Dona Paula Beach in Panaji
· Summer: March-May (30°C - 36°C)
· Winter: October-February (22°C - 32°C)
· Monsoon: June-September
Best time to visit:
October end-February
Opening Time:
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Weekly Holiday:
Entry Fees for Indians
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Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
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A gorgeous sea stretch with many associated romantic tales and mysterious beliefs, Dona Paula Beach is among the hottest and most happening places in Goa. Named after a Portuguese woman, believed to have jumped to death from a nearby cliff after failing to marry a local fisherman, the beach honours her charitable nature. Though, whether the famous statue overlooking the beach is of Dona or no is a matter of debate.
A popular film shooting location among Indian filmmakers, the beach enjoys the confluence of rivers Mandovi and Zuari. The most striking aspect of the beach is the opportunity to enjoy numerous water sports and adventures, including kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, parasailing, snorkelling, motorboat riding and harpoon fishing. Toboggan ski biscuit, skibob and yachting are other popular activities. Tourists also love to enjoy relaxing sunbath at the beach adorned with casuarinas and palms.
Attractions near the beach include National Oceanography Institute housing Marine Biology Museum and Cabo Chapel. Local guides often share the famous myth that Dona Paula emerges on moonlit nights from the sea waves, flaunting a pearl necklace. You can enjoy delicious seafood and local liquors, feni and port wine. Shopping is another good activity, allowing tourists to buy straw hats, laced handkerchiefs, local spices, jewellery, clothes and handicrafts.
Connectivites
Road:
The beach is accessible by well-maintained roads from Panaji and other parts of Goa. Regular buses ply from Panaji’s main bus stand or one may rely on other transportation modes like taxis, auto-rickshaws and rented motorbikes.
Railway:
Carambolim (or Karmali) Railway Station is the closest from the beach. One needs to travel only about 20 km. from here to reach the beach by an auto-rickshaw, a cab or a motorcycle taxi.
Airway:
Dabolim Airport is the only air access point in Goa, about 30 km. from the beach. Prefer to hire a taxi or cab from the airport to access the beach and town of Dona Paula.