Beach On One Side, Lake On The Other: Chill At Sweet Water Lake in Arambol

Arambol is amongst our favourite beaches up North, and Sweet Water Lake right at the very end of beach is much of the reason for it. Read on to find out what makes it worth its while and how to reach & chill at the lake.

First head to Arambol Beach, which is about 35 km from Goa’s Dabolim Airport. From the beach, it’s a short 20-minute walk inland, heading north. You'll cross a small bridge over a stream that leads to the lake. Alternatively, you can walk along the northern end of the beach to reach the lake, which is surrounded by a lot of greenery and a quiet that nature brings along.

It's best to visit during the winter season (November to April) as it can get a bit muddy in the monsoon. The walk is easy, and there’s no entry fee.

For first timers, the adventure and the pure joy of simply finding it. To give you a slight clue, given that it’s located at the very end, you have to walk through shops and will pass a small beach with rock outcrops (that are visible from anywhere on the main arambol beach) to reach here.

Once here, you’ll be taken by the serendipitous beauty and serenity of the place — on one side is the beach and the endless stretches of azure waters, while on the other side is this small lake surrounded by green hills. Take a dip in the calm waters or just sit by the lake and take in the calm around, your trip to sweet water lake will definitely be some of the fondest memories you make in Goa. Oh, and did we gush enough about the stunning Instagram pictures that the lake makes for? No? Guess, you’ll have to see for yourself!

It’s best to wear comfortable footwear since the walk involves some uneven terrain. Bring water with you, as there aren’t any shops nearby, and maybe even a snack if you plan to chill by the lake for a while. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The area is peaceful, so be sure to respect it by keeping it clean, take any trash with you. Also, avoid going during the monsoon season (June to September), as the paths can get muddy. Most of all, take your time and enjoy the slowness the place carries.

Once you’ve had your fill of swimming, take one of the sunbeds from one of the shacks nearby and chill with a plate of rawa prawns and beer while watching the sun set into the sea.