It’s high season here in the laid-back, popular tourist destination that is Goa, India. And despite the fact that most locals I’ve met have told me that this is the slowest high season they’ve seen in a while, there is still no shortage of tourists, both foreign and Indian, roaming around the beaches.
I have chosen to spend my time in South Goa, on a two kilometer stretch of sand known as Palolem Beach, with its thousands upon thousands of leaning palm trees (just as there is supposed to be on a tropical beach) and about fifty or so restaurants and beach hut operations scattered in between.
Palolem is touristy for sure and it looks more like an island in Thailand than it does a part of India. But hey, there’s nothing wrong with spending some time in a touristy location, especially when we need some rest and relaxation, which is exactly what I was in need of after two months of traveling around North India.
And so far, I love Palolem Beach. It’s friendly, super-relaxed and enjoys a diverse mix of tourists – independent travelers, couples and families – that helps create a most pleasant atmosphere. It’s certainly not a wild party place but it’s certainly not a boring, nothing-to-do destination either.
Palolem is also relatively inexpensive, something that definitely surprised me, especially considering the time of year and the large number of vacationers who fly straight to Goa for a 7- or 10-day holiday and then fly straight back home.
Accommodation Options
My friend and I are staying in a basic hut right on the beach. It has an attached bathroom, comfortable mattresses and plenty of room to move around. And when we walk out the door and down a few steps, we are on the sand. From our balcony, and pretty much anywhere inside the hut, there is a clear view of the Arabian Sea, and the soothing sound of the waves is the only sound we hear.
This hut costs 1500 rupees per night, about $30 USD. That’s $15 per person which is a bargain for such a setup during high season here.
However, you could stay in Palolem for much cheaper as well, even during this time of year. I met two female travelers who are staying in a standard hut with shared bathroom for 500 rupees per night ($10 USD) and they are still only a one minute walk to the beach. And then I met another traveler who is staying in a simple, clean room in a small house, with his own bathroom, for only 300 rupees per night ($6 USD) and again, he is about a two minute walk to the beach and one minute walk from the main strip in town.
That’s cheap.
Food Options
As for food, I must admit that it took me a few days to find the inexpensive options and at first, I thought that I was going to spend a lot of money on meals. I even checked an online guide to Palolem or two and still couldn’t find any good recommendations. The dozens of restaurants that line the beach are not so cheap by India standards, with meals in the 200 – 750 rupees range ($4 – $15 USD). But it turns out that there are a couple of cheaper places mixed in, such as Royal Touch, Chinatown and Rockit restaurants, all of which offer great food on the beach for about 100 – 300 rupees per main dish.
And then, if you leave the beach and walk one minute into the village itself, while there are still plenty of expensive eateries in this area as well, there are a few standout cheapies too.
My daily routine now involves waking up at 8:00am and walking down the beach in order to grab a double omelet sandwich with vegetables and a chai from a street stall on the main road, a hearty breakfast that costs me 25 rupees (50 US cents). For lunch, I’ll often head to a fruit stall in town, buy a pineapple, a large watermelon and ten bananas for about 125 rupees total, then return to my hut and eat it all on my balcony. And for dinner, I usually alternate between the Calcutta Restaurant, which serves very tasty fish thalis for 100 rupees and the Sai Shiv Restaurant that offers excellent punjabi thalis for 100 rupees, fish thalis for 60 rupees and many other delicious items at very cheap prices. There are also food stands hidden in the main parking lot near the beach that serve up fried rice and chow mein noodles for 50 – 70 rupees a plate.
In the evenings, usually around sunset time, and after my third daily swim in the ocean, I’ll enjoy a drink or two with some other travelers from one of the beach bars near my hut, something that costs me 80 Rps for a large Kingfisher Beer or 70 Rupees for a whiskey with lime soda.
And since I’m in more of a relaxation mood than a party mood right now, I’m typically back at my hut by around 10pm, more than ready to fall asleep to the sound of the waves outside my door.
This is how I’m spending my time in Goa, while getting some work done in between of course, and I couldn’t ask for anything more right now, especially for the price I’m paying. It feels like some kind of end-of-the-year therapy every time I look at the ocean or step foot on the sand, a therapy for both my body and my mind, and the result is an inner excitement and eagerness to discover where life shall lead me once the new year begins.
Video Tour of My Beach Hut
Ready to step inside my beach hut?
Other tips for Palolem Beach:
- many of the restaurants put beach mats and umbrellas in the sand early in the morning and anyone is free to use them…they don’t cost anything
- there is a small island at one end of the beach that is full of monkeys and you can walk here during low tide, otherwise, you can hire a kayak and paddle over
- beware of the coconuts (seriously, beware, something I learned first hand)
- bargain hard for accommodation here as there is an abundance of beach huts and rooms available
Have you been to Palolem or anywhere else in Goa? Are you interested in visiting Goa at all?
