The moment our vacations begin, every vacationer has one place that is at the top of their list – Goa. Millions of people flock to Goa during the holidays to soak in all the sun, laze on the beaches, and party like there’s no tomorrow. Goa has two distinct parts, the North and the South. The North of Goa is more of a party hub and is always packed with tourists, whereas the south has more of a serene environment. So if you want to get away from the mainstream partying hub, then I suggest you head to the south of Goa on your next trip. Here’s a list of some of the best and most exquisite beaches you’ll find there!
Betalbatim
Betalbatim Beach is situated in South Goa, north of the well-known Colva Beach. The beach is divided in two, with the latter called Sunset beach. It’s one of South Goa’s most pristine and gorgeous beaches. Unlike other Goa beaches, which are lined with coconut trees, this beach is flanked by pine trees. Betalbatim is well-known for its picturesque surroundings and fine sands. It is a very calm and private beach that is utilized as a picnic site by families and students due to the shelter of the pine trees. The area is packed with stunning features, including a luminescent beach. Betalbatim Beach is extraordinarily beautiful at night. The waves’ sparkling sheen is enhanced by bioluminescence. Every time the water is agitated, it shines; once it is still, the illumination fades. The tides will also emit green light. Under a full moon, you can enjoy this amazing view of the ocean.
Benaulim
After you’ve ventured through Betalbatim, take a 16-minute drive down south to Benaulim. The best part about Benaulim Beach is that, although it is a popular fishing destination, it is still relatively unknown to local tourists. This beach is ideal for a picnic or lazing in the sun. Bullfighting may also be seen at Benaulim Beach during the months of March and October. A fun fact about Benaulim is that it is said to be the place where Parashuram’s (the 10th incarnation of Vishnu) arrow landed thus leading to the creation of Goa. The name Benaulim comes from the word bana which means arrow in Sanskrit.
Cabo de Rama and Mobor
After your visit to the legendary beach, head south to Cabo de Rama. Cabo de Rama Beach, commonly known as Cab de Ram among locals, is a lovely untamed beach in the south of Goa. The Beach is regarded as one of the most gorgeous sites in the country by locals. Cabo de Rama’s water is blue with a beautiful green tint. A little river, easily bridged in ford, begins its calm flow to the northern part of the Beach. A swath of palm trees runs alongside the beach, a little distance from the surf, providing visitors with a particularly lovely backdrop for picnics. A sight to see at Cabo de Rama is the Cabo de Rama fort built by the Sunda kings during medieval times. Both Hindu and Portuguese rulers were involved in the construction of this fort. As a result, you will have the opportunity to discover the architectural masterpieces of diverse cultures. One trail leads to the fort’s summit, while another leads to its on-site church.
The drive from Benaulim to Cabo de Rama is around 60 mins, so if you want to take a quick break from the long drive, you can stop at Mobor beach. Mobor Beach is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in South Goa, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the nation each year. The sun-bleached beach surrounded by palm trees extends all the way from Vasco da Gama and offers a sight to behold. The bright blue, crystal-pure waters of the Arabian Sea and the Sal River provide a breathtaking spectacle. The majestic environment serves as a genuine escape, allowing every person to unwind in the enchanting air of the clean beach.
Cola
Cola is an exquisite hidden gem in South Goa that only a few people are aware of. It appears to be just like a private beach since it is so secluded. It is obscured by dense foliage, palm palms, and mountainous terrain. The beach is split into two halves, North Cola and South Cola, by a short hill. North Cola is mainly visited by travelers because of its lovely lagoon. Its beauty is enhanced by the trees and hills surrounding it. The centerpiece of Cola beach is the blue lagoon. This is what sets Cola apart from the other beaches located in Goa. A little creek emerges from the dense foliage and reaches the Arabian Sea here, but it creates a freshwater lagoon right before the junction. The lagoon is surrounded by large palm trees and luxuriant greenery along its canal. Kayaking and fishing are some of the main activities at Cola. If you’re hungry, there are a number of restaurants that sell refreshments and delicious food just next to the lagoon.
Butterfly Beach
After you’ve refreshed yourself in the lagoon at Cola, pack your things and hit the road again. Take a short 25-minute drive down south to one of Goa’s most sought-after beaches, The Butterfly Beach! Imagine millions of butterflies in the air, schools of dolphins acrobatic in the sea, turquoise waves, and the golden sheen of beach sand encircled by towering rocks that form a ring around you. This semi-circular beach is also known as the honeymoon beach as couples flock here for a romantic secluded day. You can perch yourself on the sand or on the hill and maybe have a glass or two of wine as you watch the beautiful sunset. You should visit the beach during low tide to see sea urchins, redfish, goldfish, and sea cucumbers as they are pushed back and forth onto the shore by the waves. This is a one-of-a-kind vista that you would not be able to see anyplace else in Goa. Furthermore, on one side, millions of butterflies dance and nest on this beach, while on the other, you can see dolphins in the middle of the sea.
