India’s western seaboard is home to the spectacular 550-km Konkan coast that traces a path from the south of Mumbai in Maharashtra all the way to the border between Goa and Karnataka. What makes this particular stretch unique is the bounty of beautiful beaches, many of which are among the most stunning in the country, and the traditional Konkani culture which continues to thrive to this day.
Some of the most popular spots for sightseers include Alibag and Ganpatipule, but dig below the surface and you will find offbeat and hidden gems that attract far fewer crowds. Outlook Traveller has curated a list of six secret beaches on the Konkan coast that make for the perfect monsoon getaway.
The Sindhudurg district is home to the popular Tarkali Beach, where thousands of tourists descend every month to scuba dive and dolphin spot in its waters. A less well-known yet equally charming alternative that you should set your sights on is Bhogave Beach.
This tranquil stretch of sand is an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and solace amidst nature, thanks to its pristine white shore, rollicking blue waves and lush greenery. Fringed by coconut and betel nut groves, this place is a paradise for nature lovers, who can enjoy clear views of Tsunami Island and breathtaking sunsets here.
The people of Bhogave mainly rely on fishing, farming and coconut plantations for their livelihood. The locals have preserved their traditional culture and customs, offering tourists a glimpse into authentic coastal life. One of the best times to visit Bhogave is during festivals like the Nārali Poornima, which is held on the full moon day around July or August and is celebrated with great pomp and ceremony.
During your trip, enjoy culinary delights like fish curry and rice made with Konkani spices; solkadhi, a cooling beverage made from coconut milk and kokum; ukadiche modak, sweet steamed dumplings filled with jaggery and coconut; and ghavan, thin rice pancakes served with coconut chutney.
Surrounded by hillocks, Velas Beach in Ratnagiri district is considered to be one of the cleanest in India. What makes it unique is that each year from February to April, it is the birthing ground of newly-hatched olive ridley turtles. The combination of coconut trees, unmatched views and a cool breeze floating in from the Arabian Sea makes it a top destination for those looking to encounter an offbeat gem on the Konkan coast. While here, don’t miss a trek to Bankot Fort, which stood at the crossroads of a busy trade route during medieval times.
Primarily known for its ancient Shiva temple which draws lakhs of devotees during Mahashivratri, Kunkeshwar in the Sindhudurg district is a one-stop-shop for natural beauty, cultural heritage and spiritual significance.
The “South Kashi of Konkan,” as it is popularly known, is the perfect escape for nature lovers who go there to experience a peaceful atmosphere where the rhythmic sound of the sea waves complements the spiritual aura of the temple. The beach is a hub for water sports like kayaking, scuba diving and parasailing, along with dolphin safaris and boating excursions.
After a thrilling day, explore the area’s Malvani cuisine with an array of fresh seafood delicacies that are infused with the rich flavours of coconut and spices. Those with a sweet tooth should try the local specialities of coconut barfi and modak.
Another pristine and unpolluted offbeat gem of Maharashtra’s Konkan coast is Anjarle Beach in the Ratnagiri district. With an abundance of coconut trees, areca nut plantations and gentle hills, the scenic landscape here shimmers with white sand and the calm blue waters of the Arabian Sea. The sonic landscape is no less remarkable, with birdsong filtering through the air and mingling with the thrum of the waves.
The quiet nature of Anjarle Beach lends itself to photographic pursuits thanks to its charming sunsets. Visitors can also experience the age-old customs of the local communities—primarily composed of fisherfolk and farmers—like the folk dance of Kadal. The Kadakai Devi Temple is the site of the annual Kadakai Devi festival, which is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by locals every year.
Nestled among the green foliage of berry, mango and cashew trees is a beach that should feature at the top of your Konkan coast itinerary: Vengurla. The alluring town has a rich cultural heritage thanks to temples like the Sargeshwar Shiva Temple and the Khajana Devi Temple, as well as the 17th-century Dutch factory and the 19th-century Vengurla Lighthouse.
The crystal-clear waters here are ideal for a range of water sports such as parasailing, banana boat rides and scuba diving. For a tasty snack, munch on roasted cashews and cashew-based sweets that are a must-try in the town.
With its scenic crescent-shaped shoreline dotted with towering coconut trees, Velneshwar truly is Maharashtra’s hidden gem when it comes to beaches. The rock-free sandy shores are perfect for swimming or simply lounging around in peace by yourself or with loved ones. Activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and scuba diving are popular with adventure enthusiasts thanks to the calm and clean waters and pleasant weather. The location is also a visual feast for art lovers as the vibrant Velneshwar Temple—which is partly submerged in the Arabian Sea—sparkles in shades of blue, yellow and pink.
