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Beaches in Karnataka

Om is one of the most popular beaches in Karnataka. It is named so because the semi crescent shape of the beach resembles the word Om. It offers spectacular views of the sea. The rocky terrain of the area works as a stunning backdrop for photography. The beach is home to fine sand and rock creations which are popular among tourists, as well as locals.

The fishermen boats seen in the distance and birds flying home in the evening make for a truly mesmerizing experience. There are some stalls and shacks nearby which offer delicious local foods, and cheap accommodations are also available in the vicinity of the beach. 

Location: Gokarna, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 489.4 km

Activities: Speed boating, surfing, boating

How to reach: The beach is just 6 km from the main bus stand. You can choose to take a walk or hire a taxi.

Experience the wonder of a colourful sunset splashing a hundred different hues across the sky at Panambur Beach of Mangalore. For those of you who have got the shutterbug, there are some stunning vistas to be captured here.

Ships waiting to anchor in the harbour, tourists enjoying camel rides on the beach, crows circling the azure waters make for a splendid sight. Escape the Karnataka heat by taking in the clear blue waters and feel the white sand on your toes. You can also check out the annual festivals held on the beach if you love partying and nightlife.

Location: Near New Mangalore Port Trust Panambur, Mangaluru, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 354 km

Activities: Swimming, parasailing, boat rides, horse riding on the beach, surfing, water scooters, camel rides, jet skiing

How to reach: The beach is 10 kilometres from city bus stand and you can take a cab there.

Of all the Karnataka beaches, the most serene and tranquil is Kudle Beach with its quiet environs and silent surroundings. People come here to get away from the humdrum of the city, as well as escape the constant traffic noises that plague Bangalore. For the reclusive individual, Kudle is a paradise. Watch the vibrant sunset, put up a hammock and read your book, or take a stroll across the beach.

Very few sightseers visit the beach, so you will be safe from the crowds of noisy tourists. Enjoy the privacy and solitude as you soak in the mesmerizing sights around you. You can also go for a swim or splash around in the water to escape the suffocating heat of South India.

Location: Gokarna

Distance from Bangalore: 488 km

Activities: Swimming, sunbathing

How to reach: The beach is just 5 kilometres from the bus stand. You can simply hire a taxi or take a walk.

Enjoy a pristine stretch of shoreline at one of the cleanest beaches in Karnataka. Gokarna Beach is slowly gaining popularity among tourists as well as locals for its panoramic vistas and spectacular coastline. The water is clean and perfect for a relaxing swim.

Although Gokarna is not that hot because of its proximity to the sea, a dip in the clear blue sea is guaranteed to take away all your exhaustion. If you are are on a trip with the family, the beach offers the perfect spot for celebrating a picnic, as it is surrounded by emerald green forests. For the adrenaline junkies, you can try rock climbing too.

Location: Gokarna Beach Road Dandebagh, Gokarna, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 485 km

Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, picnic, rock climbing

How to reach: The beach is less than a kilometre from the bus stand, so you can simply walk there.

The 150 meters stretch of white sand and turquoise waters at Paradise Beach is ideal for solitude lovers who want to get away from the routines of everyday life. People often come to the Full Moon Beach to relax and rejuvenate. The current at Paradise is quite strong, so it is not recommended for swimming.

But the beach is so cut off from civilization that it attracts people solely for its serene environs and tranquil atmosphere. It doesn’t hurt that jungle cover all around it and the rocky terrain offer a stunning backdrop for Instagram worthy photography. For the adventure lovers, there are plenty of trekking trails in the woods.

Location: Gokarna, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 485 km

Activities: Relax by the beach, go hiking, picnic

How to reach: The beach is located 8 km from the bus stand, but there is no road directly connecting it. You can either take a walk there, go hiking, or get a boat from Om Beach.

