Following a quick one hour flight from Mumbai, I arrived in Goa’s Dabolim Airport with no set plans and no idea where to head next. As I was waiting for my bag to arrive on the carousel a friendly British backpacker couple approached me and asked if I wanted to share a cab. They were heading to Patnem beach in South Goa, so I figured I would go there too.
It turned out to be a great decision.
A local fishing boat on Patnem Beach.Situated within walking distance of busy Palolem Beach, sleepy Patnem Beach is the perfect place to chill out. The beach is absolutely beautiful, the sand is soft, and there are plenty of nice restaurants to enjoy a meal or watch a gorgeous sunset.
Quiet Patnem Beach. This is about as crowded as it gets.I arrived as the sun was setting, and settled into a basic, but nice hut at Casa Fiesta.
My hut at Casa Fiesta, Patnem Beach.After a long day of travel, I walked a few steps to the beachfront restaurant, and settled into one of the wonderful tables right on the beach, digging my feet into the sand. The madness of Mumbai was quickly starting to fade away. This, I could get used to.
Life here was pure bliss, whether I was walking the beach, taking a refreshing dip, eating at one of the beachside restaurants, or reading a book on my hut’s porch.
The relaxed pace, friendly locals, and quaint beachside bars and restaurants reminded me of Thailand. It was almost hard to believe I was still in India.
And after weeks of feeling ill every single day, I was finally getting back to fighting form.
I was even able to enjoy a couple cold Kingfisher beers with dinner.
Dopiaza curry, garlic naan, and a cold Kingfisher beer.From Patnem, it’s an easy 20 minute walk to neighboring Palolem Beach. Things are a little busier on Palolem, and there’s a greater choice of restaurants. I enjoyed a couple nice meals there, but was always happy to retreat back to quiet Patnem.
Signs pointing the way to Palolem.India is a challenging country, especially solo, so this stop in Goa was a wonderful way to unwind and recharge my batteries. I would have stayed longer, but with high season approaching and no reservation, I realized I would have to move on.
I am seeking for a cool and unique beach destination to visit soon and this one sounds pretty cool. I’ll do more research on it.
Hi,
I went to that last summer and it was awesome. The view was mind-blowing. It is one of the best beaches in India.
Wow, beautiful photos, and it sounds super relaxing! I’ll certainly add it to my list!
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Wow amazing place i like Goa, i visited this place 2 years ago it is one of the Best Beach in India, your article make me i am at this place again thanks
Great post, it sounds lovely! I’ll be travelling to India in February. How far in advance do you need to book accommodation? Do you know if it’s possible to find somewhere to stay at really short notice? I’m used to travelling in southeast Asia where you can just turn up on the day and get a room but from what I’m hearing that may not be possible in high season in India :/