Arambol Beach is located approximately a one hour drive from the Dabolim Airport (GOI) within the Pernem administrative region of northern Goa, India. The beach attracts many international tourists, mainly during the winter season between November and March. Arambol has a distinct bohemian feel which is no longer found in other areas, such as Calangute and this inevitably attracts many alternative travellers.
Currently no major hotels exist in this area due to local pressure. Room rates are available at reasonable rates when compared to tourist laden beaches such as Baga and Candolim. Arambol beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa, amongst many other popular locations including Vagator, Anjuna and Palolem.
A short walk north off the main beach is a smaller beach with a "fresh water lake" close to the sea. The water here is a mixture of fresh water and sea water. The jungle valley, enclosed between low hills hide a spectacular Banyan tree. Adjoining the banyan tree there is a stone sculpture created by an American Conceptual and Land art artist Jacek Tylicki Give if you can - Take if you have to also called The Money Stone. It has become a pilgrimage destination.
The majority of the locals are Hindu, then comes a percentage of people subscribing to the Christian faith and a minority of Muslims. The Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel serves the religious interests of the many Catholics in the area. Mother Mary is referred to as Saibinn Mai in the local Konkani language.
As in many other parts of Goa, both soccer and cricket are popular sports with the people of this area. Cafés and restaurants have mushroomed all along the shoreline, from the small "Sweet Water Lake" beach all the way to Mandrem. During the season many traders from all over India come to Arambol to sell their goods and merchandise.
Beaches are relatively safe, with only a few incidences of crime reported. The Goa Ministry of Tourism has installed a Life Guard facility just in the center area of the beach (about 3 kilometers South of the main stretch).
Arambol is expanding at an exceedingly fast pace and prices are rising for real estate, rent, foods and services.