places to visit in south goa quora

madhuonthego

A travel & lifestyle blog, 3 days perfect itinerary to south goa.

Looking for a perfect trip to South Goa? But not sure how to plan it? You have landed on the right page. In this blog, I am sharing the practical itinerary with all the details required for you to plan a memorable trip to South Goa.

Explore the hidden gems of South Goa in 3 Days

With its lesser-known beaches, waterfalls, temples, churches, historical monuments, and eateries, South goa has a perfect blend of culture and natural beauty to offer. With so much to explore, it’s often confusing to create an itinerary that can include a mix of all, especially if you are visiting South Goa for the first time. After many trips to South Goa, I have curated this itinerary which can help a first-time traveler to visit the special gems of South Goa in just 3 days. ( if you want to explore this paradise extensively, you need more than a week for sure, but that’s for the next blog)

Before I share the day-wise itinerary, here are some of the important details

How to get around in South Goa

The two challenges you come across in South Goa are the network and connectivity. Especially when you travel to the hidden beaches away from the popular tourist spots. During our last trip (we stayed at Agonda beach) the network and WIFI were not great, even for GPS, it’s better to save the locations in advance.

The beaches are far from one another and you need to drive through woods, and small villages making it impossible to find a cab or rickshaw.

Hire a two-wheeler/Car

The best way to commute is to rent a bike or a car. You can get it delivered at the airport and return it at the airport. Do carry your original Aadhaar card, driving license, and Pan card as you need to submit it with the bike/car rent agency as security. We hired an i10 car for our 5 days trip and it costed us around INR 12000.

Don’t forget to make a video of the car or the bike, before taking the handover, just to ensure that you are returning the vehicle in the same condition as you took it for.

Best time to visit South Goa

November to March is the best time to visit South Goa. However, you can also visit this paradise in April and May if you can tolerate the summer heat. During Monsoons ( June to September) Goa is green and beautiful, but many of the beaches and water activities are closed during this part of the year due to heavy rainfall.

Where to stay in South Goa

Deciding the right area for a stay in South Goa is a tricky task. During our last 4 visits to South Goa, we stayed at different beaches, right from the popular ones to the not-so-popular ones. Each one has its benefits and drawbacks. Here is the list of places

1)  Beleza by the beach, Colva: Read the review of the property here.

Colva is one of the popular and buzzing beaches in South Goa. It is comparatively closer to the airport and has many pubs and restaurants around to hang out. The only drawback is all the lesser known and exotic beaches are very far from Colva and you need to drive for hours.

2)  Holiday Inn & Sal Riviera Goa, Cavelossim: Read the review of the property here. I love Cavelossim beach and the area surrounding it. It has big resorts and hotels, some happening hangouts, and great live music, yet it’s secluded and not extremely crowded. It feels like a small island to me. The best part is that Cavelossim is centrally located and comparatively closer to other beaches.

3)  The Shell, Agonda: Agonda beach is situated down south, it’s near most of the hidden gems of South Goa. The beach itself has so many activities that you can enjoy and relax here the whole day. You can find huts and cottages at all price points. However, if you love the party and fun vibes, you may feel a little bored here.

Kakolem beach

Also known as the Tiger beach, Kakolem beach is one of the most unique and secluded beaches in South Goa. This hidden beach has 2 waterfalls, making this peaceful paradise all the more special. You can bathe in the waterfall and laze around at the beach. This tiny cove has only one shack that offers food and drinks. There are a few basic rooms also for those who seek solitude. However, there are no other shacks, shops, or any population around.

How to get there: It’s challenging to reach Kakolem beach. You don’t get public transport here, so the best way is to rent a car/bike. A few minutes’ walk will take you to the viewpoint from where you need to trek downhill for around 20 minutes to reach the beach. Read all the details here.

Lunch (at the beach shack at Kakolem beach)

Enjoy the hot and fresh lunch along with chilled beer at the only restaurant on the Kakolem beach. We loved their fried rice. You can carry your liquor or drinks and eatables. 

Cabo De Rama Fort

Closing time: 5.30 pm.

After lunch, head straight to the Cabo De Rama fort, an ancient fort on the coast of Canacona with a breath-taking view of the Arabian ocean. Although the fort is in ruins, it houses a beautiful Portuguese church inside the complex and you can enjoy a splendid view of the ocean from the fort boundary. Read more about it.

Pebble beach

From within the Cabo De Rama fort, the uneven stone stairs will take you to one of the most stunning hidden beaches in South Goa. It’s a short trek consisting of 80-90 stairs and takes 10 minutes. The beach is covered by pebbles of different shapes and sizes, making this rocky beach a unique one.

Tip: Do carry your water bottle, hat, and sunglasses to avoid the harsh sun.

Sunset at The Cape Goa:

On the way back from Cabo De Rama Fort, enjoy the mesmerizing sunset view at The Cape Goa. The Cape Goa is a resort and restaurant overlooking the beautiful ocean. It is situated on the beach road of Cabo De Rama.

Dinner at Cavelossim

After witnessing the glorious sunset view, you can head back to Cavelossim beach( if you are staying in this area) and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Cavelossim. Most of the restaurants in this area offer cheerful live musical performances during the evenings. If you are looking for amazing live singing and a lively atmosphere head straight to Mike’s place.

