour packages for a hassle-free experience, equipped with meals, accommodation, transfers, and sightseeing tours.

What is the Best Time to Visit South Goa Beaches?

The best time to visit beaches in south Goa is from October till March. During these months, Goa’s temperature hovers around 20°C to 33°C (approx.). The arrival of October constitutes wintery months that last till February. Afterward, till May, the temperature is bearable for beach adventures, and the sun does not trouble you! Dodge beaches of Goa in monsoon from (July till September) because of the high tides.

Akshay Negi

south goa travel

Copywriter with eagle eyes who writes copies backed by market research. Akshay uses the persuasive power of NLP to influence readers. Maybe that’s the reason why Akshay became a writer the way other people became monks and nuns. His approach geeks out on studying the personas of the human mind. Thrill yourself from head to toe by feeding your hunger for more travel-related content written by him.

Related Posts

places-to-visit-in-maharashtra-in-may

Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in May

Best Places to Visit in Nagaland in April

Best Places to Visit in Nagaland in April

Best Places To Visit in Arunachal Pradesh in April

Best Places To Visit in Arunachal Pradesh in April

  • Adults Ages 13 or above - +
  • Children Ages 2–12 - +

You are using a very outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience. Alternatively, to make an enquiry, please call our Reservations Team on 01489 866994 . Close this message .

The Goa Experience

South Goa Resorts

Spend your Goa holiday in the south of the state where you will encounter gorgeous beaches and a delightfully laid-back atmosphere, typical of South Goa.

South of the Zuari River lies the southern region of Goa. This is where you’ll discover the quintessential laid-back Goa holiday you’ve been searching for, defined by languid fishing villages, beautiful rice paddies, swaying coconut groves and magnificent beaches. This quiet and less developed area boasts some of the best Goa beaches, wonderful accommodation and an infectious chilled vibe. For those hoping to find a little more hustle and bustle, Palolem in the far south presents the perfect balance of natural beauty, languid vibes and a dash of vibrancy in the shape of beach bars, bustling shopping streets and an atmospheric strip of sand.

SOUTH GOA HOTELS

More about South Goa

Seaside Bar_be-que and Grill at ITC Grand, Arossim, South Goa

Famed for its stunning beach, the quiet and undeveloped resort of Arossim will prove a hub of rest and relaxation for those on their Goa holidays.

The Beach at Taj Exotica, Benaulim, South Goa

The charming fishing village of Benaulim sits just south of Margao and enjoys a relaxed and laid-back feel surrounded by coconuts palms and rice paddies.

Colva Beach, South Goa

The busiest resort in the south but still maintaining a colourful and laid-back vibe, colonial heritage and a vibrant beach define the resort of Colva.

Holy Cross Church, Cavelossim, South Goa

A small, sleepy coastal village with a smattering of inviting eateries, shops and bars, you Goa holiday here will be completed by a gorgeous beach complete with colourful beach shacks.

Mobor Beach

Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the Sal River, lies Mobor, a stunning spit of powder white sand backed by coconut groves and a few makeshift beach shacks.

The beautiful Cola Beach

Among the most undeveloped and peaceful beaches in Goa, Cola Beach is set across a private bay in South Goa, home to a boutique tented resort hosting our Maharaja Night.

Palolem Beach in South Goa

Palolem & Agonda

Two gorgeous beaches found tucked down deep in South Goa. Palm-fringed sand and safe swimming water make Palolem and Agonda unmissable.

Majorda Beach at sunset

​A laid-back fishing village with a beautiful beach, a holiday in Majorda offers a quintessentially south Goan experience.

Varca Beach in South Goa

Just north of Cavelossim you will find Varca - a stunning stretch of powder white sand and a great choice for a beach-based holiday. 

Accommodation in South Goa

Please find below a selection of our accommodation in South Goa.

south goa travel

The Postcard Cuelim

Price from / Per Person

£1,999

south goa travel

Azaya Beach Resort

£1,498

south goa travel

Caravela Beach Resort

Call To Book

south goa travel

Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim

£1,454

south goa travel

Goa Villagio Resort

£1,195

south goa travel

ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa

£2,319

south goa travel

Radisson Blu Goa

£1,524

south goa travel

Sao Domingo's

£1,215

south goa travel

Sterling Goa Varca

£1,232

south goa travel

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

£2,205

south goa travel

Alila Diwa Goa

£2,019

south goa travel

Soneca Cola Beach Resort

British Travel Awards

south goa travel

South Goa Tourism and Travel Guide

Tripoto recommends.

Photo of South Goa Beyon

Once in-a-lifetime Deals

south goa travel

Top Attractions In South Goa

Photo of Dudhsagar Falls

Itineraries For South Goa

Photo of 24-Hour Guide

Best Luxury Hotels In South Goa

Photo of The Leela Goa

Best Mid-Range Hotels In South Goa

Photo of Turiya Villa &

Best Budget Hotels In SouthGoa

Photo of Mango Hotels Ja

Best Hostels And Homestays In South Goa

Photo of SUMMER by theho

Trips and Itineraries for South Goa

Photo of 35 Best Beaches Of G

Top Places To Visit in South Goa

Photo of Dudhsagar Falls

Weekend Getaways from South Goa

Photo of Panaji

Best Time to Visit South Goa

Peak Season is from mid-November to mid-February when the weather is cool and comfortable.

Shoulder Season : Mid-June to October is when Goa is at its most beautiful. The rains come down on the state during these months and while the countryside becomes a lush green, the clubs start brimming with people and raging parties.

Off-season: This is the time between March to May , when the temperatures soar and the prices of hotels and homestays drop. This is the time to visit Goa if you are looking for some quiet days, away from the touristy crowds.

Budget for South Goa

For Budget Travellers: INR 750 - 1400 a day

  • Accommodation in hostels and guesthouses: INR 300 - 600
  • Food in beach shacks and street eateries: INR 200 - 400
  • Public transport in buses and autorickshaws: INR 8 - 40
  • Rentals for bikes: INR 200 - 400
  • Sightseeing (museums etc): INR 10 - 50

For Mid-range Travellers: INR 3500 to INR 6000 a day

  • Accommodation in mid-range hotels and resorts: INR 1000 - 2000
  • Food in mid-range cafes and restaurants: INR 500 - 1000
  • Local transport in local taxis or car rentals: INR 400 - 600
  • Guided treks: INR 800 - 1000
  • Snorkeling and diving packages: INR 1500 and upwards

For Luxury Travellers: INR 8000 and upwards

  • Accommodation in 4* or 5* hotels: INR 5000 and upwards
  • Food in upscale restaurants and bars: INR 1000 and upwards
  • Local transport in cabs: INR 400 and upwards
  • Sailing, kayaking etc: INR 2000 and upwards
  • Hot-air balloon rides: INR 8500 per person

FB Pixel

Places To Visit In South Goa

Here are the top 29 places to visit in south goa, 1. palolem beach.

Palolem Beach

1 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

A white sand paradise in South Goa, Palolem Beach is approximately 38 km from Madgaon in Cancona and is among the most favourite attractions for travellers visiting Goa. Palolem Beach is known for its calm and peaceful vibes, as opposed to some of the popular beaches of Goa. The highlight of Palolem Beach is the Dolphin spotting cruise.

2. Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach

2 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

A little to the south of Palolem in Cancona region of Goa lies the Butterfly Beach. This beach, also known as Honeymoon Beach, is in the form of a small cove surrounded by dense trees. One of the most secluded and lesser-known beach of Goa, the butterfly beach is mostly accessible by a boat (ferry) ride from the nearby beaches, which only adds to the charm.

3. Benaulim Beach

Benaulim Beach

3 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Just 2 km away from the tourist hub Colva of South Goa lies the serene Benaulim beach. With its long stretch of empty sands dotted with inviting beach chairs, this scenic beach is the perfect place for a relaxing vacation away from the crowded beaches of North Goa. It is popular for its water sports activities and dolphin spotting tours.

4. Our Lady Of Remedios Capital

Our Lady Of Remedios Capital

4 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Also known as the Betalbatim Church, Our Lady Of Remedios Capital was founded by the Jesuits in the 17th century. The Church is famous for its splendid architecture, well-maintained lawns and its serene ambience. The masses are a special treat at the church and attract many a peace-seekers on a regular basis.

Goa Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

3 Nights 4 Days Goa Holiday Tour Package

Time to unwind in goa, goa with amazing water sports fun, goa with family and kids, goa - winter special, offbeat tour package: chikmagalur, hampi & more with goa, 5. tambdi surla.

Tambdi Surla

5 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Tambdi Surla, also called the Mahadev Temple Tambdi Surla is a 12th century Shaivite Temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known to be one of the oldest temples in Goa, the temple is built entirely black basalt and boasts of immense architectural beauty. The inner sanctum has a majestic Shiva linga and also an idol of a headless bull. In addition to that, the temple is flanked by River Surla that adds to the charm and natural beauty at the place.

6. Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach

6 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Agonda Beach in South Goa is one of the pristine beaches ideal for people looking for solitude and calm. With the clear blue water and coconut trees, this beach is a delight for nature lovers. Agonda Beach is not very popular among tourists, and hence, relatively quiet and less crowded. It is also extremely popular as a nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles.

Top Hotels In Goa

₹ 1,750 onwards

₹ 2,679 onwards

₹ 4,800 onwards

₹ 5,000 onwards

₹ 2,625 onwards

₹ 399 onwards

7. Colva Beach

Colva Beach

7 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

The captivating Colva Beach, located in South Goa, is one of the most visited beach of Goa . The 2.5 km long beach is known for its powdery white sands flanked by swaying coconut trees that add to its beauty. It looks more stunning with shacks, nightclubs and souvenir stalls all around.

8. Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls

8 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

One of India's tallest waterfalls, the Dudhsagar Falls is located inside the Mollem National Park. The majestic falls are a little farther inland approximately 60 km from Panaji on the Goa - Karnataka Border. Literally translating to Sea of Milk , the 310 m high waterfall is divided into four tiers on the Mandovi river and resemble a heavy rush of milk flowing effortlessly down the hill.

9. Cabo de Rama Beach

Cabo de Rama Beach

9 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Cabo de Rama Beach is a beautiful secluded beach located in Margao, South Goa. Surrounded by tall coconut trees, this beach is perfect for setting up a picnic, playing volleyball, or just spending some quality time. Overlooking Cabo de Rama Beach is a Portuguese Fort. From the fort, one can see the beautiful view of the beach.

10. Cavelossim Beach

Cavelossim Beach

10 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

With magnificent black rocks that contrast with the white sand shores of this idyllic beach, the Cavelossim Beach is located in South Goa. Cleaner and quieter than the cliched party beaches of Goa, Cavelossim is the perfect spot for travellers looking to enjoy the endless expanse of the clear blue waters. Sunbathing, swimming and dolphin spotting are major activities here.

11. Patnem Beach

Patnem Beach

11 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Situated in Canacona, South Goa, Patnem Beach is one of the most secluded and tranquil beaches of Goa. It is the perfect place to laze by the beach and do absolutely nothing. Alternatively, you can enrol yourself in one of the many yoga retreats and teachers training courses at the institutes in the area offering the same. The waters are quite safe to swim in, and the views of the sunset are magnificent and uninterrupted.

12. Cola Beach

Cola Beach

12 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Cola beach, also known as 'Khola'�beach, is one of the hidden gems of South Goa. Located in the Canacona area, the golden sand beach is peppered with volcanic boulders. The beach does not receive many visitors as it is off the beaten path, hidden by thickly overgrown hills, with a decent stretch of a rather rocky terrain to be crossed before arriving at this natural paradise. This makes Cola Beach perfect for sunbathers.

13. Varca Beach

Varca Beach

13 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Stretching across 2 km in South Goa, Varca beach is a marvellous white sand beach forming one of the largest continuous shorelines of Goa. It is located around 4km from Benaulim and 13 km from Margaon. An idyllic beach, the landscape and tranquillity of Varca beach are its most attractive features. With its golden sands seamlessly transitioning into a reddish magenta shade as it meets the turquoise blue water of the Arabian Sea, this beach finds itself home to many famous and luxurious resorts.

