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Located in South Goa, Varca Beach is one of the untouched and beautiful beaches, providing a picturesque model of a covered beach destination. This sandy beach covers an area of about 2 kilometers and is surrounded by palm trees and the Arabian Sea. As a leisure destination, the places to visit near Varca Beach offer tourists an opportunity to relax by the shore or engage in various activities and sightseeing. Being in close proximity to Margao- one of the most culturally significant cities in South Goa, Varca also gives access to several tourist attractions that capture the cultural identity of Goa.
15 Interesting Places To Visit Near Varca Beach
Here is a list of places to visit near Varca Beach that add to your unforgettable tropical escapade to South Goa:
1. Benaulim Beach
Photo: Ray Swi-hymn / Wikimedia Commons
About 6km north of Varca, Benaulim beach is a much more laid-back spot with scenic beauty all around. This beach is among the most popular tourist attractions for both leisure and adventure enthusiasts, as well as the local population. The beach offers varied water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing, or even sunbathing on the fine sand. There are also numerous shacks selling some mouthwatering Goan dishes.
Location: Benaulim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 6 km
Suggested Read: Best Things To Do In Benaulim
2. Colva Beach
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Colva beach is one of the most popular beaches in South Goa. It is particularly known for its nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and shacks that are usually active at night. Throughout the day, there are a myriad of things to do here apart from swimming that include, water sports such as jet-skiing, parasailing as well as group activities like beach volleyball. Colva also has Dolphin Watching Trips with boat programs which offers the tourists an excellent chance to witness dolphins in their natural environment.
Location: Colva, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 9.3 km
3. Cavelossim Beach
Photo: vita50501 / Wikimedia Commons
The picturesque Cavelossim Beach with its white sandy shores and black rocks, offers many scenic views. Compared to the other beaches, this beach is less crowded and not so tourist-oriented, which is perfect to those seeking serenity in South Goa. The beach is excellent for taking long walks, where one can marvel at the view of the Arabian Sea. The opportunities for water activities include jet skiing, windsurfing, and sailing, however, for those willing to relax, they can sunbathe on the beach or take a trip to one of the luxurious resorts nearby.
Location: Cavelossim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 8.4 km
Suggested Read: Famous Beaches In South Goa For A Perfect Coastal Getaway
4. Our Lady Of Gloria Church
Photo: अशोक सोयंके / Wikimedia Commons
Our lady of Gloria Church is an architectural masterpiece which is a historic site located in Varca village. This church is among the oldest in the region and stands testimony to the Catholic influence that has remained ingrained as a part of cultures of Goa. Located in the coastal state of Goa, the church has Indo Portuguese style architecture still retains the old Goan stylistic structure and is famous for its wooden carved work, frescoes and stained glass works. Due to the calm environment of the church it is a perfect place for everybody to pray and meditate.
Location: Varca, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 3.3 km
5. Betalbatim Beach
Photo: Tanya Dedyukhina / Wikimedia Commons
Adorned with beautiful sunsets, Betalbatim Beach is also known as the “Sunset Beach”. This is one of the most pristine beaches in South Goa and is relatively less crowded as compared to many other beaches in this part of Goa. The beach has clean, soft, golden sand and shallow water, thus best suitable for swimming and sunbathing. The beach features palm trees all around, and the natural calmness of the place is ideal for one to relax.
Location: Betalbatim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 13 km
Suggested Read: Hidden Beaches In South Goa Offering A Tropical Getaway
6. Chandor Village
Photo: Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chandor Village is a historical village that will transport you to another era of Goa. Chandor was once the capital of the ancient Kadamba dynasty, which ruled the area from around the 4th century, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone looking to experience the culture of Goa today. The main attraction of Chandor is the Menezes Braganza House, a marvelous house built in the seventeenth century. The building is split into two wings and is managed by different branches of the Braganza family; the interior is decorated with antiques, carved wood, and stunning artistic and archaeological pieces and paintings.
Location: Chandor, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 17 km
7. Mobor Beach
Photo: bistaastha / Wikimedia Commons
Mobor beach which is another beautiful and comparatively less crowded beach that has all the facilities of a modern world coupled with the natural beauty. It boasts of soft sandy beaches, clean blue waters, and green vegetation around the beach area. Other water activities that tourists enjoy in Mobor include water skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing. For the more laid back type of individuals, the beach may just be one of the best places for sunbathing or for a simple and relaxing walk along the shore.
Location: Mobor, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 10 km
Suggested Read: Top Beaches In Goa For A Fun-Filled And Sunny Vacation
8. Cabo De Rama Fort
Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons
The Cabo de Rama Fort is one of the top historical and aesthetic sites in Goa. This historic fortress is located near the sea, on a plateau overlooking the Arabian Sea, and can be traced back to the pre-Portuguese period. The fort was named Ramnagar after the great epic Ramayana because it was said that lord Rama and Sita once lived here in their exile. Cabo de Rama has seen many battles and has been under different rulers, including Hindus, the Portuguese, and the British, over hundreds of years.
