Mangalore is the gateway to the beaches of Karnataka. The Suratkal, Maravanthe, Bhatkal, Murudeswara, Gokarna and Karwar are the major beaches of Karnataka. Om beach at Gokarna derives its name from its unusual shape, which resembles the Sanskrit sacred word Om. The beach is much popular and is a favorite spot for sunbathing and beach sports. With the overall pleasant climate of Karnataka and the enchanting evening scenarios the beaches in Karnataka are really memorable experiences to be pocketed while on a tour to India.

Karnataka has a 320 kilometers long coastline, dotted with numerous beaches, that beckon invitingly to those craving for some respite, from the maddening grind of urban life. The serenity and unspoilt charm of the area, coupled with the spontaneity of the coastal folk, and their delectable cuisine is just overwhelming.

Karwar
(525 kilometers from Bangalore / 100 Kilometers from Goa)

Karwar, makes a good starting point, for the voyage of discovering the thrills of the sea, sand and sun. Karwar's idyllic beauty inspired the great Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, to pen down his first play. Other attractions of Karwar, include the Sadashivgad Hill fort with a Durga temple, the unique Octagonal Church, and the 300 year old Venkataramana Temple, that houses some fine ochre paintings. For wildlife lovers, the Dandeli Game Park is just 157 kilometers away.

Marwanthe
(Maravanthe - 525 kilometers from Bangalore / 110 kilometers from Mangalore)

Marwanthe is a unique seaside town, where the West Coast Highway cruises along with the Arabian Sea on one side, and the river Sauparnika rushes against a verdant mountainous backdrop on the other. Sunset casts a breathtaking glow on the surrounding waterscape. Water sports and beach resorts promise an enjoyable holiday here.

Malpe
(Malpe - 392 kilometers from Bangalore / 66 kilometers from Mangalore)

Malpe with its sheltered harbour makes a quiet beach retreat, just six kilometers away from Udupi. Right across is St.Mary's Isles, more serene and ideal for picnics can be reached by boat from here.

Murudeshwar
(386 kilometers from Bangalore/ 151 kilometers from Karwar)

Located amidst idyllic surroundings, Murudeshwar offers, a breath taking view of the sea from the hill by the shore. The beautiful and the clean beach is largely undiscovered and thankfully unspoilt. Atop the hill lies the famous temple enshrining the linga which attracts a lot of devotees and tourists.


Mangalore
(357 kilometers from Bangalore)

Mangalore is the seaport town has Ullal, yet another beach resort, the silvery beaches of which command breathtaking views of the sunset, especially, when viewed through the casuarina groves.