14. Galgibaga Beach

Galgibaga Beach

14 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Galgibaga Beach is one of Goa's most scenic beaches located on the banks of Galgibag river in Cancona, South Goa. Along with its unspoilt natural charm, it is also one of the three beaches of Goa known to be a nesting site for the Olive Ridley turtles. This pristine beach has often been termed as one of the cleanest beaches in India.

15. Kakolem Beach

Kakolem Beach

15 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

One of the most secluded and beautiful beaches of Goa, Kakolem Beach, also called Tiger Beach, is a nature?s treat with its majestic cliffs and the rich vegetation. Located around 7km away from Cabo De Rama beach in South Goa, it is a beach hidden between tall cliffs and shaded coconut trees.

16. Talpona Beach

Talpona Beach

16 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Talpona Beach is located the Canacona region of South Goa, near the Galgibaga Beach and Rajbag Beach. It is one of the few beaches in Goa which is not visited by the crowd of tourists. With a kilometre long shoreline, pure golden sands populate the beach, framed by swaying palm and pine trees. This beach is ideal for people looking for absolute isolation and peace.

17. Polem Beach

Polem Beach

17 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

The southernmost beach of Goa, Polem beach marks the beginning of the famous shoreline of Goa, being a stone's throw away from the Goa-Karnataka border. It is one of the least visited beaches by tourists, giving travellers the impression of a private beach with its pure white sands and azure waters. Tall palm trees form the border of the shore, which is shaped like a sickle, and one can see many landmasses amidst the blue waters of the Arabian Sea.

18. Mobor Beach

Mobor Beach

18 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Mobor Beach is a tranquil beach located in South Goa, a few minutes' walk from the famous Cavelossim Beach. It is a unique beach with water on three sides and is an extension of Cavelossim Beach, located towards the southern side by the confluence of the delightful river Sal with the Arabian Sea. The popular activities at Mobor Beach are watersports, dolphin spotting cruise, bird spotting and cruising along the River Sal.

19. Betul Beach

Betul Beach

19 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Betul Beach is a serene and peaceful beach located next to Mobor Beach in South Goa. This beautiful beach rests right at the delta of Sal River, thus affording a gorgeous view of the serene sea. The beach itself has soft silvery sand, fringed by looming fruit trees and swaying palms. The foothills of the Western Ghats form the backdrop of Betul Beach, offering a 360-degree natural panorama.

20. Cabo De Rama Fort

Cabo De Rama Fort

20 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Located in the Canacona region of South Goa, Cabo de Rama is a 17th-century Portuguese fort associated with the legend of Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshmana lived in the fort during their 14-year exile. Though most of the fort is now in ruins, it is a popular tourist attraction as it offers a stunning view of South Goa.

21. Sernabatim Beach

Sernabatim Beach

21 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Sernabatim Beach is a pristine unpolluted beach located between Colva and Benaulim Beach in South Goa. The 1.2km long beach is extremely clean and serene with golden white sand lined with tall palm and coconut trees. Some people refer to Sernabatim Beach as South Colva. The beach is a perfect attraction for those looking for a tranquil escape as it is not often crowded.

22. Rajbagh Beach

Rajbagh Beach

22 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Acquiring its name from the famous Rajbagh Residency near the beach, the Rajbagh beach has always prided itself for being one of the best and cleanest beaches found in Goa. Located in South Goa, the beach has a mesmerizing 1 km long shoreline which offers a lovely time at the beach. It is located in the Canacona region of South Goa and is among its prettiest shores.

23. Netravali Waterfalls

Netravali Waterfalls

23 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Sprawling over a vast 211 sq kms of protected land area, Netravali Waterfalls is one of the most enchanting waterfalls of Goa. The waterfalls is situated into the wildlife sanctuary and preserved from exploitation. It is a popular attraction in Goa and remains especially crowded during weekends.

24. Bamanbudo Waterfalls

Bamanbudo Waterfalls

24 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Bamanbudo Waterfalls is considered to be one of the most pristine waterfalls of Goa flowing in the backdrop of the beautiful Ambe Ghat. Untouched and unexploited by tourism, the waterfalls is located right on the road and requires no trekking to go upwards.

25. Kuskem Waterfall

Kuskem Waterfall

25 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Nestled in the picturesque district of Canacona, Kuskem Waterfall is one of the least explored attractions in South Goa. It is located just about 20 kilometres away from the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and is famous for its untouched beauty. It is a seasonal waterfall and is best explored during the monsoons. The waterbody gushes amidst lush greenery. It is not a humongous waterfall as such, but it has a striking quality Also, over the past few years, Kuskem Waterfall in Canacona has attained the status of an eco-tourism site that draws a considerable number of tourist.

26. Naval Aviation Museum

Naval Aviation Museum

26 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Naval Aviation Museum located in Mormugao, Goa is one of the two naval aviation museums in India. It was established in 1998 to exhibit the importance, functioning, and evolution of the Indian Naval Air Arm. The museum has stunning outdoor and indoor exhibits where one can find decommissioned aircraft, weapons & arms, uniforms, vintage documents, and photographs.

27. Bigfoot Museum

Bigfoot Museum

27 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Located in Ancestral Goa, a miniature Goan village which depicts the rural life of Goa as it was about a hundred years ago, the Bigfoot museum has a great collection of art and other traditional artefacts. The museum also features artwork done by local children and artists of State and National fame.

28. Goa Chitra

Goa Chitra

28 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Goa Chitra Museum, located in Benaulim, is an ethnography museum displaying the traditional Goan way of life and culture. The museum was established by Victor Huge Gomez as a tribute to his Portuguese ancestors. He has collected over 4000 items such as woodwork, metalwork, weapons, furniture, religious Goa artefacts and other memorabilia. It also showcases an organic farm.

29. Shri Shantadurga Temple

Shri Shantadurga Temple

29 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa

Shri Shantadurga Temple is one of the largest temple complexes in Goa. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga who is one of the patron deities of the Gaud Saraswat Brahmins. The Shantadurga deity is the goddess who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva. The highlight of the temple is a golden palki (palanquin) on which the deity is carried around on Mahapanchami festival.

Top Attractions in Goa

Calangute Beach

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

  • India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Curly Tales - Food + Travel Recommendations

  • Middle East

Curly Tales

© 2024 - All rights reserved. Designed and developed by Fork Media Group

5 Best Places & Tourist Spots You Can Visit In South Goa

5 Best Places & Tourist Spots You Can Visit In South Goa

Hi guys, let me introduce myself. My name is Natasha Monteiro and I’m a Mumbaikar whose heart lies in the depths of Goa. I’ve probably been to Goa more times than I’ve been to Goregaon. You may think I’m exaggerating, but I’m really not. I visit Goa at least 4 times a year, and before you go about saying ki bahut paise hai, I have to tell you I’ve visited Goa on ALL budgets. I’ve lived in hostels and 5 stars, eaten in shacks and in fine dines. But this isn’t about me. This is about you and planning your ultimate trip to beautiful South Goa and everything you need to know about this beautiful location. So let’s get started.

View this post on Instagram If i could encapsulate all my joy and present it in one picture, this would be it. Sun, sand & waves. Pretty much, life goals! . . . . . . . #ilovesherayne #sunsets #sunset_hub #orange #girl #silhouette #beachlover #beach #goa #swim #sunset_pics #igersdaily #igers #happiness #travelphotography #beachphotography #instadaily A post shared by Natasha Monteiro (@ayewhatmen) on Feb 6, 2020 at 8:19pm PST

About South Goa

South Goa is that part of Goa that went abroad and got firang wala education. It’s softer, quieter, cleaner and definitely way more peaceful from the hustle & bustle of North Goa. South Goa is that part of Goa that not many people talk about, and so you tend to miss it in the mix. It doesn’t belong to the typical Goa stereotype of loud music, parties, clubs and a line of restaurants catering more to the rest of India than offering authentic Goan cuisine. Fair warning: South Goa is not for everyone and that’s okay. I’ve met a lot of people who visited South Goa and got bored out of their minds. And then again I’ve met a range of people (myself included) who have fallen in love with this magical, mystical side of Goa that will steal your heart away.

Also read:  Goa Tourism To Reinvent With 1960s Charm And Wealthy Tourists

south goa travel

How To Reach South Goa?

By Flight: Getting to South Goa by flight is pretty easy. Goa has only one airport at Dabolim, which is somewhat right in the middle of the state. From Dabolim airport, you can hire a local taxi or book a taxi through Goa Miles (an app by the government that is cheaper than the airport taxis)

By Train: Madgaon is the major junction for South Goa, where all upcountry trains normally make a halt

By Road: Depending on which part of India you are driving from, the directions will change. The route from Mumbai to South Goa is extremely beautiful and takes about 11 h 3 min  (613.2 km)  via AH47.

By Bus: There are a number of buses that ply from major metros in India to South Goa. You can choose a luxury AC bus or a simple, single tier bus – depending on your budget and preference.

Places To Visit In South Goa

Okay, here’s an important disclaimer to know when you are visiting South Goa for the first time. There are a lot of places to visit in South Goa – one more beautiful than the other. Unlike North Goa however, these places are far more spaced out so it’s a little difficult to just take a bike and flit between beaches. It’s not impossible. It’s just not as fun as the North. Also, South Goa has far lesser ‘typical tourist sites’ than the North of Goa does. So if you are one of those people who love zooming around and ticking off a bucket-list of sights to see, South Goa might not excite you as much. But if you are someone who loves to be one with nature & enjoy a laidback vacay, then pack your bags and read on:

Also read:  Curly Tales Presents Virtual Tour Of Goa

1. Palolem/Agonda

This one is my PERSONAL FAVOURITE spot in all of Goa and to be honest, I’m in two minds as I write this out. Palolem is that gem of Goa that wasn’t even discovered by Indian tourists until a few years ago. Even today, Palolem gets relatively lesser tourists and is an absolute delight to the senses. It has one of the cleanest and calmest beaches in all of the South. The water is relatively shallow and the beach itself is a sight to behold.

Agonda is just a one turn away from Palolem and is just as stunning

View this post on Instagram Oh Goa, why you so pretty? This is at a place called Brendon's at Palolem. The food is ordinary but they have this massive Rottweiler called Skyla who is the cutest patootiest, pet hungry doggo ever. If you love dogs, don't forget to go say hi to Skyla. . . . . . . #palolem #goa #girl #color #walk #goagirl #happygirl #like4likes #smile #travelblogger #travelgram #travel #igersdaily #igersgoa #igersindia A post shared by Natasha Monteiro (@ayewhatmen) on Feb 10, 2020 at 7:28pm PST

Accommodation: Palolem and Agonda are normally filled with Israelis and Russians through the year. They normally keep to themselves and are extremely non-intrusive. There are also plenty of accommodation options from beach huts to 5 stars. The accommodations are pretty reasonable and the view is absolutely gorgeous.

Pro Tip: If you have the luxury, book your stay on the spot instead of online since you’ll get way cheaper spots on the spot and there’s always plenty of accommodation for everyone.

Food: Thanks to the large number of Israelis and Russians, you’ll find a lot of the menu catering to these citizens. But Palolem does have its fair share of Indian restaurants and authentic Goan cuisine as well.

View this post on Instagram On my plate today, white rice, Goan fish curry, Surmai Rava Fry, Tissryo (shell fish), Beetroot Chutney, salad, Leppo fry, mango pickle and kokum juice! . . . #food #foodporn #goan #goanfood #fish #fishfry #thali #fishthali #foodblogger #indianfood A post shared by Natasha Monteiro (@ayewhatmen) on Feb 7, 2020 at 5:39am PST

Activities: Like most of Goa, Palolem also has a bunch of water sports to indulge in. You can go dolphin watching, island hopping, paddle boating or just walk on the beach. Both ends of the beach are Friggin’ spectacular and a must-walk

There’s also the full moon party that happens on Saturday nights at Agonda that are a must-visit if you are a party animal. For those who like to live the ‘high life’, there are plenty of rave parties that most shack owners are aware about, if you just ask around.

2. Benaulim

Ufff, I love Benaulim so much, I friggin got married on the beach there. Benaulim is literally the most chilled out place ever. If Bob Marley came to Goa, he’d be making songs about Benaulim beach. It’s clean, pretty and there’s lots to do and love. Benaulim is a foodie haven. All the lanes to the beach are filled with delicious restaurants that will make you drool.

