Arnala Beach is a popular beach near Virar in Maharashtra. It is known for its wide black sand shore and peaceful vibe. Many people visit for a short weekend trip from Mumbai. The beach is close to Arnala Fort and several small resorts. You can reach it easily from Virar railway station. In this guide, you will learn about Arnala Beach distance, location, how to reach, nearby places, resorts, and the best time to visit.
Arnala Beach – Quick Tips
Location: Near Virar, Palghar district
Nearest Station: Virar Railway Station (20–25 mins away)
Best Season: October to February
Best Time of Day: After 4:30 PM for sunset
Beach Type: Wide black sand shore
Swimming: Limited; avoid deep water and high tide
Crowd Level: Busy on weekends, calm on weekdays
Parking: Available near beach road
Food Options: Small stalls and resort meals
Nearby Highlight: Boat ride to Arnala Fort
Table of Contents
Arnala Beach – What You Should Know
What is Arnala Beach?
Arnala Beach is a wide beach near Virar in Maharashtra. It has dark sand and a long open shoreline. Local families visit for short trips and evening walks. You will also see fishing boats and palm trees along the coast.
The beach is simple and less commercial than many Mumbai beaches. It is close to Arnala Fort, which sits on a small island nearby.
Why Arnala Beach is Popular Among Mumbai Travelers
Many people from Mumbai choose Arnala Beach for a quick weekend break.
Here’s why:
- It is easy to reach by train.
- It is less crowded than city beaches.
- Resorts are available near the beach.
- The beach is close to Virar railway station.
- You can visit both the beach and the fort in one trip.
If you stay in Mumbai, you can visit and return the same day.
Arnala Beach and Virar Connection
Arnala Beach is located near Virar in Palghar district. Most visitors travel via Virar.
Virar is the nearest major railway station. From there, you can reach the beach by auto or local bus in about 20–25 minutes.
Because of this easy access, Arnala Beach Virar has become a popular short getaway spot.
Arnala Beach Location & Distance
Arnala Beach is located about 9–10 km west of Virar. It lies along the Arabian Sea coast in northern Maharashtra.
Below are the main distance details people search for.
Arnala Beach Distance from Major Places
| From Location | Distance | Travel Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 70–75 km | 2 to 2.5 hours |
| Virar | 9–10 km | 20–25 minutes |
| Vasai | 20–25 km | 45–60 minutes |
| Borivali | 45–50 km | 1.5 hours |
Nearest Railway Station to Arnala Beach
The nearest railway station is Virar Railway Station.
Virar lies on the Western Railway line. You can take a local train from Mumbai, Borivali, or Churchgate.
From Virar station:
- Take an auto rickshaw
- Or board a local bus toward Arnala
The road from Virar to the beach is known as Arnala Beach Road.
How to Reach Arnala Beach
You can reach Arnala Beach easily by train or road. Most visitors travel via Virar.
By Train (Most Common Option)
The nearest station is Virar Railway Station on the Western Railway line.
You can take a local train from:
- Churchgate
- Dadar
- Andheri
- Borivali
After reaching Virar:
- Take an auto rickshaw (20–25 minutes)
- Or take a local bus toward Arnala
This is the fastest and budget-friendly option.
By Road
You can drive from Mumbai or nearby areas.
Route overview:
- Take NH48 toward Virar
- Enter Virar city
- Follow Arnala Beach Road
Parking is available near the beach area. Weekends may have more traffic near the final stretch.
How to Reach Arnala Island
Arnala Island is where Arnala Fort is located.
To reach the island:
- Go to the local jetty near the beach
- Take a small fishing boat
- Boat ride takes about 10–15 minutes
Boat services depend on tide and weather conditions. They usually run during the day.
Best Way to Reach
If you stay in Mumbai, train + auto from Virar is the simplest option.
If you travel with family or a group, driving gives more flexibility.
Suggested: Rangaon Beach, Vasai – A Quiet Beach Near Mumbai
What Arnala Beach Is Famous For
Arnala Beach is known for its long black sand shoreline and calm setting. It is not a party beach. It feels simple and local.
Here is what makes it popular.
Wide Black Sand Shore
The beach has dark sand instead of golden sand. The shoreline is wide and open. You get enough space even on busy weekends.
It is good for:
- Evening walks
- Sitting by the shore
- Watching the sunset
Swimming is possible in some areas, but the water can get rough during monsoon.
View of Arnala Fort
You can see the historic fort from the beach. It stands on an island just off the coast.
Many visitors combine:
- Beach visit
- Short boat ride
- Fort exploration
This adds variety to the trip.
Fishing Culture
Arnala is also a fishing village. You will see:
- Fishing boats near the shore
- Nets laid out on the sand
- Local fishermen working in the morning
This gives the beach a local and authentic feel.
