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It has a 320 km long coastline that faces the Arabian sea. This eighth largest state by population is the only southern state that shares a border with all other south Indian states. Among other natural and wildlife attractions, Karnataka is also a popular destination for its breathtaking sea beaches and picturesque scenic beauty.
It comes as the first choice for travellers who want to club wildlife, nature along with sea beaches. Some Karnataka beaches have places for meditation and yoga perfect for relaxation of the mind. One can read a book while listening to calming sea waves on these beaches. Small hut-like structures can be seen on some beaches where perfect snacks and beverages are found which sets a perfect leisure mood for the travellers.
There is also a black sand beach which is popular as both a tourist and shooting spot. All in all, Karnataka beaches are the preferred option for Nature lovers and leisure seekers.
Here are some of the most popular beaches in Karnataka,
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Om Beach
Om beach is one of the most visited beaches in Karnataka. Situated in Gokarna here two semi crescents join together to form a shape which looks like the “Om" sign, this is the genesis of naming.
Key attractions of the Om Beach
Amidst the thrashing waves of this rocky sea, the bumper boat ride is one of the most popular adventure sports on this beach which is loved by adventure lovers.
Dolphin spotting is a favourite activity among wildlife enthusiasts.
Gokarna is a rocky terrain which makes it suitable for trekking. adventure lovers can enjoy a small trek along the hilly region of the beach.
One can take a ride into the deep oceans and try their hand at fishing.
Water adventures like Jet Skiing and speed boating can also be enjoyed by tourists.
Best time to visit Om beach
Early winter to early summer, specifically October to march.
How to reach Om Beach
From Gokarna bus station, one can take a local taxi or bus to reach Om beach.
Paradise Beach
Paradise beach is a beautiful beach that lies on the coast of Gokarna. This beach is also known as “Full Moon Beach”. This beach is 150 mt. in length and most of it is covered in rocks. It is one of the scenic sea beaches of Karnataka.
Key attraction of Paradise Beach
Swimming in the calm waters of this beach is one of the most loved activities by tourists.
Tourists enjoy night camping here due to the calm and peaceful surroundings.
Various kinds of local cuisine are available along the beachside which makes the experience even more memorable.
Best time to visit Paradise Beach
Winter season specifically from November to February.
How to reach Paradise Beach
There is no by road access to the beach. Boats from Om beach and Half Moon beach are available that take the tourists to this beach.
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Nirvana Beach
This is one of the most secluded sea beaches of Karnataka and is actually famous for so. People who are in dire need of a peaceful vacation choose this place to enjoy some solitude.
Key attraction of Nirvana Beach
Local seafood cuisines are available in little shacks lined up along the beach which are very much loved by the tourists.
Tourists can experience Bioluminescent phytoplankton during the night along the shores. 3-4 days after No moon is the best time to watch this rare scene.
Trekking to Kagal fort which is an uphill track of 2 km and takes around 30 minutes is also very famous among tourists.
Best time to visit Nirvana Beach
The Winter season specifically between November to February
How to reach Nirvana Beach
Ferry from Om beach is available for accessing nirvana beach. Other than that buses for Gokarna from Bangalore will also reach you to this sea beach.
Half Moon Beach
This beach of Gokarna got its name from the resemblance of the beach with the half-moon shape. Away from the chaos of the city, enjoying a small vacation on this beach feels like living in the lap of mother nature.
Key attraction of Half Moon Beach
There are various village huts that are lined up along the beach and are decorated in traditional Indian style which serve lip-smacking foods and Beverages.
Fun activities like canoeing, paddle boating, paintball games are available for the enjoyment of the tourists.
Since the beach is less crowded, one can play cricket, volleyball, enjoy sunbathing or even set a camp tent alongside the shore and enjoy the night sky in its full glory.
Best time to reach Half-moon beach
Early winter to early summer season specifically October to march.
How to reach Half Moon Beach
Having poor road connectivity one has to take a ferry from Om beach to reach here. Other than that adventure lovers often trek their way to this beach from the hills of Om beach.
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Murudeshwar Beach
Along the Majestic Murudeshwar Temple lies the Murudeshwar beach. It is one of the most popular visitor destinations in Karnataka. Nestled between hills this beach is always bustling with activities.
