Discover the most enchanting places to visit in South Goa! Immerse yourself in the beauty of pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed guide. Embarking on a journey to explore South Goa is an adventure filled with sun-kissed beaches, cultural richness, and historical marvels. In this guide, we'll take you through the must-visit places, ensuring your trip is a memorable blend of relaxation and exploration.
Places to visit in South Goa
Nestled in a picturesque cove, Palolem Beach is a haven for beach lovers. The golden sands, turquoise waters, and palm-fringed surroundings create a postcard-perfect setting. Whether you're a water sports enthusiast or seeking a serene sunbathing spot, Palolem has it all.
1. Palolem Beach, South Goa
One of the most spectacular beaches in South Goa, Palolem welcomes you to its golden sand and spellbinding scenic views. Dotted with vibrant beach shacks and swaying palm trees, the place exudes a chilled-out party vibe.
Whether you are looking for adventurous activities and water sports or just a relaxed day under the sun, Palolem fits the bill perfectly. There’s more! The beach market at Palolem, which is organized every Saturday, gives you an opportunity to experience the lively shopping culture Goa is known for.
Activities: Canoeing, Trekking, Dolphin Spotting, Silent Discos, Yoga, Kayaking, Scuba diving, Turtle spotting, shopping
2. Agonda Beach, South Goa
A lesser-known beach in the southern region, Agonda is beauty at its best form. The pristine shoreline of this beach is peppered with pretty cottages and shacks. Casuarinas and palms further add to its splendid beauty. It is also one of the four beaches marked as turtle nesting sites, which gives you all the more reasons to visit Agonda. When you are in a mood to relax and rejuvenate, make your way to Agonda and you will come back as a happier version of yourself.
Activities: Canoeing, Dolphin Spotting, Kayaking, Turtle spotting, Water Surfing
3. Benaulim Beach, South Goa
Blessed with a captivating shoreline and gleaming white sand, Benaulim exudes a romantic charm. From rolling on the white sand and taking a stroll on the shore to indulging in a variety of water sports, you can do it all here. The nightlife at this beach is quite vibrant and you can expect to have a great time with your SO.
Activities: Snorkeling, Wind Surfing, Dolphin Spotting, Parasailing, Jetskiing, Banana boat ride, Rowing
4. Colva Beach, South Goa
Colva is a hot favorite among the families and couples heading towards South Goa for a wonderful holiday. While adventure freaks can have a great time indulging in a number of water-based activities, those looking for sunbathing and a peaceful time won’t feel disappointed either. Hip and happening Colva is also famous for its vibrant nightlife and full moon parties, which makes it one of the fun places to visit in South Goa.
Activities: Windsurfing, Speedboat ride, Dolphin Spotting, Parasailing, Jetskiing, Snorkelling, Motorboat rides, Water scooter, Banana boat ride
5. Butterfly Beach, South Goa
Butterfly Beach is truly a hidden gem in South Goa. An unexploited paradise, this semi-circular bay is where you can spot millions of butterflies flying over the hilltop. Once you turn your attention to the turquoise water, you can spot goldfish and crabs playing about. You will have to take a boat ride to reach this beach as the land route demands you to undergo a challenging hike through the forest.
Activities: Boat riding, Canoe riding, Sunbathing
6. Galgibaga Beach, South Goa
Also known as the Turtle Beach, Galgibaga is the nesting ground of the protected Olive Ridley turtles. Sparsely populated and adorned with dense pine vegetation, it is the perfect place for holidaymakers who seek some privacy, splendid sunset views, and tranquillity. No wonder, a visit to this beach counts among the top 10 things to do in South Goa alone or with your family or friends.
Activities: Turtle watching, Sunbathing, Swimming
Want to know more about such pristine beaches in the southern part? Read our blog on the less-crowded beaches in Goa.
7. Our Lady of Remedios Church, South Goa
Marked with splendid architecture and a serene ambiance, Our Lady of Remedios Church at Betalbatim is an ancient place of worship that traces its origins back to 1630. Surrounded by green lawns, the white exterior of the church offers a soothing sight during the day. During the night, the church looks magnificent as the whole area is illuminated.
Location: Fatona, Betalbatim
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
8. Saviour of the World Church, South Goa
Built in 1586, the Saviour of the World Church is a sight to behold even today. The majestic shrine boasts of being one of Goa’s most gorgeous churches built in the Mannerist Neo-Roman style of architecture.