Also read:  Goa Becomes Covid-19 Free As It Reports Zero Positive Cases

View this post on Instagram Happy Anniversary @rego Remember 2 years ago when we dressed up in fancy clothes and stood in front of a bunch of people and explained why we thought the other was absolutely bitchin'? NOW we can just do that in our PJs on the couch. Hell yeah!!! So much better. So much more bitchin'. I love you the most in this multiverse! (But also our beach wedding was frigging awesome) . . . . #couplegoals #happy #anniversary #beach #weddinggowns A post shared by Natasha Monteiro (@ayewhatmen) on Nov 10, 2019 at 8:11pm PST

Accommodation: Benaulim is home to a lot of Russians, which means there’s plenty of accommodation available. The flip side is that some parts of Benaulim is reserved only for Russians – hypocritical I know! For Benaulim, I would suggest booking online in advance though.

Food: Thanks to the large number of Russians, you’ll find a lot of the menu catering to these citizens. However, that being said Benaulim is a foodie dream. You can get every kind of meal you can imagine. It’s delicious and finger-lickin’ good.

Activities: In Benaulim, you can indulge in a bunch of water-sports like banana boat ride, jet ski and lots more. Check with a few vendors before settling on one.

If you are the kind of person who strongly believes in be Indian and be around Indians, well Colva should be your go to spot in South Goa. It’s a beach full of Indians and the beach in itself is very gorgeous. Warning, Colva Beach can get a little crowded as opposed to the rest of South Goa. Also, women may have to be a little more careful here and it’s preferable to stay in groups – especially by the beach.

Also read:  9 Bollywood Movies That Will Remind You Of Goa And Its Beauty

Solo Vacation

Food: Colva CATERS TO INDIANS! So if you’re the kind of person who cannot go on a holiday without craving for Dal Makhani and Paneer, then Colva should be your spot.

Activities: In Colva, you can indulge in a bunch of water-sports like banana boat ride, jet ski and lots more. Check with a few vendors before settling on one.

Aah yes! You know how in Goldilocks and the three bears, the last bed was just perfect? Utorda is in the Goldilocks zone of South Goa. It’s got the right vibe, the perfect mix of Indians and foreigners, a beautiful beach and amazing vibes. You can chill by a shack all day or lounge by the beach with absolutely NO ONE to bother you.

south goa travel

Accommodation: One of the best accommodations on Utorda Beach has to be the Taj. Its SO BEAUTIFUL and faces the sea. It truly is the perfect luxury accommodation and is a great honeymoon spot in Goa. There are also plenty of budget options available and it’s best to book online.

Food: Utorda has a whole lot of beach shacks to choose from and you get a good mix of both Indian and authentic Goan cuisine.

Activities: In Utorda, you can indulge in a bunch of water-sports like banana boat ride, jet ski and lots more. Check with a few vendors before settling on one.

Bogmalo is where the elite of Goa stay. As you head to Bogmalo beach, keep an eye out on the beautiful bungalows to your left and right. The beach itself is gorgeous and the food is to die for. Not too crowded and very close to the airport, Bogmalo is definitely a spot I’d recommend.

Accommodation: Bogmalo is perfect for luxury stay, for budget stay and the works. Once again, I’d strongly recommend you pre-book your stay here.

south goa travel

Food: THE CHEESE GARLIC NAAN AT JOHN’S – I know I’m shouting but definitely add this to your Goa bucket list. John’s is a personal recommendation and it has great food with a view of the beach. The food and the ambience is great and on most days John himself is around to interact with guests.

Activities: In Bogmalo, you can indulge in a bunch of water-sports like banana boat ride, jet ski and lots more. Check with a few vendors before settling on one.

The Best Tourist Spots In South Goa

1. dudhsagar waterfalls.

View this post on Instagram What's your Favourite Waterfall Experience?? . Location :- dudhsagar waterfalls..??? . It's a mirror image of Dudhsagar Waterfall Photo by @indian_travelgeek . . . Don't forget to follow ? @indiangirlswander . DM , TAG or use HASTAG #indiantravellers to feature . . #indiangirlstravel #indiatravel #goa #travelphotography #travelgram #india #incredibleindia #travel #wanderlust #desi_dairies #tripotocommunity #karnataka #lonelyplanetindia #dudhsagarfalls #yourshot_india #dudhsagar #mypixeldiary #photographers_of_india #_soi #kerala #Maharashtra #indiapictures #storiesofindia #northeastindia #traveldiaries #travelrealindia #indiagram #indiaclicks A post shared by Indian Travellers (@indian.travellers) on Apr 4, 2020 at 5:34am PDT

The best time to visit Dudhsagar Waterfalls is the month of October. This gorgeous 4-tiered waterfall is indeed a marvel to behold. You can see it from the upcountry trains too. Believe me, the first time you see it you’re going to gasp in shock it’s that gorgeous and no photograph can ever do justice to just how wondrous it is. The milky white water against the rocks and the bright greenery around it is a must visit. The entry gate to the sanctuary opens at 6:00 am and remains open till 5:00pm.

Salaulim Dam

View this post on Instagram Mesmerising sight at the Salaulim Dam in Sanguem, Goa ? ? @dr_sujay27 A post shared by Goa (@goa) on Jul 16, 2018 at 2:45am PDT

Here’s everything you need to know about Salaulim Dam.

Cabo De Rama

View this post on Instagram Day 51 #tropicalvibes #caboderama #goa A post shared by Sarah ? (@neverendingtravelst0ry) on May 11, 2020 at 9:42am PDT

Cabo de Rama Fort was built by the local Soonda rulers but was overtaken & modernized by the Portugese in 1763. Sandwiched comfortably between Agonda & Cavelossim beach. Attached to the fort is a tiny 500 meter long Cabo de Rama beach. The fort is an ideal place to catch the sunset. The fort itself is spread over 18000 square meters and is presently in ruins, but given its picturesque location is still worth a visit and some cool photos. You can also visit the St Antonio church nearby that still has services every Sunday.

Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary

View this post on Instagram Ray's of hope . . . Shot on nikon . . . #indianphotographers #yourshotphotographer #SOH #picturesofindia #discover_india #photographers_of_india #thisisindia_beauty #all_about_goa #storiesofindia #world_photography_page #yourshot_india #365pixofficial @500px #photoscapeofthemonth #nustaharamkhor_ @planetgoamagazine A post shared by JOVIN JACK DIAS || INDIA?? (@jovindias_official) on May 12, 2020 at 10:35am PDT

Goa’s BIGGEST wildlife sanctuary, this place was recently in the news for having a Black Panther Spotted In Goa Sanctuary For The First Time . This sanctuary is indeed a fabulous experience, complete with waterfalls, greenery and wildlife. Take out a day for this trip and treat yourself to a fabulous time in Goa.

So there you have it! Your South Goa bucket-list. I hope you enjoy this itinerary and if you have any questions about Goa, then feel free to reach out to me on my personal Instagram account and I’ll be more than happy to help.

Join The # CT Squad!

Sign up for our daily email and get the best delivered straight to your inbox. We pinky promise to make it awesome!

Explore South Goa District

Plan your trip to south goa district: best of south goa district tourism.

Rocky beach

Essential South Goa District

south goa travel

Trending in the forums

Tricksum

South Goa District Is Great For

Historical tours.

south goa travel

Cultural Tours

south goa travel

Eat & drink

south goa travel

Download GPX file for this article

  • 3 Other destinations
  • 4 Understand
  • 5.1 By plane
  • 5.2 By rail
  • 5.3 By road
  • 6 Get around
  • 7.1 Beaches
  • 11 Stay safe

South Goa covers the southern half of the state of Goa in India .

Regions [ edit ]

Map

Cities [ edit ]

  • 15.28322 73.98619 1 Margao — cultural and commercial capital of Goa
  • 15.38603 73.84404 2 Vasco da Gama — a major port city with a large Indian naval presence

Other destinations [ edit ]

  • 15.2584 73.9275 1 Agonda — is a great spot for sunbathing, relaxing and swimming, with still relatively few tourists
  • 15.2584 73.9275 2 Benaulim — a small town and beach with easy access to shops and hotels
  • 15.37259 73.84485 3 Bogmalo — a small beach-side village with spectacular sunsets
  • 15.28064 73.91137 4 Colva — a beach located South Goa easily accessible from Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore
  • 15.3511 73.97713 5 Loutulim — a small town
  • 15.00996 74.02322 6 Palolem — a small town with one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa
  • 14.99689 74.0335 7 Patnem — a small town with a beautiful beach
  • 15.23651 74.07995 8 Xeldem — a scenic village important in agriculture and noted for its Shree Sateri Shantadurga Temple

Understand [ edit ]

Get in [ edit ], by plane [ edit ].

Dabolim Airport ( GOI  IATA ) is well connected with major Indian cities and a few international destinations (with direct connections especially to the Middle East ).

By rail [ edit ]

Margao Junction is a major railway station, at which the North - South Konkan Railway and the Eastwards bound South Central Railway intersect.

By road [ edit ]

Margao is also well connected by bus to major cities in neighbouring states. Road connectivity has also improved by leaps and bounds, so that many visitors now opt to drive to Goa.

Get around [ edit ]

See [ edit ], beaches [ edit ].

south goa travel

From north to south

  • Bogmalo Beach
  • Colva Beach - This beach's spectacle of sea, sand and sky blend in an enchanting natural harmony, weaving their magic spell on the visitors. Known for its scenic beauty.
  • Benaulim Beach , bordering Colva Beach
  • Cola Beach - a remote, unspoilt beach for those seeking complete peace and relaxation, 10km north from Agonda.
  • Agonda Beach - a small and quiet beach, near Palolem Beach
  • Palolem Beach - a scenic and popular beach in extreme south Goa.
  • Patnem Beach - a small and quiet beach, bordering Palolem Beach

Do [ edit ]

  • Visit "Turtle Beach" just south of Patnem
  • Check out the historic Portuguese colonial houses in Old Goa
  • Visit a heritage distillery and learn how Cashew Feni is made
  • Try some yoga classes or learn how to teach yoga

Eat [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ], stay safe [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

  • Dudh Sagar Waterfall
  • Anshi National Park

south goa travel

  • Has custom banner
  • Has mapframe
  • Has map markers
  • Outline regions
  • Outline articles
  • Region articles
  • Has Geo parameter
  • All destination articles
  • Pages with maps

Navigation menu

A Solo Female Travel Blog

My ‘Slow Travel’ Guide To South Goa

My ‘Slow Travel’ Guide To South Goa

South Goa is a peaceful alternative to the much touristic and crowded North Goa. If you’re someone who enjoys slow travel, local experiences, and seeks lesser-known sights and an intimate rendezvous with nature, my South Goa Travel Guide is for you. 

When I decided to travel to Goa during the pandemic, I purposely chose South Goa. It was a trip without a specific agenda. I wanted to savour the slow and quiet life of South Goa. My idea was to extract unique experiences, spontaneous adventures and rare attractions without doing much. 

I was conscious about choosing a destination, which was easy to reach, required minimal movement and human contact. I guess I was able to do that.

Besides, I avoided the hotels completely. I stayed at heritage mansions, homestays and AirBnbs to be able to experience the local life and discover the best places to visit in South Goa.

My Slow Travel Guide To South Goa

I believe we should make better travel choices, even when we have a vaccination for Coronavirus. Let’s not forget that travel is a privilege. Thereby, let’s be respectful towards the environment, nature, local resources and the communities. Let’s not be ignorant anymore.

It’s time we take responsibility of being good and kind travellers.

My ‘Slow Travel’ Guide To South Goa     

Even though it was a long trip, I did not visit North Goa to be able to avoid crowded places. While South Goa is known to be less crowded and peaceful, North Goa also has some reclusive places. You got to choose the right kind of places with a little bit of research.

You can also read my post on offbeat sights and travel experiences in North Goa .   

It was a three-week mother-daughter sojourn in the laidback villages of South Goa.

Here’s sharing my personal South Goa itinerary –

Majorda is an exceedingly charming village in Salcete, South Goa. I’d say Majorda is a great choice to begin your stay in Goa, as it’s not so far from the airport.