Spend a blissful hour or two at the serene and tranquil Tannirbavi Beach of Mangalore. Encircled by tall trees and offering some of the most beautiful sunsets in the region, the beach is famous among locals and tourists for its calm environs. People often go here in the evening to spend a few hours introspecting and connecting with nature.

The sight of ships entering and exiting the harbour, boats riding the waves, and tiny fish that are visible through the clear water make this place a nature lover’s paradise. The beach also has public toilets, stalls and shacks selling snacks, and concrete benches to sit on.

Location: Tannirbhavi Beach Kasba Bengre, Mangalore

Distance from Bangalore: 357 km

Activities: Boating, swimming, relaxing by the beach

How to reach: The beach is 17 km from the beach and you can reach there by taxi.

Also Check Out: 50 Best Beaches in India

Nirvana beach of Gokarna is a must-visit destination as it features the unique phenomenon of bioluminescent phytoplankton at night. People from the country as well as from all over the world visit Nirvana to witness this once-in-a-lifetime sight. The planktons act as tiny fairy lights brightening up the waters in pitch dark surroundings.

During the day, the beach is ideal for swimming and relaxing. Since it is far away from the noises of the city, it is the perfect place for weary souls who want to get away from their daily routines. The immaculate shoreline of Nirvana is an unmissable destination when it comes to beaches in Karnataka.

Location: Gokarna

Distance from Bangalore: 485 km

Activities: Witness the unique phenomenon of bioluminescent phytoplankton, swim, relax by the beach, camp near the sea.

How to reach: The beach is just 6 km from the main bus stand. You can take the ferry service that runs from Tadadi to Nirvana Beach to get there. You can also drive there via the Tadri Gokarna road.

A hike from Om Beach will bring you to the stunning wonder of nature that is Half Moon Beach of Gokarna. On your way, you will get a breathtaking view of the sea and the beach from a hilltop. The beach is called so because of its crescent half-moon shape. It has a rocky and sandy terrain, ideal for adventure enthusiasts who love trekking and rock climbing.

The deep woods and emerald rolling hills encircling the beach also attract thrill seekers. The beach sees some strong currents, so swimming is not advisable. But you can relax by the shoreline and take a nap under the sun.

Location: Gokarna, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 489.4 km

Activities: Hiking, sunbathing, rock climbing

How to reach: The beach is just 6 km from the main bus stand. But it cannot be accessed by road. You go to Om Beach and take a boat from there, or hike to the Half Moon Beach.

The religious city offers one of the most beautiful beaches in Karnataka. Enjoy the fusion of turquoise blue waters and a stunning backdrop of majestic mountains at Murudeshwar Beach. Groves of coconut trees and rare areca nuts surround the beach and offer a secluded atmosphere.

You can also go swimming, as the waves are quite gentle and cool. For people travelling with family, the beach offers the perfect settings for a picnic among the rich tropical flora far away from the noises of the city. A visit to Murudeshwar would be incomplete without visiting the temples located near the sea.

Location: Murudeshwar

Distance from Bangalore: 493 km

Activities: Visit the temples near the sea, celebrate picnic, swim, watch the traditional buffalo races and cockfights.

How to reach: The beach is about 10 km from the nearest bus stand and you can take a taxi for the trip.

Of the five beaches in Karwar, Karwar is famous among tourists for its water sports activities. It is one of the few beaches in India where you can experience snorkelling and sea diving. For the adrenaline rush seeking individuals, there is nothing more thrilling than swimming alongside the beautiful marine life of the Arabian Sea.

You should also try the spicy treats available at cheap prices near the beach. Animal lovers can explore the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, and there are several waterfalls nearby ideal for celebrating picnics and taking stunning photos.

Location: Karwar, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 521 km

Activities: Snorkelling, sea diving, visit the nearby Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

How to reach: The beach is 4 km from the bus stand. You can either take a walk there or hire a taxi.

