Pune is noted not only for its cultural vibrancy and hill-station appeal, it is also a portal to one of Maharashtra’s most beautiful regions – the Konkan coast. For those traveling to witness both the serenity of nature and the richness of history, beaches nearby Pune provide the chance to experience both together, where the Arabian Sea houses ancient forts, temples, and colonial narratives. From the historic forts of Murud-Janjira to the serene beaches of Harihareshwar, this coastal getaway fuses clear scenery, stunning architecture, and Indian maritime history. Here is the best beaches near Pune that a history-seeking traveler should see.
1. Alibaug Beach – The Queen of Konkan
Alibaug is one of the most convenient and historically significant beaches near Pune. It’s not merely a beach, but also a voyage through centuries of Maratha and Portuguese naval history. The Kolaba Fort is the main attraction here, a historical seaside fort built in the 17th century by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. You can reach the fort on foot during low tide, or by boat if the tide is high.
The fort remains intact with its old cannons, temples, and stunning views of the sea and beach, and tells stories of Maratha bravery. The beach at Alibaug is wide, sandy, and lined with coconut trees, making it great for couples, families, and a backdrop for your photography while the waves wash in peacefully. The beach offers water sports, a stunning sunset, and seafood stalls that enhance the experience.
2. Murud-Janjira Beach โ The Unconquerable Sea-Fortress
Murud-Janjira showcases the genius of medieval naval defense. The beach itself is peaceful, picturesque and offers views of the Janjira Fort, a huge stone edifice situated on an island just off the coast. What makes Janjira unique is that it has never been conquered by any ruler โ neither by the Marathas nor by the British.
Visitors can take a local boat ride and explore the fort with its 19 bastions, hidden tunnels, freshwater lakes, and ancient cannons. The beaches of Murud are an idyllic place with golden sands that supplement the drama of the fort, which has a sublime mix of romance, history, and serenity. It is for those who love history, architecture, and nature photography.
3. Harihareshwar Beach โ The Temple Town by the Sea
Also referred to as “Dakshin Kashi”, Harihareshwar is a place of pilgrimage as well as a natural wonder. The main highlight is the Harihareshwar Temple, a temple devoted to Lord Shiva, located adjacent to the beach. The temple’s ancient stone carvings that are centuries old, beautifully line the coastline, creating a scene that could exist in any time period.
This place is bounded on three sides by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea on the fourth and has natural beauty and a spiritual vibe. With stunning views, a rocky shore, and tranquil waves, it is a perfect destination for tourists who are keen to experience divinity mixed with scenic beauty.
4. Diveagar Beach – Golden Sands and Historical Gems
Diveagar Beach is celebrated for its untarnished splendor and historical richness. It became well-known some time back when an antiquated gold idol of Lord Ganesha was discovered in the local temple, granting it a mystical quality. The beach is over-sized, tidy, and lined with casuarina trees, providing it a great feel for long, familiar walks and sunset pictures.
Did we mention that the coastal village of Shrivardhan complements the aesthetic? It features some old Konkani buildings and the quaintness of a fishing village. Travelers who want to enjoy a less commercial travel experience are welcomed here, without forgoing historical value.
5. The Enchanting Kashid Beach โ The Sandy Shores and the Historical Forts
One of the most beautiful beaches in Maharashtra is Kashid, with its soft, white sand, blue water and palm fringed green hills. But, Kashid has more than just natural beauty: it is also within proximity of two forts โ the Revdanda Fort and the Korlai Fort โ both historic coastal, heritage structures. The Korlai Fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, is simply stunning and offers incredible ocean views and old ruins with Portuguese and Marathi inscriptions.
It is a hidden gem for anyone who loves architecture ruins, surrounded by beauty and tranquility. For anyone seeking a romantic getaway, the pristine beach of Kashid, the solitude, the ruins, and photogenic places, make for the perfect outing for couples or anyone interested in history.
6. Velas Beach – The Beach of Turtles and History
Velas is famous not only for its beach but also for being a turtle nesting site, where every year Olive Ridley turtles come ashore and lay their eggs. The Velas Turtle Festival draws eco-tourists, wildlife photographers, and bloggers from all over India. In addition to its ecological reason, Velas is historically significant as the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire.
Therefore, this peaceful coastal village is a place of ecological meaning and connection to India’s local, regional, and national history. The beach with its fine sand and gentle surf & waves is a beautiful untouched/coastal retreat with little commercialization among both nature and history lovers.
7. Ganpatipule Beach โ Sacred Shores of the Western Coast
Although it is a little further from Pune, Ganpatipule is absolutely worth the drive. The beach is the site of the Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, which is dedicated to a naturally formed idol of Lord Ganesha that folks come to visit throughout the year.
The Ganpatipule Beach is a clean, long stretch of golden sand with turquoise blue water โ it is perfect for couples, families, and travelers seeking spiritual sustenance. Nearby attractions like the Jaigad Fort and Lighthouse offer historical scenery. Visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the convergence of Shastri River and the Arabian Sea from the points high up at Jaigad Fort, where heritage dramatically blends with natural beauty.
8. Ratnagiri Beach โ Portal to Coastal Heritage
Ratnagiri is one of the most historically affluent coastal districts of Maharashtra. The beaches of Mandvi, Ganeshghule, and Bhatye are well known for their scenic beauty and their proximity to the fort of Ratnadurg, which goes back to the Bahamani period. The hill of Ratnadurg towers above the sea quite dramatically, giving you a view of the coastline, and inside, an old bastion and a few temples still stand.
Ratnagiri is also home to freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, whose house has been preserved here. If you want a thorough phase of Maharashtra’s coastal history and some natural beauty, then Ratnagiri will serve you in this regard.
In Conclusion
The beaches around Pune are much more than sun and sand escapes โ they are the living history of Maharashtra’s coastline, showcasing the history of Marathas, Portuguese, and indigenous coastal communities. For the traveler who enjoys history, architecture, and views, Murud-Janjira, Alibaug, Harihareshwar, and Diveagar offer a combination of both. Whether you are observing the golden glow of sunset, hiking up and ancient fort, or letting the sea tell you the stories of battles once fought, every beach invites you experience the duality of time and the natural world.