Derived from Sanskrit word "Banali" and later corrupted by the Portuguese to Benaulim, the beautiful beach lies in the centre of Colva Beach, 7-km west of Margao. Only a decade ago, this fishing and rice-farming village, scattered around the coconut groves and paddy fields had barely made it onto the backpackers map. This beach remains a peaceful and welcoming place to unwind.

Shimmering Beauty

Either side of the sand blown beachfront, the gently shelving sands shimmer away almost to the horizon, litered with photogenic wooden fishing boats that provide welcome shade if the walk from the palm trees to the sea gets too much. Moreover, the sea is safe for swimming, being generally jellyfish-free, while the village itself boasts a few serviceable bars and restaurants, several telephone booths and a couple of stores.

Restaurants

Benaulim's proximity to Margao market, along with the presence of its Christian Fishing Community, means its restaurants serve the most succulent, competitively priced seafood in Goa. However, one'll find better food at lower prices in the smaller terrace restaurants further along the beach and scattered around the village.