Hi!
I am going to be teaching in Nepal July 2019. I was thinking of traveling a bit in India in August. I hear that it is the Monsoon season during this time… Do you think it will negatively effect a trip down to Goa? I just wasn’t sure how bad the weather gets and if there isn’t that many things open.
I’m totally fine with it not being the best season to go. I just need to relax next to a beach.:)
Hey Yessica – That’s not generally the best time to go to Goa. It’s probably the wettest month of the year so you can expect it to rain pretty much every day 🙂
[…] If you want the Indian beach experience, this is my favorite spot for that. Located in the well-known state of Goa, Palolem is very low-key, offering an affordable mix of beach huts located in a fully walkable and welcoming village setting. The whitish sands are clean and backed by towering palm trees, the bluish water is calm and perfect for swimming, and the sunset is consistently stunning as the sun dips behind jungle-filled Monkey Island at the far end of the beach each evening. The main reason I like this area is that it has a little bit of everything: independent travelers, couples, a party crowd, vacationers, all kinds of food, some simple nightlife, water activities, and plenty of day trip options to waterfalls, secluded beaches, snorkeling locations, canyons, and more — all while keeping its laid-back atmosphere. Here’s where I like to stay when I’m there: A quick guide to Palolem, Goa […]
What did you learn about the coconuts?!
I’m going in a month and the link is broken, I need to know!
Good post,
Thanks for the info
they fall on your head from a great hieght
Hey Earl,
I’m from Calcutta (Kolkata), the capital city of West Bengal. Fish & Rice is the staple diet of Bengali people. Have you visited West Bengal yet?
Also, what is the name of that Calcutta restaurant in Goa & where is it exactly?
Hey Earl, sweet site!
I have a couple of questions. Regarding staying on/around Palolem:
You say it should be cool to just roll up in Jan/feb/2016 and find a beach hut place?
And food – good quality and cheap prices – would be off the beach back in town area couple blocks off the beach? Suggested restaurants for good cheap meals?
Is it a huge issue that I’m a single guy travelling alone when it comes to hut rates because I’ve seen references here to ‘based on two people’?
Can you suggest a good cheaper place to stay ?
Hey brother, I know I’m asking a lot here but I really appreciate your lowdown on the scene 🙂
Thanks man and keep travellin’ !
Peace
Russ the damn Canadian
Hey Russ – Yes, you can just show up there as there is no shortage of beach huts. Just walk along the beach, check out the different options and choose the one that’s best for you. As for food, there are plenty. The town is tiny so it will take you about 2 hours to figure it all out. Start off at the German Bakery (great restaurant) and when you walk the main strip in town, you’ll find plenty of food options.
Hut rates are usually per hut, not per person.
As for cheaper, you just need to look around. There are literally 500+ huts on the beach probably and it depends on how busy they are, your negotiating skills, how long you plan to stay, etc. You should be able to find something for 500 rupees per night, not on the beach but a bit back from the beach.
Hi Earl,
Nice review! makes my upcoming trip to Goa even more anticipated! we are a bit tight for time in Goa, only 4 nights. My boyfriend likes the nightlife it promises etc but i’m more into the relaxing, beaching it kind of stay. Can you suggest which beach we could stay on to find a happy compromise? Or maybe split 2 nights in a busy / party beach and 2 in a quieter one maybe?
I’d love to be able to book a sea facing hut – somewhere i can literally open my eyes and walk onto the beach in the morning!
Hey Rona – With only 4 nights, I would just choose one place and stay there. Moving around and spending your time in two different places won’t allow you to really enjoy either of the locations. But it’s best that you do the research to figure out which beach is right for you…there are many!
So any one you’de really recommend that’s not overly crowded but not dead either? I’ve read up a lot and they all seem to offer a bit of everything so trying to make up my mind is kinda driving me crazy!
thanks for your reply 🙂
Hey Rona – My favorite is Palolem which has a little bit of everything but is not a huge party place at all. It’s relaxing and has plenty of huts right on the beach. Some of the beaches in Goa do not have any accommodation right on the beach itself so that’s something you want to take into consideration. But Palolem is not for everyone, it’s just the beach that I am particularly drawn to based on what I like (laid-back atmosphere, nice stretch of sand, huts on the beach, tiny town, some nightlife).
thanks so much for your replies! So one last question – you recommend we just turn up to Palolem and choose/negotiate a beach hut there and then? We will be there end of february, not sure if this is still high season there or not. Thanks once again =))
Hey Rona – You’ll be perfectly okay just showing up, walking around and finding the hut that suits you best!
Hi Earl
I’m thinking of January, or February for my holiday month. Are there plenty of huts to be had then ?