Location: Salcette, Loutolim
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
9. St. Alex Church, South Goa
Built in the year 1597 on the banks of Angoddi Tollem Lake, St. Alex Church is among the oldest chapel churches in the region. An interesting fact about the church is that it was constructed on the site of an ancient Hindu temple, called Ravalnath Temple. If you walk around the church, you can still see the ruins of the temple here.
Location: Curtorim
Timings: 9:00 am to 8:30 pm; every day
10. Three Kings Church, South Goa
The Three Kings Church, another ancient Church in South Goa, dates back to 1599 and is located in the small village of Cansaulim. The isolated church may not boast of a colossal structure or majestic architecture. But what makes it a major attraction for many people is that it is believed to be haunted. Yes, this may sound pretty strange about a place of worship, but there’s just one way to verify such claims – visit the church and find out for yourself!
Location: Muder, Cansaulim
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
11. Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple, South Goa
One of the famous temples in South Goa, Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped here as the Lord of the Moon. This ancient temple stands atop the Chandranath Hill. If you happen to visit the temple on a full moon night, you can see the Shiva Linga inside the shrine looking resplendent under the moonlight. There’s also the Boothnath Temple nearby which is worth a visit. This temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva where the deity is worshiped as the Lord of the ghosts.
Location: Paroda, Quepem Taluka
Timings: 5:30 am to 8:30 pm; every day
12. Shri Shantadurga Temple, South Goa
Dating back to more than 450 years, this ancient temple exemplifies the Indo-Portuguese architectural style. It boasts of Roman arched windows, which is a rare sight among the temples in Goa. A five-story lamp tower is an additional attraction of this temple. The Shanta Durga Temple is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga as a mediator between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
Location: Kavalem Village, Ponda
Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm; every day
13. Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, South Goa
One of the oldest temples in the region, the Mahadeva Temple of Tambdi Surla dates back to the 12th century. The temple, as its name suggests, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. Another interesting fact about the temple is that it is built in the Kadamba -Yadava style of architecture, something you wouldn’t come across frequently in the Hindu temples in India.
Location: Sanguem
Timings: 7:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day
14. Cabo de Rama Fort, South Goa
Counted amongst the oldest forts in Goa, Cabo de Rama boasts of a rich past and has many legends associated with it. One such legend states that Lord Rama and his wife Sita had stayed at this fort during their exile from Ayodhya. It is said that the fort was named to honor Lord Rama. Today, the fort is the location of the Church of Santo Antonio and you can enjoy majestic views of the surroundings from this church.
Location: Canacona
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day
15. Indian Naval Aviation Museum, South Goa
One of the popular places to visit in South Goa with family and kids, this museum exhibits huge machines and artifacts related to the evolution of naval aviation in the country. By paying a visit to this museum, you can learn many interesting things about flying, like the aircraft ejection system and life-rafts. The place also has a café (called Cockpit Café) where you can enjoy a tea, a souvenir shop, and a mini theatre where you can catch short movies and documentaries on naval aviation.
Location: Vasco da Gama
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
16. Goa Chitra Museum, South Goa
If you thought the culture and lifestyle in Goa have always been the same, think again! The Goa Chitra Museum takes you on a journey into the cultural and historical past of Goa through its 4000 plus exhibits. These artifacts map out the lifestyle of the people of Goa in the past and how it changed over time, owing to many historical and cultural factors.
The museum is a treasure trove of all sorts of artifacts, ranging from agricultural tools to musical instruments, and even staple food. Needless to say, it is one of the must-visit museums in Goa where you can get a glimpse into the region’s rich and interesting past.
Location: Benaulim
Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
17. Big Foot Museum, South Goa
Big Foot is an off-beat museum in South Goa, one with a lot of difference. For starters, it is established and run privately by an artist names Maendra Alvares. Secondly, it is an open-air museum that recreates a miniature Goan village of the bygone days.
Some of the key highlights of the museum include miniature houses that depict traditional Goan life and culture, a handicraft center that sells Goan artifacts, a bird habitat, a restaurant, rubber plantations, a spice yard, and lot more. The 14-meter high Sant Mirabai sculpture, which apparently is the largest laterite sculpture in the country, is another key attraction of the museum.
Location: Loutolim
Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
18. Mollem National Park, South Goa
The core area of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, Mollem National Park is home to a large number of wildlife species, birds, reptiles, and butterflies. You can easily spot wild boar, barking deer, Bonnet Macaque, and big cats like leopards and tigers while roaming around this park. If you are a bird lover, you will be delighted to visit this place since it houses more than 120 species of birds. The main attraction of the park is the adventurous jungle safaris during which you can watch your wild friends from close quarters.
