Palolem Location:
Palolem is located in south Goa, 43 kilometers (27 miles) from Marago and 76 kilometers (47 miles) from Panaji, the state's capital.Getting to Palolem:
The closest railway stations to Palolem are Marago and Canacona, on the Konkan Railway. Canacona is a 10 minute drive away from Palolem and the journey costs around 50 rupees ($1) in an auto rickshaw. Alternatively, Goa's Dabolim airport is around one and a half hours away. A taxi from the airport will cost 1,000-1,500 rupees ($20-30).Palolem Weather:
The weather at Palolem is warm throughout the year. Temperatures rarely reach more than 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day or drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) at night. Some winter nights can get a bit chilly from December to February though. Palolem receives rain from the southwest monsoon from June to August, and most places on the beach close down during this time (including the beach huts, which get dismantled). The tourist season kicks off in late October, and starts slowing down around March.Palolem Attractions:
Palolem offers both relaxation and adventure. Those who've had enough of lounging on the beach can go dolphin spotting or fishing in a boat, or take an inexpensive boat trip along the backwater canals during high tide. Hiring a kayak is also a good way to explore the surroundings. During low tide, it's possible to walk to Butterfly Beach (which becomes an island when the tide is in) where there are hiking trails and striking sunsets to be enjoyed. For those who like to shop, Palolem also has a small market that sells jewelry, clothes, and souvenirs. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary makes a pleasant day trip from Palolem.Palolem Beach:
Everyone, from long term travelers to package tourists, seems to have found an appropriate place for themselves on Palolem Beach. As a result, you'll find completely different atmospheres at the north and south ends of the beach. The quieter and laid back north tends to attract families, while backpackers congregate in the south where the party scene is. The ocean is also gentler in the north and doesn't get deep as quick as in the south, which is safer for small children.Palolem Hotels:
The feature at Palolem is the temporary coco huts, which line the beach from October until May. Some are more basic than others, and can come with or without a bathroom for around $10 per night. Camp San Fransisco is known to provide decent huts on the beach. Cirians, located in the middle of Palolem Beach, has well appointed luxury huts in beautiful surroundings. Rooms are also available in guest houses and hotels set back from the beach. Om Sai Guest House, located at the nothern end of Palolem market, is recommended. Also, tucked away at the far northern end of the beach is the peaceful Sundowner Resort.Palolem Nightlife:
The nightlife at Palolem is as eclectic as the people that the beach attracts. Dance music, live music, reggae, and rock -- it pumps until the early hours of the morning, if not through speakers at least though headphones at the unique Silent Noise Parties. Cafe Del Mar and Cocktails & Dreams (yes, it is based on the movie starring Tom Cruise) have 24 hour licenses, so are the places to be for late night or early morning action. Butterfly Beach is also a popular place for parties.Palolem Travel Tips:
Many people wonder whether they should book their accommodation in advance at Palolem, or just turn up and hope they find a beach hut. If you're not too fussy about where you stay, it's possible to do the latter. However, the good places do fill up quickly during peak season in December and January, so booking ahead can be wise. Make sure you bring a flashlight and mosquito repellent. A sweater can also come in handy during the cooler months.