Hey Ian – You will find no shortage of huts at all at that time!
Very nice Review about the palolem beach. We are 4 people, going to stay for 6 nights at the seashore in March. We just want a hut on the beach and a good price.
My question is: what’s better, to book in advance on the internet or just go there and ask for available huts?
Hey Mihai – Definitely just show up and ask for available huts. You want to see the hut first before booking anything as they are usually not what they seem online.
Hey Earl,
Nice Info. Just got back from a three day holiday at Palolem beach, we were three in total. Stayed at Cupid`s castle for 3 nights for 800 rs/per day. Quite close to the beach actually. Would love to visit again in March but this time we are 5 ppl visiting and would like to stay in beach huts, any recommnedations ??
Hey Vijay – There are so many to choose from! My favorites are Resort de Palolem and Havana Beach Huts.
Hi Vijay,
Do u mind to share contact number for Cupid Castle Please.
And is sea facing hut bro??
North goa??
Hi Earl,
I love Palolem Beach and saw on your site that you do as well. I recently created this “day in the life” tribute and just thought I would share it with you. I am planning to go back this February!
Goa Happy, a 4 minute music video just for fun.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8qw_o6MQl8
Thanks and be well,
Deborah Harse
Hi Earl,
Amazing to read your review and i happen to be planning to go to palolem this october after the 20th so what are your recommendations since i am looking for accommodation for 2 or 3 haven’t yet finalized on that. So i need a place cheap below 400rs for 2 nights.
And your tips on cheap Food and liquor around Palolem 😉
Also would like to know if it is a good time to be heading there at around late October …
Hey Prince – In October you just need to show up and see what kind of accommodation is available. Since it’s still monsoon season in October, very few accommodations are open. Most don’t open up until early November and even then, some don’t open up until the end of November. Once you get there, just walk along the beach and negotiate for a hut with the places that are already open.
As for food, just walk down the one street in town and you’ll find a couple of cheap, local Indian places to eat. Anything on the beach is naturally going to be much more expensive.
Hi Earl!
I’m going to Palolem with a friend in the beginning of November this year, will stay at The Nest.
I have found a company online called Goa Tours planner who have a day trip tour to grand island for 1500rs per person. I have tried to find any info about them online but couldn’t find even 1 review! is this a company you have heard about or do you know any other companies who has snorkeling trip? We are looking for something quite cheap (so not viator… no turist traps…) Something local 🙂
Also we are interested in elephant riding.. Goa tours planner have that tour as well for 2000rs per person but sound a little too expensive. I was in goa 2005 and then I remember there were elepants by the roadside you could pay a small amount and then ride on, is it like this still?
Great website btw!! 🙂
// Elin
Hey Elin – I’ve never heard of them but I’ve never really taken an organized excursion during my visit to Goa. Many operators are just booking agencies that take a commission and send you to the main company that actually runs the trip. My advice is to wait until you get there as there’s no reason to book in absence and this way you can shop around and talk to other travelers. As for elephant riding, I’m not a huge fan of that so I’ve never looked but in Palolem I’ve never seen any elephants at all. Hope that helps.
I’m going to Palolem with a friend in the beginning of November this year, will stay at The Nest.
I have found a company online called Goa Tours planner who have a day trip tour to grand island for 1500rs per person. I have tried to find any info about them online but couldn’t find even 1 review! is this a company you have heard about or do you know any other companies who has snorkeling trip? We are looking for something quite cheap (so not viator… no turist traps…) Something local 🙂
Also we are interested in elephant riding.. Goa tours planner have that tour as well for 2000rs per person but sound a little too expensive. I was in goa 2005 and then I remember there were elepants by the roadside you could pay a small amount and then ride on, is it like this still?
Great website btw!! 🙂
// Elin
Hi Earl,
We 3 friends are planing to visit palolem for 3 nights 20 nov onward. one of our friend suggested Chattai beach huts for accommodation. Can you recommend something better ? our budget for accommodation is 1500-3000/night for 3 people. also please suggest me good Bar and Restaurants and any particular dish you liked there?
Thank you very much for blog, snaps and especially video
Hey Hardik – I recommend the one I mention in my posts – Havana Huts and Resort de Palolem, those two seemed like the best to me that I saw. As for bars/restaurants, you’ll see when you get there…there are many and they are generally the same, at least the ones right on the beach. If it’s crowded, it’s probably good!
Hi Earl,
Am staying in middle east, so I have no option other then booking on phone atleast. can u please share Havana Huts & Resort de palolem please. so I can jump directly with reservation.
Hi,
I’m so glad I stumbled upon your article! My friend and I are planning on visiting Palolem around the same time you went and I was wondering if you booked the huts ahead or did you just get it when you reached
Goa. Also any idea what the names of the cheaper huts are?