It’s an amazing concoction of the vintage appeal exuded by the Portuguese homes, old churches, art galleries and simple, unimposing, traditional village life of Goa. And, not to forget you also have Majorda beach, which is one of the most serene South Goa beaches.

Slow travel guide to South Goa

I’d suggest you should indulge your appetite at Martin’s Corner and Pentagon Restaurant , which are highly recommended for yummy seafood and other non-vegetarian dishes. Visit them during the lean hours when there are fewer people. Pentagon has a lovely outdoor seating with a view of the lush fields.

I spent four days in Majorda at an extremely fascinating Portuguese mansion – Vivenda dos Palhacos .

Although I did not enjoy staying in Colva much, it is a reasonably beautiful coastal village in Salcete, South Goa. It is quite close to Majorda.

Colva has a highly commercial side to it – crowded beach, lots of shops and vehicles, which is why I did not like it much. However, there’s a quiet and appealing side to Colva, too. There are lush roads, ideal for strolling. There are imposing churches and chapels, cute cafes and bakeries, too.

South Goa travel itinerary

I stayed in Colva for four days in an Airbnb, which was close to all the necessary shops and barely a kilometre away from Colva beach.

Benaulim is another lovely village in South Goa. It’s just a few kms from Colva. I’d say Benaulim is one of the best places, which are not on tourists’ radar. Therefore, it’s peaceful, non-commercial and inspires you to indulge in slow travel and stay longer in Goa.

South Goa villages

South Goa Homestays

I stayed at Simply Homestay owned and run by Nicole, Charlie and their wonderful children, Ethan and Emma.

Apparently, there are not many homestays in Goa. However, I found my kind of a place to stay in South Goa with quite an ease. Simply Homestay is located in Cana Benaulim, which is 3km from Sernabatim Beach.

Simply Homestay South Goa

My fondest memories of South Goa are from Benaulim. I stayed at Nicole’s homestay for six days. And, it was a time well spent in the midst of serenity and verdure. I have to mention that my room and the stay turned out to be even better than what I had expected earlier when I had seen a few pictures of the homestay online.

The homestay is beautiful. It is so full of love. It is your haven of peace and comfort.

Since I had stayed at so many homestays in India, especially in the mountains , I was aware of certain things that I’d experience at Simply Homestay. However, I need to mention that Nicole seasons her comradely hospitality with a lot of ‘extras’, which is rare to find.

Best breakfast places in South Goa Simply Homestay

Nicole and Charlie help you connect with nature in a more meaningful way. I’ve given it a new term – ‘green hospitality’. The homestay has a wide variety of trees and plants that fulfil all your kitchen needs. As you sit and enjoy a meal under a tree, with a view of the rice paddies, Nicole and Charlie join you for conversations.

Beautiful breakfasts in South Goa

It’s always more rewarding to stay with a local family , as they give you insights about their traditions and beliefs, and make you connect with the place in a more authentic way. I could discover things like how rice is steamed traditionally at Goan homes, Feni making, fish drying, and the much-loved baking culture of Goa.  

Goa local culture and traditions

You can give Charlie’s GoaGreen a chance for offbeat South Goa tour packages. They create bespoke experiences of Goa for discerning travellers.  

South Goa villages

My most favourite part about staying at Simply Homestay was the beautiful breakfasts! I really, really appreciate Nicole for being so precise and particular about what I liked and disliked in terms of food. It was so generous of her to prepare breakfasts (and other meals) keeping in mind that I wanted to have only healthy stuff.

She was so accommodative towards my mom as well. Even my mom, who’s extremely particular about her food, felt at home.

Homestays in South Goa

Simply Homestay is one of the best places to stay in South Goa, if you’re not looking for luxuries and frills. You can check out their amenities and rates on the homestay’s website .

Thanks to Nicole, I got to explore a bit of Margao aka Madgaon, the commercial as well as the cultural capital of South Goa. It was an unexpected bonus to my South Goa trip.

I had planned to sleep in the afternoon, and I get a message from Nicole, “I’m going to Margao. Would you like to join?” Well, the invitation was too good to decline. I get ready in a jiffy.

Heritage trails in South Goa

Margao is your alternative to Panjim’s Fontainhas , which is in North Goa. Nicole drove us to a viewpoint, which was from a church. It was a great place to enjoy some panoramic views. However, the sunlight was not appropriate. So, we came to Holy Spirit Church, a 15 th century historic church, which has a lot of beguiling heritage around it – the rundown old mansions.

Heritage places of South Goa

The significant old buildings of Margao to visit: Margao Municipal Council, Sat Bhurzam Ghor, and the Latin Quarters (Abade Faria Road).    

Heritage walks in South Goa

Sadly, the heritage of Margao comes with a black history. On September 21 of 1890, 23 Goans were massacred by the Portuguese rulers.

As stated in Herald Goa : The municipal elections were scheduled on that day and there were allegations that the elections were rigged and people were denied their right to vote and as the murmurings increased, the Portuguese administrator directed his force to fire on the around 4,000 people gathered near Holy Spirit Church.

While 17 people died on the spot including a woman who was leaving the church and a young boy who was playing at his house garden wall. Ultimately 23 people died in the firing that lasted for 20 minutes.

The bullet marks can be seen even today at the house of Dr Slavador Alvares who has framed the marks with circular bass plaques.

If you want to completely drift from the Goa of sun, sand and beaches , sojourn in Curtorim (a village in Salcete) for a few days. The river Zuari flows along the village giving it a dreamlike character.

Curtorim is steeped in verdure. It’s just not about churches, chapels and old Portuguese homes. Curtorim has an abundance of beautiful paddy fields, water bodies, and a huge variety of birds. Thereby, it’s a totally different aspect of Goa.

Curtorim South Goa

There are plenty of nature as well as heritage trails in Curtorim. It’s really up to your curiosity and the spirit to wander.  

I stayed in Curtorim for three days at Arco Iris Boutique Homestay .

Cavelossim is a perfect ‘workation’ in Goa. Fortunately, I found a beautiful Airbnb in Cavelossim , which offered me free WiFi, Netflix, a well-equipped kitchen, washing machine (much-needed for long stays) and a portico facing the lush garden of the property.

Airbnbs of South Goa

There were shops close to the house for all the daily essentials. I’d say Cavelossim is ideal for slow travel or a long-term travel in Goa.

Besides the Airbnb, you can also find quite a few popular hotels in Cavelossim – Radisson Blu Resort Goa , The Leela Goa Luxury Beach and Riverside Resort , and Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort .

Workation in Goa

But if you’re someone like me who prefers to stay away from the touristic crowd, especially in times of Coronavirus, you should opt for a secluded accommodation in South Goa.

I loved Cavelossim particularly because of the deserted farms and fields and the distant blue mountains that I got to see while driving or walking. Not to forget there are some of the calmest beaches in Cavelossim.

South Goa beautiful sights

I stayed in Cavelossim for four days, and it was the last leg of my trip.    

Carmona is another beautiful village in the Salcette district of South Goa. It’s barely 4 kms from Cavelossim.

I discovered Carmona, as I visited Carmona beach, which I thought was one of the best beaches in Goa – it was serene and deserted. And, I witnessed an exceedingly gorgeous sunset from the beach.

Beautiful sunsets of South Goa

However, I have a word of caution for you – make sure you have your own vehicle with you whenever you visit these isolated beaches. You might not get a cab and it’s not fun to walk after sunset through the lonely streets.

Top experiences & activities of my South Goa trip      

  • Elaborate breakfasts in old, heritage balconies or under a tree.
  • Long walks through Goan villages.
  • Visited lesser-known Goa beaches.
  • Explored the cafes and bakeries of South Goa.
  • Visited homes that make Feni, the local beverage of Goa.
  • Watched many beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
  • Relished a variety of fish at Goan homes.
  • Enjoyed panoramic views from hilltops.
  • Conversations with the locals.
  • Walked by rivers and lakes.
  • Savoured doing nothing.

Oldest bakeries of South Goa

Where To Stay In South Goa

South Goa has plenty of accommodation options for all kinds of budgets. You can either choose one of the heritage hotels in South Goa, such as Vivenda dos Palhacos , Arco Iris Boutique Homestay , or a comfy Airbnb for a budget stay.

Goa has many tastefully made hotels to give you that unforgettable experience. 

Check hotel prices on Booking.com

The worst part about your Goa trip could be the local taxis that you hire for commuting. Wouldn’t you agree? You could perhaps save some money when it comes to your accommodation, but the taxis in Goa do make a hole in your pocket.

Well, I found a cheaper alternative on my last trip in Goa –   

  • Use Goa Miles App while you’re in Goa. Since there’s no Ola or Uber in Goa, the local taxi drivers exploit tourists. Say a big NO to them, and download Goa Miles app on your phone for much cheaper local cabs.
  • If you’d like to drive, rent a car for the entire trip.

South Goa travel guide map

Is it safe to travel to Goa now?

Well, in the wake of COVID, it’s not safe to travel anywhere at the moment. However, you can be safe in Goa with proper precautions, such as staying away from crowded places, wearing your mask in public places and sanitizing your hands regularly.

Read my posts on Pandemic Travel:

Post Lockdown Travel – How To Be Safe?   

Is Air Travel Safe During COVID?

Mother daughter travel guide

South Goa Trip Budget

The budget of your trip depends upon many things, such as the length of your trip, the season, the choices you make in terms of accommodation, food and transport.

You can follow some of my budget travel tips for your Goa trip –

  • Choose all-inclusive homestays for your stay. Stay longer and ask for discount.
  • Stay in Airbnb homes of Goa – the benefit is that you can cook your own meals and save money, which you would otherwise spend on restaurants.
  • Stay at hotels that offer activities and sights at walkable distances. Avoid spending on local taxis.
  • Make sure the first hotel that you check in as you land in Goa and the last hotel before you leave are close to the airport. You can save on kms and save on fuel.
  • Look for good hotel deals on websites like Booking.com and Agoda. They are my favourites, as you get real good deals and also flexibility to cancel later without a charge.

Quiet beaches of South Goa

Disclaimer: This post has affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Is slow travel in South Goa on your agenda?

Enjoyed this post? Subscribe to receive ‘new posts’ straight in your inbox!

  • Kale by LyraThemes.com.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide

Top Places to Visit in Goa

72 Hours in Goa

Day Trips From Goa

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts

Top Restaurants in Goa

Nightlife in Goa

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

south goa travel

Let's face it. Most people visit Goa for the beaches and parties. However, there's plenty more to experience. The Portuguese occupied Goa for about 450 years until the Indian Armed Forces finally drove them out in 1961.   The state was also a significant destination on the 1970s hippie trail. As a result, it's quite unlike anywhere else in India and has a distinctly different culture. This Goa guide will help plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry. Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.
  • Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and spoken.  
  • Currency: Indian rupee.
  • Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Goa does not observe daylight saving time.
  • Getting Around: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common methods of transportation. Unfortunately, the notorious Goan taxi mafia keeps fares high and prevents app-based cabs such as Uber from operating. There is a state-run, app-based taxi service called GoaMiles . The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is an inexpensive way of reaching Goa's tourist attractions. Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is popular and affordable.
  • Travel Tip: The monsoon season in Goa is ideal for spending time in the state's mountainous interior hinterland. White water rafting is possible.

Things to Do

Most people are surprised at how many things there are to do in Goa apart from the beach and nightlife. This includes water sports and adventure activities , hot air ballooning, cooking lessons, exploring old forts, seeing the spice plantations, browsing museums and art galleries, bird watching at Doctor Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hiking in the nature reserves, yoga and natural therapies, cruising along the Mandovi River in a private yacht , betting at the casinos , listening to live jazz music, and of course shopping. Active travelers can go on these off-beat electric bicycle tours or walking tours .

Three of the main things to do in Goa are:

  • Hanging out at the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna beach, Friday Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop near Vagator, and Saturday Night Market at Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga). These markets are seasonal.
  • Wandering around Old Goa and the Fontainhas Latin Quarter .
  • Touring the Portuguese mansions in South Goa .

Find out more about the top places to visit in Goa and cultural things to do in Goa beyond the beaches .

