Ditch Maldives: Ultimate Unexplored Indian Beaches for you

Maldives in india
Redi Beach

The Maldives and other global hot-spots are okay, but there’s more to travel than following trends. Because, what is travel if not an escape from the clichés of Maldives and Bali? It’s a journey into the unexplored, an exploration that seeks out authentic encounters and distinctive experiences off the beaten track. In this blog, we’re going to talk about some of the unexplored Indian beaches.

If that sounds like you, here’s a guide to Indian beach destinations that match the global hotspots. These hidden gems seamlessly combine affordability, heartfelt hospitality, and unmatched natural beauty, surpassing even renowned international destinations. May it be the Hamptoms of Mumbai with ever-living nightlife or the untrodden Konkan region with azure waters and golden sand beaches. This guide will be exhaustive for you to get over your Maldives fever.

1. Alibaug: The Hamptons of Mumbai

Alibaug, often called the Hamptons of Mumbai, is a place where the Arabian Sea meets beautiful sandy beaches. It’s a lively and easily accessible location for a weekend getaway.

The most common way to reach Alibaug is via ferry from the Gateway of India. If you prefer a more scenic route, you can drive down the Mumbai-Goa highway, enjoying the picturesque surroundings along the way. Explore the historic Kolaba Fort, standing in timeless testimony to the region’s maritime history. Indulge in culinary delights with fresh seafood and local flavors at beachside shacks. Feel the thrill of water sports along the coastline or discover hidden gems like Kihim and Awas beaches for a serene retreat. As night falls, join the lively beachside atmosphere with bonfires and local music, creating communal connections under the starlit sky.

If you’re want something more laid-back, you can explore other lesser known beaches like Korlai, Murud, and Kashid beaches.

SaffronStays offer a serene escaped in Alibaug, a complete stay with beautiful surroundings, cozy accommodations like Kimaya, Sea la vie, Mograa Lafffaire, Hacienda by the Sea, and Salt Rim on the Beach stand as architectural masterpieces against the backdrop of Alibaug’s breathtaking beauty, offering a luxurious retreat where luxury harmonizes with the serenity of the coastline.

While if you’re looking to break away for regular SaffronStays offer in a place to with villas like Little Paradise, and Alma Grove in Murud and Kashid, irrespectively.

2. Dapoli: The Konkan Unexplored 

Dapoli is located on the Konkan coast in Maharashtra, India, offering a serene escape with its beautiful beaches and green landscapes. The region’s rich history is reflected in its ancient sea forts, providing a unique blend of cultural charm and natural beauty.

Many travelers overlook the simple beauty of Maharashtra’s Konkan region. Here, you’ll find stunning, quiet beaches that are surprisingly clean and empty. If you’re searching for a peaceful blend of sunshine, nature, and calmness, Konkan offers a serene alternative to busy destinations. Cherry on the cake? This trip won’t break your bank.

Imagine waking upto a golden sunrise amidst the voices of nature, a place where city life bids an adieu. The charm of Dapoli extends beyond its sandy shores to encompass a rich coastal ecosystem. Surrounded by lush greenery and gently rolling hills, the region is a visual delight for nature lovers. SaffronStays Athaang Mira, Athaang Adira  and Villa 270 let you soak in Dapoli’s natural splendor. With rhythmic waves and unspoiled surroundings, it’s a perfect retreat to explore the unspoiled beauty of the Konkan coastline.

3. Redi Beach: A Touch of Maldivian Charm

Located on the Maharashtra-Goa border, Redi is a quaint fishing village celebrated for its unspoiled white sand beaches, clear azure waters, and mouthwatering local seafood.

Tucked near the Maharashtra-Goa border, Redi Beach mirrors the charm of the Maldives with its white sand shores and turquoise waters. Redi beach is also known as Paradise Beach for all the right reasons. Being a lesser known beach destination, one can find complete solitude while enjoying the water sports and tasty local delicacies.