Hey Do’Katchi – I’m not too sure the names of them specifically but you generally just show up, walk along the beach, check out all the huts and decide which one is best for you!
Hi Amarjeet, I am going to Palolim the same time as you. You can see my picture on my youtube account williamorwell. If you see me say hello.
Dear Mate
Your article is really helpful , I am going to Goa betwenn 12 to 15 of April and staying at Holiday Inn ( South Goa) , I really apperciate your article and will taste it fish from Calcutta Rest.
As I prefer to stay in South Goa rather in North Goa because of clean beaches and sound environmet , I would also want to know hows Night Life at South Goa ??
Will you guide me about per day Jeep Hiring cost ??
Hey Amarjeet – There is plenty of nightlife in South Goa as well. But I don’t know the rates for hiring a jeep unfortunately as I never did that during my visits.
You have neatly written an article on Palolem with good photos. I had visited the place and still wish to go and enjoy there. Thank you for sharing your experience through this beautiful blog dear.
hye, very nicely written blog i must say. I visit goa atleast thrice a year. At times real life incidents there inspire me to write short stories.
hope you can check out. bye
Hi again!
Thanks for the reply. Ok so I guess you have´nt seen the places I´ve mentioned above although they are both on Palolem beach. If you happen to see them it would be nice to know what they are like. Green Park is in the south end of the beach and Bhakti Kutir between Palolem and Patnem beaches.
/Elin
Hey Elin – I’m not sure when I’ll be back there again but when I do go, I’ll look for those places.
Hi Earl – I’ll be in Goa from January 12th – is there a beach hut that you recommend that I can also book online before I go? I’m travelling solo and as Palolem is going to be my down-time before I head up to explore Northern India, I’d rather have this part planned before I get there 🙂
Thanks!
Kat
Hey Kat – The ones that I prefer can’t be booked online I don’t think. You could email them through their websites though and you might be able to make a reservation that way. My two favorites are “Resort de Palolem” and “Havana Palolem”. Enjoy your time there!
Hi Earl
Heading down to Palolem this 28 to 02 – any idea which of the shacks offer free/or paid wifi? Also do you have any reco for the liveliest shacks based on your visit?
Cheers
Hey Tan – During those dates, it will be quite busy so you should just take any hut you can find!
Earl,
Over 5000 days on the road!!?? Insane! (Y)
A friend and I are visiting Palolem from December 25 to December 28. Would we find a beach hut easily if we just show up without booking in advance (because it’s really expensive to book online)?
Secondly, is Palolem one of the quietest around this time of the year? I’ve been to Arambol around New Year’s, and it was fairly quiet. How is Palolem compared to Arambol?
Thank you for publishing all the useful info!
Hey Animesh – Palolem will be crowded during that period as it is the busiest week down there. However, it will still be quite quiet overall and nothing too crazy. But usually, most of the huts are taken during that time…you might still be able to find something but you can expect to pay around 1500 INR per night for a basic hut.
Hi!
Me, my husband and two year old son are planning to go to Goa in march. Because we´re travelling with small child we thought it would be a good idéa to book accommodation ahead. We´ve looked at a few places on the web Bakhti Kutir and Green Park Resort, any idéas on what those are like? Any tips on a good beach hut place to stay with small child, what is the most quite end of the beach?
Hoping for helpful reply, thanks 🙂 /Elin
Hey Elin – Goa consists of dozens of beaches and the distance between the most southern and most northern beaches is several hours. So I would research each beach first until you find the one that seems most suitable for your family. I’ve never heard of the places you mentioned, they are probably on a beach I’ve never been to.
Hey Earl!
Im in Palolem right now. I was searching for good eating options here & I came across your blog. It is very well written and you have got all the info just right!! Will definitely look around ur posts!!
Hey Earl!
My friend and I are going to Palolem in the beginning of january and would like to stay in a beach hut. Do you have any recommendations? What are some good places? What do you think is appropriate to pay per night? And do you think we’d manage to find something good and clean by just turning up?
Thanks in advance,
Sebastian
Hey Sebastian – I can recommend “Resort de Palolem” and “Havana Palolem”. And for the beginning of January, you could get a very simple hut about 2 minutes walk to the beach (without a view of the ocean) for around 800 rupees per night or a bigger hut closer to the beach for around 1000 rupees per night. There are cheaper rooms available as well if you wander around. You could definitely find something if you just showed up but it might not be ideal since early January can be a busy time there.
Just wondering the name of the place you stayed at?
Hey Marita – It’s called “Resort de Palolem”.
Hey Earl,
Im going to palolem in a week or two and would like to know of you have the Name of the Hotel the Guy stayed in for 300rs.