Location: Canacona, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Varca Beach: 25 km
9. Goa Chitra Museum
Photo: JosephAssisFernandes / Wikimedia Commons
Close to Varca, Goa Chitra Museum provides an insight into Goan culture. This kind of museum is an ethnographic one and it has more than 4,000 exhibits in which the Goan peasant’s lifestyle is represented. Established by Victor Hugo Gomes, who himself has taken a lot of effort in collecting objects, utensils, farming related items, pottery items, musical instruments and other household items which were essential for Goan people in the past. The museum is located in a specially reconstructed Goan village with houses and gardens that add appeal to the tour.
Location: Benaulim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance from Varca Beach: 7 km
Suggested Read: Goa Art Museums For Every Aesthete To Explore At Least Once
10. Palolem Beach
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Palolem beach is one of the most scenic and tourist-frequented beaches in South Goa. This beach has turquoise waters, coconut trees, and it is popular for its young atmosphere with various activities. Palolem is a beach visited by both tourists and those living in Goa, where tourists can rent a kayak, take a dolphin-watching boat, and participate in yoga classes. There are also colorful structures along the beach that include restaurants and juice stands where you can taste the delicious seafood, global cuisines or just drink your favorite cocktails accompanied with the stunning view of the sea.
Location: Palolem, South Goa
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Distance from Varca Beach: 37 km
11. Agonda Beach
Photo: Zukiman Mohamad / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Just a short drive from Varca Beach, Agonda Beach is a peaceful haven perfect for families and couples. Known for its clean shoreline, gentle waves, and laid-back charm, it’s ideal for long walks, swimming, or simply unwinding under a palm tree. Unlike Goa’s busier beaches, Agonda offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe. With its quaint tropical charm, this beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Goa near Varca Beach. You can also spot dolphins or enjoy beachfront cafes with local cuisine.
Location: Agonda, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Distance From Varca Beach: 38 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Agonda Beach
12. Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Photo: Bikashrd / Wikimedia Commons
A must-visit near Varca Beach, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of Goa’s most iconic landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Old Goa holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and richly carved interiors. Families can enjoy exploring its peaceful halls and detailed altars. Whether for its religious significance or architectural beauty, the basilica offers a meaningful and memorable glimpse into Goa’s colonial past.
Location: Old Goa, North Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Distance From Varca Beach: 47 km
13. Japanese Garden
Photo: Pasqualino Capobianco / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the scenic Varca Beach nearby places include the Japanese Garden, a tranquil escape just a short drive away. Set atop a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, this beautifully landscaped garden features winding paths, shaded seating, and vibrant flora—perfect for a relaxed family outing. A short walk leads you to a secluded beach and a charming old fort. With its peaceful vibe and scenic ocean views, the garden offers a refreshing break from the usual beach spots in South Goa.
Location: Vasco da Gama, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Varca Beach: 32 km
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In South Goa For An Unforgettable Experience
14. Three Kings Chapel
Photo: Aneesh Prabhu / Wikimedia Commons
Perched atop the serene Cuelim Hill in Cansaulim, Three Kings Chapel offers a unique blend of history, legend, and panoramic beauty. This quaint whitewashed chapel, dating back to the 16th century, is enveloped in local folklore about three kings who met a tragic fate here, adding an element of mystery to its tranquil ambience. Visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the Goan countryside and the Arabian Sea, making it a favorite spot for photographers. The chapel is especially captivating during sunrise and sunset, becoming one of the beautiful places to visit near Varca Beach, Goa offering a peaceful retreat.
Location: Cuelim Hill, Cansaulim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Distance From Varca Beach: 24 km
15. Shri Damodar Temple
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
Surrounded by the lush greenery of Zambaulim in South Goa, Shri Damodar Temple is a peaceful spiritual retreat. Situated along the banks of the Kushawati River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Damodar, a form of Lord Shiva. The atmosphere is serene, with beautifully maintained surroundings and a sacred tank believed to have healing properties. The temple comes alive during the annual Shigmo festival with traditional music and colorful rituals. It’s a culturally rich and spiritually calming stop for anyone exploring Goa beyond its beaches.
Location: Zambaulim, South Goa
Best Time To Visit: November to March (especially during Shigmo festival)
Distance From Varca Beach: 31 km
Suggested Read: Temples In South Goa
Varca Beach is not just a place with the sea and sand; it is actually the doorway to a cultural and natural exploration of South Goa. Whether you are interested in history, nature or just want to spend time on the shore, there are many places to visit near Varca Beach that make your experience pleasant. Book your next trip with TripXL for both informative and fun voyage to Goa.
Cover Photo: Andy Mitchell / Wikimedia Commons
