I visited Diveagar beach twice, once during monsoon and recently during Christmas vacation. It’s a no no during Monsoon, but gracefully yes during any part of the year provided you go there on a planned vacation. For Punekar’s it the nearest (165 kms) and the best beach which is crystal clear and less crowded.
There are two routes; one via Tamhini ghat where barring some stretches the route is good and it takes about 4.5 to 5 hours of drive. While returning I tried an alternate route via Mangaon, Pen, Khopoli but the distance increased to over 225 Kms and it took the same time…
Not recommended !!! Additionally I had to pay toll tax of Rs 120. During weekends especially extended ones there is a sea of tourist and with the limited number of hotels it is a big challenge to get a good accommodation. The hotels and others residents offering night stays, charge exuberant. When I reached Diveagar on 26th afternoon, I did not get accommodation anywhere but there were referrals by the hoteliers and couple of village youths for providing guest accommodations with local residents.
I visited around 10 such places and observed that most of these accommodations are make shift and are sub par. On top of it, depending upon the season, the locals demand higher charges, yet give a curious glance if the “deal” strikes and are willing to bargain a bit. So I suggest all to plan your trip and then you can have a great time at Diveagar.
Coming to the beach, it is beautiful, clean and has a great ambience. Tourism at Konkan has gained momentum and once this unexplored tourist destination has gained immense popularity. I could see some adventure sports too apart from the traditional camel and Horse ride. A few miles on the right is a bird sanctuary and I could see a large number of birds which were getting disturbed with the diesel engines of the para sailing machines.
Coming to the food, you will have to excuse me to comment on the Non Veg food as I am a pure vegetarian. Apart from all the hotels that have their own canteen/restaurant, the locals too offer home food which is widely popular. Off late thanks to inflation and the tourist influx, the cost will pinch your pockets. Based on my personal experience I recommend to have food at Oasis resort where the food is home cooked and is reasonably priced. Expected expenses during peak season 1500-2500 Hotel Rent per day; 60-150 Per Thali Veg/Non Veg; Rs 50 Per person for breakfast; Rs 10 and Rs 2 as entrance tax by Diveagar gram panchayat. Booze is not available and you will have to arrange your own by reverse drive of about 2 kms