Imagine a picture-perfect petcation in the serene parts of Alibaug. Chase the summer vibes and soak in the endless fun.
Alibaug, Hamptons of Mumbai, remains one of the most sought-after weekend getaway destinations. Travellers hit this destination to taste a slice of history and remarkable beach life. The secluded and unexplored beaches of Alibaug offer a perfect mix of tranquil vibes and vibrant charm. Brimming with stunning water sports adventures, be ready to embrace the thrill. Kihim Beach, Saswane Beach, Alibaug Beach, Korlai Beach, Murud Beach, etc., guarantee a perfect beach-hopping experience. You can also visit Kolaba Fort, Murud Janjira Fort, Brahma Kund and Khanderi Fort to explore the other side of Alibaug.
A scenic 2.5-hour road trip from Mumbai to Alibaug will take you through the serene countryside and lesser-known suburbs of Maharashtra. Stop by the fascinating sights such as Nerul’s Flamingo Point, Karnala Fort, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, etc. en route to Alibaug. Discover the real joy of a family road trip while taking your pet along. Pack summer road trip essentials for pets.
When planning the ultimate summer escape with your furry friends, JUSTDOGS emerges as the quintessential companion for every pet parent. As you prepare for your adventure, remember that summer road trips require careful attention to your pet’s needs, especially under the warm sun. With JUSTDOGS, you can effortlessly pre-schedule your pet’s meals and ensure they stay hydrated with portable water bottles designed for on-the-go ease.
Safety is paramount, so equip your pets with top-quality leashes and harnesses from JUSTDOGS, ensuring they enjoy every bit of the journey securely. When it comes to keeping your car clean from the inevitable fur, JUSTDOGS offers durable car seat covers, making them a vital travel essential for any pet parent. Trust JUSTDOGS to make your travel experiences smoother and your memories brighter, ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety are always a priority.
Experience a luxurious and immersive staycation with your pets amidst the quaint greeneries of Alibaug at SaffronStays Mograa Laffaire and SaffronStays Gardenia. More than just another holiday, relive the epic and nostalgic summer vacation, where time slows down to usher in the magic of the season.
When we say pool, it’s exclusive and only for you to chill out. A sprawling garden, uber-luxe living space and lush greeneries will guarantee a pawsome time at SaffronStays Estella and SaffronStays Hacienda by the Sea across the pristine landscapes of Alibaug. Get easy access to nearby beaches and historical attractions.
It’s time to experience the best summer petcation in Alibaug with SaffronStays and JustDogs.
Located on the western side or coast of the state of Maharashtra in India, the Konkan Coast is one of the favoured places for a quick vacation for those residing in Mumbai or near about. It is a strip of land that encompasses the cities of Ratnagiri, Raigad, Kashid and so on. One of the reasons for the immense popularity of the Konkan region is the proximity of its various cities to the city of Mumbai. The proximity allows people to enjoy their weekends here with their loved ones and unwind amidst the gorgeous vista. Now, if you still cannot figure out the place or places that you should not miss out on during your vacation to Maharashtra’s Konkan Coast, you can refer to the list of the same given below.
Experience the coastal hill station of Dapoli, Ratnagiri
Dapoli is located in the larger city of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra at a distance of 226 km from the city of Mumbai. It is also known for being a coastal hill station, making it one of the ideal destinations for a quick getaway in the Konkan region. People visiting Dapoli can visit several places of interest, one of which is the Unhavare hot springs. It is a common saying that this spring water is beneficial for the skin. Along with that, you can also visit the Kadyavarcha Ganpati Temple (built in the mid-18th century), Panhalakaji Caves, Kelshi Beach, etc.
Located at a distance of 142 km from the city of Mumbai, the city of Korlai is a charming coastal or beach town, which is a part of the larger city of Kashid. It is a town known for its seafaring community whose way of life primarily revolves around fishing and trading. Some of the places of interest in Korlai include the nearby Murud Janjira Fort, which still carries the reputation of an unconquerable fort.
Apart from that, Phansad Bird Sanctuary, the ruins of the Revdanda Fort and the Korlai Fort are some other attractions. One can also avail of the residential facilities here in the form of the SaffronStays Coral Hues, Korlai, which is a 4-bedroom private pool villa that offers the ambience of a traditional Maharashtrian home, along with other amenities such as air-conditioned and pet-friendly rooms, home-fresh meals, a gorgeous lawn etc. that will make for a memorable stay.
