Post Views: 311

The first thought of Goa brings to our mind the nightlife and beaches of North Goa. However, Goa is much beyond it. A short drive brings you to South Goa. Time seems to slow down here, crowds virtually disappear, and nature takes the centre stage. Pristine beaches, green surroundings, small villages, and cultural diversity are what South Goa is about.

Table of Contents

If you are among those who like calm sunsets and have a soul-transforming experience, South Goa should be on your bucket list.

Through this blog, I will share with you the top 5 places to visit in South Goa. These have been picked based on their beauty, experiences they offer, and relevance. Let us explore these hidden gems, which indeed make South Goa unique and worth exploring.

Top 5 Places to Visit in South Goa for a Calm and Scenic Getaway (2025)

1. Colva Beach

Among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa, Colva Beach deserves a mention. This is a serene escape for anyone who wants to unwind and relax. The soft white sand beach with its calm waters is worth visiting. This beach (hold your count) is spread over an area of 20 Km, which makes it one of the longest beaches in Goa. This can be a part of your South Goa places to visit in one day package too.

Known for its white sand, sprawling palm trees, and turquoise waters, Colva beach can be a treasure hunt for backpackers and leisure travellers. You can also see ample colonial heritage here, as it was home to the Portuguese royals too at one point.

How to Reach Colva Beach

There are several ways of reaching Colva Beach. Let us get into brief details of each of these:

By Air

The airport of Goa is located at Dabolim, which is 23 Km away. You can take a taxi from here. However, alternatively, you can also disembark at Mopa International Airport, which is 63 Km away.

By Rail

Margo Railway Station, also known as Madgao, is only 8 Km from Colva.

By Road

Colva beach is quite accessible by road from Margo. You can either hire a cab or rent a scooter on rent. Public transport bus service is also available for the same.

Pro Tip: If you are comfortable driving a scooter, that would be the best way indeed, as you can hire it for (Rs 300-Rs500/-) per day after some bargaining.

Best Time to Visit Colva Beach

As this is among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa, you should know the best time to plan the visit.

From November to February

This is perhaps the best time as temperatures are cool (24 degrees to 30 degrees). This is the perfect time for any beach-related activity. However, it is crowded during these months and expensive too.

From March to May

This is the time when the least number of visitors come to Goa. If you enjoy being alone and love the feel of solitude, this is perhaps the best time, and prices would be on the downside too.

From June to September

Extreme monsoons during this period, but the lush green ambiance of Goa comes out alive only during these months. Hotel rates are also on the downside.

Things to Do in Colva Beach

Water Sports

There is a range of water sports activities to indulge in during your visit to Colva Beach. Parasailing is one of these as it allows you to relish the aerial view of this region. For thrill seekers, Jet Skiing is the best bet.

If you are with your family, a banana boat ride is highly recommended. You can also indulge in snorkeling, which some of the operators provide.

Watching Dolphins

If you are early at the beach, you can take advantage of dolphin spotting tours, which is one of the best activities to indulge in on this hidden places to visit in south Goa tour. The boat operators will take you to the depths of the Arabian Sea, where you can watch Dolphins cuddling in their natural habitat.

Visit to Church of Our Lady of Mercy

This church was built in 1630 and has the statue of Baby Jesus, which attracts devotees and travellers. If you are at Colva Beach during October, you can attend the annual Fama Festival. You can enjoy traditional music and local food during this time.

Explore the Colva Beach

The beach also has a small market from where you can shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts. You can also visit shops that sell spices and seafood.

Do Check: Best Beaches in Gokarna

2. Carbo de Rama

If South Goa has a relic that predates the Portuguese rule, it certainly is the Carbo de Rama fort, which also finds a mention among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa. This is one of the oldest forts in Goa and offers a panoramic view of the ocean and stands guard at the frontal edge of the Sal River.

Best Time to Visit

Among the best places to visit in South Goa, you should plan to come here during the evening hours. It provides a vantage point for clicking some compelling photos for your Instagram profile. Visit at sunset and you shall have the best photo of the trip!