Surrounded bu Kodachadri Hills and located close to the Sauparnika River, Maravanthe Beach of Udupi offers a stunning backdrop for Instagram worthy pictures. The sandy coastline of the beach is surrounded by a variety of flora and it's secluded location offers the perfect environment for relaxing by the beach.

If you happen to visit the beach in the evening, you will be delighted to witness the sunset splashing a thousand different hues across the sky. Since the river is closed by, you can also take a boat cruise or go swimming.

Location: Udupi

Distance from Bangalore: 422 km

Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, nature walk, boat cruise

How to reach: The beach is 10 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Nestled away in the quaint town of Kodi Bengere is one of the most spectacular beaches you will ever see in Karnataka. As it is somewhat far away from the city and does not attract many tourists, you will get to enjoy the flavours of the local fishermen life here. The secluded beach is also peaceful and quiet - the perfect place to spend an evening reading your favourite book.

Enjoy the silence of nature as you walk along the shoreline and witness the fishermen casting their nets into the majestic sea. If you are seeking an adrenaline rush, you can go rock climbing. At the top of the cliffs, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Arabian.

Location: Udupi, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 415 km

Activities: Swimming, rock climbing, nature walk

How to reach: The beach is 18 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Experience a slice of heaven at one of the most secluded beaches in Karnataka. Looking over the pristine backwaters of the Western Ghats, this serene beach feels like a dream come true. Enchanting boathouses dot the shoreline and look like little floating houses from far away. The golden stretch of sand surrounded by groves of palm trees also has a marvellous aura.

For the weary souls looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Hoode beach of Udupi is the perfect salve for frayed nerves. Relax by the beach or go swimming, or hire a houseboat to take a tour of the coastline. Feel your mind and body rejuvenated after the holiday.

Location: Hoode Road Tonse West, Udupi, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 408 km

Activities: Boating, swimming, relaxing by the beach.

How to reach: It is a 10-kilometre walk between the two destinations. You can also go there via taxi.

Of all the Karnataka beaches. Malpe Beach in Udupi is a pristine and virgin stretch of sand that is still relatively unexplored. Surrounded by rocky islands on three sides and the majestic Arabian Sea on the fourth, Malpe Beach offers a stunning backdrop for photography. It is far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and you will rarely see crowds of tourists here.

Enjoy the tangerine sun setting over the azure blue waters, go swimming in the sea, or simply relax by the beach reading your favourite book. There are several fishing boats floating in the sea which only add to enhance the natural beauty of the region.

Location: Udupi, Karnataka

Distance from Bangalore: 407 km

Activities: Swimming, relaxing by the beach, fishing.

How to reach: The beach is 9.2 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Enjoy the remarkable sights and enthralling beauty of Devbagh Beach in Karwar. The beach faces clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea on one side and the dense jungles of the Western Ghats on the other side. It is a private beach, cut off from civilisation, and that is why people come here to connect with themselves. If you are travelling with your beloved, you can take a romantic walk down the golden sandy shoreline.

Or if you are an adventure sports enthusiasts, you can try the host of adventure sports activities available here, like snorkelling, banana boat rides, and kayaking. The island beach also has some dolphins, so you can swim with these cute and cuddly creatures too.

Location: Karwar

Distance from Bangalore: 357.8 km

Activities: Parasailing, kayaking, snorkelling, banana boat rides, water scooter rides, speedboating, fishing, dolphin watching.

How to reach: The beach is just 800 meters from the bus stand and you can simply walk to the destination. You can also take a boat from nearby beaches.

Someshwar beach is a paradise tucked away among lush green Hills and magnificent mountains. The unexplored virgin environs makes it the epitome of serenity and tranquillity. Dotted with rocky cliffs, it is also popular among adventure enthusiasts for rock climbing.

Walk on the golden sandy shore, take in the incredible natural beauty, and visit the temples nearby. You can also check out the famous Ottinene Hill which offers an excellent vantage point to witness the the Arabian.

