Looking for a weekend getaway? Ditch the crowd and head to these 10 offbeat beaches on Maharashtra's Konkan coast. With Sahyadri hills on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other, this beautiful stretch is home to more than 50 beaches offering nature at its best. While tourists often crowd the popular beaches such as Tarkarli, Shrivardhan, and Murud; many miss the nearby hidden gems that are not just scenic, but clean and pollution free as well. What’s more? You also get to sample some lip-smacking Konkani cuisine.
1. Tarkarli
If you love the backwaters, then this hidden gem of Konkan is the place for you. You can enjoy a boat ride in the crystal-clear waters of Tarkarli river. You can also visit Sindhudurg Fort, Rock Garden, and the Malvan Wildlife Marine Sanctuary. Scuba diving and snorkelling are some of the many water sports that adventure junkies can try here. And before you leave, don't forget to shop for some Malvani laddoos, kokum and cashews, from the local market here.
2. Kolad
Located in the Sahyadri mountain range, Kolad beach will appeal to the trekker in you, especially in the monsoons because of its green landscape. When here, make sure to pay a visit to the Kuda Mandad caves and Gaimukh temple. Canoeing and kayaking are some of the adventure sports you can try here. Tamhiri falls and Bhira dam are also a must see.
3. Nandgoan
Move away from the famous Murud beach and checkout this nearby silent gem in Kashid. Away from the chaos of a crowded tourist hotspot, this place is apt for those looking to spend some time in peace. Lesser crowd means lesser pollution; hence, the beach is also a preferred destination for camping.
4. Dighi
Just five kilometres from Shrivardhan beach lies Dighi or Diveagar beach, full of clean white sand and clear water. Surrounded by Suru trees, the beach is home to a sanctuary of migratory seagulls. Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Suvarna Ganesha Temple are some of the tourist attractions here. The ancient wooden structure of Murud Janjira and the nearby Harihareshwar beach are some of the reasons this place deserves a visit.
5. Bharadkhol
Another hidden gem near Shrivardhan is the Bharadkol beach. This black sand beach houses many colourful boats, and the Bharadkhol fish market that sells the fresh catch. Reaching the Bharadkhol beach is an adventure in itself as you climb down a steep cliff.
6. Aaravi
Located near Diveagar village, Aaravi beach is one place the tourists visiting Shrivardhan, give a pass. However, this underrated place offers a sunset you should not miss. When here, you can also witness the nesting of Olive Ridley turtles, try some aquatic sports, and pay a visit to the Somaji, and Lakshmi Narayan Temple.
7. Velas
Another Olive Ridley paradise is the Velas beach of Konkan that hosts thousands of turtles every year. An isolated getaway, the place offers its visitors the much-needed calm away from the hustle-bustle of the crowd. When here you can also visit the nearby fishing village of Bankot. In fact, a visit somewhere between February to April can even give you a chance to attend the annual turtle festival.
8. Anjarle
Considered one of the cleanest and most pollution-free beaches in the Ratnagiri district, this beach lies in the beautiful Anjarle village near Dapoli. The place offers visitors a chance to spot dolphins that only add to its scenic beauty. Kadyawarcha Ganpati temple, and Suvarnadurg Fort are some of the local attractions you can check out in this beach village.
9. Harnai
Close to Anjarle lies the Harnai beach also known as the Maharshi Karve beach. Another calm weekend getaway, it is often thronged by the residents of the nearby cities of Mumbai and Pune. Fishing is one activity that is popular among tourists here. Other attractions include Harnai Port and the 18th century Durga Devi temple.
10. Bhogwe
One of the most secluded beaches in Konkan, Bhogwe beach offers scenic beauty worth all your attention. Silver white sand, foam waves, and the river Karli joining the sea, are some of its characteristics that make it a must visit. Not to mention the dolphins. Nivti and Khavane are some of the nearby beaches that you can explore on your trip to Bhogwe.