Introduction

A lovely 7-kilometer (4 miles) drive from Panjim, Dona Paula Beach is shrouded in a romantic myth and attracts sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts from all over the world. The clear waters of Dona Paula make it ideal for aqua activities, as much for simply lounging on the silvery sand and soaking up the sun. Head to the Dona Paula Sports Club if you wish to try out water-scooting, cycling and motor-boating. You can also indulge in a range of water sports such as windsurfing, parasailing, water-skiing, toboggan ski-biscuit, skibob, sports fishing, snorkeling, harpoon fishing, yachting and kayaking among others.

The bewitching charm of Dona Paula lies in a popular legend surrounding the beach named after Dona Paula de Menzes. The daughter of a Viceroy from the colonial era, Dona Paula is believed to have thrown herself off a steep cliff when she was not allowed to marry her lover Gasper Dias, a local fisherman. Dona Paula lies enshrined in the Cabo Chapel of Raj Bhawan, and according to legend, is seen emerging from the waves on a moonlit night wearing only a pearl necklace. The legend of Dona Paula continues to fascinate and intrigue travelers, as some just come here to feel in the air the sweet pain of love. Apparently, the beach has also been the background for many Indian movies.

If you wish to pick up some local knick-knacks, stroll up to the beachside stalls hawking an impressive range of straw hats, lace handkerchiefs, spices, Feni, port wine and some exotic locally made liquor. For ethnic handicraft and jewelry, Indian Arts Emporium in Dona Paula is a good place. There are some decent seafood restaurants near the beach where you can stop for a hearty lunch and unwind after a day of sun-soaking.

When at Dona Paula, you can also plan a visit to some close-by attractions such as the National Oceanography Institute that has a Marine Biology Museum and Taxonomy Reference Centre that bring out the maritime history of Goa. Further on, you can continue to the Governor’s House, Cabo Raj Niwas, just half a kilometer from the institute, home to the tomb of Dona Paula de Menzes in the Cabo Chapel. Take in grand sweeping views of the Goan coastline and Fort Aguada from Raj Bhawan. Some 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) ahead is one of the oldest churches of Goa, Reis Magos Church. If you have more time at hand, you could visit the mangrove wilderness of Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on the western tip of the island of Choro along Mandovi River, about 9 kilometers from Dona Paula beach.

Dona Paula is an interesting sun and sand getaway in North Goa and offers you a beach experience that is far removed from the pulsating life in most North Goan beaches. There are ample accommodation options around Dona Paula, in case you fall in love enough with this mysterious beach resort and decide to stay on for a few more days.

Special Attributes

Outside of being a beautiful beach, Dona Paula is popular for the legend surrounding Dona Paula de Menzes, the Viceroy's daughter after whom it is named.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

A bus or motorcycle-taxi from Panjim or a ferry service from Marmagao is the best way to reach Dona Paula beach. You can get buses to Miramar and Dona Paula at regular intervals from Panjim's Kadamba Bus Stand.

Enjoyed by

Families, Kids, Senior Citizens and Backpackers

Exposure

You will be under the open sky of Goa. The sun can get harsh near afternoon, so you are advised to carry sunshades, a sun block cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

The beachside is dotted with restaurants serving succulent seafood and an array of souvenir shops. Visit the Dona Paula Sports Club if you wish to try out water-scooting, cycling and motor-boating.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Begin early in the day so that you can explore the nearby attractions on the same day.

Type of site

A picturesque beach in North Goa