Leisure Tours India

Dona Paula is 7 km from Panjim and is different from other Goa beaches in the sense that this is one of the beaches that’s washed by both the Goa Sea and the Goa Rivers. This beach of Goa carries with it an aura of both romance and myth. It is said to be haunted by lost love of Dona Paula de Menezes. Dona Paula Beach is also house to the Governor of Goa, known as Cabo Raj Bhavan. Besides Dona Paula itself, there is Miramir beach which lies 4 km north of Dona Paula, and the Vainguinim Beach which is situated 1 km west of the beach side. The National Oceanographic Institute was set up to study the diverse marine biology. The major attraction of the institute is its Marine Biology Museum and Taxonomy Reference Center.
The Choro Island along the Mandovi River, about 9 km from Dona Paula beach, has exotic Salim Ali bird sanctuary, which is a mangrove forest. It is a site for local and migratory birds throughout the year, making it a bird watcher's paradise. Reis Magos church on the Dona Paula beachside is one of the oldest churches built in Goa. It is dedicated to the three Magi (the wise men of the East). You can indulge in a complete shopping spree at Dona Paula. From straw hats, lace handkerchief to spices, feni and wine to Indian handicrafts and jewellery.