When you think of Goa, you probably picture sun, sand, parties, and beaches, the glossy images from travel brochures, magazines, and Instagram. And yes, Goa is still all of that. But through my frequent visits to this coastal hideaway, I’ve discovered another side: quiet, calm, and meditative, a version of Goa that feels deeply healing. While the state continues to draw weekend tourists looking to let loose and party hard at venues with great music, there’s also the alternative. This is the Goa of surf lessons, sound healing sessions, and wholesome, nutritious food, where the day ends well before midnight.
One of the few places where time seems to stand still for me is Palma, set along Goa’s quietly captivating Ashwem shoreline. Two decades ago, Ashwem Beach was an untouched stretch of sand with no hotels, no shacks, only the sea, known to a few solitude seekers. As the neighbourhood slowly evolved, its sense of peace endured.
Honouring this spirit, the founders conceived Palma with deep respect for the land, designing the resort to embrace the existing landscape rather than alter it. In 2024, their long-held vision came to life with the opening of Palma Beach Resort. Today, the resort features four categories of rooms and private cottages, each crafted with warm textures, soft tones, and abundant natural light.
'Palma comes from our long-standing love for Ashwem. Our intention was always to let Goa be simply the way it is…natural, unhurried and deeply connected to its landscape. We hope every design choice, every flavour, every experience here reflects that simplicity and soul,' says Nirvane Jain, Brand Director & Partner, Palma Beach Resort.
Ashwe 351, an in-house shack and bar led by Chef Sumera and Chef James, brings together their decades of culinary experience from India and beyond. Set right on the shore with sand under your feet, it was a genuine discovery for us. Despite being loyal for years to the shacks along Ashwem Beach in Mandrem, we had never heard of it.
If you find yourself on the coast, we highly recommend Ashwe 351. Its proximity to the sea makes it especially great for kids. The staff is warm, and the service is efficient, with food arriving promptly.
We spoke with Karan, the manager, who explained how he keeps his team motivated and close-knit, particularly since shack work is often not taken very seriously. His approach clearly reflects in the staff, who are polite, attentive, and always smiling. They also make sure you’re not constantly approached by women selling jewellery or offering foot massages on the beach, who can be quite persistent.
These thoughtful touches make Ashwe 351 an outstanding spot. The music stays at a comfortable volume, giving you the chance to truly immerse yourself in the sound of the waves.
The menu features a well-balanced selection of continental, Asian, and seafood dishes, with the Asian offerings being particular standouts. Recently, the kitchen has introduced Goan specialties such as the Chicken Cafreal Pao Slider and Madurai-style tenderloin slices served over sautéed onions, curry leaves, and ginger, paired with a puli inji dip. Tacos are another strength here, ranging from Baja-style seafood to comforting Indian-inspired versions with fillings like Butter Chicken and Paneer Tikka. Rounding out the selection are Korean Japchae and fresh grilled lobster.
To pair with the food, the bar offers an inventive list of artisanal cocktails. The Citrus Rave combines kaffir lime, elderflower, and orange for a bright sundowner-ready refresher, while Hippy’s Kick channels Goa’s free-spirited energy with a bold curry leaf twist.
We enjoyed a few other experiences at Palma that are worth mentioning. We started with yoga and sound healing sessions on the deck with Soumya, who is available every morning and evening. The sound healing, in particular, is a must-try, it made us feel almost weightless, like we were having an out-of-body experience. Even if you’re new to yoga, Soumya guides you gently at your own pace, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Palma also has a beautiful spa offering everything from soothing massages to calming therapies. Each treatment is thoughtfully designed to promote deep well-being.
Words Hansika Lohani
Date 15.1.2026
