Dona Paula beach in Goa offers one with a romantic kind of ambience. Counted as one of the most happening beaches of Goa, this beach bustles with activity throughout the year. Located at just 7 km from the state capital, Panaji, Dona Paula divides Zuari and Mandovi estuaries. Palm trees and casuarinas groves on the beach present it with very pristine and lush green looks.

One can have spectacular views of Mormugao Harbor. Being in close proximity of Panaji, Dona Paula is always crowded with large numbers of locals as well as tourists. And on the festive occasions like Janamashtami and the feast of the St. Lawrence, colors of festivities embrace the entire beach.

Legend behind Dona Paula:
The beach flaunts a romantic look which can be attributed to the legend behind the name of Dona Paula. The daughter of Viceroy in the colonial era, Dona Paula was in love with son of a fisherman, Gasper Dias. Their love was not accepted by the Viceroy and hence they jumped to death from a cliff. There is a rumor that she emerges from sea on the moonlit nights wearing a pearl necklace. This romantic angle attached to the beach lends it another attraction to its Indian tourists on their Goa tour. Some great Hindi romantic flicks are shot here at this beach.

Attractions at the Dona Paula Beach
Sun, sand and the sea are the greatest attractions which allure tourists to the beach. Like many other Goan Beaches, Doan Paula is also known for offering opportunities for enjoying water sports. Thousands of domestic and international travelers flock to the Dona Paula beach for adventurous activities. Swimming is safe here but one should maintain a distance of at least hundred meters from the rivers. There is water sports club at the beach which offers extensive choices; motor boat, water scooter and cycle ride are popular. Apart from these, windsurfing, sports fishing, parasailing, snorkeling, kayaking, harpoon fishing and yachting also can be enjoyed.

Tourists can buy cheap sea stuff from sea side vendors standing here. Other attractions at the beach are National Oceanography Institute and the Cobo Raj Niwas. Cobo Raj Niwas (Governor’s House) also has the tomb of Dona Paula de Menezes. Go travel guide can be excellent source of information for the people planning for Goa tour.