Location:
Near the Colva beach towards the south of Goa
Highlights: Private nightlife, water sports, variety of eating
joints
How to Reach: Benaulim beach can be reached easily by either
hiring a cab or taking an auto from any place nearby. It is an extension
of the Colva beach and can be reached easily.
The history of the Benaulim beach of Goa has an interesting legend
behind it. It is said that the land of Goa was formed when the sixth
incarnation of Lord Vishnu known as Parashuram shot an arrow in the sea
and it receded to reveal the land of Goa. The place where the arrow fell
is known as "Banali" in Sanskrit which was later corrupted by
the Portuguese to Benaulim. That is how the Benaulim beach of India
received its name. A welcome change from the other commercialized
beaches, the Benaulim beach of Goa is a less hyped yet beautiful beach.
The rapid inflow of tourists has turned this once fishing and rice
farming village into a popular beach that commands a decent inflow of
tourists every year. The Benaulim beach, which hardly made its way to
the list of an average backpacker ten years back, has today gained much
reputation and fame of being a happening beach in Goa. The Benaulim
beach is now famous for its water sports and lavish resorts. A peaceful
place, this beach is one of those few beaches that provide unspoilt
beauty away from the maddening crowds.
The beach provides a natural landscape and makes the surroundings
absolutely photogenic. The tall swaying palm trees, the blue ocean, the
golden sands, the wooden boats scattered at strategic places, all make
this beach a scene out of Paradise. Occasionally you may find hawkers,
fruit sellers, wandering masseurs, roaming on the beach. The Benaulim
beach is also popular because people can easily go swimming here as the
water is free of jellyfish and other hazards.
Benaulim beach boasts of some of the best eateries. The fresh sea food,
cooked in the exotic Goan style and served with a warm smile is
unbeatable. Besides restaurants and cafes, you can find some high end
resorts and hotels that get booked the minute the tourist season sets
in. So book your rooms in advance if you want to enjoy the Benaulim
beach without any hassles and tensions.
