Beaches in Karnataka: The Best Beaches from Mangaluru to Karwar

Karnataka beaches by region

Beaches near Mangaluru

Tannirbhavi and Panambur

These two beaches are favourites for an evening walk, with sunset views and a lively crowd on weekends. Tannirbhavi has a river mouth and a quiet atmosphere, while Panambur is wider and more developed, with food stalls and activities. Try neer dosa and seafood at nearby restaurants. See our Mangaluru guide.

Someshwara and Ullal

Someshwara beach near Ullal has a rock formation known as Rudra Shile and a small temple. It is a good place to watch waves, but strong currents mean you should stay out of deep water.

Surathkal

Famous for its lighthouse and the nearby technical institute, Surathkal gives a more local beach experience, with wide sands and fishing boats.

Beaches near Udupi

Malpe and St Mary’s Island

Malpe is a fishing harbour and beach. From here, boats run to St Mary’s Island, known for its basalt columns that formed millions of years ago. The island is a geological monument, and boat services run in season and depend on weather. Read the Udupi guide for more.

Kaup (Kapu) Beach

Kaup Beach has a lighthouse that visitors can climb for a view of the sea and rocky coastline. The sunsets are very good, and the small fort-like rocks near the shore make for fun exploring at low tide.

Padubidri

Padubidri has received Blue Flag certification, a sign of clean water, safety and facilities. It is a quieter, tidier alternative to the busier beaches.

Maravanthe

The beach itself is calm and wide, but the real attraction is the highway that runs between the sea and the river. Combine it with a stop at Kollur or Murudeshwar on a coastal drive.

Beaches in Uttara Kannada

Murudeshwar

The beach at Murudeshwar is overshadowed by the huge Shiva statue and temple tower, but the water is good for a short dip in season. Boats take visitors to Netrani Island for diving and snorkelling when conditions allow.

Kasarkod and Honnavar

Kasarkod Beach near Honnavar is Blue Flag certified and often cleaner than other beaches on the coast. It is wide and relatively quiet, so it suits those who want a calm stretch of sand.

Gokarna

Gokarna has the best-known cluster of beaches in the state: Gokarna Beach, Kudle, Om, Half Moon and Paradise. Read our detailed Gokarna beaches guide for a comparison and a coastal trek plan.

Karwar and Devbagh

Karwar has a long beach and a naval presence. Devbagh, a short drive away, sits on a peninsula where the Kali river meets the sea and offers a quiet island feel. The Rabindranath Tagore Beach in Karwar is a popular evening spot.

Best beaches by purpose

• Families: Malpe, Om Beach, Padubidri.
• Sunsets: Kaup, Kudle, Tannirbhavi.
• Quiet escape: Half Moon, Kasarkod, Devbagh.
• Photography: St Mary’s Island, Maravanthe.
• Water sports: Om Beach and Murudeshwar, in season.

Safety tips for Karnataka beaches

• Check flags and signs. Many beaches have warning boards.
• Avoid the monsoon sea. From June to August, high waves and rip currents are common.
• Never swim alone. Many beaches lack lifeguards.
• Avoid alcohol before swimming.
• Mind your belongings. Use lockers and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
• Keep the beach clean. Carry out rubbish.

Best time to visit

October to March is the main season, with calm seas and clear skies. April and May are hot and humid. The monsoon is wet and often closes water sports. See the best time to visit Karnataka and Karnataka in monsoon for seasonal tips.

How to explore the coast

The easiest approach is a road trip from Mangaluru to Gokarna, which takes in most beaches in two or three days. Our coastal road trip guide provides a route and stops. The Konkan Railway also follows the coast, so you can go by train between towns.

Frequently asked questions