The Beach

Known as the "Paradise Beach", Palolem is rated among the most beautiful beach destinations in the world. A golden beach of traditional fishing boats and modern water sports, it is largely unspoilt yet equipped with all the basics of beach fun. Adorned with stretches of white sand merging into pristine blue water, this corner of the state offers glimpses of Goa as it used to be. Sparingly inhabited by local fishermen and tourists, Palolem's mile-long crescent shoreline is heavily forested with coconut palms… so pristine that dolphins still come to play.

There is a lot that one can do at Palolem. Its shallow waters and steady ocean currents make it perfect for a swim. Also a short walk away is the completely uninhabited Patnem-Colomb Beach, calling out to the lovers of tranquillity. For a glimpse of impeccable magnificence, one can also take a trip to the secluded Butterfly Island, located towards northern end of the bay. For the more adventurous minds, snorkelling along the Butterfly Island would be no less than a treat, where one can spot mussels, sea cucumbers, sea urchins and even catch a fleeting glimpse of scarce grouper. Or one can simply indulge into a thrilling canoe ride along the little streams meandering around the bay.

Palolem has started attracting a fair share of Indian and foreign tourists in the last couple of years, and since then there has been no looking back for it. Accommodation is primarily in the form of beach huts and there are quite a few shacks selling sea food, restaurants and cafes, souvenir shops, etc to set the mood. There are also a few pubs and clubs that remain open till late at night so that one doesn't miss the nightlife of Goa. However, local authorities are trying hard to limit noise in the area, so much so that music at the local nightclub can only be heard through earphones.

Palolem Beach