The beach attracts many international tourists, mainly during the winter season between November and March.

Palolem Beach is largely unspoiled and is inhabited by both local fishermen and by foreign tourists who live in shacks along the shore or in the main village itself.

The depth of the sea increases gradually, being shallowest at the northern end of the beach, making it safe for average swimmers, and the currents are not fast.

In film, Palolem Beach was featured in The Bourne Supremacy (2004) as the main character's Indian residence.

Things to do on Palolem beach include yoga classes, dolphin-spotting trips, Ayurvedic massages and silent discos.