Palolem Beach, South Goa
Just about a few years back, Palolem beach was an undiscovered beach with only fishermen occupying the place.But then it was discovered by tourists and now more and more tourists are reaching here for a perfect calm and solemn holiday in the lap of nature.You will not find the messy city life full of din and bustle here at Palolem beach.The cliffs that surround this beach make it a perfect beach to visit.
Palolem beach is a crescent shaped beach with hills of western ghat surrounding it. This palm shaded beach, with white sand and hills surrounding, it make it the paradise beach of Goa.It is about 2 kms long beach and one can view the whole of the beach from one end as it is semi-lunar in shape with the northern and southern ends full of small pebbles ane northern d many rocks.
The northern end of the beach has a small stream with an island in the middle.You can swim through the stream to reach the island.It is safer to swim during low tides but it would be advisable to abstain from swimming during high tides.You can also request some local fishermen to ferry you across to the island.The southern end of the Palolem beach is a bit calmer than the northern end.With lesser shacks and less tourists coming towards this end of the beach, this part of the beach is perfect to retire and revitalize yourself.A sunbath here is quite soothing.Southern part of the palolem beach provides a perfect place for seclusion and an bewitching idyllic scenery.
Palolem beach is also famous for its fishing trips and Dolphin cruises.The best part is that the charges are lower than the other beaches of Goa.A dolphin cruise from Palolem beach is undeniably an unforgettable experience.You can request the local fishermen for this.
How to reach Palolem Beach-
The nearest city to the Palolem beach is Margao (locally known as Madgaon). Palolem beach is about 40 kms from Margao and regular buses from Margao drop tourists to Chaudi ( 2 kms from Palolem beach). The nearest railway station is Canacona which is 10 kms from Palolem beach.You may also hire taxis from either Margao or Panaji.Buses from Panaji can drop you to Chaudi.From Chaudi you can either hire a taxi or reach Palolem beach by just walking.Where to stay near Palolem beach-
Being a newly discovered beach and less crowded one the options to stay near Palolem beach are limited.The accomodation near Palolem revolves round some rented huts and rooms having lesser facilities.But believe me staying in a hut or a fisherman's rented house is a great experience in itself.During high seasons some tents are also available which can be rented for staying. But getting a place to stay is a big ordeal during high seasons and you will get a place only when you are extremely lucky.Eating out at Palolem Beach-
Unlike accomodation facilities , Palolem beach has plenty of places to eat.You will get many medium sized places to eat where you can get western recipes as well as goan cuisines alike.Like rest of Goa Palolem beach also offers some nice delicacies made of fishes.There are some restaurants on the north side of the beach which offer food right on the beach.You may also find some nice bars where you can enjoy chilled beer.One of the restaurant and bar present on the Palolem beach is Sameer restaurant.This can be a nice place to enjoy food and alcoholic bevearage and also, mingle with some people.Images by: Jackol, bryce edwards, imsuarez, wnorixx