Where do foreigner travelers to Goa flock the most? It’s Palolem Beach in the South district of Goa which is famous for its unspoiled stretch of the white sands. Palolem Beach seems to have been drawn by hands in an almost flawless manner. With icing sugar sands and crystal clear water, Palolem Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in Goa. Ideally, it is located in the Canacona part of South Goa and is surrounded by several other pristine beaches within an easy traveling distance. However, when it comes to the taste, the notch level of natural beauty in South Goa, Palolem Beach sits one the top. Whether after relaxation or romance, or silent night parties, this beach has you covered with everything!
Palolem Beach is known for its uncanny party, and night owls can pick their headphones and groove around at the famous ‘Silent Noise” parties. Between November till January, full moon parties are hosted at the Palolem shoreline. The Palolem Beach Market is one of the best places for shopping in South Goa. Within the 50 m to 500 m (approx.), different accommodation options at Palolem Beach are available, including budget-friendly hotels and luxurious resorts.
This stunning slice of paradise in South Goa is hugged by breezy coconut studded palm trees. One can enjoy the mindfulness experience like yoga and meditation on the white sand shore. Here at Palolem Beach, dolphin sightseeing tours in the heart of the Arabian Sea are pretty famous. A visit to the opposite direction of the beach will reward you with wildlife sanctuaries where you can spot elusive wildlife like leopards, monkeys, and tigers. At the southern end of the beach on Palolem-Agonda Road, you will find South Goa’s biggest outdoor dance club - Leopard Valley.
The district headquarters of Goa, Margo, is 35 kilometers (approx.) away from Palolem Beach. It is 1.5 kilometers (approx.) long beach and is one of the safest beaches in Goa for swimming. There is a small island named Canacona Island behind the pristine Palolem Beach, where you could reach only by ferry or boat service. Palolem Beach has bamboo beach huts, places between palm trees where you can unwind, eat, and admire the stunning sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Tourists who have an appetite for watersports in Goa would be spoiled with choices. The Southern end of Palolem Beach is flanked with thrilling watersports, including Kayaking, boating, diving, and windsurfing are a few. Thanks to the uncertain and precarious nature of the waves, this mile-long crescent moon beach is one of the best beaches and places to visit in South Goa in one day because it's shoreline is almost 1.5 kilometers (approx.) which is walkable enough to explore.
The beach shacks at Palolem Beach are quite luxurious compared to the other beach shacks of Goa. Thanks to the elite international crowd from Israel, Russia has shaped Palolem Beach as one of the cleanest beaches in Goa for sunbathing. So don’t forget to recharge the tiredness at the beach shacks of the Palolem in the evening. Around the beachfront of Palolem Beach, the restaurants offer lip vegetarian food and international-level cuisine to their guests. Most of the beach shacks opening timing at Palolem Beach is from 9 AM to 11 PM.
Below, find out everything in our full guide to Palolem Beach in South Goa before you make it to your watersports playground:
When is the Best Time to Visit Palolem Beach?
From November to February, the peak months of Goa tourism are the best time to visit Palolem Beach. It is the most preferred time for a honeymoon in Goa and in the Canacona town of South Goa, where Palolem Beach is located. The sunshine lasts for longer with minimal humidity because these months are winter in Goa. all the watersports at Palolem Beach remain operational. Moreover, full moon parties are held from November to February at Palolem Beach.
The shoulder season of Goa begins from the advent of March till June. The initial month drives less heat, while April, May, and June produce scorching heat, which could be unbearable for many! However, the shoulder season in Goa means accommodation prices will not be high in summer. Although, the effect of humidity combined with an average high upto 38 degrees celsius (approx.) could be improved if you plan beach exploration between 9 AM till 11 AM and 4:30 AM till 6 PM.
Consider the monsoon season from July to September the best time to go to Palolem Beach only if you don’t want to indulge in watersports. Because this is when watersports are not operational. But you will get assured jaw-dropping discounts on accommodations.
How to Reach Palolem Beach from Panjim and Goa International Airport?
Palolem Beach from Panjim:The average travel distance and time to reach Palolem Beach from Panjim is 71 kilometers/2 hours (approx.). This distance will easily get covered via prepaid taxi, rented car, and local bus.
Palolem Beach from Goa International Airport:Consider covering the distance of 60 kilometers/1.5 hours (approx.) from Dabolim Airport. Outside the airport, prepaid taxis are available to smooth transfer to Canacona town from Palolem Beach at a stone's throw distance.
What Are the Best Resorts or Hotels Near Palolem Beach?
