A beautiful yet hidden stretch of coastline between Aksa and Marve has suddenly transformed from a deserted and mysterious location into Mumbai’s newest and potentially most dangerous viral hotspot.
While social media influencers portray the beach as a peaceful and scenic getaway, the ground reality appears far more concerning. The beach is not legally recognised as a public tourist destination and therefore has no lifeguards or security arrangements.
For years, this unmarked shoreline bordered by the INS Hamla naval base on one side and Aksa beach on the other remained largely deserted. But in recent months, social media influencers and content creators discovered the spot. Their reels and videos promoting it as a “secret paradise” attracted views, drawing tourists, couples and youngsters to the area for picnics and leisure.
Trespassers, some of whom are minors, on the premises of the abandoned JJ Hospital Nursing Society. PICS/SAMIULLAH KHAN
Reaching the hidden beach is not easy. Entry from the Madh side remains completely restricted, as the area lies adjacent to the INS Hamla base, where the Indian Navy has installed barricades and deployed round-the-clock armed security personnel. However, visitors use an alternative route through the abandoned and dilapidated JJ Hospital Nursing Society, which shares a boundary with INS Hamla.
Unseemly activities
Large numbers of unchecked visitors are reportedly entering the area daily, with the JJ Hospital Nursing Society’s empty bungalows allegedly becoming a hub for anti-social activities. Groups of young people are reportedly gathering there to allegedly consume narcotics and alcohol.
The ‘hidden beach’ between Aksa and Marve, which is not legally recognised as a public tourist destination. PICS/SAMIULLAH KHAN
Couples are also said to be using the abandoned rooms. Additionally, local sources allege that suspected sex workers operating near the Aksa-Marve stretch have been using the isolated structures to meet clients.
Ground report
When mid-day recently went to the spot to verify sources' claims, what emerged during the visit appeared consistent with several concerns being voiced by residents, activists, and lifeguards regarding unrestricted access, deteriorated infrastructure, and lack of oversight.
Ease of accesss
Access to JJ Hospital Nursing Society was available from the main road through two primary entry points. The first gate was severely damaged. Due to heavy rainfall and strong winds, fallen trees and debris partially obstructed the route, making vehicle movement difficult, although pedestrians could easily enter. Around 100 metres ahead, a second gate was ajar. Through this entrance, vehicles could access the property and proceed towards the beach with relative ease. Within the premises, mid-day observed around seven small stairway access points leading towards the beach.
Society in shambles
Scattered across the property were more than a dozen empty, run-down bungalows, residential structures, and office buildings. Many had broken doors, damaged windows, collapsed walls, and partially destroyed bathrooms. Large, overgrown bushes surrounded the structures, the roofs of which appeared unstable.
The abandoned and dilapidated JJ Hospital Nursing Society at Madh, whose premises are allegedly being misused by visitors
Roasting session
This reporter observed multiple individuals and couples occupying some of the abandoned structures. In one building, a burnt Activa scooter was found, with vehicle parts scattered nearby. People were also observed sitting on terraces and inside the abandoned premises. Near one structure adjoining the beach, two young couples—appearing to be teens — were seen lighting a fire and roasting chicken. When asked, they stated that they often visit the location for picnics and recreation. Groups of young men were seen carrying bottles that appeared to contain alcohol while dancing.
On the beach
Visitors were engaged various activities — some couples sat in isolated areas, while groups of boys were seen playing games on the shore before later entering the sea to swim.
Environmental impact
According to Anand Mohite, the coastline was once considered a safe nesting zone for marine turtles. “But after visitor movement increased, their arrival has reduced significantly. Human disturbance is changing the natural behaviour of wildlife in the area,” he said.
Lifeguard speaks
A lifeguard told mid-day, “At Aksa beach, unlike this spot, lifeguards and police are present. Many times, people argue when they are stopped from entering the sea, but police intervention prevents them from taking risks.” He added, “The government should immediately close the access route. If this continues, a major accident could happen in the future.”
Voice of concern
Anand Mohite, Wildlife conservationist and snake rescuer said,
“Earlier, anyone who came here accessed it from Aksa beach, but the location went viral; large numbers of visitors have started arriving.” He added, “There are no caretakers or security guards here. Visitors are consuming intoxicants, under whose influence fights break out.”
According to Mohite, though the location is part of the larger Aksa beach coastline, it lies around one to one-and-a-half kilometres away from the main public beach area and lacks tourist infrastructure. He also raised concerns over the location’s proximity to sensitive defence infrastructure. “Parts of the naval premises are adjacent to this land, and firing practice is carried out there. If someone unknowingly climbs the wall or attempts to enter, a serious accident could occur,” he said.
Mohite said he had written to the collector’s office, Malwani police, fire brigade, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, and the Indian Navy seeking their intervention. “We have been informed that ownership-related legal issues concerning the property are pending. Until the matter is resolved in court, temporary security arrangements should be put in place,” he urged.
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