When we hear the term Maharashtra, the first thing that springs to mind is ‘Bollywood.’ However, with its more than 700 kilometres of coastline, this state is endowed with various magnificent beaches that may thrill your senses. These beaches have a lot to offer, from exciting water activities like scuba diving and surfing to swimming and traditional sea delicacies. Apart from the chaats of Chowpatty, the busy Marine Drive, and the glittering Juhu, Maharashtra has other gorgeous beaches that will captivate your senses.
1. Kashid Beach
Kashid is a beautiful beach that is near the Arabian Sea. It is known for its crystal clear blue water and white sand. If you live in Alibag, this 3 km long beach is about 30 km away. It is a great way to get away from the city. Kashid is one of the best beaches in Maharashtra’s Konkan region. It has green hills, clean water, white sand, and paddy fields, making it a great place for a weekend getaway. You can do water sports like surfing and diving at Kashid Beach.
2. Bassein Beach
Bassein Beach is 77 km from Mumbai. It looks a lot like one of India’s most beautiful and popular beach towns, Goa. It has pristine blue water, palm trees that sway, white sandy beaches, and the ruins of old Portuguese forts. Bassein has everything you need to make your weekend trip interesting. Nalasopara’s Buddhist relics, Akoli hot springs, and a temple are all near this beach. There are also some churches from the Portuguese era near this beach.
3. Tarkarli Beach
Tarkarli is a locality in the Sindhudurg district, 160 kilometres from Kohlapur. Tarakali beach, located at the junction of the picturesque Karli River and the Arabian Sea, offers a tranquil retreat into nature. This calm beach is known for its crystal blue water, and the seafloor can occasionally be seen up to a depth of more than 15 feet. Apart from enjoying the beauty of the beach, you can also visit one of Maharashtra’s most renowned sea forts, Padmagarh Fort and Sindhudurg Forts. Tarakali, with its unusual sea cuisine, beautiful scenery, and clear ocean, is a perfect weekend getaway for vacationers.
4. Ganapatipule
Ganapatipule, located 375 kilometres south of Mumbai, is an ideal vacation location because of its stunning scenic beauty, clean water, white beaches, and palm trees. Unlike other Maharashtra beaches, Ganapatipule is less congested, making it a perfect place to unwind. Ganapatipule, one of Maharashtra’s most renowned beaches is home to the 400-year-old Swayambhu Ganpati temple (self-originated). You may also go to Malgund, the birthplace of the Marathi poet Keshavsut.
5. Shrivardhan Harihareshwar
This is an ideal place for water adventure activities and seafood enthusiasts and is regarded as one of Maharashtra’s most popular beaches. This beach is about 200 kilometres from Mumbai and is home to the Kalbhairav Shiva Temple. Aside from enjoying the tranquil beauty of the beach, adventurers may rent small boats to explore the history of Shrivardhan, where the Peshwas of the Maratha Kingdom formerly lived. Swimming, beach strolling, beach volleyball, and other sports are popular at Shrivardhan Harihareshwar beach.