What to Eat and Drink

Goan cuisine was influenced mainly by the Portuguese and is predominantly non-vegetarian. Lesser-known is the traditional cuisine of the state's Hindu Saraswat Brahmin community. Fish curry and rice is a ubiquitous staple in Goa. Common types of dishes you'll find on the menu are xacutti (coconut-based curry), cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled), sorpotel (stew), recheado (stuffed), ambot tik (sour and spicy), and vindaloo (fiery curry marinated with garlic and vinegar or wine). Goan chourico (sausages) and pao (bread) are popular as well. However, you'll need to venture away from the beach shacks to get authentic Goan food.

Feni is Goa's pungent local brew and the unofficial state drink. It's made from cashew fruit or the sap of coconut palms. Drink it with tonic water or lemonade and a slice of lime. Avoid cheap, commercially produced feni though, as it has a distinctively unpleasant smell. Instead, try and get your hands on some home-distilled feni ( Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay makes their own). Or, a bottle of premium Big Boss or  Cazulo feni. It's now possible to go straight to the source of Cazulo feni, as the company has opened its cellar in the Cansaulim foothills for tours and tastings. Call 8605-008-185 to book. Joseph Bar in Panjim's Fontainhas Latin Quarter crafts some innovative feni cocktails. On the beach, King's beer goes well with a curry.

Explore the best Goan cuisine restaurants for all budgets and hottest bars and beach shacks in Goa .

Where to Stay

Goa's coastline extends for about 100 miles. Every beach is different , and there are so many types of accommodations ranging from beach huts to luxury private villas. It can be confusing! If you're looking for action, base yourself in North Goa because South Goa is relatively undeveloped and laid-back. Most of the luxury hotels are situated in South Goa. Palolem is the most happening beach in South Goa, while Agonda is ideal for chilling out and doing nothing. Patnem offers a bit of both. In North Goa, the Candolim-Calangute- Baga stretch of beaches is especially commercialized and gets super crowded during peak season. Backpacker hostels are prevalent near Anjuna beach, and the famous Wednesday flea market takes place there as well. The remaining psychedelic trance scene exists around Vagator beach, the Mandrem-Morjim-Ashwem stretch of beaches has become quite trendy, while Arambol beach is the new traveler's center with a wide range of alternative therapies. Capital city Panjim is centrally located between north and south Goa. Its Fontainhas Latin Quarter is an atmospheric neighborhood to stay in a restored Portuguese mansion.

Discover Goa's best homestays, budget accommodations, and yoga retreats, and wellness resorts .

Getting There

Goa has one airport. It's an international airport that operates out of a military airbase in Dabolim, roughly equal distance from Goa's north and south beaches. Most people take a prepaid taxi from the airport to their hotel. There's a counter in the arrivals terminal where you can book and pay. A shuttle bus service also runs from the airport to Panjim, Calangute, and Margao. It can be booked online here or at the airport.

Indian Railways train is another option for getting to Goa. It's handy for budget travelers, and conveniently has multiple stops in north and south Goa. The stretch from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Railway is particularly scenic. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Goa .

Culture and Customs

Goa is more liberal than other states in India. This means women can wear short dresses and bikinis on the beach. There's no need to dress conservatively.

Scams are common in Goa, including the infamous gem scam . Beware of any Indian guys who try to befriend you. People offering to sell you drugs may also approach you. Don't accept, as dealers often have arrangements with the police. The police are corrupt and will extort money from tourists found in possession of illegal substances such as marijuana. The cops often demand bribes for traffic violations too. If you hire a motorcycle or scooter, make sure you carry your license with you and wear a helmet at all times.

While Goa has a reputation for being a party hub there are very strict drug laws. Those caught with drugs could face jail times of 6 months to 30 years and there is no option for bail.  

Money-Saving Tips

  • Hotels offer huge discounts of up to 50 percent during the low season from May to September.
  • There are many budget accommodations in Goa that don't advertise on the Internet. If you're not traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-January), turn up and find a place and negotiate the rate.
  • Stay in a dorm or private room in a backpacker hostel.
  • Keep an eye out for happy hours and ladies' nights at bars for cheap or free drinks.
  • Make sure you bargain at markets to get a good deal.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Portuguese India."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Languages."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Laws."

12 Cultural Things to Do in Goa Beyond the Beaches and Bars

12 Irresistible Luxury Private Villas in Goa for Groups

Goa in the Monsoon Season: Essential Travel Guide

Palolem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

How to Travel From Mumbai to Goa by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

The 13 Best Beaches in Goa

Essential South Goa Travel Guide

The 14 Best Beaches in India

Patnem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

The Best Time to Visit Goa

72 Hours in Goa: The Perfect Itinerary

25 of the Hottest Clubs, Bars and Beach Shacks in Goa

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

India Travel: Issues to Know at Top Tourist Places

12 Goan Cuisine Restaurants in Goa for All Budgets

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

  • 14 Things To Do In South Goa Best For Locals And Tourists In 2024

23 Mar 2023

The south coast of Goa is surrounded by a beautiful landscape of coconut plantations and rolling green hills and is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the region. A great starting point for those who want a chain of things to do in South Goa must note that the shores of North Goa are often considered the perfect destination for a beach holiday, but the beaches of South Goa are renowned for their natural beauty. Whether it be the picturesque Palolem beach or the serene Patnem, you can indeed have a truly memorable vacation. Goa also offers a wide variety of water sports, with Baga and Calangute being two top destinations for such activities.

14 Most Popular Things To Do In South Goa

If you are planning to visit the state of Goa and looking for things to do in South Goa specifically, read on to learn more about the best and most popular activities.

1. Take a road trip from River Sal to Agonda

a road trip from River

Image Credit: Tuderna for Wikimedia Commons

Agonda, a secluded and picturesque beach located in Goa, has recently seen the emergence of luxury resorts and beach huts along its shoreline, yet despite this development, the beach remains relatively uncrowded even during peak tourist season, providing an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and tranquil getaway. Surrounded by towering mountains on either side, it is widely considered by many to be the most stunning beach in all of Goa, and if you are searching for a beachfront property with uninterrupted views of the ocean and a minimal number of visitors, a trip to an Agonda is highly recommended and one of the more offbeat things to do in South Goa.

20 Best Beaches In South Goa For A Happening Holiday In 2023!

2. Hike up to watch the Dudhsagar falls

Best places to visit

Nestled deep within the lush wilderness of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, the Dudhsagar Waterfall is a spectacular natural wonder that cascades down from the Western Ghats in South Goa. With a height of approximately 310 meters and a width of 30 meters, this four-tiered waterfall is among the tallest in India and is a truly breathtaking sight to behold. The name “Dudhsagar” translates to “Sea of Milk” and the waterfall truly upholds its name, especially during the peak monsoon months when the water is at its most abundant and the waterfall appears to be a sea of churning white milk.

3. Visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Best Places to visit

Image Courtesy: Government of Goa

The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the small town of Mollem in Goa, nestled amidst the picturesque Western Ghats. This famous sanctuary is enveloped by thick, lush forests that provide the perfect setting for a variety of wildlife to thrive. It holds a prominent place among the wildlife sanctuaries in India due to both its historical and geographical significance. It is one of the best things to do in South Goa with family.

Address: 87MQ+H89, Goa 403410 Hours: 9 am–5:30 pm

50 Amazing Places To Visit In South Goa In 2023 For A Fun-Filled Beach Vacation

4. Attend a party on Colva Beach

popular hangout spot for hippies

What was once a small, sleepy fishing village and a popular hangout spot for hippies in the 1960s, Colva has now transformed into a bustling resort town. Known for its crowded beaches filled with day-trippers and package tourists, Colva Beach in Goa is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy water sports and soak up some fresh sea air.

5. Try scuba diving near Grande Island

scuba diving near Grande Island

Grande Island located in South Goa is a highly sought-after destination for those seeking the thrill of underwater scuba adventures. People from all over the world come to this exotic island to witness the stunning marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse underwater ecosystem. Divers, accompanied by their instructors, typically reach Grande Island via boat or yacht from the nearest beach, Bogmalo Beach. The visibility for diving in Grande Island is considered to be among the best in all of Goa, making it a prime spot for observing the underwater world, making this activity one of the best things to do in South Goa.

Ditch The Wild Goan Vacation For These Harmonious Alluring Villas In South Goa

6. Take a trip to the Big Foot Museum

trip to the Big Foot Museum

Image Credit: JosephAssisFernandes for Wikimedia Commons

The open-air museum located in Loutolim is a unique attraction that aims to recreate Goan’s rural life as it existed 100 years ago. Visitors can take a step back in time and explore a recreated village that offers a glimpse into the traditional occupations, social classes, and way of life of the people who lived in Goa in the past. The museum features miniature houses that showcase different aspects of Goan life such as fishermen, artisans, music schools, farmers, liquor shops, the village market, and even a feni distillery.

7. Indulge in Water Activities

For Thrill, Fun, And Excitement

Coming to Goa and not trying watersports is a sin as the destination is not only confined to its beaches, seafood, nightlife and shopping experiences. There are numerous water activities in south goa including skiing, parasailing, diving, kite surfing, jet skiing to water scooter ride, flyboarding, paddle boarding, surfboarding, and sport fishing. Most of the beaches would allow you to indulge in these activities.

16 Best Forts In Goa Every History-Lover Must Visit

8. Splurge in Shopping

Visit Arpora Night Market

Goa is indeed a shopaholic’s paradise. There are numerous markets where you will find hats, hand crafted products, keychains, decorative items, and several souvenirs. Some of the best ones where you can head to are Margao Municipal Market, Colva Beach Market, Palolem Beach Market, etc. Moreover, there are some markets like Covered Margao Market and Gandhi Market that are dedicated to only the food section. Since most of the markets are near the beach, you can simply head to the beach after enjoying some retail therapy.

9. Take a Spice Plantation Tour

An Aromatic Experience in Goa

Image Source

Spice plantation plays a major role in Goa’s development. There are numerous locally-produced ingredients and spices used to prepare authentic Goan cuisine. Hence, you must add a spice plantation tour to your itinerary to learn about the flavors of Goan delicacies through its ingredients. You can also buy some fresh spice to bring back home. Sahakari Spice Farm, Pascoal Spice Village, Pascoal Spice Village, and Savoi Spice Plantation are a few plantations where you can visit.

12 Lakes In Goa That Are Ideal For An Off-Beat Vacation

10. Go for Beach Hopping

The Best Way To Explore Beaches

Goa is loaded with beaches all around and to complete your Goan trip, you must explore some and witness their unique charm. Butterfly Beach, Palolem Beach, Palolem Beach, Bogmalo Beach, Polem Beach, Agonda Beach, Mobor Beach, Arossim Beach, Betalbatim Beach, and Cavelossim Beach are some of the most enchanting beaches in South Goa offering you invigorating experiences. Moreover, you can also indulge in water activities at most of the beaches.

11. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Enjoy The Stunning View in Goa

One of the best things to do in south Goa for couples , a hot air balloon ride is indeed an underrated activity that one must try while visiting South Goa. However, it is one of the best things to do in South Goa for relishing the aerial view of the region. Assolda Football Ground is one of the few places in South Goa where you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride. The 45 minutes to 1 hour ride will let you witness landscapes that you have never seen previously. To make the most of your ride, plan it during the early morning hours.

From beach activities, exploring islands, shopping at flea markets to thrilling water sports, the list of things to do in Goa does not end. Have a look at the top activities to add to your list. Make sure you mark your favorites!

10 Scintillating Beaches Near Margao That Will Make Your Goan Vacay Memorable

12. Visit Soulful Temples

Temples

South Goa is home to a plethora of temples that emit serene vibes. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple, Maruti Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Mahadeva Temple, Shri Shantadurga Temple, Shri Damodar Temple, Mahalasa Temple, and Mangeshi Temple are some of the most popular temples in South Goa rendering sheer peach and tranquility. Interestingly, most of the temples boast an exceltic blend of Portuguese and Indian architecture.