The highlight of thebest resorts or hotels near Palolem Beach is that they are located within 50 m to 500 m (approx.) walking distance. Just like its tranquil ambiance and soft white sands, Palolem Beach is known to provide exclusive accommodations in a distinct style, including a budget, luxury, and mid-range. The best hotels or resorts in Palolem are equipped with an outdoor pool, lush garden, in-house spa, and plenty of area for recreational activities for family travelers. If you want to unlock the legit Goan vibe, stay at Portuguese-styled rooms, and nosh on authentic Goan cuisine. Scroll on to find out thebest accommodation near Palolem Beach:
Palolem Beach Resort:Get enamored with the calmness of the sea while enjoying your meal at Palolem Beach Resort. It has rooms facing palm trees with balconies and is just 2 minutes (approx.) walking distance from the beach. Staycation here starts at 2,200 INR (approx.) onwards.
Kings Villa Resort:This property is just 200 m away from Palolem Beach, and it has one cafe bar and one onsite restaurant. This budget-friendly accommodation starts at 1,500 INR (approx.) onwards.
Sobit Sarovar Portico:Call it the best hotel with a pool in the Palolem; Sobit Sarovar Portico is flanked by the woodwork of Goan and Portuguese Style architecture. Accommodation here starts at 4,500 INR (approx.) onwards for two-person.
What Are the Famous Restaurants and Beach Shacks Near Palolem Beach?
Get quality seafood and the blend of other international cuisines at the best price. Thefamous restaurants and beach shacks near Palolem Beach serve drool-worthy dishes located or connected with Palolem Beach shore. The luxurious restaurants and beach shacks on and near Palolem Beach road are dotted with sunbeds for lazing. Savor undeniable Arabian sea view like never before. Take a look at the popular restaurants in Palolem Beach:
Royal Touch Beach Huts:Connected well with Palolem Beach and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, this eating place in Palolem Beach offers AC rooms, spa and is one of the most famous beachfront huts in Palolem. So extend your stay or relish a drool-worthy meal for under 800 INR (approx.).
The Olive Room:Make digital payment at this restaurant on Palolem Beach after scaring lip-smacking pizza between 11 AM to 11 PM every day. Sea food, prawn, and Punjabi food are the highlight. Meals start for two at 300 INR (approx.).
Havana Cuba: Get excess to PAN India delicacies and nosh on international cuisines too at Havana Cuba. It is located around the beachfront of Palolem Beach. Savor meals for two here at 600 INR (approx.).
What Are the Shopping Options At Palolem Beach?
The artistry of the Goan people is legendary, and it could be best experienced while enjoying shopping at Palolem Beach. Once you swim in the peaceful waves, nosh on the lunch under the thatched roof cabana under the shaded palms, activate the retail bug in you! Shopping at Palolem Beach is one of the best things to do! Many shops run parallel to the main beach road dotted with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Palolem Main Market has a distinct hippie culture. Shop til you drop the Colourful wall hangings, bed sheets, jewelry, and other knick-knacks. Kinjal Tattoo Studio is located at Kinjal Downstreet.
What Are the Famous Water Sports At Palolem Beach to Try?
Activate your dopamine hormone and feel good by indulging infamous water sports at Palolem Beach. This immaculate beach of South Goa is the cornerstone of the best-rated water sports that will satiate your trust for the thrilling adventure. Scroll on to read what are the top water sports to try at Palolem Beach:
Dolphin Sightseeing Trip:Book a boating trip to the beachfront of Palolem Beach and watch the friendliest marine creatures. Dolphin sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Palolem Beach with family.
Paragliding: Glide through the sky and watch the coastline of the Palolem like a bird from soaring heights.
Kayaking: Kayak through the water with the double-bladed paddle and drift in the sea in the best possible way!
Windsurfing: Surf over the seawater with the help of the surfboard after learning about the windsurfing season.
Water Scooter:Glide through the water with ease by trying water scooter adventure sports powered by an engine.
What Are the Important Travel Tips to Know Before Going to Palolem Beach?
- The Northern end of Palolem Beach is suitable for swimming as it has shallow waters
- The Southern end of Palolem Beach is best for watersports as it has strong waves
- There is a market a few kilometers away from the beach
- Silent discos are common in Palolem over loud parties
- Test your bargaining skills while shopping from the vendors
- Don’t indulge in unwanted conversation with anyone
- Watersports will have the high chance of getting on operational in the monsoon
- Evening and night activities at Palolem Beach takes place on the Southern End of the Beach
- Keep extra pair of garments
- Swim under the supervision of the lifeguards present on the beach
- Book hotel in advance
- Carry cash with you while exploring the beach and its nearby area
