An erstwhile port town, the small sleepy town of Gopalpur on the Bay of Bengal is popular for its pristine beach. With fine sand and deep and clear blue waters, Gopalpur Beach is an ideal spot for a lap or two in the sea. And if you are not a swimmer, nuliahs (local fishermen) can help you learn. White surf splashing on the golden sand makes Gopalpur one of the finest beaches on the eastern coast. The ruins of a port, a lighthouse and a few colonial-style old bungalows stand testament to Gopalpur's past as a bustling commercial town till about 1942, when its port ceased operations. Hardly 16 km from Berhampur, the hub of southern Odisha, this is an ideal site to rewind and relax. Swim, take long walks on the beach or just watch fishermen ride out the distant waves, all the while soaking in the serenity of the place.