13. Feel the Luxury of a Cruise

For A Cruise Experience in Goa

Cruising is one activity that truly deserved to be on your to do list while visiting South Goa. There are numerous options like backwater cruise, sunset cruise, and casino cruise but dinner cruise on Mandovi River that allow you to taste the luxury in a unique manner. The cruise starts from the Jetty at the Santa Monica and takes one through the river. One can enjoy the beauty of Goa after sunset, glittering beaches, and shacks.

7 Best Places For Camping In Goa For An Enchanting And Rejuvenating Experience

14. Sample Some Local Goan Delicacies

Drool, Taste, and Relish

Goan cuisine is a blend of Portuguese and Konkani style of cooking that gives all the delicacies a rich flavor. One of the best things to do in Goa is to gorge upon some traditional food. The Fisherman’s Wharf, Riverside (The Leela), Village Square, Zeebop, Lobster Shack, The Garden, Martin’s Corner, Joecon’s Garden Restaurant, Blue Planet Cafe, and Magic Italy are a few restaurants and cafes where you can reshish upon the authentic Goan cuisine.

The quieter, secluded beaches and luxurious resorts of South Goa are what makes it famous. In contrast to the bustling and more crowded North Goa, South Goa is known for providing a tranquil and relaxing environment, making it a popular choice among travellers seeking a more relaxed, less developed vacation spot. Explore our Goa tour packages to learn more.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in South Goa

Is South Goa worth visiting?

South Goa offers visitors the opportunity to experience unspoiled beaches, picturesque churches and temples, and natural reserves home to diverse wildlife. Adventure seekers can enjoy a range of exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, or simply relax on the secluded beaches and soak up the sun.

Are 3 days enough in South Goa?

Absolutely, during a three-day trip to Goa, one can indulge in the white sands of Anjuna beach, experience scuba diving and snorkelling at Baga beach, and explore the numerous casinos. And perhaps one of the most memorable experiences you will have is to test your luck at the casinos and try your hand at the various games.

What is the best time to visit South Goa?

Goa is best enjoyed during the cooler months, typically from November to February, when the weather is perfect for exploring the sights and lounging on the beautiful beaches.

People Also Read:

Things To Do In Odisha Things To Do In Jim Corbett Things To Do In Siliguri

Recent Posts

south goa travel

2024 में ताज़गी भरे पलायन के लिए 28 कूर्ग में करने कूर्ग में करने के लिए सबसे अच्छी चीज़ें

south goa travel

Explore Life Under Water While Coral Reef Snorkeling In Sri Lanka

south goa travel

Witness The Magnificent Pigeon Valley In Cappadocia For The Beautiful View

things to do in hoi an

Top 7 Things To Do In Hoi An For A Wonderful Experience

Things to do in Marsa Alam

6 Things To Do In Marsa Alam To Make Your Trip More Thrilling

Choses à faire à Kota Kinabal

18 Choses à faire à Kota Kinabalu en 2024 pour passer des vacances passionnantes en Malaisie

Trending Blogs

south goa travel

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

south goa travel

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

south goa travel

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

Skiing In Krasnaya Polyana

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

a couple in front of taj mahal

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

Best honeymoon destinations in the world

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

  • TravelTriangle
  • Goa »
  • Tour Packages
  • Honeymoon Packages
  • Family Packages
  • Budget Tour Packages
  • Luxury Tour Packages
  • Adventure Tour Packages
  • Group Tour Packages
  • Kerala Tour Packages
  • Goa Tour Packages
  • Andaman Tour Packages
  • Sikkim Tour Packages
  • Himachal Tour Packages
  • Uttarakhand Tour Packages
  • Rajasthan Tour Packages
  • Tour Packages From Delhi
  • Tour Packages From Mumbai
  • Tour Packages From Bangalore
  • Tour Packages From Chennai
  • Tour Packages From Kolkata
  • Tour Packages From Hyderabad
  • Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
  • Kerala Tourism
  • Goa Tourism
  • Sikkim Tourism
  • Andaman Tourism
  • Himachal Tourism
  • Uttarakhand Tourism
  • Rajasthan Tourism
  • Hotels in Kerala
  • Hotels in Goa
  • Hotels in Sikkim
  • Hotels in Andaman
  • Hotels in Himachal
  • Hotels in Uttarakhand
  • Hotels in Rajasthan

BLACK LOGO- Try Wandering

A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers

This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time, as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.

Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden-sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other, with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices. It is definitely the most popular destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal, of course), as it has something for everyone.

Guide to Goa For First Timers

What is the best time to visit goa.

pasture, low-land, buffaloes, Monsoon may not be the best time to visit Goa due to flooding

March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy, with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).

June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall, with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.

November–February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa, being a coastal area, is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival, which attracts people from all over. Plus, people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.

Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.

How to reach Goa?

How to reach Goa? Have a fun time in a train

Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama, and there is also a new airport in North Goa, Manohar International Airport. You can land at either of these and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.

While most cities in India have an organised cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has  GoaMiles  ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. You can also opt for the taxis lined up on the road outside the airport (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers but these might turn out to be more expensive.

Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also very inconvenient, as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. Use the local bus only if you’re on a super low budget.

Bus, Cab and Car

You can also opt to reach Goa by overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .

You can book your bus via Redbus .

We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!

Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .

Which area to stay in Goa?

A fairly empty Baga Beach - One of the popular beaches in North Goa

Goa is divided into North and South Goa, with its capital, Panaji (popularly known as Panjim), located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it can be confusing to decide where to stay, as different corners of the state offer different experiences. In this itinerary, you’ll be staying in both North Goa and South Goa .

Baga, Calangute, Candolim or Anjuna : This is a good option for your first time in Goa, as the area is very central, so all places to see would be close to you.

However, please note that these beaches aren’t best, as they’re the most popular in Goa. Every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. However, your purpose of staying around this area is different. You’re here to enjoy the water sports, the parties, the food and maybe even shop a little.

A little further north is Anjuna. While it is not the best location to stay for this itinerary, this area has come up a lot in the past few years, so you’ll find a lot of  must-visit restaurants in Goa  around this area.

Stay Options:

Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora) Onastay  (2BHK in Candolim) Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora) Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna) Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury) Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna).

Palolem or Agonda: For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of these two beaches and explore other beaches nearby. These beaches have restaurants but still maintain a relaxed vibe so you can enjoy time on the beach. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March, as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over. Click to  know more about South Goa Beaches .

Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar (Agonda Beach—I’ve stayed here twice) Simrose (Agonda Beach; this one is often open all-year round) Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch at Agonda Beach) Agonda Island View (Agonda Beach) BunkNBrew (hostel in Palolem)

How to get around Goa?

Palolem Beach - One of the popular beaches in South Goa

Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for getting around and sightseeing. Buses are quite cheap but again, inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooter or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around, as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs. 500–800 a day, depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.

If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. Economy cars usually cost about Rs. 1000–1200 per day but may go up depending on the season.

You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.

The Perfect 1 Week Goa Itinerary: North and South Goa

The Goa experience is different for every individual, depending on their style of travel. It’s never one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet to see it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy—nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!

Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, and Partying

Stay near the Baga Beach/Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooter, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!

Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party

Visit Baga Beach during your first time in Goa

  • Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
  • Rent a vehicle
  • Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
  • Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
  • At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.

Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, and Party

You don’t need to do all of the things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.

Antares View Goa

  • Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
  • Lunch:   Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
  • Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
  • Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
  • Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
  • Dinner at Ida in Vagator
  • Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).

Day 3–4: North Goa: Culture, Heritage and Nature

Day 3: culture and heritage.

Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:

  • St. Augustine Church Ruins
  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
  • Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
  • Se Cathedral
  • Church of St. Cajetan
  • Viceroy’s Arch
  • Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)

Ruins of the Chuch of St. Augustine is a fantastic spot to add to your Goa itinerary

Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.

Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.

Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas, Asia’s largest Latin Quarter, which has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a Latin Quarter walking tour ; only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history, architecture, and all the stories.

However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs, ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .

south goa travel

Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations accordingly. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.

Night: Later, you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.

Book Tours in Goa

Day 4: Nature and Heritage

Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!

Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.

Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:

  • Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas; otherwise, nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
  • Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).

Reis Magos Fort is a hidden gem in North Goa.

Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.

A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian

Day 5–6: South Goa: Beaches and Relaxation

Day 5: spice plantations, iconic restaurants, relaxation.

Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach—both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.

But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.

Visit Spice Plantations- A top suggestion for our Goa Travel Guide Blog

  • Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalising smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learned a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
  • Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.

Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset, etc. Otherwise, you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!

Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints

Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.

Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon, where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.

Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach in South Goa

  • Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
  • Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.

Depart for home this evening or the next morning!

But do not forget to book your tours in goa before you get there!

Tips to Stay Safe in Goa

This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and local-friendly. But because it is a  thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following, especially if you’re a woman.

  • Don’t hitchhike.
  • If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do. 
  • Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
  • Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
  • Watch your drink.
  • Try to stay vigilant, even when drunk.
  • Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting. 
  • Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
  • Drugs are available abundantly in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket. 
  • Avoid drunken driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.

Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have  travelled solo to Goa  and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of  ways to stay safe while travelling alone .

Wrapping up

Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new – a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods – with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip- and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave just like the hippies in their heydays. Hope you found this Goa Travel Blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!

This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

1 thought on “A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers”

' src=

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

The Best of Goa | 7 Day Travel Itinerary + Guide

The Best of Goa | 7 Day Travel Itinerary + Guide

Welcome to the Ultimate Goa Travel Guide , designed to help you make the most of your 7-day adventure in the beautiful Indian coastal paradise, of Goa. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, or cultural experiences, Goa has something to offer everyone, and this 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary and Guide , has it all. In this Goa Travel Guide, we’ll provide you with a suggested 7 Day itinerary to explore the best of North Goa, South Goa, and Panjim, along with key insights on the best time to visit Goa, must-visit places in Goa, offbeat experiences to do in Goa, and the best resort in Goa, India.

Day 1: Arrival in North Goa

Day 2: explore north goa, day 3: road trip from north goa to south goa, day 4: discover offbeat things to do in south goa, day 5: dive into south goa, day 6-7: immerse yourself in panjim, coconut creek resort | bogmalo, goa, feni and tapas food trail in old latin quarters, fontainhas heritage walk, e-bike tour to divar island, attending a drum circle, visiting salaulim dam, 7 day goa travel itinerary – summary, share this:, the best of goa – 7 day travel itinerary.

  • Start your journey by arriving in Goa, preferably during the best month to visit Goa, which is typically between November and March, offering pleasant weather.
  • Prefer to land at the Manohar Parrikar International Airport in MOPA, as you’ll be c hecking in into your accommodation in North Goa, known for its lively atmosphere and bustling beaches. Check out the Best Hotels in North Goa here and save upto 50%.
  • Pro Tip – Make your life easy, by pre-booking a Rental Car in Goa. The vehicle can be picked up at the Airport, and make sure to do a proper visual inspection, and even take a video, before taking the keys. Car Rentals in Goa start for as less as ₹ 1400 – 2000 / day.
  • Spend the evening at any of the famous beaches in North Goa, such as Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Arambol Beach, famous for its nightlife and beachside shacks.
  • Begin your day with a visit to the historic Aguada Fort / Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
  • Head to Anjuna Beach to experience its bohemian vibes and browse the flea market. 
  • Enjoy traditional Goan cuisine at Vinayak Family Restaurant and Gunpowder in Assagao. These are some of the Best Restaurants in North Goa , that you should definitely check out.
  • Head to any of the popular beach clubs of Goa such as Mayan Beach Club, Thalassa Goa, Purple Martini, Titlie Goa for an epic sundowner.
  • If possible, attend a drum circle.Attending a Drum Circle is one of the best things to do in Goa, and these Drum Circles are organised regularly on Arambol Beach, Morjim Beach, Anjuna Beach among others. Just ask the locals, they’ll be able to help you with the latest information.

