Dona Paula Beach in Goa

Dona Paula Beach is a major tourist destination located in the suburbs of Panaji in Goa. The National Institute of Oceanography, Goa University, and the International Centre Goa are located in this area.  A popular spot for lovebirds, the beach is also a busy site to enjoy water sports in Goa.

Story of Dona Paula Goa

The area is named after a historical figure, Paula Amaral Antonio de Souto Maior. She was the daughter of the Portuguese Viceroy and fell in love with the son of a local fisherman. She was a woman of kind nature and charity. She helped villagers and worked for their betterment. She and her lover took their lives near the beach after their families objected the love affair.

The stunning Raj Bhavan of Goa is located in the La Marvel Colony in Dona Paula. This rocky tourist attraction is at the spot where the river Mandovi and the river Zuari meet and the confluence with the Arabian Sea, about one kilometres from this spot. It's a popular lover's paradise offering a splendid view of the Mormugao harbour. The beach is fringed by casuarina and palm trees. Visitors at the beach can relish the view from the hillock or idle away their afternoon by sitting on the benches at the beach. Afternoon sunbathing and sunset walks are popular things to do at Dona Paula Beach. Dona Paula view point is also a popular attraction of this place from where one can cherish serene views of the vast ocean.

Tranquil in character, Dona Paula Beach is also known as a destination for aquatic fun. The Dona Paula Sports Club at the beach is home to some of the best water sports opportunities in Goa. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge a number of Dona Paula beach activities such as in water-scooter rides, motorboat rides, and swimming. Windsurfing, kayaking, water skiing, and yachting are also popular things to do in Dona Paula. The Cabo Fort along with Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, where both migratory and local birds abound, is one of the major places to visit near Dona Paula in Goa.

Other than this, there are also some seafood restaurants near the beach where you can have your lunch and relax after a day of sunbathing. There are a variety of restaurants, stalls, and accommodation options available near the Dona Paula Beach. The best time to visit Dona Paula is between November and March.