If you are yearning for a tranquil vacation by the beach, you don’t have to go on a world tour! Udupi, located in South Karnataka or Dakshina Kannada district has beaches that are truly a nature’s marvel and remain beautiful due to fewer tourist footfalls. So if you are planning atrip to Karnataka, do not give these beaches a miss.
Malpe Beach
This is the closest beach from Udupi town (located within 6 KM). Malpe beach is the least crowded, however, on weekends travelers can spot local families and a lot of students from Manipal University visiting the beach. Way to the beach is filled with mouthwatering and pocket friendly street food joints which serve fresh sea food delicacies. Visiting Malpe can be a food tripping journey for food enthusiasts for the abundance of quality restaurants. There are benches laid across the length of the beach for visitors to sit and enjoy the cool breeze. But if want to really relax, book a place in one of the many small man-made huts built on the sand.
St. Mary’s Island
Situated off the coast of Malpe, St. Mary’s Island is a set of four small islands nestled in the Arabian Sea. Ferries ply regularly from Malpe beach to these islands. The ferry services start at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM. This 7 km long ferry ride will cost you Rs. 100. The islands are known for their distinctive geological formation of columnar basaltic lava. The island features giant rock formations & coconut trees making it a perfect spot to explore.
Kaup Beach
Kaup is a paradise less known to tourists, but popular amongst locals and students of the area. This tranquil beach is located about 12 KM from Udupi town. It lies on the way between Udupi and Mangalore, beside NH-66 (previously NH-17). The sea is much rougher here as compared to Malpe. It is a rocky beach and it is not advisable to venture out in the water during high tide. The main attraction of this beach is the lighthouse that was built in 1901. It has been standing firm since then. The lighthouse is about 89 feet tall and if you manage to climb up a series of stairs you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the surroundings. The lush greenery around and the rows of coconut trees across the beach make it a photographer’s delight. There are concrete benches laid across the beach where one can sit back and enjoy the sound and sight of sea waves lashing the shores.
Nearest Railhead: Udupi
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