However, a visit during monsoons should be carefully planned as there is no place to hide when rain suddenly appears out of nowhere. You will find the Carbo de Rama fort in Cancona, which is 16 Km from the popular Agonda beach.

History of Carbo de Rama

The real date of inception of Carbo de Rama is not known, but it changed many rulers, at times Hindu Kings and Muslims, at other times. The Portuguese took it over from the Raja of Soonda in 1763, and it thereafter remained with them until the time the Portuguese left India. During its last years under Portuguese rule, this was used as a prison.

Architecture of Carbo de Rama

This fort is built on a base of laterite rock, which makes it strong indeed. During the time the Portuguese took it over, they built military barracks, posts, and officers’ quarters here. They also constructed a church dedicated to St. Antony here, which is still in use today. The pristine white colour of the church makes it indeed a worthwhile visiting monument amidst the rubble of the Carbo de Rama fort.

From the western walls of Carbo de Rama, you will get magnificent views of the Arabian Sea. A steep pathway from the fort will also take you to the beach below, something which is not recommended, though for safety reasons.

3. Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Fall is also among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa. This is ideally a four-tier fall that lies on the Mahadayi River around 60 Km from Panaji. It perches on a crescent-shaped valley and has a cover of forests all around. It is considered among the tallest waterfalls of the country, has a height of 310 meters, and is 30 meters wide.

The waterfall lies in the vicinity of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary which makes it a hub for exploring the biodiversity of this region. You should visit Dudhsagar Falls for its natural ambiance and range of adventure activities that can be undertaken, including jeep safari, trekking, and photography.

Accessibility of Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls can be reached from Panaji by rail. Dudhsagar stop is the place to disembark and head further to these falls. You can reach the Dudhsagar Falls in two ways. The first way is to begin the trek from Kulem and take the jeep trail, which takes you to the bottom of the waterfall.

The second way is to trek along the railway line, which is 11 Km long. However, this method should be avoided as the track is narrow, and in case the train comes, it can lead to fatal consequences. The Ministry of Railways also discourages doing so, and a heavy fine is imposed if found doing so.

The best way is to trek via Kulem and enjoy the magical essence of what we all know as Dudhsagar Falls, a location that is listed among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa.

When to Visit

October to February is the best time to visit here as it is quite cool and the falls are easily accessible.

4. Netravali Forest Trek

Goa is better known for its beaches, forts along the coast. But if we dwell deep, there are deep forests, waterfalls, and pristine nature. So, why not explore such trails, which are among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa and should be on your wishlist next time when you are in Goa.

Why Embark on this Trek

One of the prime reasons to embark on this trek is that it passes through Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, which brings in front of you a plethora of flora and fauna. For a moment, you will feel as if this is not Goa, but it is! This is South Goa, and you should embark on the Netravali Forest trek to experience this.

Siddha Parvat

Climbing Siddha Parvat is one of the highlights of embarking on the Netravali Forest trek. This is one thing that should be in your wish list, considering South Goa places to visit in one day, if you are short of time. As you reach the top of Siddha Parvat, you will find a Shiva temple and also an enchanting view of the Salulim Dam. The surreal experience is so real that you would wish to stay here for a long.

Savri Waterfall

While passing through this trek, you will come across a waterfall known by the name of Savri. If you are an avid birdwatcher and want to take a refreshing break from your daily schedule, the Savri waterfall during this trek offers a lively respite.

Needless to say, you will see a large number of floral and faunal diversity as you are already in a wildlife sanctuary.

Stay in Netravali Forest Trail

If you wish to stay within the wildlife sanctuary, you can consider staying at Forest Rest House at Sangeum. For any bookings, you can get in touch with Dy. Conservator of Forest (South Goa), Margao on 0832 – 2756309.

Netravali is around 65 km from Margao and lies in South Goa. You can travel from Margao to Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary by bus or car.

