Vijaydurga Fort juts into the Arabian Sea on a rocky promontory where the Waghotan Creek meets the ocean, making it one of the most dramatically positioned sea forts on the Konkan coast. Originally built by the Shilaharas dynasty in the 9th century and expanded significantly by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, the fort is triple-walled and was considered virtually impregnable for generations. At its height it was home to the Angre family, the great admirals of the Maratha navy.
The fort is well-preserved and open to visitors. Walk the ramparts for sweeping views of the creek, the sea, and the fishing village below. Inside, you can explore the old magazine, the water cisterns, and the remains of residential structures. The sea gate — blown open during the 1756 siege — has been rebuilt. The MTDC tourist resort just outside the fort walls is a reasonable base if you want to be here at dawn or dusk, when the light on the walls is best.