Take a walk on the beaches of Guhagar, Ratnagiri
Guhagar is just 422 km from Mumbai, and it is a part of Ratnagiri City. Being a coastal city, it is known for its beaches. However, the city of Guhagar also has places such as the Gopalgad Hill, Thibaw Point and Tilak Ali Museum. The Tilak Ali Museum is the home of freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak and has been converted into a museum. The Thiba Palace used to be the royal palace of King Thiba. One can also choose to explore Bhatye Beach, Ratnadurga Fort, Dhamapur Lake, etc. This area also has residential facilities for tourists such as SaffronStays Ocean Breeze, Guhagar. It offers a refreshing and revitalising view of the farm landscape, allowing visitors to sit on the balcony and enjoy the feeling of the sea breeze after a long day. Visitors can expect amenities such as home-cooked meals, Wi-Fi facilities, parking space, swimming pool etc. with an adjacent seating area that can be used for outdoor eating.
Bathe under a Waterfall in Murud, Raigad
Located at a distance of 143 km from the city of Mumbai, the city of Murud is a municipal council city located in the larger district of Raigad. It is largely well-known because it is home to the invincible Murud Janjira Fort. Garambi Falls, Diveagar Beach and Murud Beach are some of the other main attractions of Murud. Visitors to this city need not worry about the availability of accommodation. They can avail of facilities such as the SaffronStays Adora Woods and Hills, Murud. This exclusive private villa offers facilities to the visitors such as 4 pet-friendly bedrooms and an extensive lawn — to enjoy the greenery and allows children to play and have fun. Additionally, it has facilities that allow elderly people to feel comfortable, enjoy some leisure time, home-cooked meals, etc.
Have a perfect road trip to Palshet, Ratnagiri
The charming village of Palshet is just 421 km from the city of Mumbai, and it is a part of Ratnagiri. It is a village that is especially popular because of its greenery and proximity to the sea. So, if you are planning a long drive to a location near Mumbai, this can be a good option. People visiting Palshet can expect to explore the beauty of Palshet Beach and also indulge in water sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, water surfing, etc. Now, after spending a beautiful day on Palshet Beach, people can enjoy the homely feeling at the SaffronStays Crescent Bay, Palshet. Visitors and guests can enjoy facilities such as pet-friendly rooms, a beautiful view of the sea beach, ensuite bathrooms, etc., which will make their stay comfortable and help them make uncountable memories.
The above-mentioned places are some of the highlights of the Konkan region. However, this region has much more to offer. Moreover, being only a driving distance from Mumbai and the rest of Maharashtra, it is a great weekend gateway.
So, what are you waiting for? Take a road trip through coastal Maharashtra and find some of the hidden gems of this coastal region to make your trip memorable.
Liked this blog?
Join SaffronStays Club Infinitum — sign up to earn 750 Reward Points and redeem them on your next SaffronStays holiday.
Don’t worry, we won’t spam you…we’ll only give you exclusive first access to our new launches!Click HERE to know more about SaffronStays Club Infinitum.
Alibaug, a coastal town off Mumbai is always living up to its hype of being a beautiful beach destination. But besides tourism, you’d be surprised to know that this coastal town is an amalgamation of history, culture, and art if you know the nooks to explore. From secluded beaches to quirky cafes matching the city vibe to forts that carry historical anecdotes and art galleries with a contemporary touch; Are you ready to explore the hidden secrets of Alibaug?
Turn the Pages of Unread Anecdotes in History
Would you believe it if we told you Alibaug had its own currency at one point? Back in the 17th century, during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, many battles were fought at this naval base. At that time, Kanhoji Angre, after a win, issued his currency of a silver coin called the Alibagi rupaiya!
The place gets its nomenclature from a Bene Israelite man named Eli who owned gardens with mango and coconut plantations. The locals called it Eli chi baug or Ali’s garden which eventually transformed to Alibaug. If you are keenly interested in more memoirs of the past and hidden secrets of Alibaug, then pay a visit to Korlai Fort, Hirakot Fort, Sagargad Fort and Murud-Janjira Fort here.
Leave an Imprint in Sands of Lesser-Known Beaches
There is something ineffably soothing being in close proximity to a beach, the slow breeze caressing your face or waves inching further to touch your feet. The popular beaches of Alibaug, Nagaon and Kashid are riddled with tourists. But there are some relatively unnoticed spots, tucked a little further. Akshi beach, next to Nagaon sees a comparatively lesser crowd. Kasim beach, located about 30 km away in the town of Kashid is another beachside that evokes calm and tranquility. Saswane beach extending the coastline of Awas, is a good place to visit if you want to stir up conversations with the locals about their life at the sea. This town is home to a fishermen community.
