Bogmalo Beach (Vasco)
Bogmalo is broad, flat and open beach that lie close to the port city of Vasco. It is ideal for picnickers. Though popular, it is less heavily frequented among the prominent beaches of Goa, the beach is ideal for picnickers. Also, known as the fishing village, Bogmalo is beautified with a tiny-whitewashed Chapel and clusters of beach shacks scattered under the coconut palms.
Benaulim Beach (Margao)
Benaulim beach is situated in south Goa on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It lies 41 km away from Panaji, capital of the Indian state of Goa. This beach is 2km from Colva beach. As per mythology the arrow of Parashuram is said to have landed when he fired it into the sea and created Goa.
Agonda Beach
Agonda beach is a small, picturesque and secluded beach 37 Km from the town of Margao, where nature lovers can find peace of mind. It is relatively deserted due to its distances from the main cities. Agonda Beach is a three-kilometer long and lonely beautiful cove of white sand that is fringed with palms and casuarinas. It is dominated by a large hill to its south.
The fort of Cabo de Rama is not too far from Agonda beach. It is as yet undiscovered by most visitors. The fort is named after Lord Rama, the central figure of the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to local legend, Rama stayed here with his wife Sita during the period of his 12-year exile. The atmosphere of the fort creates a sense of history and drama that takes you back in time.
Church Square
This is another hotspot for visitors to Margao. Also known as the Largo da Igreja, the Church Square has the Church of Holy Spirit as its prime attraction. The church was initially constructed by the Jesuits in 1564, however very soon, the army of Adil Shah marched in and destroyed it. Repairs were carried out much later and took around 30 years to complete. Today, the church is considered one of the best example of the Indian Baroque. Both the interior and exterior of the church is worth seeing.
Monte Hill
This is a good place from where you can have a good look at the Salcett taluka. There is a chapel, Monte Chapel from where you catch your glimpses of Salcett countryside. You can reach the chapel by a motorcycle taxi.
Chandor
Chandor is a small village around 13 km from Margao. The highlight of this village is the Menezes Braganza house which is considered the grandest of all the colonial mansions of Goa. The mansion was constructed by the affluent Braganza family in the 16th century. It is a two storey structure with 28 windows seen from the entrance itself. Once inside the mansion, you will get to see a number of furnitures and Chinese porcelain. For those with a religious bent of mind, there is the diamond encrusted toe nail of St Francis Xavier.
Loutolim
This is situated at a distance of around 10 km from Margao and has the Mario Miranda house as its prime highlight. Loutolim was conceived as and represents the village life of Goa as it was in the bygone era. There are huge lifesize figures, stone sculpture and large foot print that serve as a dance floors. There is also a restaurant where you can get a taste of the exotic Goan cuisine.
Pilot Point : A little ahead of the Mormugao port, an open space uphill is wonderful if you wish to catch glimpses of the port actions.
Japanese Garden : Still further ahead from the pilot point, at the zenith of the Mormugao ridge is the Japanese Garden. This garden houses the remnants of the Fortaleza Santa Catarina. The fort commanded immense significance during the erstwhile era, however today all it does is to offer a good view of the Zuari river. Other highlights of the garden are the Shri Durga Mata Shiv Mandir and a small beach. Walk on the soft sands of the beach and hear an interesting story related to the temple during your visit to the Japanese Garden.