Dona Paula beach is called 'Lovers' Paradise' due to a tragic story associated with this beautiful beach in Goa. The beach gets its name from Dona Paula de Menzes, daughter of a viceroy, who committed suicide here when she could not get married to a local fisherman she loved. This story and a beautiful setting with swaying palm trees and casuarinas make it one of the foremost tourist attractions in Goa. The best time to visit would be during winter (November to March).
Tourist attractions
The beach is located near the meeting point of the Arabian Sea and the Zuari and Mandovi rivers. Cruises on these rivers are very popular among tourists. The Dona Paula bay offers a fine view of the Marmagao Harbor.
National Oceanography Institute
You must visit this institute and see the various interesting artifacts dealing with marine biology and oceanography. The marine biology museum and the Taxonomy Reference centers are among the major draws of the institute.
Raj Bhavan
The official residence of the governor of Goa is a major tourist attraction. You can get a magnificent view of the Aguada fort and the coastline from here. The tomb of Dona Paula de Menzes is housed in the Cabo chapel.
Beaches
The Miramar beach and the Vainguinim beach are the nearest beaches from Dona Paula.
Reis Magos Church and the Salim Ali bird sanctuary are the other major attractions located close to Dona Paula beach.
Activities
You can have a gala time at Dona Paula with a variety of water sports including wind surfing, water skiing, Para-sailing, snorkeling, yachting, water scootering and motor boating. Fishing is also a popular sport here. The annual water sports festival is held here in November. Shopping enthusiasts can look forward to a wide range of seaside goods, garments, Feni - the local liquor, Port wine, and handicraft items.
Access
Dona Paula beach is located about 7 kilometers from Panjim. The nearest airport is Dabolim, 32 away. The Karnali railway station is the nearest railhead. Plenty of buses are available from Panjim Bus Depot at frequent intervals. You will also find taxis, motorcycles and auto rickshaws.
Accommodation
A large number of accommodation options are available in the vicinity of the beach. Backpackers may look for cheap accommodation in beachside huts. The Dona Paula Beach Resort is a well known resort of the area.
Learn more about the beaches of Goa and other information about tourism in Goa in Goatrip.com.
Recommended Dona Paula Beach Resorts
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