Goa is a great place to visit during the end of February and the onset of March. It transforms into a lively destination with vibrant festivals, beach parties, and cultural events. The South Goa region is more peaceful than the North, with fewer activities, bars, and restaurants. If you're looking for a vacation full of self-reflection and exposure to pristine locales, the southern side is the best destination. It offers tranquil beaches, lush greenery, and solitude, providing a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you want to unwind with a book under the shade of the palms or take long walks along secluded shores, South Goa is the perfect place to find solace and rejuvenation. Check out our 3-day South Goa itinerary to spend a few days of solace coupled with sightseeing, culinary exploration and other endless delights.
Begin your day with a visit to Agonda Beach, which is famous for its immaculate shoreline and tranquil atmosphere. It is a 3 kilometer long, secluded cove of white sand in the palms of Canacona, a large village in South Goa. You can either take a leisurely stroll along the beach or simply unwind on the soft sands. After that, relish a delicious Goan breakfast at one of the beachside shacks. Indulge in local delicacies such as poi (bread), Goan sausages and freshly brewed coffee to start your day on the right foot.
Later on, visit Palolem Beach, one of the most renowned beaches in South Goa. You can enjoy various water sports activities like kayaking or paddleboarding or simply relax under the swaying palm trees. For lunch, head to a beachfront restaurant and savour delicious seafood dishes like prawn curry or fish thali.
Towards the end of the day, you can visit the historic Cabo de Rama Fort, which is located on a cliff and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea coastline. The medieval hillfort is one of the oldest and largest forts in Goa featuring the Capela de Santo António, a chapel that is still in use. It is an ideal spot to witness a beautiful sunset. After the tour, you can head to a local restaurant to try out some authentic Goan cuisine, such as vindaloo, xacuti, or seafood curry.
On your second day, embark on an early morning excursion to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. It's located on the Mandovi River, on the Goa-Karnataka border, and is part of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. You have two options to reach the waterfall: trek through the lush Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or a Jeep safari. Don't forget to carry a picnic breakfast with you to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings of Dudhsagar.
Later, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa, home to magnificent churches and cathedrals dating back to the Portuguese colonial era. You can visit landmarks like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. For lunch, you can have a traditional Goan meal at a local eatery in Old Goa, where you can sample dishes like balchão (spicy seafood) or cafreal (marinated grilled meat).
To end your day, take a relaxing walk through Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji. This area is famous for its vibrant street art, narrow streets, and colourful Portuguese-style houses. Make sure to stop by the Sunaparanta Centre for the Arts, located in the Altinho hills, next to the Mala and Fontainhas conservation areas. Later, have dinner at a cosy restaurant in Fontainhas that offers a delicious fusion of Goan and Portuguese flavours.
On your third day, spend a peaceful morning at Betalbatim Beach, renowned for its serene ambience and picturesque golden sands. You can relax by the shore, participate in beach yoga, or take a leisurely dip in the calm waters. Afterwards, head to a beachside shack for brunch and relish a delightful mix of continental and Goan breakfast options.
Later on, consider visiting Colva Beach, one of the oldest and most famous beaches in South Goa. You can rent bicycles or scooters to explore the coastline or simply unwind with a book under the shade of an umbrella. Additionally, visit the local markets in Colva to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and Goan spices.
To conclude your memorable stay in Goa, take a scenic sunset cruise along the Sal River. Enjoy breathtaking views of the mangrove forests and riverine landscapes as you sail into the sunset. After the cruise, head to a riverside restaurant for a farewell dinner. Savour Goan delicacies while enjoying live music and entertainment.
Air: The nearest airport to Margao is Dabolim Airport which is 23 km away.
Rail: Madgaon Railway Station is the nearest railway head to South Goa and is connected to major railway stations nearby.
Road: You can reach the place form major cities like Mangalore, Udupi, Bhatkal, Kumta, Karwar, Ratnagiri, and Mumbai through the National Highway 66 (NH66).
