When it comes to beach destinations in India, Goa has been undeniably everyone’s favorite for decades. There's nothing more peaceful and soulful than listening to the soaring waves and witnessing ombre sunsets, isn’t it? However, what if I tell you that there are ample options to explore beyond the mighty Goa and you will definitely be mesmerized by the salient nature.
Here are 8 beautiful beach spots to soak in the beach vibes near Goa curated just for you:
1. St. Mary's Island
This island is located in the Arabian Sea right off the coast of Malpe Beach in Karnataka. Blessed with stunning natural beauty, this island is the perfect escape place to enjoy the serenity. Enjoy golden sands under your feet, tall palm trees grooving to the music of the wind, and white foamy waves crashing against the rocks.
Best time to visit: October to February
Interesting fact: It has these unique hexagonal, basalt rocks that were formed millions of years ago when Madagascar broke away from the Indian subcontinent.
How to reach?
You can reach St. Mary’s Island via ferry from Udupi port in 20 min for a standard fee of 300Rs.
2. Kudle Beach
Kudle Beach is a wonderful retreat for travelers looking for serenity and peace. It is one of the most visited ones because of its unmatched natural beauty. This is a perfect place to stay and relax for a few days to escape the real world. There are various stay options at the beach and in the surrounding. You wouldn’t want to leave this place with such amazing natural beauty and starry nights.
Best time to visit: November to February is the best time to plan your visit to this incredible beach in Gokarna. This is when you will be able to mingle with other backpackers as well. With a multitude of activities to enjoy, Kudle Beach is an ideal destination for solo travelers, adventurous lovers, and newlywed couples.
Interesting fact: The beach is in the shape of a perfect ‘C’ while the shore is marked by the presence of coconut trees and rocks. The beach is famous for beach trekking and surfing. Do visit paradise island while you are there.
How to reach?
Goa is at a distance of 147 km from Kudle Beach. Bangalore is 490 km far from Kudle Beach which is 9 hrs. and it's a beautiful drive(personal experience).
3. Tannirbhavi Beach
This is one beautiful beach with soft golden sand and the breezy winds flowing down from the Arabian Sea offering a much more memorable experience. This is a favorite spot for many of the travelers visiting here. Witnessing the ships of around 15 years old are placed near to the beach. It is one of those beaches that have trees on them and offers a picturesque landscape. Tannirbhavi beach also has some basic facilities like lifeguards, toilets, a parking lot, a few eateries and concrete benches.
Best time to visit: September to February
Interesting Fact: One of the most palm-fringed beaches in Mangalore, Tannirbhavi beach, is the most looked out for by travelers.
How to reach?
The beach is 340 km from Bengaluru and 9 km from Mangaluru airport.
4. Kaup beach
Kaup Beach is one of the famous beaches in Karnataka where tourists enjoy the beauty of the environment, the long stretches of golden sands, and the cool sea breeze. The beach is covered by palm groves. There is a lighthouse here, constructed in 1901. The delightful view of the entire seashore and the beach from the lighthouse is every photographer's dream.
Kaup Beach is one of the famous beaches in Karnataka where tourists enjoy the beauty of the environment, the long stretches of golden sands, and the cool sea breeze. The beach is covered by palm groves. There is a lighthouse here, constructed in 1901, which is open every day for an hour from 5.30 AM. The delightful view of the entire seashore and the beach from the lighthouse is every photographer's dream.
Best time to visit: October to December
Interesting Fact: One of the main attractions of Kapu beach is the century-old 130 ft. lighthouse. Also, there are beautiful Airbnb’s around the beach which makes it a perfect getaway place for the weekend.
How to Reach?
Udupi is the nearest railway station. From Bangalore, it’s a 400 km drive.
5. Karwar Beach
One of the main reasons to visit Karwar is its gorgeous, unblemished beaches where you can enjoy the pleasures of a serene stretch of sand and indulge in watersports to boot. With several beaches to choose from, the Karwar beach is arguably the most beautiful of the lot.
Best time to visit: October to February
Interesting Fact: Warship Museum, Guddalli Peak and some beautiful waterfalls are there which you should check out.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Goa which is 71kms from the beach. And the nearest station is Karwar.
6. Rabindra Nath Tagore Beach
Rabindranath Tagore beach forms the confluence point of River Kali and the Arabian sea. The beach is home to many other touristy spots including Warship Museum. You can also explore the recreational park, aquarium, and planetarium situated within its premises. It also hosts the biggest cultural event of Karwar, named Karwali Utsav, which is celebrated in the months of December and January.
Best time to visit: October to February
Interesting Fact: It was to this tranquil corner that a young Rabindranath Tagore was drawn to while he was visiting his elder brother Satyendranath Tagore, who was posted here as the district judge of Karwar (in 1882). The natural beauty of Karwar beach aroused the philosopher in him.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Goa which is 71kms from the beach. And the nearest station is Karwar.
7. Paradise Beach
Also known as Full Moon Beach is a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city in the midst of nature. Best place for camping and relaxing looking at the waves. You can enjoy a good swim here although not too far from the beach.
Best time to visit: October and March
Interesting Facts: The foreign travelers stay here at night, camp and cook meals as this place is perfect for camping purposes. You can discover the Phytoplankton on the beach. These Phytoplankton make the seawater look shining from a distance. Also known as glowing beach.
How to Reach?
The best way to reach here is by Ferry from Half Moon Beach or Om Beach, Gokarna. You can also hike from Half Moon Beach in the daytime which in itself is a great activity to do in Gokarna. You can reach Gokarna station by train and by flight you can reach Goa which is 110kms away.
8. Sasihithulu Beach
At a distance of 25 km from Mangalore, in the village of Sasihithlu, this beach (named after the village) is a gorgeous place in the state of Karnataka. The beach is the convergence point of the confluence of rivers Nandini and Shambhavi with the Arabian Sea.
Sunset at Sasihithlu beach near Mulki (20kms north of Mangalore) is an ethereal experience one should not miss on a visit to Mangalore.
Best time to visit: September to March
Interesting Facts: There is a three-day surfing event held at Sasihithlu that brings the beach to life with live music performances, food stalls, kite-surfing tournaments, paddle-up race, etc. This event features many surfing athletes from Russia, France, Sri Lanka, Australia and other countries. Almost close to 150 surfers participate in this event, with 5 categories.
How to Reach?
Mangalore airport is the nearest, 23kms away from the beach. Mangalore station is 26 km away.
These tranquil places will definitely give you the peace of mind one is looking for visiting the beach. It’s fascinating that there are so many beaches out there which are absolutely gorgeous but very few travelers know about them.
Hope you find this article interesting and informative.
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