Thanks for the post,
Janis
Hey Janis – It actually doesn’t have a name. Palolem is very laid back so you can just wander behind the beach and you’ll find people renting out huts, rooms in houses, detached rooms among the trees and all sorts of stuff. But the place my friend stayed at was located on the ‘path’ between “Resort de Palolem” and the German Bakery. No name, just a house with several detached rooms scattered around.
Hey Earl,
I’m going to in Palolem this Christmas. From your experience do you think turning up and getting accommodation is easy or is everywhere booked?
Thanks mate
Hey Saul – You should be able to find something but XMas and New Years is the busiest week of the year down there. But at the same time, it’s not very easy to reserve anything ahead of time as most places don’t have websites or they don’t answer emails. You could try http://www.havanapalolem.com though as they are quite good at responding to booking inquiries and they have great simple huts right on the beach.
[…] my previous visit to Palolem back in December/January, I stayed at a place called Resort de Palolem which was by no means […]
Hi Earl,
I found the essence of Palolem Beach in your article and i must say i have read many articles about Goa but this one is surely one of the best article. Arambol, Morjim and Vaghator are few more peaceful, less crowded and remote beaches in Goa that i have seen but i always prefer Anjuna Beach to stay as access to the least crowded to the most crowded beaches from Anjuna is quite easy. If you love to live like a junkie Anjuna is a place for you.Shiva’s valley UV Bar Hippies Lilliput are few places on Anjuna where you will find a different beach shack party culture. When you want to find some peace you can easily go to Arambol Morjim and Vaghator from Anjuna or if you are looking for the most famous party places in Goa, Baga Beach is just 5 kms away from Anjuna. I hope my suggestions can help few of your readers, Keep traveling mate. 🙂
Hi Earl thanks for all the info…most helpful!!
I have a question for you, i have visited Goa 3 times but always stayed in the North in Callangute. I fancy a change….what would you say are the main differences.
Thanks in advance
Hey Kelly – Palolem is more quiet and laid-back and just has a nice mix of solo travelers, expats, families, couples and Indian tourists. There are bars and a club or two but it’s not wild at all. There are some local restaurants and a few international places as well. I haven’t been to Callangute in a while though so I’m not too sure what it’s like now.
Thanks for the feedback man! Im actually in India right now but wont get to Goa for a little bit still.
How’s it like gettin internet on a usb dongle there? Im in allahabad right now and staying with family and working on my online business as my sister married an indian but when i go to goa ill be by myself for quite some time.
Do you think its possible to organise a donlge to use in goa as i think the dongles in india are restricted to each state and you always have to get a new one for each state.
What sre your thoughts? How did you work your online business when you where there?
looking for long term lets beach huts etc any good websites ?? il be relocating with my family and your accom looks amazing
Hey Dan – For the best deals in Palolem you’ll just have to show up and negotiate with the hut owners. Most of the operations are quite small and don’t have websites…only the expensive hut operations have a site.
Ok Thanks for your reply!!
Alex
Hi Earl!
What’s a pleasure to get a real story about Palolem! Thanks for informations, looks so cool! 🙂
I’m going to Goa in 1 months. It will be the monsoon period… I want to stay at Palolem. Do you know if it’s still nice during the monsoon?
Thanks,
Alex
Hey Alex – Unfortunately, everything in Palolem is closed during the monsoon. All of the beach huts and restaurants close and they actually take down all of the huts and structures so that they are not blown away by the monsoon. Goa isn’t really the place to be during that period of the year.
Hey Earl!
I’m about to set off on my advernture on June 28th and I’m leaving to corporate workd for good. I’ll be on the road forever like you 🙂
I’m just curious if you think Goa is still doable for $300 – $400/month these days?
Thanks
Dom
Hey Dominik – I guess that’s possible but it would be tough. Where I stayed (Palolem), the cheapest rooms were set back from the beach and cost about $150 USD for the month. They were very basic but livable. And with food expenses (there are no supermarkets so you would have to eat out or cook very basic meals), it would add up to another $150 I’d say. Possible but a bit challenging.
[…] been a busy year so far. After celebrating New Year’s on Palolem Beach in Goa, India, I hung out on that beautiful beach for a few more weeks before leaving for South […]
I am heading there in April/May. Where do I find out how to book one of these beach huts? Is there a website or do I just rock up and hope for the best? I’m looking for one with an adjoining bathroom/toilet but basic is pretty fine with me. Your hut looks perfect!
Hey Jenny – Most of the places on Palolem don’t have websites so you can just show up and walk up and down the beach, asking all the beach hut operations for their prices and checking a few out. But I can say that of all the places I looked at, where I stayed (Beach Huts de Palolem) were the best value that I found. It’s located in the middle of the beach, right behind the “Chinatown Restaurant” that everyone on the beach knows.
