About Dona Paula, Goa
Located on the southern tip of the North Goa district, Dona Paula is one of the most visited parts of the state. One of the prime reasons for people to choose hotels in Dona Paula, Goa is their closeness to the sea, the main highlight of the state. Dona Paula is home to the National Institute of Watersports as well as Goa University. Further, the area is also close to Panaji, which is the cultural and administrative centre of Goa. So, whether you are coming to the state for fun or work, Dona Paula is an amazing place to stay.
Shopping and Dining in and around Dona Paula
For retail therapy, Dona Paula has a mix of traditional Goan street markets selling local stuff as well as 21st century shopping arcades offering goods by domestic as well as international brands. Taleigao Market and New Municipal Market are perfect places near Goa hotels in this neighbourhood to stock up on handicrafts, sausages and other Goan favourites, such as feni. Among the shopping malls in the area is Caculo Mall. The scenario on the dining front is much more happening, as the locality is home to hordes of restaurants, serving traditional Goan, North Indian, European and almost all other types of dishes. Dining venues range from casual cafes and buzzing beach shacks to eclectic restaurants and electric pubs. The Goan Room, The Red Ginger, Pomodoro, Kismoor, Cafe Azul, Atricana Sea Side Bar And Grill, Barbeque and Samarkand are just some of the innumerable restaurants in Dona Paula.
Things to Explore in and around Dona Paula
Those staying at Dona Paula hotels are assured of a memorable trip as they have lots to do and see here. The most popular places to visit in Goa that are either in or close to Dona Paula include Dona Paula beach and viewpoint, Goa Science Centre and Planetarium (2.8 km), St Francis Xavier’s Chapel (4.9 km), Santa Cruz Church (5.1 km), Goa Museum (5.7 km) and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (10.8 km). When here, do not forget to have fun on one of the most famous beaches in the state, Miramar Beach. Dona Paula is also a hub for adventure and watersports in Goa, including water skiing, windsurfing, parasailing, snorkelling, parasailing, kayaking and swimming. Those looking to have Vegas-style fun, can head to any of the floating casinos anchored off the Panaji coast or located within the city, viz. Deltin Royale, Deltin Jaqk, Casino Pride, Crown Casino, Casino Pride 2 and Big Daddy Casino.
How to Reach Dona Paula
Due to their location in a popular tourist destination, hotels in Dona Paula are easy to reach from around the state. Goa International Airport (Dabolim airport), 25.1 km away, has taxis and regular bus services for Dona Paula. The closest railway station is Karmali Junction (16.7 km), whereas Thivim Railway Station is 26.4 km and Madgaon Junction 33.7 km away. You can travel around Goa by buses or by hiring a motorcycle or scooter.
