South Goa is both soulful and serene, offering a sensual mix of sandy beaches, temples, and churches rich in history. It is the perfect place to get mouthwatering seafood, undeniable natural beauty, a glimpse into Portuguese culture, and romantic vibes. Taking advantage of all that the southern part of India’s party capital offers can easily turn your holiday into a memorable one.
Take a look at some of the best places to visit in South Goa, which will make your next trip to Goa super fun.
How to reach south Goa?
By air: South Goa’s nearest airport is Dabolim airport, which is located 23 km away. Other Indian cities are fairly well connected to this airport. To reach your destination, take a cab after deboarding at the airport.
By train: There are numerous railway stations in Goa, but Madgaon is the busiest and largest. Overall, it is well connected to other Indian cities. From the station, you can take a cab or take public transportation.
By road: South Goa is easily accessible from nearby cities via motorable roads and national highways. Travelling by interstate or private bus, which are quite inexpensive and comfortable, is a good option.
15 fun places to visit in South Goa
Dudhsagar Falls
The breathtaking beauty of this waterfall has attracted tourists from all over the world. It is one of the most visited South Goa tourist places because of its enticing charm. This waterfall, whose name means “Sea of Milk” in English, is breathtaking. The Dudhsagar Falls, with a height of 1,000 feet, is one of India’s tallest waterfalls. Located on the Goa – Karnataka border, the majestic falls are located approximately 60 km from Panaji.
How to reach: Dudhsagar Station is located near the falls, but trains do not stop here formally. Alternatively, you can take a train to Kulem Station and take a taxi from there to the waterfalls. Alternatively, you can drive to the falls or take a Jeep to get there.
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Palolem Beach
The golden sand and breathtaking views of Palolem beach make it one of the most spectacular beaches in South Goa. There is a laid-back atmosphere here with swaying palm trees and colourful beach shacks. You can enjoy a relaxing day under the sun or participate in various water sports at Palolem.
Palolem’s beach market, organised every Saturday, offers a glimpse of the vibrant shopping culture prevalent in Goa and is popular amongst South Goa places to visit.
How to reach: Canacona is easily accessible by bus from Margao Bus Stand. You can reach Palolem Beach by taxi or autorickshaw after reaching the Canacona bus station.
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Benaulim Beach
One of the best South Goa places for tourists, Benaulim Beach is an evergreen beach. South Goa has everything from captivating shorelines and gleaming sands to vibrant parties at night. Beach lovers can unwind and recover their spirits away from the busyness of the city at the shoreline, far from the clamour and chaos.
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Butterfly Beach
The Butterfly Beach is situated in the Canacona region of Goa, just south of Palolem. This beach is in the shape of a small cove surrounded by dense trees and is also called Honeymoon Beach. The Butterfly Beach is one of Goa’s most secluded, lesser-known beaches, mostly accessible by boat (ferry) from nearby beaches—adding to its charm.
How to reach: There is no access to the beach by buses, cars, or bikes due to the dense forest surrounding it. Agonda or Palolem beaches offer boat access to Butterfly beach.
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Tambdi Surla
In the 12th century, Tambdi Surla was built as a Shaivite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also called Mahadev Temple Tambdi Surla. A temple built entirely from black basalt that boasts immense architectural beauty, Tambdi Surla is one of the oldest temples in Goa. There is a majestic Shiva linga in the inner sanctum, as well as a headless bull idol. Furthermore, the beautiful river Surla flanks the temple, adding to its charm and natural beauty.
How to reach: Kulem is 21 kilometres from the temple and is the nearest railway line. You can also take the frequent buses that travel between the neighbouring areas and drop you off at your destination.
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Our Lady of Remedios Church
An ancient place of worship that dates back to 1630, Our Lady of Remedios Church at Betalbatim is distinguished by its splendid architecture and serene atmosphere. A serene sight during the day, lush green lawns surround the white exterior of the church. The church is beautifully illuminated at night, giving it an amazing appearance.
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Agonda Beach
Agonda Beach in Goa is perfect for people seeking energising time near the water. You can relieve the anxieties induced by your daily routine by enjoying the cool breeze and hot summer sun. It is characterised by long and desolate shorelines, bordered by palm trees and casuarinas, and overshadowed by an expansive slope to the south. Agonda Beach is the perfect place to find some quiet time and one of the best places to visit in South Goa.
