Visit These Lesser-Known Beaches In Maharashtra

With a 720-km coastline, washed by the Arabian Sea, Maharashtra offers a plethora of stunning beaches. While some may have gained fame, many remain lesser-known. Therefore, is a pristine shore is what you want to witness, Maharashtra puts up a stunning show. What's more? you can also try exciting water sports and authentic Konkan cuisine at many of the nearby towns. Another notable element of Maharashtra's beaches is the presence of ancient forts that mark the Maratha people's heritage. Here's our list of the best offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect to explore over the weekend:

Kashid Beach

Kashid Beach, a serene hideaway snuggled in the Konkan Coast, is a testament to nature's untouched beauty. It is located approximately 125 kilometres from Mumbai and is known for its ethereal stretches of white sand, the crystal clarity of its waters, and the surrounding greenery.

Iti is away from the thrum of crowded beaches and promises a tranquil experience. Here, you can also enjoy water sports, camping, or trekking in the nearby Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Ganpatipule Beach

The beach is famous for the nearby Swayambhu Ganesh Temple, where the idol is believed to be self-originated and attracts thousands of devotees every year. Ganapatipule is unlike other popular beaches of Maharashtra, which are crowded and polluted. Surrounded by natural splendours like swaying palms, this is arguably one of the best beaches in Maharashtra.

Aside from this, the beach is surrounded by many restaurants serving local dishes such as ambapoli (thin pancakes of crushed and dried mango) and phanspoli (thin pancakes of dried and crushed jackfruit). You can also visit Malgund village, the birthplace of the famed Marathi poet 'Keshavsut', to see the beauty of the Shastri River.

Tarkarli Beach

Tarkarli Beach is a pristine haven that has gained recognition among scuba divers and snorkellers. The beach boasts of crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and exotic marine life. You can also spot dolphins, turtles, and starfish in the sea. Tarkarli Beach is also the place where the Karli River meets the Arabian Sea, creating a beautiful backwater, flanked by thick mangroves, and perfect for serene boat rides.

Velneshwar Beach

Located in the Ratnagiri district, this secluded beach is an ideal destination for those looking to unwind, meditate, or simply soak in the sun in a serene environment.

The beach is surrounded by coconut and palm trees, creating a tropical ambience. The beach is also known for its Shiva temple, which attracts many pilgrims during the Maha Shivaratri festival. Despite its many attractions, Velneshwar Beach remains relatively unspoiled by commercial tourism, preserving its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This makes it a perfect escape for those seeking solitude or a quiet family getaway, where one can experience the calming influence of nature and reconnect with oneself.

Marve-Manori-Gorai

A cluster of three beaches in the northern suburbs of Mumbai, Marve-Manori-Gorai is a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers. The beaches are connected by ferries and offer a variety of activities, such as fishing, boating, or biking. You can also visit the Essel World amusement park, the Global Vipassana Pagoda, or the Manori Fort nearby.

Marve Beach is smaller and quieter compared to its counterparts, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and solitude. The ferry ride from Marve to Manori is a special experience, offering scenic views of the surrounding area and a glimpse into the laid-back coastal life.

While Marve is famous for its beachside shacks and lively vibe, Gorai boasts a rustic charm and is popular for picnics, beach sports, and horseback rides along the beach. The beach's proximity to Essel World makes it a hit among families and thrill-seekers.

Dahanu-Bordi Beach

Bordi Beach is half an hour's drive from Dhanu, which too is marked by the presence of Casuarina trees, coconut groves, and chikoo orchards. For someone interested in water adventure, Dahanu-Bordi Beach offers sports activities like gliding, trekking, kite flying, etc. Moreover, you can also embark on treks across nearby hills like Mahalaxmi, Asherigad, Bahrot, and Kahoj. In addition, the historical Bahrot Cave is worth exploring too. Here, visitors can witness the ancient, still-burning sacred fire at Udwada, a testament to a thousand years of faith and devotion.