PS – Useful Travel Resources that will help you plan better for your Trip to Goa

  • Book the best Goa Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
  • Book your Accommodation in Goa on Agoda or Booking.com
  • Book your Goa Car Rentals on Go Goa Car Rentals or Ezee Car Rent
  • Book your flights at the cheapest rates on Kiwi.com
  • Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
  • Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Goa, and lounge for free at Premium Airport Lounges
  • Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Goa
  • Check out from your North Goa accommodation and head to South Goa, which is less crowded and known for its tranquillity. 
  • We recommend the Coconut Creek Resort near Bogmalo Beach. The resort, is one of the best in Goa, India;  has an inviting swimming pool, it’s surrounded by greenery, has an amazing in house restaurant serving the best dishes of Goa, and is just a 3 minute from Bogmalo Beach, which is a relatively cleaner and less crowded beaches of South Goa.
  • Head out and experience the best Goan dishes such as Chicken Xacuti, Prawn Vindaloo, Pork Sorpotel, at Martin’s Corner or at Fisherman’s Wharf, which are some of the Best Places to Eat in South Goa.
  • Explore offbeat destinations in South Goa, near Bogmalo Beach, such as Kesarwal Spring Waterfall and the Heart Shaped Lake.
  • Visit the Paul John Distillery and do the distillery and tasting tour. Its one of those experiences, that might as well turn out to be one of the highlights of your trip to Goa. However, do enquire beforehand, and confirm the slot timings for your visit.
  • Head further south to experience the calm at Majorda Beach, and the less touristy Cabo Da Rama Beach and Cola Beach and lagoon. If weather permits, enjoy a beautiful sunset from any of these beaches.
  • Enjoy a traditional Goan Seafood Thali at any of the local eateries and pair it up with some Goan Feni – the local liquor made from cashew and coconut.
  • Put the location on Google Maps as Salaulim Gardens, and head to one of the most beautiful and underrated tourist attraction in Goa – The Salaulim Dam. Even though, it’s a bit far from other popular sights in Goa, the drive to Salaulim Dam is very beautiful and the untouched beauty of the dam, makes it worth the effort of going the extra mile.
  • If weather permits, also check out the famous Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which also happens to be one of the tallest waterfalls in India and one of the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in India , nestled in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Enquire about all the information required to explore Dudhsagar Waterfall from the reception desk of your hotel in South Goa.
  • Drive back to your South Goa hotel, and just relax by the pool. Enjoy a delectable dinner spread at the in house restaurant of your South Goa hotel.
  • Check out from your South Goa Hotel and head to Panjim, the charming state capital.
  • We recommend staying near Miramar Beach, or in the heart of Panjim – The Old Latin Quarters, in a heritage property. Check out the Best Hotels in Panjim here and avail upto 50% discounts on your booking.
  • Spend your days in Panjim, exploring historic sites like the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, and the Reis Magos Fort, and the nearby Divar Island. 
  • Do the Fontainhas Heritage Walking Tour by Make It Happen Goa , to know more about the history of the iconic Old Latin Quarter of Panjim.
  • Discover the beauty of Divar Island, by doing an E – Bike Tour by B:Live E – Bike Tours Goa , and combine the adventure of cycling with the ease of cruising .
  • Take a cruise along the Mandovi River and enjoy the vibrant Goan culture.
  • Go on a culinary adventure by joining the Feni and Tapas Trail by Make It Happen , and try out some yummy crafted Feni based cocktails, along with Goan and Portuguese inspired food dishes, at some of the Best Restaurants in Panjim.
  • Try out your luck at any of the many famous Casinos in Panjim. Gambling is legal in Goa, if you didn’t already know.
  • Goan Cashews
  • The Goan Spices
  • Homegrown Gins produced in Goa – Tickle Gin, Satiwa Passion Hemp Gin, Udaipur Gulaab Gin, Pumori Small Batch Gin, Matinee Gin, among others.
  • Other Goan liquors – Cabo Rum, Goan Feni and Port Wine.
  • The Portuguese inspired azulejos tiles.
  • Edible Goan souvenirs – Goan Pork Chorizo Sausages, Bebinca, Prawn Balchao and Mackarel Molho (Goan Pickles)
  • Mario Miranda’s Goan Themed paintings / fridge magnets.
  • Departure from Goa (by flight, train or bus) in the evening of the last day of this 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary.

Best Resort in Goa | India

The highlight of my Trip to Goa has to be the beautiful experience at Coconut Creek Resort Goa , where the staff literally went above and beyond to make my experience memorable. 

Coconut Creek Resort Goa 1

Welcome to Coconut Creek Resort | Bogmalo, Goa

Coconut Creek Goa Resort 4

Here are 5 Reasons that make Coconut Creek Resort near Bogmalo Beach, stand out in the list of the Best Hotels and Resorts in South Goa, India.

⏩

Apart from the stay, the highlight was the epic Goan culinary experience that Chef Aniket took us on. We tried some of the best Goan local dishes such as Chicken Xacuti , Pork Sorpotel , Prawn Curry , Lamb Chops , a variety of local Goan fish delicacies , and the famous Goan Caramel Pudding.

south goa travel

Coconut Creek Go a is without a doubt one of the Best Resorts in South Goa , India ; and is still one of the hidden gems. 

If you are heading to Goa, I would highly recommend you to make Coconut Creek Goa as your base, and explore the best of Goa from here. Staying at Coconut Creek Goa, might very well turn out to be one of the highlights on your 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary as well.

Book your stay at the Coconut Creek Resort in Goa, by clicking here . Make sure to book it in advance, as this resort in Goa, India; runs fully booked, specially in the season, which is from October – March.

5 Unique Experiences to tick off in Goa

Dive into the culinary heritage of Goa with a Feni and Tapas Food Trail in the Old Latin Quarters. This experience combines the delightful flavours of Goan cuisine with Goa’s iconic spirit, Feni. Start your gastronomic journey at a traditional tavern/bar, where you’ll be introduced to Feni, a locally distilled liquor made from cashews.

Stop at local eateries and restaurants to try some unique Feni based cocktails, and savour a variety of tapas-style dishes, each bursting with flavours that reflect Goa’s culinary diversity. From seafood delights like prawn resois to vegetarian options like mushroom xacuti, you’ll indulge in a wide range of Goan specialties.

This food trail in Goa not only offers a delectable blend of culture and cuisine, allowing you to experience Goa through its flavours, from traditional to contemporary, all in the heart of the historic Latin Quarter; but can turn out to be of the best experiences in Goa during your 7 Day Trip to Goa.

Use the code “AMMIH10” to get a flat 10% discount on the Feni and Tapas Trail and Fontainhas Heritage Walk and other awesome experiences, such as the Latin Quarter Food Trail, Old Goa Heritage Walk, Campal Heritage Walk, Chronicles of Divar Island with Lunch, among others by Make It Happen Goa. 

Click Here to Book Your Experiences with Make It Happen Goa.

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Goa by embarking on a Fontainhas Heritage Walk. Fontainhas, located in Panjim, is the Latin Quarter of Goa and one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in the state.

This guided heritage walk takes you through winding streets lined with colourful Portuguese-style houses adorned with artistic azulejos (hand-painted ceramic tiles). As you stroll through the narrow lanes, you’ll be transported back in time, learning about the Portuguese influence on Goan architecture, culture, and lifestyle.

Your knowledgeable storyteller will share fascinating stories about the heritage homes, quaint chapels, and local traditions. This immersive experience allows you to soak in the charm of Fontainhas, providing insights into Goa’s unique blend of European and Indian influences. It’s a perfect way to appreciate the Goa’s cultural diversity and architectural beauty.

Fontainhas Heritage Walk

L – Taken during the Fontainhas Heritage Walk 

R – Taken during the Divar Island E – Bike Tour

Experience the serene beauty and tranquil landscapes of Divar Island in an eco-friendly and exciting way with an E-Bike tour. Divar Island, located in the Mandovi River, is known for its lush greenery, traditional Goan villages, and idyllic countryside.

Your E-Bike adventure begins with a short ferry ride across the river from Old Goa to Divar Island.

Once there, you’ll hop on an electric bicycle, a sustainable mode of transport that allows you to explore the island without harming the environment. Pedal through narrow roads flanked by paddy fields, explore charming villages, and interact with friendly locals.

Highlights of the tour include a visit to the Our Lady of Compassion Church, enjoying scenic viewpoints, and taking in the peaceful ambiance of the island. The E-Bike tour provides an offbeat and eco-conscious way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and culture of Divar Island, making it a memorable and sustainable adventure in Goa. So make sure to add the Divar Island E – Bike Adventure on your 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary.

Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats and positive energy of Goa by attending a Drum Circle. This unique and vibrant experience takes place at various beaches, cultural centers, and open spaces throughout Goa.

A Drum Circle is a gathering of people who come together to play percussion instruments, creating mesmerising and spontaneous music. These gatherings are not only about music but also about community, connection, and creative expression.

As the rhythms intensify, you’ll find yourself in a trance-like state, dancing and swaying to the hypnotic sounds. It’s a fantastic way to connect with fellow travellers and locals, experience Goa’s vibrant arts scene, and enjoy an evening of music and free-spirited fun.

PS – Just search for Goa Drum Circle on Instagram or Facebook to get to know about the different drum circles happening and the locations.

Escape the usual tourist crowds and head to Salaulim Dam, a hidden gem nestled amidst the Western Ghats in South Goa. The Salaulim Dam is one of Goa’s lesser-known attractions, offering a serene and picturesque setting surrounded by lush greenery.

The dam not only serves as a water reservoir but also provides a peaceful atmosphere for nature enthusiasts. You can visit the dam to take in breathtaking views of the reservoir and the surrounding hills. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the dam is at its fullest, creating a mesmerising spectacle of cascading water.

south goa travel

Visiting Salaulim Dam is an offbeat experience that allows you to connect with Goa’s natural beauty and offers a refreshing change of pace from the more touristy destinations. You can combine a trip to Salaulim Dam with a visit to Dudhsagar Waterfalls – One of the tallest waterfalls in India.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, or eco-friendly exploration, these unique experiences in Goa offer something special for every traveller, allowing you to connect with Goa’s heritage, cuisine, and natural wonders.

Day 1 –  Arrival in Goa | Stay in North Goa | Try some local Goan cuisine | Relax by the beach

Day 2 –  Explore any of the famous forts – Aguada / Chapora / Tiracol Fort / Reis Magos Fort | Sundowner at any of the famous Goa Beach Clubs | Attend a Drum Circle

Day 3 –  Head to South Goa | Try out local Goan food at any of the Famous Restaurants in Goa | Check in to any of the Best Resorts in South Goa

Day 4 –  Discover offbeat locations in South Goa | Explore Cola Beach and Cabo de Rama Beach | Catch a beautiful sunset 

Day 5 – Visit the Dudhsagar Waterfall | Drive to Salaulim Dam | Visit the Paul John Distillery  

Day 6 –  Divar Island E – Bike Tour | Go souvenir shopping | Feni and Tapas Trail

Day 7 –  Fontainhas Heritage Trail | Day at leisure | Departure from Goa

We hope, that you found this Goa Travel Guide containing the 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary covering the best of North Goa, South Goa, and Panjim, to be helpful. Remember to plan your visit during the best months to visit Goa (October – March), for the most enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for beachfront relaxation, cultural immersion, or vibrant nightlife, Goa has it all.

Use this Goa Travel Guide as a roadmap, to plan your trip to Goa, and to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise.

7 Epic Days in Goa | Goa Travel Itinerary and Guide | Best Things to do in Goa, India

Pin this Goa Travel Guide with a recommended 7 Day Goa Travel Itinerary and SAVE it for the future.

Also, if you like reading the content I create and curate, I will be really thankful if you could take a moment to

LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE and SUBSCRIBE 

Also, if you’re on Facebook, I would love to have you as a part of 

the Eat Travel Live Repeat Travel Community

Subscribe via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to theETLRblog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

Arnav Mathur

  • Kale by LyraThemes.com.

Privacy Overview

  • TN Navbharat
  • Times Drive
  • ET Now Swadesh

destinations

5 Lesser-Known Waterfalls In Goa You Should Bookmark For Monsoon

Updated May 27, 2024, 13:11 IST

5 Lesser-Known Waterfalls In Goa You Should Bookmark For Monsoon. Credit: Canva

5 Lesser-Known Waterfalls In Goa You Should Bookmark For Monsoon. Credit: Canva

Kuskem Waterfall South Goa

Kuskem Waterfall, South Goa

Netravali Waterfall South Goa Credit goaapp

Netravali Waterfall, South Goa

Kesarval Waterfalls South Goa Credit GooglePooharAmonker

Kesarval Waterfalls, South Goa

Bamanbudo waterfall, south goa, hivrem waterfalls, north goa.