Location: Mangalore

Distance from Bangalore: 350.7 km

Activities: Rock climbing, nature walk

How to reach: The beach is 12.2 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

One of the major tourist hotspots in Mangalore is the Ullal Beach located in a quaint fishing hamlet just a few kilometres away from the city. Far away from the bustling city centre of Mangalore, the beach offers spectacular vistas and an immaculate coastline.

The clear blue waters of the sea are encircled by verdant greenery and dense palm groves, so the beach looks like a beautiful painting on a postcard. Feel the salty sea breeze ruffling your hair and experience tranquillity like never before.

Location: Mangalore

Distance from Bangalore: 351 km

Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, nature walks

How to reach: The beach is 11 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Visit one of the most secluded beaches in Karnataka - the Tilmati Beach.  The sand here looks like sesame, and that is what gives the beach its name.  The entire stretch of the beach is made of black and the basaltic rock.

The waters of the Arabian Sea beckon one to splash around and the black sandy shore is ideal for putting up a hammock and reading your favourite book. There are several food stalls located near the beach where you can taste the local delicacies at a cheap price.

Location: Karwar

Distance from Bangalore: 544.7 km

Activities: Swimming, nature walk, sunbathing

How to reach: The beach is 12.7 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Nestled away on the highway from Mangalore to Udupi is the little paradise of Kaup beach. Its panoramic views and groves of palm trees will make you feel as if you have stepped into a painting. If you are lucky, you may be able to witness the cute and adorable dolphins swimming in the water very close to the shore.

The serene environment of the beach offers the perfect place for introspection and contemplation, and the sunsets here are simply gorgeous with hues of red, orange, and yellow painted on the sky.

Location: Udupi

Distance from Bangalore: 415 km

Activities: Swimming with dolphins, nature walk, swimming

How to reach: The beach is 16 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Witness the unique phenomena of clear blue waters glowing at night at Mattu beach of Udupi. This occurs because of emission of light by the bioluminescent phytoplanktons. The secluded beach is one of the few sites in India where you can witness this wonder of nature.

Visitors also come here to get some respite from their busy metropolitan life. Take a walk along the 30 km stretch of the beach, or go running along the immaculate shoreline. You can simply hang out at the beach with a cocktail too. This coastal paradise is perfect for a rejuvenating holiday. 

Location: Udupi

Distance from Bangalore: 396.8 km

Activities: Witnessing bioluminescent phytoplankton, swimming, nature walk 

How to reach: The beach is 15.6 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Soak in the natural beauty of the Arabian sea at one of the most popular Karnataka beaches.  The calm waves and the gentle breeze swaying the tall palm trees offer a soothing environment. The island is surrounded by two rivers on one side and the sea on the other.

As a result it is completely hidden away from civilization and offers and an ideal setting for relaxing and rejuvenating. Take a walk nearby and you will also get to witness the site of the confluence of the rivers and you can go to the nearby village to learn more about the local culture.

Location: Mangalore

Distance from Bangalore: 365.6 km

Activities: Surfing festivals are held on the beach every few months. 

How to reach: The beach is 21.8 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Mary’s Island beach is formed by four small islands and all of them are connected with each other. They are - Coconut Island, North Island, Darya Bahadurgarh Island and South Island.

Embrace the sound of the waves crashing against rocks, feel the breeze messing up your hair, and enjoy the feeling of sand in your toes. Mary’s Island beach is perfect for a cool swim as the waters are pristine. You can also go trekking on the island.

Location: Udupi 

Distance from Bangalore: 405 km

Activities: Swimming, nature walks, trekking

How to reach: The beach is 17 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Mukka is one of the most beautiful beaches in Karnataka. Besides the usual fan and fare surrounding the beaches in the region, it also has an old lighthouse which offers a stunning backdrop of Instagram worthy pictures.

The golden sandy shoreline is littered with pretty seashells and it is certainly a lot of fun to pick them out, especially if you are with kids. The beach is surrounded by tall pine trees and is a great place to relax and get rid of the holiday exhaustion.