Agonda beach

Start your day early if you want to take a boat ride and spot the dolphins. Agonda beach has a long shoreline with no shacks, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude. During the mornings you can see the beach buzzing with morning walkers, surfers, and people sunbathing. Agonda beach is also one of the three turtle nesting sites in Goa. Some of the fun activities you can enjoy here are horse riding, running, bathing in the sea, sunbathing, reading, enjoying your drinks at one of the resort bars, learning surfing, and enjoying boat riding. 

Boat ride (butterfly & honeymoon beach)

Butterfly and honeymoon beaches both appear like dreams into reality. From Agonda beach, you can hire a speed boat to visit these two hidden beaches. The honeymoon beach can be visited only during the low tides. For around INR 2500 -3000, the speedboat will take you to the honeymoon beach and butterfly beach along with dolphin spotting. The boat tour starts as early as 5.30 am and the earlier you visit, the better the chances of spotting the dolphins.

Lunch at La Dolce Vita Pizzeria, Agonda

After spending a fun morning at Agonda beach, enjoy your lunch at La Dolce Vita, an authentic Italian restaurant in Agonda. If Italian is not your preferred meal, you can look for other restaurants in the same area.

Kayaking at cola beach

Post lunch, get ready for some real adventure. Cola beach is another unique beach in South Goa. Once you reach the parking area near the beach, the real adventure begins. You need to drive a few kilometers downhill, through the most uneven muddy road cut from the mountain. So be prepared for the bumpy ride ahead. Once you walk down a few stone stairs, a breath-taking view of the ocean awaits you. But the presence of a serene lagoon lined with palm trees on the other side of the beach is the most impressive aspect of Cola beach. You can swim or kayak in the calm and crystal clear water of the lagoon. Kayaking for half an hour will cost you INR 100

Tip: It is advisable not to drive downhill on your own if you don’t have a four-wheel drive vehicle. The locals at the parking area can drop and pick for as less as INR 100 per person. 

Don’t forget to carry a changeover, towel, and swimsuit.

Dinner at Palolem beach

If you are not tired and exhausted yet, you can visit Palolem beach which is a more lively and crowded beach in South Goa. Enjoy your dinner at one of the many restaurants near the beach. You can also visit the Silent discos here or shop for some colorful clothes, artifacts, etc at the local market near the beach.

Palolem beach

With white sand and calm water, Palolem beach is a sight to behold. You can visit the beach during the day to enjoy kayaking or experience the eagle feeding in the Palolem backwaters.

Sadolxem bridge

If you love to explore the offbeat and picture-perfect spots for your Instagram. Do visit the Sadolxem bridge near Canacona. This 2-decade-old, bright blue color bridge connects Canacona to Pionguinim town. Wide enough only for one four-wheeler to pass at a time, the bridge is at an attractive focal point over the Talpona River, which makes for excellent viewing of the backwaters and mangrove vegetation.

Galgibaga beach

Mentioning the word pristine and Galgibaga beach immediately appears in front my eyes. This lesser-known beach is one of Goa’s best-kept secrets. Lined with tall pine trees, and soft clean sand, the beach is naturally decorated with driftwoods in multiple places. Anyone can mistake Galgibag for one of the havelock beaches.

The beach is a designated nesting ground for Olive Turtles. You can also witness the protected turtle eggs at the beach. While there are only a couple of resting spots on the coast, you can relax at the only shack on the beach.

Dinner at Patnem beach

Enjoy your dinner at Patnem beach, which is buzzing with foreign tourists. You can also check out the local market near the beach.

This 3 days itinerary includes some of the best and most adventurous beaches of South Goa. I hope this itinerary will be of some help to you while planning your trip to South Goa.

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2 thoughts on “ 3 days perfect itinerary to South Goa ”

South Goa is love. I have almost covered major beaches. Quite peaceful. Nice photographs.

I have visited Goa so many times and have always found that the best way to explore is book a self drive car in Goa. There are car rental companies like Zoomcar that have rental options from both North and South Goa. I love South Goa when I want to have a more relaxed holiday away from the crowd. The photos are beautiful btw.

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

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.

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.

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

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

How to reach South Goa

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

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

South Goa Travel Tips

• 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.

• 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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 !

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.

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South Goa, Goa, India

The perfect 2 days itinerary.

South Goa, a part of the Indian state of Goa, is known for its pristine beaches, Portuguese architecture, wildlife sanctuaries, and vibrant local markets. It offers a perfect blend of serenity and cultural experiences. From the colonial charm of Old Goa to the tranquility of Palolem Beach , South Goa is a paradise for travelers seeking a relaxed and laid-back vacation.

What to do in South Goa?

This 2 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in South Goa. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Explore the Beaches and Local Markets

Start your day at Colva Beach , one of the most popular beaches in South Goa. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the white sandy beach or indulge in water sports. Visit the nearby Our Lady of Mercy Church , known for its beautiful white façade.

Head to the local markets of Margao , the commercial and cultural capital of Goa. Explore the vibrant markets and shop for local spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Don't forget to try the local Goan cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area.

End your day at Majorda Beach . Enjoy the beautiful sunset and have a beachside dinner at one of the shacks, serving fresh seafood.

Day 2: Discover the Wildlife and Portuguese Architecture

Visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary , home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a guided tour and spot different species of birds, deer, and monkeys.

Explore the Portuguese architecture in Old Goa . Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Sé Cathedral , the largest church in Asia.

Spend your evening at Palolem Beach , one of the most scenic beaches in Goa. Enjoy a boat ride, watch the dolphins, or simply relax on the beach. Try the local cuisine at one of the beach shacks.

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Places To Visit In South Goa

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

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

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

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.

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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..., 5. 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

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.

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7. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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