Top 9 Things You Cannot Miss in South Goa

When a person says beaches, you are reminded of your dream of Goa, where you are chilling on a beach with your friends. Just sipping on a bottle of beer along with your favourite seafood with a pleasant view of the Arabian Sea. What if we tell you that you can enjoy all this and much more in Goa? Not many people know about this, but the Southern part of Goa is a place you must visit. Only a few people know that South Goa is a very pleasant and quiet place and you will get to see very few tourists here. It is ideal for those visitors who like cleaner and calmer beaches. If you are going to visit South Goa for the first time, you will get to explore a lot of attractions there like beautiful churches, Portugal architecture, beaches, waterfalls, wildlife etc. Goa is known for its amazing beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich Portuguese heritage. Whether you are planning to stop off at a homestay in Goa or a Luxury hotel, you can only make the most of your visit by doing these things mentioned below.

Things to Do and Places to Visit in Goa

South Goa is a beautiful destination in India that offers a plethora of activities for tourists to indulge in. Some of the popular activities to do in South Goa are:

• Beach Hopping
• Water Sports
• Visit Waterfalls
• Try Local Cuisines
• Enjoy Nightlife
• Activities to Enjoy on the Beach
• Stop by a Portuguese fort
• Visit a Wildlife Sanctuary
• Take a Hot Air Baloon Ride

1. Beach Hopping

South Goa is home to some of the most pristine beaches in India. You can spend your days beach hopping and soaking in the sun. Some of the most popular attractions in South Goa are Palolem Beach, Colva Beach, and Benaulim Beach.

2. Water Sports

If you're an adventure junkie, South Goa is the perfect place for you. Some of the favourite things for tourists to do in South Goa include water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, paddling and banana boat rides.

3. Visit Waterfalls

The sight, sound and feel of Dudhsagar Waterfalls make it one of the most popular attractions in South Goa. You can take a trek and enjoy the scenic beauty of other waterfalls in Goa as well, such as Charavane Waterfalls, Tambdi Surla Waterfalls, and Kesar Spring Varna Waterfalls among others.

4. Try Local Cuisines

Goa is famous for its delicious seafood and spicy curries. Make sure to try out some of the local dishes to get a taste of the local cuisine. You can also find plenty of international restaurants and cafes in the area if you prefer something else.

5. Enjoy Nightlife

You can plan a trip to Goa to experience the best of its bustling nightlife. The top party places in Goa that you should definitely check out:

Tito's Lane - Located in Baga, Tito's Lane is one of the most popular party places in Goa. It is home to some of the best nightclubs and bars in the city. The lane is always buzzing with energy, and there's never a dull moment here. You can expect to dance the night away to some amazing music and enjoy some delicious drinks.

Curlies - Situated in Anjuna Beach, Curlies is a beachside club that is known for its electrifying parties and lively atmosphere. The club is nestled amidst palm trees and offers stunning views of the sea. It is a great place to unwind and let your hair down after a long day of exploring the beaches.

6. Activities to Enjoy on the Beach:

If you're looking for exciting activities to do in South Goa, you should definitely check out Canacona Island. This island is located off the shore of Palolem Beach. Visitors here can explore this island by stepping on the stones across the sea. Canacona Island is an ideal location for couples and youngsters who want to enjoy the beauty and feel of an island. Alternatively, you can always enjoy the wonderful sunset around Jojo’s, which is just near the island. This place is ideal for couples who visit South Goa and want to do things like paragliding, paddling on a boat, getting a water scooter ride, and watching the sunset on the beach, etc.

7. Stop by a Portuguese fort:

Another place that you shouldn't miss is the Cabo de Rama Fort. This fort was named after Lord Rama and is a Portuguese fort located between Cavelossim and Agonda Beach. Even though it is currently in ruins, it still looks quite vivacious due to its scintillating surroundings. From the top of the fort, travellers can witness one of the finest sunsets and sunrises.

8. Visit a Wildlife Sanctuary

There are many things to see in South Goa, if you're a nature lover or travelling with your family, you can visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is around 23 km away from the beach and is best for families who love nature. It is mostly available to explore throughout every season and is also near the Karnataka-Goa border. The observation deck offers a great opportunity to check out the foliage views with large trees, animals and watering holes. You can even stay at the observation deck and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

These places are definitely worth a visit if you're travelling to South Goa. Each offers a unique experience that will help you make the most out of your trip. These are some of the popular things to do in South Goa. You must add them to your itinerary to have the most memorable trip.

9. Take a Hot Air Baloon Ride

Soar high above the scenic landscape and take in breathtaking views of the beaches, forests, and villages of South Goa. Taking a hot air balloon ride is one of the best things to do in South Goa. This ride typically lasts for about an hour and takes place early in the morning when the winds are calm. You'll float above the ground at a height of around 1000-2000 feet, giving you a bird's-eye view of the beautiful scenery below.

Beaches to Visit In South Goa

South Goa is known for its stunning coastline, pristine beaches, and picturesque views. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, South Goa has something for everyone. There are several beaches that you simply cannot miss when visiting this beautiful region. Here are some of the top beaches you should definitely add to your bucket list.

1. Palolem Beach: This crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by palm trees and is perfect for swimming and relaxing. The beach is dotted with beach shacks that serve delicious seafood and cocktails, making it a great spot for a day out with friends or family.
2. Agonda Beach: Known for its serene surroundings and calm waters, Agonda Beach is perfect for those looking for a peaceful getaway. The beach is lined with coconut palms and offers stunning sunsets, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening stroll.
3. Cola Beach: This hidden gem is a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and a freshwater lagoon. The beach is perfect for a day trip with friends, as you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking on the lagoon.
4. Butterfly Beach: Accessible only by boat, Butterfly Beach is a great place to spot dolphins and other marine life. The beach is surrounded by dense vegetation and offers a secluded spot for those who want to escape the crowds.
5. Benaulim Beach: This quiet and less crowded beach is perfect for long walks and watching the sunset. The beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a great spot to relax and unwind.
6. Cavelossim Beach: This pristine beach is known for its clean waters and water sports activities. The beach is a popular spot for jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.

The best Goa tour packages will have these beaches added to them or you can even get them customized according to your preferences. With their stunning views, crystal clear waters, and range of activities, these beaches are sure to make your trip to South Goa a memorable one.

3 Types of Seafood You Can Try in South Goa

Goa is a coastal state and it is known for its abundant seafood varieties. Here are some types of seafood you can try in Goa:

1. Fish Curry - A popular dish made with a variety of fish cooked in a spicy coconut curry.
2. Prawn Fry - Prawns marinated with spices and fried until crispy.
3. Crab Xec Xec - A spicy crab dish made with coconut, red chillies, and tamarind.

After you are done with all the fun activities on the South Goa beaches, you can have restful evenings in a shack on a beach. These shacks have bars and restaurants too where you can enjoy a drink and have a snack too.

A Goan holiday is a soul-satiating experience. When are you planning to take one?!