Whispering Palms Beach Resort

Its Whispering Palms name belies a bustling atmosphere at this property that opened in 1999 and show a bit of age. Just off Candolim's main road, it's busy vibe is noticeable from the get-go, with traditional live Goan music in the white-painted lobby and plenty more around the pool. Lots of daily organized activities and evening entertainment keep guests busy, but the sometimes loud atmosphere may be too much for those seeking relaxation. The design is simple throughout, with mostly traditional decor in public areas -- think open-air spaces with basic wood furniture -- and more contemporary room furnishings. Rooms occupy two-story stucco buildings in clay and beige tones, and they're divided by well-manicured lawns with palm trees and colorful flowers. Travelers are a mix of couples and families wanting a fun spot near the beach.

The hotel sits just off the Candolim-Sinquerim road, which is full of small stalls, restaurants, and bars. Candolim Beach is a quick five-minute walk away. An ATM is nearby and a supermarket is just under 10 minutes on foot. The area is best accessed by bike, and there's a rental company outside the hotel, alongside a taxi rank. Calangute Beach (a 20-minute drive away) is good for water sports, while the hippie Anjuna Beach is a 40-minute drive. Baga Night Market is about 20 minutes away by car, and the Portuguese Aguada Fort is a 10-minute drive. The nearest city of Panjim is half an hour away by car. Shanta Durga Temple is a quick six-minute walk. Goa International Airport (Dabolim) is around an hour's drive.

Rooms are contemporary but simple, outfitted in basic dark-wood furniture, tile floors, white walls with large pieces of artwork over white-linen-topped beds. Bathrooms are the most modern with gray tiling and showers that have green- or red-tile panels, or rainfall showers with neutral tiling. Sufficient amenities consist of desks, wardrobes, flat-screen TVs, safes, kettles for tea- and coffee-making, minibars, and air-conditioning. All have either furnished balconies or terraces with sunbeds.  Views are of the pool or gardens, however, some overlook the hotel's trash area. Studio Suites have separate living areas and more decorative accents, and ground-level units have a private garden. Wi-Fi is only free for the first connecting device. Basic toiletries and small wall-mounted hairdryers are provided.

Lots of amenities are available to cater to both kids and adults. The kidney-shaped outdoor pool is a busy scene, and surrounding loungers can be nabbed early. A hot tub and kiddy pool are also here, but the background music can be loud and travel to rooms. Extensive entertainment includes karaoke, acrobat shows, and themed nights, and families largely find the kids' club useful. A lounge has a pool table and free-to-borrow books. A simple spa offers various treatments, and a small gym has old, worn equipment. The main Breeze restaurant serves buffet meals with international and Indian cuisine. Lanai is a poolside spot serving snacks and drinks, while Aahata serves a la carte Indian meals. Club27 serves a variety of alcoholic beverages. Breakfast is included in all rates, and all-inclusive packages can be purchased. Food largely receives positive reviews across the board. On-site parking is free, but spaces are limited, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.