SaffronStays brings an exclusive retreat, Stella Maris Beach House, featuring a private access path to the unspoiled beach. Dive into water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, and be sure to capture the mesmerizing sunset from the elevated deck—a touch of magic that adds an unforgettable dimension to your Redi Beach retreat.

4. Udupi: Revisit the Malgudi Days

Udupi’s beaches unfold like chapters from a coastal version of “Malgudi Days,” offering a picturesque tapestry of golden shores and crystal-clear waters.

Udupi, cradled along the Arabian Sea, unfolds as a captivating tale straight from the pages of Malgudi Days. With secluded golden sand beaches, where nature creates a soothing melody along the beautiful coastlines.

Malpe Beach is a popular spot known for its tranquil atmosphere and vibrant water sports scene. The coastline is further adorned by St. Mary’s Island, where unique basalt formations create a surreal landscape. Kodi Bengre offers a serene retreat with its rhythmic waves, providing a diverse range of beach experiences for those seeking relaxation or adventure in Udupi.

Golden Sunrises and amber sunsets, golden sand on the feet and a cold breeze carrying the reminisce of simpler life. Featured in Deccan Herald, SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam, perched overlooking the Suvarna River elevates this experience. It’s just a beautiful setting that invites everyone to enjoy the timeless charm of Udupi.

It’s time to take a trip to these unexplored Indian Beaches

Travel is not just about destinations; it’s an immersive experience that weaves together places, people, and personal discovery into the rich tapestry of life’s journey.

As the world yearns for Maldives and Bali, these Indian coastal destinations not only provide an escape but also unveil the breathtaking beauty that lies within their boundaries. With affordability, unmatched hospitality, and convenient access, these havens redefine luxury living, proving that India’s coastal retreats are a matchless treasure trove for those in pursuit of unparalleled beauty. 

Want to explore more accommodations? Click here.

ADVENTURES GALORE!!! Beat the #SummerHeat by Stepping Out!

Hot Water Springs, Dolphins and Tandem Paragliding… sound like some exotic vacation? Guess what? These activities and some more, are right around Maharashtra. If you’re feeling the summer blues, fret not, because we’ve got a list of activities to kiss these feelings a sweet goodbye!

So what are you waiting for? Head out NOW!

Soak yourself in the Hot Springs of Dapoli

Hot Water Springs
Take a dip in the healing waters of Unhavare

Did you know you could step into healing hot water springs so close to home? Well, now you do! Head over to Unhavare for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend of peace and quiet. Our quaint little Villa 270 promises to be the best bet for your Dapoli stay. Cheggit out!

Set Sail in the Seas around Mumbai

Sailing by the shores of Mumbai is a great way to destress.

Discover the amazing coastline Mumbai boasts of with a quick sailing trip around the shore. Many clubs around the bay provide extensive sailing classes from introduction level to advance stages. If you are even a day over 15 year, join one of the special summer courses where you can learn to be a pro sailor in just a day!

Contact: Mumbai Sailing Club

Go Up, Up and Away in a Balloon near Lonavala

Hot Air Balloon
Fly up into the air in a balloon with your family.

Always dreamt of going to Bristol or Cappadocia for a scenic Hot Air Balloon ride? Why look so far away when your neighbourhood has an equally eye-catching ride for you? The lush hills of Lonavala are a delight to see from 1200 ft and you must see it to believe it. Go and book your family a trip right now!

Contact: Adventure Nation

Two’s a Company at Kamshet’s Tandem Paragliding

Go solo or fly tandem! Paraglide away the summer heat.

Want to fly like a bird, but don’t have the courage to go alone? Don’t worry! Tandem paragliding is an amazing way to get some wind under your wings, quite literally. Head out to Kamshet, the less boisterous version of Lonavala, to enjoy a ride. Or sign up for a certificate course and stay at the gorgeous L’attitude Villa while you grab the ropes of this daring activity.

Contact: Indus Paragliding

Beat the Heat with White Water Rafting in Kolad

White Water Rafting
Turn up your adrenaline with an adventurous river rafting experience. From: CSG Raft Gear Ltd

Getting into a pool of water is probably the best feeling during the summers. But why stop at that? Jump into a nasty river while you go white water rafting and it shall be one guaranteed great weekend. So gather all your friends and head over to Kolad for a gala time!

