Are you looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea in a serene and beautiful setting? If yes, then you should definitely visit Kihim Beach, one of the most popular and scenic beaches in Alibaug, Maharashtra.
Kihim Beach is located about 12 km from Alibaug town and 100 km from Mumbai. It is easily accessible by road and ferry from both the cities. Kihim Beach is known for its clean and golden sand, clear and blue water, and lush and green surroundings. It is also a paradise for nature lovers, as it is home to a rich variety of birds and butterflies.
Kihim Beach offers a lot of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. You can indulge in thrilling water sports, ride a camel along the shore, spot exotic birds and butterflies, explore historical and cultural sites, or simply relax and unwind in the lap of nature. You can also find a range of accommodation options near the beach, from resorts and cottages to hotels and homestays.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Kihim Beach, including how to reach, best time to visit, things to do, places to stay, and tips for visiting. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a group outing, Kihim Beach is the ideal destination for you. Read on to find out why.
Water Sports at Kihim Beach
One of the main attractions of Kihim Beach is the variety of water sports activities available for the adventure seekers. You can choose from jet skiing, banana boat ride, bumper ride, and parasailing and experience the thrill and fun of riding the waves and flying in the air. These activities are suitable for both beginners and experts, as they are conducted by trained and certified instructors who ensure your safety and enjoyment.
The prices for the water sports range from Rs. 300 to Rs. 1500 per person, depending on the activity and duration. The timings are from 9 am to 6 pm, subject to weather and tide conditions. You can book the water sports packages online or on the spot, but it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Camel Ride at Kihim Beach
Another unique and memorable activity that you can enjoy at Kihim Beach is the camel ride along the sandy shore. This is a great way to explore the beach and its surroundings, as well as to experience the local culture and tradition. You can ride a camel solo or with a partner, and take in the views of the sea, the sky, and the greenery. You can also click some amazing pictures and selfies with the camel and make your friends and family jealous.
The price for the camel ride is Rs. 100 per person, and the timing is from 10 am to 5 pm. The duration of the ride is about 15 minutes, and you can book it on the spot. Here is an image of the camel ride at Kihim Beach to show you how it looks like.
Birdwatching and Butterfly Spotting at Kihim Beach
If you are a nature lover and a wildlife enthusiast, you will love Kihim Beach for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Kihim Beach and its surroundings are home to a variety of birds and butterflies, some of which are rare and endangered. You can spot them in the morning and evening, when they are most active and visible. You can also visit the nearby Kihim Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a protected area for the conservation of flora and fauna. Some of the species of birds and butterflies that you can spot at Kihim Beach are kingfishers, egrets, herons, sunbirds, monarchs, swallowtails, and blues.
Tips
Here are some tips on how to spot and photograph the birds and butterflies at Kihim Beach, to make your experience more enjoyable and rewarding.
The best time to spot the birds and butterflies is in the early morning or late evening, when they are most active and visible.
The best location to spot the birds and butterflies is near the water, the trees, and the flowers, where they feed and rest.
The best equipment to spot and photograph the birds and butterflies is a pair of binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, and a tripod.
The best way to spot and photograph the birds and butterflies is to be patient, quiet, and respectful, and not to disturb or harm them.
Sightseeing at Kihim Beach
Kihim Beach is not only a place for relaxation and recreation, but also a place for exploration and discovery. There are many historical and cultural attractions near Kihim Beach, that you can visit and learn more about the past and present of Alibaug and Maharashtra. Some of the attractions that you can visit near Kihim Beach are Kolaba Fort, Kanakeshwar Devasthan Temple, Alibag Beach, and Versoli Beach.
Here are some details about each attraction, including the distance, history, and significance.
Kolaba Fort:
Kolaba Fort is a 17th-century fort that was built by the Maratha king Shivaji. It is located about 2 km from Kihim Beach, and can be reached by boat or by walking during low tide. The fort is surrounded by the sea on all sides, and has a height of 25 feet. The fort has several temples, cannons, and wells, and offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the coastline. The fort is open from 10 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 5 per person.
Kanakeshwar Devasthan Temple:
Kanakeshwar Devasthan Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located about 15 km from Kihim Beach, and can be reached by road or by trekking. The temple is situated on a hill, and has a height of 1200 feet. The temple has a beautiful architecture, and a large statue of Nandi, the bull. The temple is also famous for its annual fair, which is held in the month of December. The temple is open from 6 am to 8 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Alibag Beach:
Alibag Beach is another popular and scenic beach in Alibaug, which is located about 12 km from Kihim Beach. It is easily accessible by road and ferry from both Mumbai and Pune. Alibag Beach is known for its clean and black sand, clear and calm water, and coconut and palm trees. It is also a good place for water sports, such as jet skiing, kayaking, and boating. Alibag Beach is open 24 hours, and there is no entry fee.
Versoli Beach:
Versoli Beach is a lesser-known and quieter beach in Alibaug, which is located about 14 km from Kihim Beach. It is also accessible by road and ferry from both Mumbai and Pune. Versoli Beach is known for its white and soft sand, clear and blue water, and green and serene surroundings. It is also a good place for camping, fishing, and picnicking. Versoli Beach is open 24 hours, and there is no entry fee.
Best Time to Visit Kihim Beach
Kihim Beach is a year-round destination, as it has a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Kihim Beach is from November to March, when the weather is cool and dry, and ideal for water sports and outdoor activities. You can also enjoy the clear sky, the gentle breeze, and the colorful sunset during this time.
You should avoid visiting Kihim Beach during the monsoon season, which is from June to September, when the beach is prone to high tides, heavy rains, and strong winds. The water sports and sightseeing activities are also restricted or closed during this time. The beach can also get muddy and slippery, and the visibility can be low.
Accommodation at Kihim Beach
Kihim Beach has a variety of accommodation options for visitors of all budgets and preferences. You can choose from resorts, cottages, hotels, and homestays near the beach, and enjoy the comfort and convenience of staying close to the sea. You can also find amenities and facilities such as swimming pools, restaurants, spas, and Wi-Fi in some of the accommodation options.
The prices for the accommodation options range from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 10000 per night, depending on the type, location, and season. You can book the accommodation options online or on the spot, but it is advisable to book in advance to get the best deals and availability.
Tips for Visiting Kihim Beach
To make your trip to Kihim Beach more enjoyable and hassle-free, here are some useful and practical tips that you should follow:
1. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and umbrellas to protect yourself from the sun.
2. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for the beach and water sports.
3. Book your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and higher prices.
4. Respect the local culture and customs and do not litter or damage the beach or its surroundings.
5. Carry enough cash and snacks as there are limited ATMs and eateries near the beach.
Kihim Beach is a perfect destination for anyone who loves the beach and nature. It offers a lot of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. You can indulge in water sports, camel rides, birdwatching, butterfly spotting, sightseeing, or simply relax and unwind in the lap of nature. You can also find a range of accommodation options near the beach, from resorts and cottages to hotels and homestays.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Kihim Beach soon and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea in a serene and beautiful setting. You will surely have a memorable and unforgettable experience.
Thank you for reading this article and we hope you found it informative and helpful. If you have any feedback or queries, please feel free to share them in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you.
