Tarkarli, a serene coastal village in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, is a hidden gem along the Konkan coast. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, Tarkarli is perfect for beach lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Tarkarli offers a variety of activities to make your trip unforgettable. In this blog, we’ll explore the top things to do in Tarkarli and recommend a stay at the luxurious Grande Vista Tarkarli for an exceptional experience.


Why Visit Tarkarli?

Tarkarli is famous for its unspoiled beaches, vibrant marine life, and the historic Sindhudurg Fort. The village’s laid-back vibe, coupled with its scenic beauty, makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. From thrilling water sports to peaceful houseboat stays, Tarkarli has something for everyone. Plus, its proximity to the Karli River and the Arabian Sea creates a unique blend of backwaters and beaches, offering breathtaking views and diverse activities.


Top Things to Do in Tarkarli:

1. Explore Tarkarli Beach


Tarkarli Beach is the heart of the village, boasting powdery white sand and turquoise waters. On clear days, you can see the seabed up to 20 feet deep, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. Spend your day lounging under the shade of Shuru trees, taking long strolls, or watching the mesmerizing sunset. The beach is also a hub for water sports, which we’ll dive into next.
Tip: Visit in the evening to enjoy the sunset and grab a coffee from a nearby food truck while soaking in the serene vibe.


2. Dive into Water Sports



Tarkarli is a hotspot for water-based adventure sports, attracting thrill-seekers from across India. Here are some must-try activities:

Where to Book: Head to Tsunami Island or Devbagh for water sports. Chopdekar’s Sapna Water Sports at Tsunami Island is a popular choice, established in 2010.


3. Spot Dolphins



Dolphin spotting is a highlight of Tarkarli, especially at Tarkarli Beach and Achara Beach. Take a boat ride early in the morning for the best chance to see these playful creatures leaping through the waves. The sight of dolphins against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea is unforgettable.
Tip: Book a guided boat tour with local fishermen at Deobagh for an authentic experience.


4. Stay in a Houseboat



For a unique experience, spend a night on a houseboat in the tranquil Karli Backwaters. These houseboats, a relatively new addition to Tarkarli’s tourism scene, offer modern amenities and stunning views of the river and dense forests. It’s a romantic and relaxing way to connect with nature, similar to the houseboat stays in Kerala’s Alleppey.

Cost: Prices vary, but expect to pay around ₹2,000–₹5,000 per night, depending on the season and amenities.


5. Visit Sindhudurg Fort



A trip to Tarkarli is incomplete without exploring the majestic Sindhudurg Fort, built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. Spread over 48 acres on an islet in the Arabian Sea, this historic fort offers a glimpse into Maratha heritage. Inside, you’ll find a temple dedicated to Shivaji, along with his preserved palm and footprints. Reach the fort via a short boat ride from Malvan Jetty.
Entry Fee: Minimal; boat ride costs around ₹50–₹100 per person.


6. Discover Karli Backwaters



The Karli Backwaters, where the Karli River meets the Arabian Sea at Karli Creek, offer stunning views and serene boat rides. Surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests, this spot is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Opt for a guided boat tour or a romantic houseboat stay to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the backwaters.


7. Explore Tsunami Island



Tsunami Island, a deltaic island formed in the Tarkarli River, is a haven for adventure and nature enthusiasts. Accessible only by boat, it offers water sports like kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. The island’s serene setting and scenic views make it a great spot for a day trip.


8. Visit Achara Beach



Located 22 km from Malvan, Achara Beach is a quieter alternative to Tarkarli Beach, ideal for those seeking solitude. It’s known for dolphin sightings, birdwatching, and the 260-year-old Rameshwar Temple nearby. Adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy water sports here.


9. Shop for Local Delicacies



Tarkarli is a great place to indulge in local shopping. Pick up cashew nuts, aam papad, kokum, mango barfi, and cashew bars at Malvan Market or Zantye Kaju, located near Zantye Tarkarli Niwas. These make excellent souvenirs or gifts.

Tip: Bargaining is common in local markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best price.


10. Savor Malvani Cuisine



Tarkarli’s food scene is a treat for seafood lovers. Malvani cuisine, influenced by Maharashtrian and Goan flavors, features spicy dishes made with local masalas, dried red chilies, and spices like coriander, cumin, and cardamom. Try fresh fish curry, prawn fry, or crab masala at local eateries in Deobagh or near Tarkarli Beach. Vegetarians can enjoy dishes like sol kadhi and kokum curry.

Where to Eat: Check out local restaurants in Deobagh or dine at your accommodation, such as Grande Vista Tarkarli, which serves delicious Malvani veg and non-veg delicacies.


11. Visit Dhamapur Lake



Just a short drive from Tarkarli, Dhamapur Lake is a serene spot surrounded by hills and lush greenery. Ideal for a peaceful boat ride or a picnic, the lake is also close to the Bhagwati Temple, adding a spiritual touch to your visit. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting migratory birds here.


