Virgin Beaches: The sandy beaches and sea shores in Karnataka
are ideal for getting refreshed. A sleepy Brahmin town, lodged
somewhere between a conservative society and a faithful hippy
fan following, Gokarna is a dream beach destination in the state.
With gentle waves, miles of golden sand, a tranquil ambience,
and acres of emerald foliage, Karwar has all the makings of a
perfect holiday destination. Murudeshwara help you to seat
yourself at a vantage point on a hillock and watch the relentless
wave’s crash against the rock. Situated 12 km south of Udupi on
the coastal belt that passes through the West Coast National
Highway, Kaup has a lovely beach. At the mouth of the Malpe
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River, about 6km from Udupi, is the natural harbour of Malpe, an
important fishing centre that enriches Karnataka’s coastline with
its fabulous beach. About 6 km from the Malpe coast into the
Arabian Sea, one gets to see the palm-fringed St. Mary’s Island
which bears the cross that Vasco Da Gama placed when he landed
in 1498. The island is 300m long and 100m wide. 15km north of
Ullal, Suratkal beach is near the promontory on which the new
lighthouse stands. Take in the spectacular views at Marawanthe,
a seaside town where the West Coast Highway cruises alongside
the Arabian Sea on one side, with the picturesque Kodachadri
Hills forming a backdrop to the Sauparnika River on the ot