Hi Earl
Could you recommend some good stay options around the north end for around INR 1000-1500 per night. Stayed at Dreamcatcher last time around (and quite liked it) but want to try something on the beach this time around.
Cheers
Hey Rahul – I’m not sure really. I just liked where I was so I didn’t really remember the names of any of the other huts I looked at.
Hey man, this looks sweet! Stoked to get down there myself, I am in Jaipur at the moment making my way south, and expect to be in Goa in about 3 weeks. Was kind of sketched to be there in peak season as I just spent 4 months in Nepal, and enjoyed my low season peace. But I think I will just be content to be on a Beach after my stint in North India. I definitely am still getting used to peak season prices as Nepal was so damn cheap!
Maybe me and my travel buddy will bump into you on the beach!
Cheers!
Hey Ciaran – Hope you have a great trip down to Goa and you’ll have many beaches to choose from, some of which will be very crowded and others, like Palolem, that will be far less so (and much cheaper as a result). Luckily, there’s a beach for everyone depending on what you’re looking for.
I’m actually leaving India late tonight so it looks like we’ll miss each other but if you have any questions about anything in Goa or other parts of the country, just let me know!
[…] while my time in Goa over the past couple of weeks was delightfully relaxing, the final week was a little less so, which […]
[…] here on the small balcony of my beach hut in Palolem, Goa, in the South of India, with the Arabian Sea only 30 meters in front of me and a palm tree full of […]
[…] From My Beach Hut…A Quick Guide to Palolem Beach, Goa […]
Hi Earl… Yeah sure looks a great place to go!! Will really have to give it a go!!
Another great article, thanks for the info and suggestions of where to stay and eat. It’s no wonder why some of my family members keep returning to GOA over and over! We were in Thailand last year, this sounds even better!
Hey Robert – I would almost have to say that Palolem is better than any beach I’ve been to Thailand as well but it all depends on what one is looking for of course. But perhaps next time you should join your family members and get a taste of it yourself 🙂
Hey Earl, am thinking about spending some time in Goa next year, but I’ll need an internet connection to work. It doesn’t appear that your hut is wired for the Web…if that’s the case, where do you go for Internet?
Hey Brian – There is WiFi at my hut here and most hut operations on the beach, at the least the operations that have more than a few huts, have free WiFi as well. And there are restaurants all along the beach that offer WiFi too so it’s not too difficult to get connected. There is also a great cafe – Cafe Inn – in on the main road one block from the beach that has fast WiFi and great coffee, making it ideal for an office, as you’ll see from all the other foreigners on their laptops there!
However, the problem here in Palolem is that there are frequent power outages, so there can be no internet for periods of 1 -3 hours at a time. Usually it only lasts for an hour but a few times it’s been longer.
Loved the video….just great!
The sound of the waves….best sound ever! Too bad I would have to spend most my time reapplying sunscreen….which probably costs more than $30 a night!
Hey Andrea – I would bring your own sunscreen as yes, the prices here are a bit crazy for that!
[…] remarkably empty for such a beautiful beach in India’s most touristy state, making it my ideal beach location. And because it is located in the far south of Goa, far removed from any major towns, it means that […]
Awesome stuff Earl! That’s the life.
LOVED the video.
The takeaway for me is… for $300 bucks a month {outside of christmas/NY} one can live on the beach in a cute bungalow ocean front. Perfection.
Happy 2013!
I haven’t heard of Palolem before but it looks great. How many coconuts attacked you so far? 😀
I’d never guess just by looking at the first two pics that they’ve been actually taken in India. I’d rather go for SE Asia…
… and then the ‘cow photo’ popped in. Everything’s clear as the morning sky in Himalayas during the dry season 🙂
Earl, thank you for just another very well written post, I really like the aura of peace and warmth you spread around, excellent word choice I’d say, not to mention the location choice!
As it is also my first comment on your website, I’d like to say big ‘Namaste!’ to you and everyone who follows you on your nomadic path!
@JauntyTom – Namaste to you as well and yes, remove the cows from the beach and it really could be in SE Asia. Hope your new year is going well so far and thank you for commenting on this post!
[…] here on the small balcony of my beach hut in Palolem, Goa, in the South of India, with the Arabian Sea only 30 meters in front of me and a palm tree full of […]
I’m will be there next month. Which beach huts are you staying at? I was looking online and they all look the same. Didn’t know if it made a difference staying on the north end or the south end. Looks like a great place to relax!
Hey Lindsay – I’m staying at Resorts de Palolem and so far, after looking at pretty much every beach hut operation, these are the best I’ve seen. It’s right in the middle of the beach and that’s the best area in my opinion as it’s the quietest. The North End is pretty crowded with boats as that is where all the boats are brought in the evening so I’d stay away from there. But the rest is all beautiful stretch of sand with plenty of hut options!
