A secret beach where Goans party

Want to escape the bustling tourist scene of Goa? We suggest you take a day trip to the secret beach in Shiroda, a hidden gem that feels like a vacation within a vacation.

Just a two-hour drive from the Goan city of Panjim lies the Sindhudurg district, home to the pristine Shiroda village (known as Shirodem in Konkani and Shiroda in Marathi). The village, located in the south Konkan region of Vengurla taluka, boasts an extensive shoreline. Here, you can relish authentic Konkani cuisine while taking in the majestic hills that stand guard over Maharashtra’s coastline.

Historically, Shiroda was the starting point of a simultaneous movement similar to that of Mahatma Gandhi’s iconic Dandi March, a protest against the British salt tax. Led by prominent figures such as Acharya Dharmanand Kosambi and Achary Javadekar, Shiroda became the site of a remarkable uprising. 

Breathtaking natural beauty

Shiroda’s charm lies in its natural beauty, featuring a beach framed by graceful cypress trees and the endless expanse of the sea. The sunrise and sunset at Shiroda is nothing short of mesmerising. Despite being a mere 7 kilometres from Goa, Shiroda maintains its unique cultural identity. 

It’s a culinary haven, offering Konkani delicacies renowned for their spicy coconut-based curries and the daily bounty of freshly caught fish. Savour delicious fish curry and rice at local shacks and restaurants, while vegetarians must try the vada pav. 

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Accommodations are readily available, with affordable options ranging from air-conditioned rooms at Rs 2,500 to non-air-conditioned rooms at Rs 1,500 per night.

If you’re travelling to Shiroda from Goa by car, be prepared for routine checks by the police of both states, who may inspect for the presence of alcohol and drugs. While alcohol is not sold directly on the beach, you can enjoy a drink at the local restaurants.

The village is also home to several temples, with the primary one being Shri Devi Mauli Devasthan. Additionally, there are numerous Dattatreya temples, a Hanuman temple, a Giroba temple, and the renowned Vetoba Temple nearby.

Adventure awaits at Shiroda secret beach

For early risers, the Shiroda secret beach offers a glimpse of local fishermen casting their nets at the break of dawn. However, these fishermen are facing challenges as large corporations have started dominating the fishing industry.

“The big fish catchers use LED nets that kill all the fish and prevent them from reaching the shore. Our income has been reduced by at least 50 percent due to this,” lamented Prashant Bagkar, a fisherman from Sagartirth village that lies nearby.

Also Read: Maharashtra villagers join forces to preserve serene beach

Shiroda may not be the ideal destination for swimmers due to its steep sand drop-offs and limited safe swimming areas. However, it offers an array of water sports for thrill-seekers. What truly sets Shiroda apart is the serene atmosphere, with relatively few tourists, allowing you to savour the beach in tranquil serenity.

Shiroda is embraced by gentle hillocks, and the landscape is adorned with lush mango and cashew plantations too.

If you’re here on a weekend, don’t miss the bustling weekly market held every Sunday. 

Shiroda is approximately 530 kilometres from Mumbai, with the nearest airport located at Dabolim in Goa.

Also Read: Heritage drink feni high in Goa, falls flat abroad

The lead image shows the pristine Shiroda beach where Goans party (Photo by Teesta Rajan)

Teesta Rajan is the Associate Director of Village Vibe at Village Square. She is passionate about food, travel and culture.