Location: Mangalore

Distance from Bangalore: 363.6 km

Activities: Swimming, nature walks, picking seashells on the shore

How to reach: The beach is 32 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

Tagore is one of the most famous Karnataka beaches as it is shaped like a crescent moon. Stretch out in front of the sea and enjoy the spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the turquoise waters. The beach also overlooks the confluence point of the Arabian Sea and Kali River.

The crystal clear waters flanked by groves of coconut trees gently humming with the sea breeze make for a serene environment that relieves exhaustion and rejuvenates the mind.

Location: Devbagh

Distance from Bangalore: 657.6 km

Activities: Swimming, nature walks

How to reach: The beach is 10 km from the bus stand and you can take a taxi to get there.

The city of Ankola has some of the best beaches in Karnataka, and Belekeri is no exception. The stretch of this unexplored and untainted coastline offers the most magnificent sights in the region. Ankola is also famous for its Hindu temples, and two of them are located quite close to Belekeri.

An annual fair called Bandihabba is held on the beach in May to express devotion towards Lord Buddha. The place has historical significance too, as it was once a British port exporting tonnes of Manganese ores every day. 

Location: Ankola

Distance from Bangalore: 498.5 km

Activities: Swimming, nature walks, visiting the temples

How to reach: The beach is about 10 km from the nearest bus stand and you can take a taxi for the trip.

Situated near the famous Murudeshwar temple, Bhatkal attracts tourists from all over the country because of its strategic location. The popular Jog falls are also located nearby. The picturesque setting of the beach, paired with gentle waves, coconut trees swaying in the breeze, and white sandy shore make it the perfect place to kick back and relax.

There are some trails running into the jungles from the beach, so it is a popular starting point for trekkers too. The hotels near the beach also make it an ideal holiday destination.

Location: Mangalore

Distance from Bangalore: 460.9 km

Activities: Swimming, trekking

How to reach: The beach is about 100 km from the nearest bus stand and you can take a taxi for the trip. You can change buses and take a local bus to get there.

If you are tired of the touristy crowds and want a private and quiet place to relax by the sea, there is no place better than Baada Beach. The waters here are not very deep, so you can also have some fun with your kids if you are travelling with family.

The beach is encircled by lush green hills and interesting rock formations that only add to the enchanting nature of the place. For the thrill seekers, there are several trails going from Kirki to Gokarna where they can go hiking. 

Location: Kumta

Distance from Bangalore: 476.8 km

Activities: Rock climbing, swimming, trekking

How to reach: The beach is about 8 km from the nearest bus stand and you can take a taxi for the trip.

Shimmering golden sands and swaying palm trees await you at the Kodi Bagh Beach. With a secluded location far away from the city, and natural beauty at its finest, this beach is perfect for spending the evening enjoying your own company.

For the shutterbugs, there is plenty of scenic vistas to click, and the fishermen houses on the boat only add to the authentic feel of the place. You can also try water sports like snorkelling and sea diving.

Location: Karwar

Distance from Bangalore: 545 km

Activities: Snorkelling, sea diving, photography

How to reach: The beach is about only 3 km from the nearest bus stand and you can take a walk or hire a taxi to get there. 

Tucked away at the coast of Udupi is one of the most stunning beaches in Karnataka - the Padubidri Beach. Not only is it immaculate and calm, you will also get to participate in thrilling water sports activities. You can ride the waves with a water scooter, or try banana boat ride if you are with family.

Speed boating will allow you to take in the beauty of the sea in all its splendour while enjoying the salty sea breeze in your face. Or if you want to be a beach bum, just relax on the coast with a cocktail.

Location: Udupi

Distance from Bangalore: 380 km

Activities: Water scooter ride, banana boat, speed boat

How to reach: The beach is about 31 km from the nearest bus stand and you can take a taxi or local bus for the trip.