Hey Earl,
I never really had much of an interest in India before reading your blog. But now you’ve really made me want to go. What are your travel plans for 2013?
Hey Phil – Beyond a visit to South Africa at the end of January and having to be in Mexico in March for my next tour, I’m not sure of my travel plans as of yet. I have some ideas but need to sort them out and make a general itinerary! And glad to hear you’re interested in India now…it doesn’t get as fascinating as this place!
Hi Earl!
I’ve been a silent reader for quite some time now but i’ve never commented on any of your posts. Goa sounds like my cup of relaxing tea. I’ve read it’s the party capital of India but seeing how you’ve managed to avoid the party scene and stay for cheap, it’s really sparked my interest! Hopefully my boyfriend and I can get down there some day 🙂
Happy New Year!
Hey Carolyn – It probably is the party capital but luckily, that’s only on certain beaches. There are plenty of other beach areas that are as quiet as anyone could want. There is some nightlife here in Palolem, but not much…which is ideal for me 🙂
Earl, I was there a couple of years ago. Somewhere within walking distance of the beach is a pile of discarded terra-cotta (?) pottery. Have you discovered any info about it? ALSO: You are about 40 kilometers south of a very unique ethnographic museum, Goa Chitra Museum (Monddo Waddo, Benaulim, Goa, India 403 716, info at http://www.goachitra.com), just a little south of Margoa. My understanding is that it is the only one of its kind in India. I encourage you to visit, as I know you will not be disappointed. I rented a moped from Palolem and found it with minor difficulty. Please tell Victor Gomes and his wife I say hello!
Thanks for that information George…when I rent a scooter and buzz around the area I shall look for that musuem!
Hey Earl, any plan to go to even more laid-back, further South to Gokarna. I recommend it. I’ve been to Palolem once, Gokarna twice and had an awesome time. Some pictures from Gokarna and a few from Palolem. At Palolem, I ran into a group of drunk folks burning furniture on the beach:)
https://trekkerboy.com/2012/12/02/photo-essay-with-my-friends-at-the-beach/
Hey Benjamin – I won’t be heading to Gokarna this time around but I have been there on previous visits to India. I actually just recommended it to a friend who is looking for a slower pace of life than Goa. It is a great place but I just don’t have the time unfortunately!
Your videos crack me up, Earl! Keep ’em coming, and happy new year to you too!
Hey Sam – Happy New Year to you as well and there will be more videos coming soon 🙂
Great guide. A 50 cent breakfast is always a good deal 🙂 I’ve never heard of Palolem Beach before but sounds like a great destination!
Hey Jessica – 50 cent breakfasts are always ideal…a 60 cent double egg sandwich isn’t so bad either!
Earl,
I think this post has been my favorite so far! The beach looks clean, not crowded, and obviously relaxing.
How do you keep your computer and electronics secure when you are not in the hut?
Will
PS Have a great 2013!
Hey Will – I just lock my stuff up in the hut (the door has a big padlock and there is no other way to get in) but every beach hut operation has a set of safety lockers in the main office that guests are free to use as well. It’s quite safe here though and I haven’t worried about anything!
I never realised how big those palm trees are. Each frond is about as big as a palm tree here (Brisbane).
Hi Earl
OMG…only looking at Goa today thinking about a trip in Feb. I have always pre-booked accomodation so when you say ‘barter for accomodation’ WHO do you barter with? Is it obvious who is letting the accomodation???
Sorry to be so naive but am thinking about throwing caution to the wind and taking 1st solo trip and could do with all the help I can get 🙂
Enjoy!!!
Annie
Hey Annie – You simply walk up and down the beaches and there are beach hut operations everywhere. It’s like a bunch of hotels…each one has an office near the beach with a sign that says “Rooms/Huts Available” and then you just approach the office and one of the staff will help you out. And every fifty meters is a different set of huts owned by a different person/company. It’s very obvious once you’re here!
Earl, When you first said you were going to Goa, I was hoping that you’d do a blog such as you just did. Lots of simple information that conveys what it’s all about, and a video too! I’ve been researching Goa and it seems that there’s just about everything available on all levels. I didn’t get that far south on my one and only visit to India, but It’s certainly on my must see list for my next visit. This is very much my kind of place!
All the best for you in 2013! Happy Trails
Hey Steve – I think many people are surprised when they get to or hear about Goa as there are so many beaches that everyone should be able to find their own ‘paradise’ depending on what they’re looking for. I’m certainly having a hard time getting away from Palolem!
Hi Earl, this sounds so good, wish i were there :-). Thanks for sharing.
