"Famed for its watersports and beautiful views, legend gives this pretty fishing village and beach a bewitching dash of magic."
There's something magical about Dona Paula. And maybe you'll feel it when you arrive on this beach 7 kilometres from the Goan capital, Panjim.
Bounded by thick coconut palms, the delicious sands sit on a picturesque peninsula, commanding inspiring views over an immense bay. Whether you're a sun or fun-seeker, the scene will put a smile on your face. As well as ample space to catch some rays, you'll find loads of watersports ready and waiting if you're out to chase thrills. Famed for its variety, this is Goa's prime spot if you're up for jetskiing, parasailing, waterskiing and windsurfing. Or how about kayaking or harpoon fishing? They're all here.
When you tire of the beach, Dona Paula is well placed for pottering and exploring. First off, stroll around its little fishing village, filled with souvenir stalls and cheery restaurants. Sightseeing urges duly fired, explore charming Panjim, practically on your doorstep. Get close-up to the exotic birdlife at the enthralling Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Here, amid mangrove swamps and swirling waterways, you may spot swooping kingfishers, eagles and even otters and crocodiles. Or peep around the fortress of nearby Cabo Raj Niswas. Once the Governor's Residence, it houses the tomb of the aristocratic woman, Dona Paula, who lent her name to the bay. After a doomed love affair, legend says that she jumped from nearby cliffs to her death.
Come evening, settle on the rocks bordering Dona Paula beach to watch the moon rise over the bay. And listen for the rustle of magic in the twilight air. For local fishermen say that the ghost of Dona Paula appears here on moonlit nights, walking through the waves.
Sitting on a hammer-shaped headland 7km from Panajim, Goa's capital, Dona Paula's scallop-shaped gold sands have views reaching out to Mormugao harbour. Fringed with nodding palm trees and lush greenery, the romance of the resort has been enhanced by the myth that the beach is haunted by Dona Paula de Menezes, the daughter of a viceroy in colonial times, who was refused permission to marry a Goan fisherman, and so threw herself into the sea. Wander down to the beach for a moonlit stroll and you may catch a glimpse of her walking in the waves, wearing, as legend tells, a pearl necklace.
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Dona Paula hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Dona Paula include Cidade De Goa and Prainha.
More Goa holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Goa? Our Goa holiday destinations include Arossim Beach, Arpora, Baga, Benaulim, Betalbatim Beach, Calangute, Candolim, Cavelossim Beach, Divar Island, Dona Paula, Goa, Mobor Beach, Raj Bagh, Sernabatim, Sinquerim and Varca Beach.
Beaches
A series of dazzling gold-dust coves make up this stunning stretch of coastline. Dona Paula beach is a horseshoe-shaped arch carved into a breathtaking backdrop in every shade of green. One of the major draws here is the crystal clear water, which attracts water sport enthusiasts and you can try jet skiing and motorboat rides. Stretch out and unwind on the sugary sands and listen to the soothing rhythm of the surf or explore the unusual sandstone rock formations at the far end of the shores.
Eating out
There are a number of eateries to choose from in Dona Paula from budget beachside carts selling aromatic delicacies to colourful cafes and elegant hotels, serving a diverse range of recipes from Goa and India as well as international dishes. Buy Goan snack specialities from one of the brightly-coloured stalls, such as samosas, triangular pastries filled with spicy vegetables and as the sun sets in a romantic flurry of colour, enjoy an al fresco Goan meal such as navratan korma, a creamy dish made with vegetables, meat and nuts.
Nightlife
Dona Paula is a tranquil resort with a relaxed ambience and this is very much reflected in the nightlife, which has remained delightfully low-key. Start your evening with a romantic sunset stroll along the beautiful beach to work up an appetite. Follow with a lingering meal under the stars and end your night with a chilled drink as you reflect on another perfect day in paradise. For something a little livelier, look out for cultural themed evenings and live music playing in the local hotels.
Shopping
Dona Paula has several shops sprinkled along the top of the beach, selling a variety of goods from aromatic snack foods to colourful clothes and jewellery. Local shops also sell straw hats, souvenirs and spices which make ideal gifts to take home. For some authentic Indian handicrafts, head to the town's Indian Arts Emporium where you'll find an overwhelming selection of choice.
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