With frequent tourists returning to the beaches of Alibaug, they, unfortunately, leave behind more than just their footprints. Wrappers, paper waste, snack bits, and a lot of plastic waste get irresponsibly thrown around on the beach shore. Taking up the responsibility to make the beaches look pristine again, SaffronStays and M2M Ferries in association with Beach Warriors are organizing Alibaug Beach Cleanup at Mandwa beach on February 28, Sunday from 9 AM to 11 AM. If you’d like to join us then Click here to register.
Relish and Learn The Culinary Culture!
To get the taste of a place, one has to indulge in the authentic flavours it offers. Alibaug serves as an introduction to the Konkan region of Maharashtra and thus Gomantak cuisine or seafood becomes a must-try. Sanmaan restaurant carries a legacy of over three decades. Established in 1980, they have secret recipes that are now carried forward by generations with no compromise in taste. Located on Varsoli beach, this hotel serves you the best at an affordable price. One of the hidden secrets of Alibaug to explore is the cafe culture. Bohemyan Blue on Alibaug- Rewas road is an open garden cafe with rustic feels. The wooden cane furniture, decorated flowy curtains, and abundance of shrubs around do present the Bohemian vibe, an ambiance that suits a brunch plan. You can choose your platter from Lebanese, Italian to some Konkani dishes.
Since we are talking about relishing good food, one can get to the other side of the preparations with Chef Moshe Shek’s culinary studio ‘A World Away.’ The chef behind popular boutique Cafe Moshe’s has set up a swanky school in Awas, a 25 mins ride from Alibaug. Within an atmosphere of tall trees and a well-maintained garden of fruits, vegetables and herbs one can learn to cook classic middle-eastern dishes to deliciously gooey desserts!
Among the many hotels, resorts and homestays that welcome the tourists visiting this coastal town, there are private villas that offer you the entire place to yourself. Yes, you could have a place with private access to the beach or stare into the horizon from the azure blue pools! SaffronStays By The Beach, offers you an experience to enjoy the beachfront by lounging in a pool. This luxurious 5-bedroom villa welcomes you with a drive down on Mandwa beach, so you live right across the sandy shores.
If you want a more serene ambiance, a little away from the beaches, then SaffronStays Al Fresco is a place you can consider. With a jacuzzi in an indoor swimming pool to expansive lawns outdoors, you have many ways to rejuvenate. A set up of movie night under the stars on the lush lawns outside, this goes beyond a 5-star living experience!
If the oceanside is not your bait, then there’s a heritage property that will make you fall in love with it at first sight! SaffronStays Asanji Wadi in Alibaug eminently exudes a historic feel, right from its brick stone construction to the carefully picked interior decor items. Resurrected by the homeowners after the Bhuj earthquake, this home truly has stories to tell.
Decoding Contemporary Art and Sculptures
Alibaug may paint artistic sceneries with its natural bounty of ocean sunsets but it is also a secret haven for art lovers! Mumbai’s famous art gallery The Guild shifted here from Colaba back in 2015. Shalini Sawhney, the owner and director decided to move, to make art accessible to the real patrons who love visiting galleries. There is no urgency to catch up on exhibitions in the city chaos, but instead, art becomes a viewing and relaxing experience here. The place has been hosting several private collectors’ exhibitions for years.
One of the most interesting art scenes and hidden secrets of Alibaug is the Ashirwaad Kaladalan, a Coconut Shell Art Gallery. It is a display of artist Vijayanand Shembekar’s talent for making artworks out of coconut shells and other items of the coconut tree. Broken and damaged coconuts, shells, leaves and stems are his only materials but he presents a marvelous gallery of over 400 pieces that will leave you spell-bound. From vehicles, intricate lamps, animals to human figurines, he’s carved art from what was tagged waste.
Another not-so-hidden secret of Alibaug, but still underexplored, is the Dashrath Patel Museum. This museum displays the creations of multi-disciplinary artist Dashrath Patel, who used paintings, pottery, photography, sculpting, and designs as his mediums of expression. An artist from L’Ecole Beaux Arts to becoming Founder Secretary of Education of NID Ahmedabad, Patel had interactions with luminaries of art and culture in his journey of exploring the field. The museum sheds light on his life and legacy, deserving a visit from true art lovers.
Tourists head to Alibaug with the alacrity of visiting the beaches but closer to the visible horizon are these gems of art, history, and culture, waiting to welcome a curious explorer.