Earl, I’ve been following you for some time now and you’ve been raving a lot about India, showing us pictures of busy streets, amazing buildings, iconical monuments and yet… This is the India post I like the most up until now. Maybe because this time I can actually picture myself there. Not for the touristy part, but the beach, the waves, the food. And especially for the calmness with which you seem to have written this post.
It might be just an idea, but just reading this I get a feeling you’ve come to relax.
Happy 2013!
Hey Sofie – You have no idea…this visit to Goa is all about relaxation right now. And it really is a completely different India than just about every single other place I’ve been in this country. It’s peaceful, it’s clean, it’s crowd-free…it really is difficult to believe that this is still the same country as what one finds in Delhi or Varanasi!
And that’s probably why I’m drawn to it:)
Enjoy!
Oh Man! We came close to flying there for the holidays. We used to rent a flat at Columb Beach between Palolem and Patnem. Great relax place… Have fun!
Hey Andre – Would have been great if you were here! And I know Columb Beach of course, right around the corner 🙂
That looks an ideal way to see in the new year. Have a good one.
Same to you Steve, thanks so much for being a reader of the site!
We didn’t get a chance to explore Goa on our trip this year but I’ve been a couple of times before and it is a great place. Love the sound of your relaxing days. Definitely a good way to spend time and a very cost effective way to do it. We thought our 3kg watermelon or 1 kg of cherries and strawberries was a good amount for lunch (we never did them at the same time). Your pineapples, watermelon and 10 bananas, even if they are the small Indian ones, is impressive! Enjoy the R&R and best wishes for 2013!
Thanks Earl and that’s funny because I did have a 3kg watermelon today without the bananas and pineapples! I haven’t seen any cherries or strawberries yet but if I do, I’m all over that. Wishing you a great 2013 as well my friend!
Nice to take a peek of your personal haven, Earl. Special thanks for the ruble details. It’s so true that when you first arrive someplace, it take a bit to ferret out the cheaper eats and sleeps. But even in the “tourist” spots, there’s always bargains to be had.
All the best in your 2013 “Wanderings”, Earl!
Thanks Dyanne and the longer I stay here (as is always the case and I’m sure you can attest to) the more cheap places for food and accommodation I’m finding!
It’s a tough life, eh?
Hey David – At the moment it certainly isn’t so bad at all 🙂
Fantastic post! This looks like the perfect beach holiday. Great video as well. What a view!
We all need a little break sometimes, and you certainly seem to be enjoying yours;)
Happy new year Earl! Looking forward to continue reading about your adventures in 2013.
Thank you Pernila and I wish you happy new year as well! Here’s to 2013!
Hot Damn Earl. Thats a sweet spot. Send postcards!
Hey Ian – It’s a sweet spot for sure and there are plenty of beach huts around!
We went to Palolem last May and all the beach huts were in the process of being demolished (apparently they are rebuilt every year after the monsoon season) – I have to say the beach looks quite different with all the colorful huts! Our favorite restaurant was the Smggler’s Inn on the main road – good food at decent prices! Enjoy a Kingfisher for me 🙂
Hey Dani – Thank you for the recommendation, I saw the sign for Smuggler’s Inn but haven’t gone there yet. I shall do that tomorrow! And I’m enjoying a Kingfisher for you right now 🙂 Have a great New Year! And same to Jess!
Ok: It’s official ~ Earl is a hottie! 😉
I have always wanted to check out Goa. Now i want to go there even more! Thanks for this informative post!
Hey M – Perhaps it’s time you get over here!
I am in Goa too right now and you are absolutely right it is amazing. However, I am here for a music festival Sunburn 2012. It started yesterday and I am not kidding you it is awesome! Its at Candolim beach. You should come by!
I am not staying in a hut thats why I am not having an experience similar to you but Sunburn is sure as hell a crazy place. You will love it here.
If you ever get into a partying and dance mode swing by Candolim Beach. You’ll be able to hear us from a mile away!
@Avid Blogster – I’ve heard of that festival and was just reading about it today. If the mood does change, I shall be there!
Looks like an absolutely amazing place. Might have to venture that way sometime.
@PassportDave – I’m loving it more and more each day…so much better than I ever imagined!
Just by reading this, I was instantly relaxed and inspired 🙂
Hey Christina – Just imagine what it would be like if you were here!
The vid was most entertaining! 🙂
p.s. What’s you accent Earl? You seem to have one, but your About page makes no reference to it… if you intentionally omit the history… no problem eh, just ignore my Q 🙂
Hey Willsteed – Well, I’m originally from Boston but my accent (at least what I’m told) is not fully Bostonian anymore. It seems to be a mix of Boston and Australian accents with a sprinkling of my special simple accent that I try to use whenever I’m in non-English speaking countries so that I’m understood better. So, to answer your question, it’s a mess of an accent and doesn’t derive from one particular place 🙂