How to reach: Located in southern Goa, Agonda Beach is 9.2 kilometres north of Palolem Beach. Renting two-wheelers or four-wheelers with maps is the best way to get here. This beach is also easily accessible by cab, which is available throughout Goa.
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Colva Beach
The popular beach of Colva is a favourite among families and couples going to South Goa. While adventure freaks will have a blast participating in the various water-based activities, anyone looking for sunbathing or a relaxing time will also feel at home here. With swaying coconut trees and powdery white sands lining its 2.5 km length, this beach is enchanting. Colva is a hip and happening area of South Goa known for its vibrant nightlife and full moon parties, thus making it one of the best South Goa tourist places.
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Cabo de Rama Beach
A secluded beach located in Margao, South Goa, Cabo de Rama Beach is one of the most beautiful places in India. Coconut trees line the beach, making it the perfect spot to take a picnic, play volleyball, or just relax. A Portuguese fort overlooks Cabo de Rama Beach. It offers a spectacular view of the beach.
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Cavelossim Beach
Located between the Sal River and the Arabian Sea, the Cavelossim beach is one of the most beautiful beaches. Paddy fields provide the perfect backdrop to the beach’s charming ambience. The black rocks on the beach add a touch of beauty to the beach with their contrast with the white sand. Kayaking and catamaran sailing are among the activities available at this beach.
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Patnem Beach
This secluded beach is located in Canacona, South Goa, and is one of the most tranquil of the state’s beaches. Relaxing by the beach is the perfect way to spend time. Alternatively, enrol in one of the various yoga retreats and teacher training programs available at the various institutes in the area. Swimming in the waters is perfectly safe, and watching the sunset here is an unforgettable experience.
How to reach: An hour’s journey by state transport bus will get you to Patnem Beach from Margao Bus Station for the most affordable price. Canacona railway station is the nearest railway station. From the station, you can take an auto-rickshaw to Patnem Beach.
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Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary in Goa’s beach resort state, Netravali is one of the six key reserves in the state. This place in South Goa occupies an area of approximately 211 square kilometres in the Western Ghats. Netravali is one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India because it is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is not only an important nature conservation hub, but it is also crucial for Goa’s freshwater supply. The Sanctuary is home to towering mountains and elegant waterfalls, the main attractions being Saivri and Mainapi.
How to reach: You must drive about two hours from Margao city to reach the main gate of Netraval National Park.
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Netravali Bubbling Lake
The Netravali Bubbling Lake is a sacred water reservoir located within the Gopinath Temple. The lake is filled with clean water that continuously bubbles at multiple points and even more if someone starts to clap. It is one of the most exciting places to see in South Goa.
It offers a sense of wonder and calmness where one can rediscover themself. In the centre of the lake stands a massive Shiva temple with a huge pedestal that is frequently visited by Shiva devotees. Craftsmen from Kadamba-Shilahara carved the pillars with their unique style.
How to reach: To reach this waterfall, you must drive about two hours from Margao city to the main gate of Netraval National Park. You will then need to leave your vehicle and walk for about 15-20 minutes.
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Indian Naval Aviation Museum
Among the popular visiting places in South Goa with kids and family, this museum displays a wide range of machinery and artefacts related to the development of naval aviation in the country. Visit this museum to learn about ejection systems and life rafts, which are very interesting aspects of flying. In addition, you will find the Cockpit Café here, where you can enjoy a cup of tea, a small theatre showing films about naval aviation, and a souvenir shop.
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Mollem National Park
Mollem National Park, the central feature of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, is a haven for thousands of wildlife species, including birds, reptiles, and butterflies. The park is home to big cats such as leopards and tigers, wild boars, barking deer, and Bonnet Macaques. There are over 120 species of birds in this park, so if you are a bird lover, you will enjoy visiting this place. A highlight of the park is the adventure jungle safaris, during which you can observe your wild animals up close and personal.
How to reach: Several private and government-operated buses and vehicles frequently go to the park, connecting it to other parts of Goa. You can also rent a car from Collem or Kulem railway stations, which are closest to the park.
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FAQs
What is famous in south Goa?
Known for its luxurious beaches, adventure activities, and cities full of rich cultures, South Goa is home to a variety of attractions. There is something to do for everyone in south Goa, from beach fun like Palolem beach and butterfly beach to scuba diving and dolphin sightings.
How many days are enough to explore Goa?
Three to four days are sufficient to experience the best of Goa.
What is the best time to visit Goa?
Since the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable from mid-November to mid-February, this is the best time of year to visit the party capital.