Small Cap Company Genesys International Announces Record Quarterly PAT With 168 pc Growth Revenue Increases By 48 pc- Details

Small Cap Company Genesys International Announces Record Quarterly PAT With 168 pc Growth; Revenue Increases By 48 pc- Details

Prajwal Revanna To Be Quizzed Over Stay In Germany People He Contacted In India  Inside Details Of Police Probe

Prajwal Revanna To Be Quizzed Over Stay In Germany, People He Contacted In India | Inside Details Of Police Probe

Furiosa A Mad Max Saga Box Office Collection Day 8 Chris Hemsworths Sci-Fi Flick Inches Closer To Rs 15 Crore Mark

Furiosa A Mad Max Saga Box Office Collection Day 8: Chris Hemsworth's Sci-Fi Flick Inches Closer To Rs 15 Crore Mark

Trailer of Prabhas Kalki 2898 AD To Release On This Date

Trailer of Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD To Release On This Date?

United In Blue For India KKRs Post Featuring Photos Of MIs Rohit Hardik Bumrah  Surya Goes Viral

United In Blue For India! KKR's Post Featuring Photos Of MI's Rohit, Hardik, Bumrah & Surya Goes Viral

Neeta Ambani Drinks Worlds Costliest Gold Water Worth Rs 49 Lakh

Neeta Ambani Drinks World’s Costliest ‘Gold’ Water Worth Rs 49 Lakh

Who Was Jamal Mitchell Minneapolis Police Officer Killed In Whittier Shooting

Who Was Jamal Mitchell, Minneapolis Police Officer Killed In Whittier Shooting?

Iconic Hero Motorcycle With 73 Kmpl Mileage Launched In New Special Avatar

Iconic Hero Motorcycle With 73 Kmpl Mileage Launched In New Special Avatar

Did You Know There Is A Venice Near Amsterdam

Did You Know There Is A ‘Venice’ Near Amsterdam?

8 Best Treks In Ladakh For Adventure Lovers

8 Best Treks In Ladakh For Adventure Lovers

These Destinations Are Indias Favourites This Summer As Per Airbnb

These Destinations Are India’s Favourites This Summer, As Per Airbnb

ICC Mens T20 World Cup 6 Perfect New York Experiences For Travellers

ICC Men's T20 World Cup: 6 Perfect New York Experiences For Travellers

Now Book Flights For As Low As 1177 With This Deal

Now Book Flights For As Low As ₹1,177 With This Deal

SC To Hear Plea For Re-Polling In 45 Booths In Bihars Munger LS Seat Alleging Large-Scale Rigging

SC To Hear Plea For Re-Polling In 45 Booths In Bihar’s Munger LS Seat Alleging 'Large-Scale Rigging'

Laughable BJP Reacts To Manmohan Singhs First PM Remark On Narendra Modi

'Laughable': BJP Reacts To Manmohan Singh's 'First PM' Remark On Narendra Modi

Rahul Gandhi Confident Of Victory As Campaigning Ends INDIA Is Going To Win

Rahul Gandhi Confident Of Victory As Campaigning Ends: 'INDIA Is Going To Win'

PM Modi Reaches Kanniyakumaris Vivekananda Memorial For 45-Hour Meditation  WATCH

PM Modi Reaches Kanniyakumari's Vivekananda Memorial For 45-Hour Meditation | WATCH

Something Major Will Happen After Tejashwi Yadav Claims Nitish Not Going Along Well With BJP

'Something Major Will Happen After...': Tejashwi Yadav Claims 'Nitish Not Going Along Well With BJP'

IMAGES

  1. Places to visit in South Goa

    south goa travel

  2. 12 Super Exciting Places To Visit In South Goa

    south goa travel

  3. 29 Best Places to Visit in South Goa

    south goa travel

  4. An Ultimate South Goa Travel Guide to 15 South Goa Beaches

    south goa travel

  5. The Full Digital Nomad Guide to Goa

    south goa travel

  6. Goa Tour Itinerary For 4 Nights 5 Days

    south goa travel

VIDEO

  1. Ep 1:- Road trip Bangalore to South Goa

  2. 🏖️Top 9 Places To Visit In South Goa🏖️ #shorts #goa #trending #southgoa #goatrip #shortsfeed #viral

  3. Goa trip||first time flight journey with my family||vaccation time||beach vibes||Jyoshnas Vlogs

  4. Goa Trip

  5. Famous church

  6. Day174 Destination

COMMENTS

  1. Best South Goa Itinerary (for 1,2,3,4,5 days in South Goa)

    Plan to stay at Benaulim ( see best-rated accommodations in Benaulim here - as stated earlier I love Azaya Beach Resort) Day 1: Benaulim. If you have 3 days in Goa, it's best to completely explore the magic in Benaulim for a full day. Start with a breakfast at the German bakery, followed by lots of beach time.

  2. 50 Places To Visit In South Goa (with photos) On Your 2024 Vacation!

    39. Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. Established in 1978, Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary is considered to be amongst the best things to see in South Goa. This sanctuary was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1969 and before that, it was called Mollem Game Sanctuary.

  3. South Goa: The Ultimate Travel Guide For 2024

    South Goa, with its serene beaches, lush greenery, and laid-back vibe, is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. This South Goa travel guide by Nomads of India provides a comprehensive overview of the region's attractions, activities, and accommodations.

  4. Best of South Goa, India: Essential Travel Guide

    The majority Goa's luxury hotels are located in South Goa, particularly in the vicinity of Varca, Cavelossim and Morbor beaches. These fishing beaches are clean and unspoiled. The most popular luxury hotels are the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Zuri White Sands, ITC Grand, The Leela, Alila Diwa, and the Lalit Golf and Spa Resort near Patnem beach ...

  5. South Goa travel

    South Goa. Goa, India, Asia. South Goa is the more serene half of the state, and for many travelers that's the attraction. There are fewer activities and not as many bars, clubs or restaurants, but overall the beaches of the south are cleaner and not as crowded as those in the north.

  6. 21 Best Places to Visit in South Goa for A Fun-filled Vacation

    People visit South Goa to feel the serenity of scenic beaches. It is less crowded and offers solace to nature lovers. If you want to enjoy the best of South Goa then at least a week is required. There are many beaches in South Goa. Some of the popular beaches are - Colva, Palalem, Butterfly Beach, Benaulim Beach etc.

  7. Travel Bucket List:12 Best Things To Do In South Goa

    Goa, India's sunny beach paradise, is known for its pristine coastline, active nightlife, and relaxed atmosphere. While many travellers rush to the famed beaches and clubs in North Goa, those looking for something different can find it in the less visited South Goa, from stunning landscapes in wildlife sanctuaries to 12th century temples, and the best bakeries.

  8. An Ultimate South Goa Travel Guide to 15 South Goa Beaches

    2. Grandmother's Hole Beach. As weird as the name sounds, Grandmother's Hole beach is actually quite pretty. Located just 7 km from the Goa airport, the beach is a cliff-side beach. To get to the beach you will have to pass through a park called Japanese garden and climb down a beautiful set of stairs.

  9. 10 Places to Visit in South Goa to Encapsulate Your Joys

    Bookmark the 10 Best Places to Visit in South Goa. Beaches in South Goa. Other Places to Visit in South Goa. Palolem Beach. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. Agonda Beach. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple. Benaulim Beach. Netravali Lake.

  10. Places to Visit in South Goa District

    One of the area's most picturesque beaches. 2023. 3. Cavelossim Beach. 1,804. Beaches. By Balledisco. It is excellent and everything you'd want from a South Goa beach: Water sports, cleanliness, two nice restaurants, wh...

  11. South Goa

    Spend your Goa holiday in the south of the state where you will encounter gorgeous beaches and a delightfully laid-back atmosphere, typical of South Goa. 01489 _ 866994 Open Today: 9am - 5:30pm ... They also provide a Foreign Travel Checklist but be aware that advice can change regularly so please check regularly for updates. The Goa Experience ...

  12. South Goa Travel Guide 2024: Best of South Goa Tourism

    South Goa Tourism and Travel Guide. Go to the southern coast of the sunshine state to avoid all Goan clichés. South Goa is fringed by silken sands and turquoise waters of numerous beaches, starting from Palolem to Patnem. Palácio do Deão, an 18th century palatial mansion, is one of the most beautiful attractions of South Goa.

  13. 29 Best Places to Visit in South Goa

    Here are the top 29 places to visit in South Goa. 1. Palolem Beach. 4.4 /5. 1 out of 29 places to visit in South Goa. A white sand paradise in South Goa, Palolem Beach is approximately 38 km from Madgaon in Cancona and is among the most favourite attractions for travellers visiting Goa.

  14. 5 Best Places & Tourist Spots You Can Visit In South Goa

    The route from Mumbai to South Goa is extremely beautiful and takes about 11 h 3 min (613.2 km) via AH47. By Bus: There are a number of buses that ply from major metros in India to South Goa. You can choose a luxury AC bus or a simple, single tier bus - depending on your budget and preference. Places To Visit In South Goa

  15. Explore South Goa District

    from ₹1,599 per adult. Private Cultural Tour: Ancestral Goa, Shantadurga Temple and Spice Village Including Lunch. 8. from ₹12,632 per adult. Goan Village Life Tour. 1. from ₹13,867 per group. Full-Day Private South Goa Sightseeing Tour with Port Pickup. 2.

  16. South Goa

    3 Bogmalo — a small beach-side village with spectacular sunsets. 15.28064 73.91137. 4 Colva — a beach located South Goa easily accessible from Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore. 15.3511 73.97713. 5 Loutulim — a small town. 15.00996 74.02322. 6 Palolem — a small town with one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. 14.99689 74.0335.

  17. South Goa's most beautiful beaches & off beat things to do ...

    South Goa is unmissable! And in this video, I'm experiencing Goa with TATA Tiago EV! And if you are planning a trip to this side of Goa, I've got you covered...

  18. My 'Slow Travel' Guide To South Goa

    South Goa is a peaceful alternative to the much touristic and crowded North Goa. If you're someone who enjoys slow travel, local experiences, and seeks lesser-known sights and an intimate rendezvous with nature, my South Goa Travel Guide is for you. When I decided to travel to Goa during the pandemic, I purposely chose South Goa.

  19. Goa Guide: Planning Your Trip

    Planning Your Trip . Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry.Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.; Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and ...

  20. 14 things to do in South Goa best for a memorable escape

    There are numerous water activities in south goa including skiing, parasailing, diving, kite surfing, jet skiing to water scooter ride, flyboarding, paddle boarding, surfboarding, and sport fishing. Most of the beaches would allow you to indulge in these activities. 16 Best Forts In Goa Every History-Lover Must Visit. 8.

  21. A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers

    Day 3: Culture and Heritage. Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa. On this day, you'll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage. Basilica of Bom Jesus. Old Goa Churches: Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order: St. Augustine Church Ruins.

  22. South Goa Places to Visit

    South Goa, in India, is known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere. It's a more laid-back and less crowded region compared...

  23. The Best of Goa

    Contents [ hide] The Best of Goa - 7 Day Travel Itinerary. Day 1: Arrival in North Goa. Day 2: Explore North Goa. Day 3: Road Trip from North Goa to South Goa. Day 4: Discover Offbeat Things to do in South Goa. Day 5: Dive into South Goa. Day 6-7: Immerse Yourself in Panjim. Best Resort in Goa | India.

  24. 5 Lesser-Known Waterfalls In Goa You Should Bookmark For Monsoon

    The Ultimate Guide To Travel Backpacks For The Perfect Summer Trip. How To Plan A Fiji Getaway Like Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani. ... South Goa. Credit: goa.app. Netravali Waterfall, South Goa. This waterfall is located in Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, about 50 km from Margao. Accessible by road, visitors can reach the falls after a 20 ...

  25. GOA

    wondrous.goa on May 28, 2024: "#Episode6: Goa's Coastal Treasures @wondrous.goa @wondrous.goa Benaulim Beach Benaulim Beach is located in the South Goa, about ...".