Goa’s popularity as a destination in India knows no rival. Its scenic beauty and bustling nightlife, coupled with a distinct culture and delectable food, make it a haven for all. While first-time travellers usually find themselves on a crowded beach in North Goa, those who desire peace and solitude know South Goa is the place to be. For your next trip, add these five tranquil, must-visit beaches in South Goa to your list.
Betalbatim Beach: Where the Waters Glow
Do not be surprised if you find yourselves to be the only ones here, aside from a few locals. One of Goa’s least-crowded beaches, Betalbatim, is an ideal place to spot frolicking dolphins. While all beaches can boast of beautiful views, sunsets at Betalbatim are said to be spectacular beyond belief. At night, walk along the shore and you might witness the water glowing due to the presence of bioluminescent algae!
Galgibaga Beach: A Turtle-Spotting Paradise
An endless stretch of sand, uninterrupted by shacks, meets your eye as you step onto one of the cleanest beaches in South Goa. Located where the Galgibag river meets the sea, further south of the more popular beachfront of Colva, Galgibaga is best visited between October and March. This placid location, also known as Turtle Beach, is a nesting site for the Olive Ridley turtles, a vulnerable species. A portion of the beach is cordoned off to protect the nesting grounds, and development is limited in the area. If you happen to visit Galgibaga between December and February, you might spot turtle eggs or the turtles themselves. Regardless of which month you visit, Galgibaga is a spot you will want to cherish as your little secret.
Majorda Beach: For Fun and Frolic
If you crave tranquillity but not isolation, Majorda is the place for you. Located in Salcete, South Goa, Majorda’s peaceful beachfront makes for an accessible getaway. Whether you wish to curl up with a book under the piercing gaze of the sun, try your hand at water skiing, parasailing, and other adventure sports, or get a taste of the local cuisine at one of the many shacks, Majorda has something to meet every preference. While you do have the option to experience the pub culture of Majorda, those wishing for calm moments upon golden sand will not be disappointed.
Butterfly Beach: A Secret Haven
Of Goa’s many hidden gems, Butterfly Beach is one of the most secluded and undisturbed. This thickly forested beach is accessible only by boat from Palolem or Agonda. The semi-circular-shaped beachfront gets its name from the myriad butterfly species that can be found here. There are no shacks or shops here, giving you complete solitude to laze about freely. The best time to visit this serene spot is between November and March, as ferries stop plying during monsoon months. Carry a picnic along for a day out on these picturesque shores and return by boat once you have watched the sunset over the horizon. Memories made here will last you a long time.
Cola Beach: For Calm Swims and Striking Scenes
Since very few tourists know of Cola Beach, it almost feels like a private beach of your own. It is an offbeat spot; the bumpy drive and difficult trek through the jungle make sure you do not forget it. Though not easy to access, your woes disappear once you reach these pristine shores. Towering palm trees rear overhead, while the beach itself gives you a view of the clear waters interspersed with jutting rocks. This is one of the best spots to visit for a relaxing day. You can wander into the sea or swim in the Blue Lagoon—a natural freshwater stream that meets the beach. There are few resorts around, a single restaurant that caters to tourists and locals alike, and only a handful of shacks, making this beach one of the best-kept secrets of Goa.
Whether you like to plan your day out by the roll of a dice or by poring over reviews, take your pick from these serene South Goan beaches for that moment of peace and tranquillity you deserve.