Key attractions of Murudeshwar Beach
Tourists from all over the world come to visit the second tallest Shiva statue(123ft) and tallest Shiva temple tower(249ft) which is situated beside the beach.
Water activities like parasailing and boat rides in local fishing boats along with simple activities like swimming and jogging can also be enjoyed by the tourists.
Food lovers also enjoy their time at the beach with several food stalls along the beach which serve delicious traditional cuisines.
Best time to visit Murudeshwar Beach
Early winter to Early summer specifically October to March.
How to reach Murudeshwar Beach
One can hire a cab or local auto-rickshaws in Murudeshwar to reach Murudeshwar beach. Other than that, cabs from Mangalore which is the nearest airport will also reach you there.
Kodi Beach
Surrounded by water on three sides, This beach is also known as Delta beach. It is also known as the Sangama point since the Suvarna river meets the Arabian sea here.
Key attraction of Kodi Beach
Freshly prepared seafood and fresh coconut water are very famous among tourists.
Short boat trips are available for tourists to take a ride in the nearby mangrove forests.
Best time to visit Kodi Beach
The Winter season specifically between November to February.
How to reach Kodi Beach
Taking buses from Udupi is the easiest way to reach here.
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Malpe Beach
Malpe is one of the most beautiful yet unexplored beaches in India. Situated at a distance of 66 km from Mangalore is the best place to enjoy a white-sanded pristine weather beach.
Key attraction of Malpe beach
Water sports like Banana boat rides, speed boating and jet skiing are available here for the enjoyment of tourists.
Trekking, kayaking and rappelling can also be enjoyed here because of the rocky sides of the beach.
The temples of Balarama and Ananteshwar which are situated not far away from the beach are very famous among tourists.
Various vegetarian and Non-vegetarian restaurants are located along the beach which serve all kinds of Indian and International dishes along with fresh coconut water.
Best time to visit Malpe beach
The Winter season specifically between November to February.
How to visit Malpe beach
Malpe beach is very easily accessible, buses or hired cabs from Malpe town take one to Malpe beach. Other than that, cabs from the Udupi railway station do the job as well.
Sasihithlu Beach
Sashithlu beach is a beautiful beach situated in the village of Sasithlu. This beach is at the confluence of the Nandini river, the Shambhala river and the Arabian sea.
Key Attraction of Sasihithlu beach
Munda is the island which is a famous tourist attraction here.
This beach is heaven for surfers. The Indian open for surfing was hosted on this beach in the year 2016 and 2017.
Best time to visit Sasihithlu beach
The winter season specifically November to March.
How to reach Sasihithlu beach
There are several buses from Mangalore which stop at Sasihithlu beach. Other than that cabs from Mangalore Railway Junction also does the job.
St Mary's Island Beach
Known for the fact that Vasco Da Gama set his first foot here also for exquisite views, St. Mary Island of Udupi has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It is a community of four beaches namely Coconut Island, North Island, South Island and Daryabahadurgarh Island.
Key attractions of St Mary's Island Beach
One can find a crystallised shoreline here which happened when Madagaskar was separated from India.
Watching the sunset on the crystal shoreline fills one with peace.
Daryabahadurgarh fort is also a very tourist spot.
Best time to visit St Mary's Island Beach
Winter season specifically between November to February.
How to reach St Mary's Island Beach
The only way to reach this island is by taking a ferry from Malpe beach is about 6 km away.
Devbagh Beach
Devbagh beach is a heaven for Nature lovers. This beach is situated at the convergence of the Karli river and the Arabian Sea and is full of breathtaking sceneries.
Key attractions of Devbagh beach
Tourists can enjoy water activities like scuba diving and Jet Skiing here. Which helps one know the sea life even closer.
One can enjoy a boat ride to the point of convergence and spot dolphins.
The islands of Kumargarh, Oyster-rock, Sanyasi and Anjudeep are also famous tourist attractions. Sanyasi is known to be the home of a monk who lived there years ago and Oyster rock is known for its lighthouse which was used by the British.
Here one can stay with the local families whilst knowing more about the traditions and cultures.
Best time to visit Devbagh Beach
Early winter to the late summer season, specifically October to May.
How to reach Devbagh beach
Cabs from Daboli or Hubli airports are available for Devgarh beach. Overnight trains from all the nearby trains to Karwar station and then cab from there is also a way to reach here. Also, buses from Karwar to Devgarh beach are available as well.
