Gopalpur's history is deeply intertwined with its role as a prominent trading port during the British colonial era. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it served as a vital hub for trade and commerce, connecting India with Southeast Asia and beyond. The remnants of this era are visible in the dilapidated jetty and colonial-era buildings that dot the coastline. The port gradually lost its significance with the development of larger ports in the region. However, Gopalpur has reinvented itself as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and historical charm. The annual Gopalpur Beach Festival celebrates the town's rich cultural heritage and maritime past.