5. Galgibaga Beach

The last but not the least (as they say) top 5 places to visit in South Goa is the Galgibaga beach.

The Turtle Beach

This beach is often called the “turtle beach” and is one of the unspoiled beaches in Goa. It is the nesting site for Olive Ridley turtles. Golden sand, tall palm trees, and clean blue waters are some of the attractions of Galgibaga beach, which makes it rank among the top 5 places to visit in South Goa.

Unlike commercialized Goa, Galgibaga beach has only a few shacks which serve seafood and other local delicacies that you will get only here!

Why visit Galgibaga Beach

If you wish to enjoy nature, indulge in birdwatching, and experience the tranquility that Goa offers, Galgibaga beach is the place to be. In addition, you can also take boat trips and explore the scenic ambiance that Galgibaga offers.

When to Visit

Like other beaches in South Goa, Galgibaga is at its best from October to March, and thus you can head here anytime during these months. It is around 65 Km from Margao.

Places to stay in South Goa

We have made a comparison of Luxury and Budget stay options in South Goa. This will help you schedule, finalize, and book the property accordingly. After all, you will requirea good place to stay all the while when you are exploring these top 5 places to visit in South Goa.

Luxury Stay Options

Like the top 5 places to visit in South Goa, the following are the top 2 luxury properties in South Goa for a comfortable stay.

The Leela Goa

Price: Ranges from ₹ 25,000/- to ₹ 60,000/- per night.

Why stay here: You get private beach access, it has lavish rooms and villas, offers a 5-star spa, a golf course, and fine dining.

Phone: +91 832 662 1234

Email: reservations.goa@theleela.com

Alila Diwa Goa

Price: Ranges from ₹ 15,000/- to ₹ 30,000/- per night.

You will have an infinity pool with a field view, wellness center access, and proximity to serene beaches.

Phone: +91 83 2695 1234

Email: ssavkur@alilahotels.com

Budget Stay Options

Sea Shades

Price: ₹ 1500/- to ₹ 3000/- per night.

It is close to Palolem beach and has numerous cafés and yoga retreats nearby.

Phone: +918007488477

Email: info@seashadespalolemresort.com

Pele’s Fisherman Village

Price: ₹ 1000/- to ₹ 2000/- per night.

You get quaint beach huts here. These are run and operated by a local guy who can offer an authentic Goan experience in all matters. It is a 2-minute walk from Colva beach, so you can have unhindered access to the beach.

Phone: +919076125983

FAQs

For what reason is Colva Beach well-known?

Colva Beach is well-known for its lively nightlife, water sports, white sand, and shoreline lined by palm trees. It’s also among South Goa’s oldest and most developed beaches.

Are there any water sports in Colva Beach?

Yes, especially during the busiest travel season (November to March), you may enjoy speed boating, parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.

What makes Cabo de Rama Fort unique?

With its striking cliffs, the remains of a Portuguese-era building, and a chapel that is still in use today, the fort offers a blend of historical and picturesque vistas.
a quick hike after taking the train to Dudhsagar station. The most well-liked route is the jeep safari.

Does Dudhsagar Falls require a permit or guide?

Both a permit and a licensed jeep or guide are required if you are entering through Mollem National Park. It is simple get near the park gate and is well-organized.

What is the Netravali Forest Trek likely to entail?

The hike passes through great biodiversity, boiling lakes (Budbudyanchi Tali), dense forests, and waterfalls. For those who enjoy the outdoors, it’s a serene and picturesque experience.

Is the trek to Netravali appropriate for novices?

It is advised to wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring a local guide, even though the paths are generally moderate and beginner-friendly.

Why is Turtle Beach the name given to Galgibaga Beach?

Galgibaga is one of Goa’s cleanest, most tranquil beaches and a great place for ecotourism. It is also a nesting place for Olive Ridley Sea turtles.

Does Galgibaga Beach have any amenities or shacks?

There aren’t many facilities to save the turtle habitat. It’s mostly unexplored and perfect for people looking for privacy; however, there are a few simple restaurants.