South Goa Beaches

South Goa Beaches

It is an uninterrupted coastline, yet the beaches take on a different name each as you trail through, which is because the Goan beaches are named after the village in its vicinity. Tidbit apart, welcome to quieter stretch - a 26 km frill of grainy, white sand, that is best called 'best'.

Colva Beach (26 km from Airport, 36 km from Panaji): Though agog with vacationers, this is one place where you can slice your own space amidst parasailing enthusiasts, swimmers, devotees (that swarm the place in October on their way to the church of Infant Jesus), crowded shacks, fishermen and what not. It's silver-gray, powder-fine sand has served a good bait inspiring a number of folk songs and some branded resorts to set up their abodes here.

Benaulim Beach (28 km from Airport): South of Colva is this legendary place, where according to Hindu mythology, the arrow of Lord Parsurama landed when he created the state of Goa. The church of St. John the Baptist on the hill is a wonderful example of Goan Christian architecture. With the first drops of the Indian monsoon, the village breaks into a celebration of thanksgiving for the Feast of São João. The crocodile and dolphin-spotting cruises are a favorite at this pristine beach.

Palolem Beach (67 km from Airport, 43 km from Margoa): It is rated amongst the most beautiful beaches in the world, with the backdrop of the Western Ghats, where one visit only whets your appetite for more. The large InterContinental Grand resort, Pandava's Drum - a cup-shaped rock which produces echoes if pelted on particular spots, a little island across the stream, the dolphin-spotting trips, a strange balming aura, make Palolem a must-go beach down south in Goa.

Agonda Beach (10 km north of Palolem): This one is just perfect for back-packers who are looking for some solitude. The waters are crystal clear and one can actually see the bottom of the shore while swimming. Just watch out for the sharp barnacles if you decide to climb the cliffs there. The more adventurous can rent a bicycle in the village and cycle cross country to the beach.


How to ReachGoa's international-cum-domestic airport, Dabolim, is 29 km from Panaji, on the coast near Vasco da Gama. You can fly in from Mumbai or opt for the eight-hour trip to Goa by Konkan railway or a sixteen-hour bus journey from Mumbai.


Snore by the ShoreWake up with the fishermen's call and clear your curtains to let in the tranquil rays of a benign sun that has just buoyed itself out from a turquoise sea. This and a plethora of active pursuits on and off the beach awaits you at the luxuriant beach Resorts. Check out our Resort section for details. Budget accommodations and shacks also available around the beaches.