12. Explore Nearby Temples



For a dose of culture and spirituality, visit temples like Mahapurush Temple, Kunkeshwar Temple, or the Ganesh Temple built by Jayant Salgaonkar. These sites offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and architectural beauty.

Where to Stay: Grande Vista Tarkarli



To make your Tarkarli trip truly memorable, we highly recommend staying at Grande Vista Tarkarli, a luxurious beachfront resort designed for families, couples, and friends. Located just a 2-minute walk from Tarkarli Beach, Grande Vista offers stunning sunset views, spacious rooms, and exceptional hospitality. Here’s why it’s the perfect choice:
 

• Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Tarkarli, Grande Vista provides easy access to the beach and nearby attractions like Sindhudurg Fort and Karli Backwaters. Its private pathway to the beach ensures a seamless beach experience.

• Comfortable Accommodations: Choose between sea-view rooms (first floor) or garden-view rooms (ground floor), all equipped with modern amenities like AC, LCD TV, Wi-Fi, and clean, spacious bathrooms. Super deluxe rooms are particularly large, with sea-facing balconies perfect for relaxing.

• Delicious Food: The in-house restaurant serves authentic Malvani cuisine, including fresh seafood and vegetarian options. Guests rave about the moderately spicy, freshly prepared meals. Note that you’ll need to place your food order in advance to minimize waste, ensuring a fresh dining experience.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort features a well-maintained garden, a kids’ play area with swings and slides, and a peaceful ambiance, making it ideal for families. Scooty rentals can also be arranged for easy exploration.

• Exceptional Hospitality: Guests consistently praise the warm, attentive staff and the owner, Smt. S. Shirke, for their personalized care. From arranging water sports to accommodating special requests, the team goes above and beyond.

• Guest Reviews: With a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor and glowing reviews on MakeMyTrip and Goibibo, Grande Vista is celebrated for its cleanliness, service, and proximity to the beach. Guests describe it as a “vacation fantasy come true.”

Booking Tip: Reserve in advance, especially during peak season (October–March), as Grande Vista is a top-rated property. Check-in is at 2:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM. Contact them at +91 9619176861 or grandevistatarkarli@gmail.com for inquiries.

Note: Some guests have mentioned limited vegetarian menu options and the need for improved drinking water quality. However, the resort’s overall experience, especially its location and service, makes it a standout choice.


Travel Tips for Tarkarli

• Best Time to Visit: October to March offers pleasant weather, ideal for beach activities and water sports. July to September is great for those who enjoy monsoon vibes, while April to June is less crowded but hotter.

• How to Reach:
  • By Train: Kudal Railway Station (35 km away) is the nearest station, with trains from Mumbai and Pune. From Kudal, take a state transport bus or auto-rickshaw (₹800 one-way) to Tarkarli.

• By Air: The closest airports are Manohar International Airport (GOX) in Goa (90 km) and Mumbai Airport (BOM, 500 km). Taxis are available from Goa for groups (approx. ₹3,000–₹5,000 for 8 people).

• By Road: Tarkarli is well-connected to Mumbai (500 km), Pune (400 km), and Kolhapur (150 km) via NH66. Roads are generally good, but check conditions during the monsoon.

• What to Pack: Light clothes, slippers, sunscreen, and swimwear for the beach. Carry cash for local markets, as some vendors may not accept digital payments.

• Local Transport: Rent a scooty or bike through your accommodation for easy exploration. Boats are available for fort visits and island trips.

• Safety: Tarkarli is safe for families and couples. For water sports, choose certified operators like Gomantak Scuba for scuba diving.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Time

• Arrive at Tarkarli by noon and check into Grande Vista Tarkarli.
• Relax at Tarkarli Beach, take a sunset stroll, and enjoy Malvani dinner at the resort.

Day 2: Adventure & History

• Morning: Go scuba diving or snorkeling near Sindhudurg Fort, followed by a fort visit.
• Afternoon: Try jet skiing or banana boat rides at Tsunami Island.
• Evening: Shop for cashews and souvenirs at Malvan Market.

Day 3: Nature & Departure

• Morning: Take a boat ride in the Karli Backwaters or visit Dhamapur Lake.
• Afternoon: Explore Achara Beach or a nearby temple.
• Depart by evening, carrying memories of Tarkarli’s charm.

Conclusion
Tarkarli is a coastal paradise that blends adventure, nature, and culture into a perfect vacation. Whether you’re diving into the Arabian Sea, spotting dolphins, or savoring spicy Malvani fish curry, this village promises an unforgettable experience. For the best stay, choose Grande Vista Tarkarli, where luxury, comfort, and proximity to the beach create the ideal holiday vibe. Book your trip now and discover why Tarkarli is Maharashtra’s best-kept secret!
Ready to plan your Tarkarli getaway? Share your favorite activities or ask for more tips in the comments below. For bookings at Grande Vista Tarkarli, visit tarkarligrandevista.com or call +91 9619176861.