Location: Sonaulim
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day
19. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, South Goa
Away from the sunny beaches and happening shacks of South Goa, the Cortigao Wildlife Sanctuary entices you to a world of exotic flora and fauna. It boasts of varied wildlife species, including slender Loris, mouse deer, Indian pangolin, Malabar trogon, Malayan bittern, golden-back gliding snake, and many more. One of the prime attractions of the sanctuary is a treetop watchtower overlooking a watering hole. If you climb up the watchtower during dawn or dusk, you can watch many animals visiting the watering hole to quench their thirst. And now, that’s a sight you wouldn’t want to miss in a lifetime.
Location: Canacona Taluka
Timings: 7:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day
20. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, South Goa
Located in the south-eastern part of Goa, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is another must-visit place to add to your itinerary. A popular spot for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and birdwatchers, the sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including Giant Squirrel, Great Pied Hornbills, Grey Headed Bulbul, Slender Loris, and an exciting range of mammals, butterflies, and birds. For those looking for a tryst with nature and its many wonders, this is the place to be.
Location: Sanguem Taluk
Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm; every day
21. Margao Municipal Market, South Goa
Now that you have had your share of beaches, museums, wildlife, and history, isn’t it time to indulge in some retail therapy and shop like a true Goan? Make your way to Margao Municipal Market, one of the most popular markets in South Goa, where you will find everything from cashews, spices, and alcohol to souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts. You can spend hours here without feeling tired or bored. Don’t believe us? Try it out! By the way, don’t forget to buy a packet of salted dry mangoes, a signature item you find in all Goan markets.
Timings: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm; every day
22. Dudhsagar Waterfalls, South Goa
Located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, this picturesque falls forms the border between Goa and Karnataka. The whole region is surrounded by lush green forests and the falls cascade down from a height of 310 meters, offering a spectacular sight. The word Dudhsagar literally means ‘the sea of milk’ and that’s exactly what this waterfall is – milky, foamy, and just so beautiful.
23. Pinacolada Beach Shack, South Goa
It’s considered a crime to leave Goa without having a drink or two at its beach shacks. And when you are in the southern part, you have quite a few options, each of which is known for its food, drinks, music, and ambiance. Here’s our list of the best shacks to visit in South Goa:
Location: Colva
Timings: 8:00 am to 12:00 am; every day
Location: Palolem Beach
Timings: 8:00 am to 12:00 am; every day
Location: Benaulim Beach
Timings: 8:00 am to 2:00 am; every day
24. Restaurants, South Goa
What’s a trip to Goa if you don’t indulge in the flavorsome seafood the region is renowned for? Now, if anyone tells you the dining scene in South Goa is not as great as that of its northern counterpart, don’t believe them. There indeed are many restaurants serving some of the best Goan flavors along with other types of cuisines. Here are our suggestions for the best restaurants in South Goa:
Location: Canacona, Palolem
Timings: 08:30 am to 05:30 pm; every day
Location: Ranvaddo, Salcete, Betalbatim
Timings: 11:00 am to 03:30 pm and 06:30 pm to 11:30 pm; every day
Location: Mobor, Cavelossim
25. Bars and Pubs, South Goa
South Goa may have the reputation for being quieter than North Goa, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy nightlife here. In fact, there are several places to visit in south Goa at night and chill out. Some of the best nightlife spots in the south are:
Location: Benaulim
Timings: 11:30 am to 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm to 12:00 am; closed on Mondays
Location: Colva
Timings: 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm; every day
Location: Majorda
Timings: 9:00 am to 1:00 am; every day
South Goa can be full of solitude and tranquility or energy and effervescence, depending on how you want to explore the place. Start with this list and you will discover many other places worthy of your time as you embark on this lovely journey. Here’s wishing you a great time in South Goa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best months to visit South Goa?
South Goa is ideal for visits from November to March when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable.
Are there water sports facilities on Palolem Beach?
Yes, Palolem Beach offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Is photography allowed inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
While photography is generally allowed in the Basilica, it's advisable to check with the authorities for specific guidelines.
Are there entry fees for Dudhsagar Waterfalls?
Yes, there are entry fees for Dudhsagar Waterfalls, and they may vary based on the mode of transportation chosen.
Can I explore Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary on my own?
While guided tours are available, visitors can explore Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary independently following designated trails.
What is the signature dish at Martin's Corner?
Martin's Corner is renowned for its Fish Curry Rice, a quintessential Goan dish that shouldn't be missed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Goa unfolds as a treasure trove for travelers seeking a perfect blend of sun, sand, culture, and adventure. By exploring these enchanting places, you'll create memories that linger long after you've left. Pack your bags and let South Goa weave its magic on you.
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