Dona Paula Beach is located 7 km west of Panjim in North Goa District. Surrounded by several casuarina groves and palm trees, the beach is famous for the varied legends attached with it. One such legend involves the daughter of the Portuguese Viceroy of Jaffnapatnam, Paula Amaral Antonio de Souto Maior. She married a Fidalgo from Spain in 1656. Her grave is housed in the transept of the Chapel at the Governor's Palace where a part of her history is engraved on her gravestone. Moreover, the beach has gained popularity for being a prominent shooting location for several Indian films. Jet-skiing and parasailing can also be done here. Shops located in the vicinity of the beach sell straw hats, feni, lace handkerchiefs, port wine and spices. Sunbathing at the beach below an umbrella is also popular.
Goa