2. Dahanu
As you escape the city in search of a good beach destination, head to Dahanu, which surprises you with its ancient history, its idyllic beaches and its earthy Maharashtrian culture. With plenty of homestay options, Dahanu will be easy on your pocket, and offer a wholesome beach experience. Also visit the Chikoo orchards, for which the little town is known for.
Distance from Mumbai: 141 km
3. Bordi
A short scenic drive from Dahanu lies the pristine beachfront of Bordi. Bordi beaches are quiet, serene hamlets, with gusts of winds, and overall calmness in the salty air. Take some time to stroll along the idyllic beaches, stop at food stalls for local food and enjoy a swim in the clean water. A drive along the coast to Dahanu is one of the most beautiful drives you’ll ever embark upon. Mumbaikars looking for a relaxing beach holiday would surely love Bordi!
Distance from Mumbai: 157 km
4. Daman and Diu
Daman and Diu were under Portuguese occupation for more than 450 years and this has left an indelible mark on the two districts. A quick road trip from Mumbai will get you to this pristine beach destination. Daman’s Devka beach is the number one tourist attraction in the area. The beach itself is quite lovely but not safe for swimming. If you fancy a swim, head to Jampore beach 3 kilometres south of Daman. The other attraction in Daman is the 17th-century St. Jerome Fort on the north side of the Daman Ganga River.
Distance from Mumbai: 177 km
5. Ratnagiri
A port city on the Western Coast of India, Ratnagiri prides itself for its historic monuments, ancient places of worship and beautiful beaches. A unique black sand beach, Mandvi, will definitely capture your interest. Home to the Alphonso mangoes, Ratnagiri boasts of local art and culture, and embodies the true spirit of Maharashtra intermingled with influences from the Konkan heritage. Visit the town for an escape from Mumbai’s fast lifestyle, to a simpler way of life.
Distance from Mumbai: 336 km
6. Tarkarli
This serene Maharashtrian village is for the traveller looking for some quiet time away from Mumbai’s busy lifestyle. Sit back, on the quiet sandy beach, and gaze into the deep blue sea. When you’re done with the quiet time, you could indulge in some thrilling water sports, take a boat ride along the narrow tiny hamlets, and spot dolphins as they playfully ride the waves.
Distance from Mumbai: 481 km
7. Gokarna
Gokarna is an increasingly popular destination for beach lover. With many popular and untouched beaches, this destination offers a variety of beach experiences to the traveller. Of these, Om Beach is the most famous. Shaped like a well-rounded ‘W’ looking like the Om symbol, this secluded beach was a hideout first discovered by European tourists. Plenty of iron ore rocks are sprinkled along the magnificent coastline making the Arabian Sea a tad choppy. Bathing in it is a lot of fun as there are many unexpected waves.
Distance from Mumbai: 722 km