Alibaug is known for luxury villas, which gives the impression the whole place is expensive. It need not be.
Where the money actually goes
Accommodation is the big one. Villas are the expensive option; guesthouses, homestays and smaller hotels are dramatically cheaper.
The ferry is inexpensive.
Food varies enormously, and you have real control here.
Ways to keep it down
Go midweek. Everything is cheaper Monday to Thursday, and quieter.
Go off-season. Monsoon rates are substantially lower, and the season is genuinely atmospheric if you plan for rain.
Do a day trip. The single biggest saving — skip accommodation entirely. It is very doable in a day.
Eat one good meal rather than three mediocre ones. More satisfying and often cheaper overall.
What is worth paying for
One proper meal. Fresh seafood on the coast where it was caught is the point of coming.
The sunset hour. Even if it is one drink, being seated somewhere good as the light goes is worth it.
Where we fit
Breakfast is the value meal — 8:30am to noon, and it sets you up for the day. Kids eat from their own menu rather than being charged adult prices for food they will not finish.