Benaulim Beach: The Unexplored Coast

 Goretty Jevel Fernandes    Fybcom B

C18-3224

From the relaxing white sands to watersports and the mouth-watering seafood, Benaulim beach is one of the most tranquil beaches in the south of Goa. Located just 2 kms away from the famous Colva beach and 6 kms from the main city Margao, this beach is one of the ideal locations for the tourists seeking serenity and relaxation. The beach has a long crescent shaped shoreline of powder-soft sands and is dotted with swaying palm trees which adds to the picturesque view of the beach.

Legend has it that this is the place where an arrow shot by Lord Parshuram, sixth incarnation of Vishnu landed. The arrow shifted back the hills forming the Konkan belt. The place was hence named Banavli (ban means arrow) and was later changed to Benaulim by the Portuguese. If you wish to be at some place close to nature and totally untouched, then Benaulim beach is the best place for you.

The best thing about Benaulim beach is that it has remained a rather unspoilt and an undiscovered beach even though it is a famous tourist destination. Commercialization hasn't set it's foot here yet. People often visit the beach in the evenings and on weekends. During this time, the main part of the beach is sometimes crowded as the local people also flock around to spend some memorable time with their families. But, if the crowd overwhelms you too much then you just have to walk along the shore for a few minutes and you can have the beach all to yourself. This part of the beach is peaceful and is perfect for someone seeking solace from their chaotic lives. 

The peaceful part of the beach.

Dotted along the coastline are a number of beach shacks which are the best places to eat. Johncy's, Roger's and Little Tiger are the reputable ones among all these. Benaulim beach is well-known for its fishing, so the seafood offered here is super fresh. At night, the beach looks very pretty with the starry sky and gentle moonlight bestowing the place, a truly striking look. And eating and drinking in these variety of beach shacks can make your night very entertaining. 

Johncy Beach shack

Apart from the seafood, you must try some water activities like boat rides, parasailing and windsurfing. Spending a few hours on viewing the marine life and dolphin spotting trips are also the main attractions of the beach. 

I visited the beach in the evening and was lucky enough to enjoy the beautiful sunset, with the sun gradually receding into the waters below. The sky was an assortment of shades, a blend of red, orange and yellow and the water mirrored the colours of the sky. It was breathtakingly beautiful and I was speechless with the magnificent sight.

The beautiful sunset.

So, if you want an attractive, relaxing and a soothing place that can enlighten you with its seafood, water sports and some exceptional sunsets, head to Benaulim beach and explore the entire beauty of that place.

Benaulim beach is close to my heart for many reasons, but the words that describe the the best would be: memories, solace and fun. I was born and brought up just over the main road from the beach, so it's always been a part of my life as long as I can remember. It was my playground as a young child and I spent my summers swimming and building sandcastles at the beach. This beach is such a special place and I love the serene part of it, where you can have the beach all to yourself. It's just an exhilarating experience to just sit in the sands and watch the beauty of the sea and the waves crashing against the shore and find that inner peace within you.