About Karnataka
The state is a myriad canvas of experiences for the travellers. The coastal stretch that skirts the Arabian Sea is one of the wettest regions in India, and a stunning one at that. Find out about the top beaches in Karnataka.
Top 5 Beaches In Karnataka
1. Kaup Beach
Locally pronounced as Kapu, this beach is sandwiched by the Arabian Sea and the bustling Udipi Town. A lone lighthouse and a small park below make for a stunning foreground to the sea.
Getting There: Mangalore is the closest airport to Udipi. Overnight trains and buses from major south Indian cities are available.
Best time to visit: October to February
Reasonable time to spend: 2 Days
Tips: Boat rides and dolphin watching is available.
2. Karwar
Far-flung and gorgeous, Karwar’s beach is made for romantics, who do not want an activity filled holiday. This is one of the top beaches in Karnataka to unwind with minimal distraction. One can make a short trip to the Kurumgad Island, which houses an old Narsimhaswamy temple.
Getting There: The Goa Airport is the closest at 97km. Overnight trains and buses are available from Bangalore and other cities in Karnataka.
Best time to visit: October to February in the cooler months
Reasonable time to spend: 2 days
Tips: A self-driving trip is recommended from Bangalore.
3. Gokarna
The famous trio of Om, Paradise and Kudle, along with Half Moon and Gokarna beaches make for the charming coastal draw of the town. An easygoing boho-vibe merges seamlessly with the ancient temples mainland.
Getting There: **Goa or Mangalore** airports are the closest air nodes. One is better off taking an overnight train to get here.
Best time to visit: October to February
Reasonable time to spend: 2-3 Days
Tips: Dress appropriately when in the town.
4. Marvanthe
Waves crashing into sandy banks of a virtually tourist-less beach is the most accurate description of Marvanthe on the coast of Karnataka. The maximum activity happens in the evenings when local boys come to play a game of volleyball, or early mornings when fishermen are anchoring with fresh catch in tow.
Getting There: The Mangalore International Airport is the closest (90km) from Marvanthe.
Best time to visit: October to February
Reasonable time to spend: 3-4 hours
Tips: Overnight stay is possible.
5. Murudeshwar
The beach is a jumping off point for Netrani Islands for scuba diving. But if you’re less adventurous, then the larger than life Shiva statue on the banks, a local market and a temple are the highlights.
Getting There: The Mangalore and Hubli airports are the closest, though overnight buses are available from major towns in Karnataka.
Best time to visit: November to February in the cooler months
Reasonable time to spend: 1 Day
Tips: Ideal time is sunrise.
Time Needed To See The Beaches Of Karnataka
A drive along the coastal stretch of Karnataka can be done over 7-10 days. Pit stops like Gokarna and Kaup will warrant a stay for a couple of days.
How To Reach Karnataka
The two international airports relevant to cover the coastal stretch are in Mangalore and Bangalore. From Bangalore you will have to take an overnight train and bus to a coastal part to start exploring. Mangalore is a coastal town, which will have better access.
