Beach bound

Summer has set in, but if the city's beaches don't satisfy your quota of surf, sand and sun, head out and test these waters

Ironically, this storybegan on a beach five years ago. Friends from the hinterlands had just had their first glimpse of Juhu Beach. While two rejoiced in the waves that lapped gently against their feet, the third said, "Doesn'tit stink? It feels like I amwalking in sewage." Thus began a mission to findpristine beaches around Mumbai. Here are five that made the cut:

For a day: Uran Beach

Getting there: An hour'sride from Ferry Wharf
Expect: A clear glimpse of Mumbai's skyline. "The sea is alive here. The waves are huge and this is a great place to just chill," says Regan Rodricks of Blue Bulb that organises one-day treks to places around Mumbai.
Don't miss: Try the fresh seafood on offer caught by the local Kohli community.

Alibaug

Getting there: Ferry from Gateway of India
Expect: A few kilometres from Alibaug lie the beaches of Murud, Kashid, Nandgaon, and Kihim. Once there, visit the beautiful sea fort of Janjira or head to Khanderi, Underi, Korlai, Revdanda and Kasa forts. Sushant Karnik, an adrenaline junkie, adds, "These spots offer home-stay options. And for those into adventure sports, Mandawa is 20 minutes away."
Don't miss: The 150-year-old geomagnetic observatory in Alibaug.

Weekends: Shrivardhan - Harihareshwar

Getting there: Mumbai to Harihareshwar is 190 kms via Panvel-Mangaon on the Mumbai-Goa Highway
Expect: Sun-kissed beaches far from the hustle andbustle of city life. "It is known for its seafood. The adventurous can take a boat to the north side of the bay and explore the land where the Peshwas or prime ministers of the Maratha kingdom, originally resided," says Vidhi Kamath, a localresident. MTDC has a good resort at Harihareshwar with Konkani houses to stay in.
Don't miss: Shrivardhanfor its tranquil andpicturesque beach.

Long weekend: Tarkarli

Getting there: Mumbai-Tarkarli is 546 kms. Getoff at Kudal on Konkan Railways.
Expect: With its bluewaters, white sands,coral reefs and marine life, this beach is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Snorkelling and scuba diving allows divers to interact with the exotic marine life. "It is famous for its corals," says Prateek Deo of Life Away From Life, that is organising a trip to the region on April 5. Those interested can log on tolifeaway fromlife.comDon't miss: Water sport options, the historic Sindhudurg fort and the coral reef formations.

Diveagar

Getting there: Mumbai to Diveagar is 200 kms, and is accessible from theMumbai-Goa highway(Panvel-Mangaon).
Expect: Over 4.5 kms of white sand beach and clear waters. The area is relatively unexplored and you can spendhours here without seeing a soul. At one end is a fishingsettlement while on the other end there is a sanctuary for migratory seagulls who feast in the creek waters.Don't miss: An ideal weekend getaway spot, this secluded beach is apt for anyonelooking to laze and soaksome sun.

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