Contact: Wild River Kolad

Picture Credit: White Water Mag Ltd, 

BONUS!!!

Spot a Beautiful Dolphin off the coast of Mumbai

Dolphins
Catch a glimpse of these beautiful dolphins right around Mumbai.

Want another example of how ecologically diverse and rich Mumbai is? Hire a boat and head out just a few nautical miles off the coast of Maximum City and spot bottleneck dolphins with your own eyes! Does sound splendid right? Here’s another summer afternoon planned for you and your family.

Contact: Pelican Sailing School

Themed rooms with a view of the famed Coonoor tea gardens

Coonoor is famous for two things – its climate and its tea. At Mr. Krishna’s place you can enjoy both. The place is literally surrounded by numerous tea gardens. There is a huge common terrace which facilitates panoramic viewing of Mother Nature’s unadulterated sights. The location of the homestay earns it brownie points for being close to main Coonoor town as well as the tea gardens.

The rooms at the hometay have been designed and decorated with respect to different themes. While Nirvana and Nlighten are themed rooms the third room is a family suite which is bigger in size and accommodates more people. The Host is passionate about fitness and has substantial fitness equipment in the common area. The terrace area can be used by guests to enjoy their evening tea and unwind in the cool breeze that flows from the tea gardens.

Major tourist attraction Dolphin’s Nose is close from the homestay. Guests can also explore the nearby tea gardens on foot through nature trials. Coonoor has a lot to offer and this homestay is the perfect place to get started.

A peaceful stay with some wonderful hosts

Beautiful homestay away from Manali city on the way to Rohtang Pass,  located in the midst of an apple orchard. The cottage has very spacious rooms & lovely amenities. All rooms have breathtaking view of the snow-capped peaks of Manali. Organic homemade delicious food is served. The host, Mr. Ved  is a very jolly person & helps his guests in all the possible ways. Perfect place to stay in Manali but to stay away from city hustle bustle.

Perfect place for a short trip

It was a great experience staying with Dr.Joseph and his family for 3 days.Very well organised rooms and well designed interiors. All the rooms are designed keeping in mind the point that families can be accommodated comfortably. The surrounding area is known for its sea food and scenic beauty of Kovalam beach. Perfect place to visit if planning for a short trip.

Warm host family and some lip-smacking home-cooked meals

This is a typical cosy Kashmiri home converted into a homestay. It is located within a walking distance from the serene Nageen lake.  All rooms are spacious & nicely maintained & all rooms have a great view. The host family is very friendly, supportive & very helpful in all ways. Mrs. Shakila is very jolly person with a great interest in art. She has many handmade arts, created by her, displayed in her home. And the best thing is that she personally cooks food for guests and trust me its yummy. A great experience to stay with a Kashmiri Family.

Excellent host and fabulous stay in Spiti

I stayed here for 2 days. This is perfect place to halt on a 1st day when you are entering Spiti from Manali side. Lovely homestay managed by a rider from Delhi. Although it is located in a village, you will get all the luxurious facilities, much better than any other homestay or guesthouse or hotel in whole Spiti valley. Rooms are spacious and have all the amenities you need here. Perfect place for riders as well as tourists to stay. The property has a beautiful dining area with a typical Spitian sit-out. Food is prepared in local style & trust me you wont get such an amazing homemade food anywhere in Spiti valley. Property owner, Sahil, also organises treks to the beautiful ChandraTal lake and can help you plan your Spiti itinerary well.

Caring host, lovely food and great property make a perfect holiday

This cottage is located in the heart of the city. It has rooms decorated in royal style and very nice surroundings, and a big lawn that makes for lovely evenings settings. Host family & specially Mrs Anita, is very friendly & supporting. It was a great experience to meet her & spend time with her. She personally takes care of her guests. Food served in cottage is yummy, pure veg kashmiri food. In short, a must stay place in Srinagar.