Close to Virar
The beach is only about 20–25 minutes from Virar.
Because of this, many people visit:
- For half-day trips
- For short weekend outings
- After checking into nearby resorts
What Arnala Beach Is Not
To set clear expectations:
- It is not a luxury beach destination.
- It does not have high-end beach shacks.
- Water sports options are limited.
If you want a simple, quiet beach near Mumbai, this place works well.
Places to Visit Near Arnala Beach
Navapur Beach
Navapur Beach is quieter than Arnala.
It has fewer visitors and limited facilities.
You should visit if:
- You want silence
- You prefer fewer crowds
- You plan a short drive from Virar
Rajodi Beach
Rajodi Beach is around 15–20 minutes from Arnala.
It feels less commercial.
The shore is open and peaceful on weekdays.
Good option for:
- Evening visits
- Quiet time near the sea
Suggested: Rajodi Beach, Virar – Complete Travel & Resort Guide
Kalamb Beach
Kalamb Beach is closer to Nalasopara.
It attracts more local visitors.
You may see food stalls on weekends.
Choose Kalamb if you want:
- More activity
- Street food options
Vasai Fort
Vasai Fort is about 25–30 km from Arnala.
It is a large historic fort with sea views and old stone walls.
Many people combine beach and fort visits in one trip.
Karnala Fort
Karnala Fort is farther away but popular for trekking.
You need 1–2 hours for the climb.
Visit if you enjoy hiking and forest trails.
Suggested: 19 Hidden Beaches in Palghar District
Arnala Beach Resorts & Hotels
If you plan to stay overnight, several budget resorts are available near the beach.
Most properties are simple and family-friendly.
Arnala Patil Resort
- Close to the beach
- Suitable for groups
- Common for weekend bookings
Suggested: Gholvad Beach Travel Guide | Best Resorts to Stay
Sagar Resort Arnala
- Popular for short stays
- Offers basic rooms
- Often booked by families
Anand Resort Arnala
- Budget-friendly
- Used for small events
- Located near the beach road
Green Paradise Resort
- Known for pool access
- Suitable for day outings
Manas Resort Arnala
- Simple rooms
- Close to the main road
Nisarg Resort Arnala
- Budget option
- Good for short stays
Best Time to Visit Arnala Beach
Winter (October to February)
This is the best time to visit.
- Weather stays pleasant
- Evenings feel comfortable
- Crowd increases on weekends
Good season for family visits.
Summer (March to May)
Afternoons get hot.
Visit during:
- Early morning
- After 5 PM
Monsoon (June to September)
The beach looks fresh and green.
However:
- Water becomes rough
- Swimming is not safe
- Boat rides to the fort may stop
Sunrise vs Sunset
Sunset is more popular.
You will see:
- Fishing boats returning
- Clear sea horizon
Sunrise is quieter and less crowded.
Suggested: Bena Beach, Vasai – A Simple Guide for Your Visit
Arnala Beach Photos & Photography Tips
If you enjoy photography, visit during golden hour.
Best photo spots:
- Open shoreline during sunset
- Fishing boats near the coast
- Ruins of Arnala Fort
- Palm trees along the road
Morning light works well for fort photos.
Evening light works better for beach shots.
FAQs Arnala Beach
What is the best way to reach Arnala Beach?
The easiest way is by train to Virar Railway Station.
From there, take an auto or local bus. The ride takes about 20–25 minutes.
If you travel with family, you can drive via NH48 and follow Arnala Beach Road.
Which is the nearest railway station to Arnala Beach?
The nearest railway station is Virar.
It lies on the Western Railway line and connects directly to Mumbai.
What is Arnala Beach famous for?
Arnala Beach is known for:
Wide black sand shoreline
Peaceful setting
View of Arnala Fort
Local fishing boats
It is popular for short weekend visits.
Is Arnala Beach worth visiting from Virar?
Yes. It is only 9–10 km from Virar.
You can visit and return within a few hours.
It suits families and small groups looking for a simple beach outing.
How to reach Arnala Island?
You need to take a small boat from the jetty near the beach.
Boat rides usually operate during the day, depending on tide conditions.
The island has Arnala Fort.
Are there hotels near Arnala Beach?
Yes. Several budget resorts operate near the beach area.
Popular options include:
Arnala Patil Resort
Sagar Resort Arnala
Anand Resort Arnala
Most offer simple rooms and basic facilities.
What is the best time to visit Arnala Beach?
October to February is the best season.
Weather stays pleasant and suitable for evening visits.
Avoid swimming during monsoon due to rough water.
What is Arnala known for?
Arnala is known for its beach and Arnala Fort.
It also has a strong fishing community and quiet coastal setting.
Cover Image by Manish Gupte
