Mangalore, a port city in Karnataka, is known for its beautiful beaches offering various cultural experiences and thrilling activities. While quite a few offer stunning coastline views, some offer watersports, and others are nearly crowd-free. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, from attending culturally immersive events to boat races and kite festivals. If you have been hankering for scenic sunsets, a tranquil atmosphere, and a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional charm, these beaches in Mangalore are perfect for a stopover. Read on to find out which one is the best fit for you.
Planning a trip to Mangalore? Check out other must-see places in Karnataka.
Best time to visit beaches in Mangalore
The best time to visit the beaches in Mangalore is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach-hopping. However, this is Mangalore’s high season, so expect the beaches to be crowded. If you want the beaches to yourself, the best time to visit is from July to September when the city experiences moderate weather.
Top beaches in Mangalore
Tannirbhavi Beach
Golden sand, gentle waves, and lush green palm groves make Tannirbhavi Beach one of the most popular beaches in Mangalore. This beach offers a wide range of water sports activities, where locals and tourists love to spend their evenings enjoying stunning sunsets. The well-maintained beach is being developed as a Blue Flag Beach, offering myriad facilities and a pristine environment.
Plenty of other attractions are nearby, including the Sultan Bateri Watch Tower and the Tannirbhavi Tree Park, a verdant garden with a kids’ play area and art installations. Cultural festivals such as the Karavali Utsav Beach Festival (January 11-12, 2025), Mangaluru Beach Festival (January 31, 2025), and the ONGC-MRPL International Kite Festival (January 18-19, 2025) make it a happening place.
Do you love the beach life? Check out our story on some of the most beautiful beaches in India.
Things to do: Take a quick dip in the sea, enjoy a stargazing experience on clear nights, and sample authentic local dishes from the stalls lining the beach.
Panambur Beach
Panambur Beach is one of the best beaches of Mangalore, featuring not just gentle golden-sand beaches shaded by palm trees and a gentle sea but also myriad activities to keep visitors entertained. You could enjoy a breathtaking sunset from the 125-metre floating bridge on the beach, participate in a wide range of watersports, and go on a dolphin-spotting boat ride. Kids can enjoy camel rides, horse rides, and boating.
Beach shacks sell a variety of indulgent snacks, from ice cream to cotton candy and more, making them popular picnic spots. Occasional festivals and events also take place, ensuring there is something for people from all walks of life to enjoy.
Things to do: Enjoy thrilling jet ski rides, a dolphin-spotting boat trip, and a horse buggy ride with your friends and family.
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Ullal Beach
If you are seeking a peaceful seaside retreat, look no further than Ullal Beach, located in a small fishing village on the outskirts of Mangalore. A beautiful stretch of coconut groves shades the beach, while the fragrance of fresh seafood grilled at the beach shacks and nearby restaurants enchants visitors. Picturesque seascapes and stunning sunsets make it a great place to wind down an evening of sightseeing if you are a tourist. For locals, it is a place away from the city’s crowds, perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating.
Things to do: Enjoy watersports such as paddleboarding, explore the meandering pathways across the lush mangroves, and sit back as fishermen haul in their catch of the day.
Someshwara Beach
The scenic charms of Someshwara Beach make it a must-visit for all beach lovers. The beach in Mangalore is a popular place for picturesque sunsets and to witness the confluence of River Netravati and the Arabian Sea, especially from the rocky outcrops lining the shoreline. The ancient Someshwara temple is an added attraction, only a few feet away from the beach and a peaceful sanctuary for devotees.
Things to do: Visit the ancient Someshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, explore nearby villages, and stroll along the shore.
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Surathkal Beach
Surathkal Beach is home to the gorgeous NITK Lighthouse, which promises stunning panoramic views of the beach. The pristine beauty of the white-sand beach attracts people from all over the city to spend time here, indulge in snacks from the street food vendors, and enjoy a fun atmosphere. Legend has it that the famed sage Surathkal meditated on the beach, adding a touch of historical significance and inspiring its name.
Our story on some of the most stunning lighthouses in India might inspire you to travel more this year.
Things to do: Climb the lighthouse for stunning views, enjoy an early morning jog by the beach, and explore the rocky coastline.
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Kulai Beach
Less crowded than the other beaches in Mangalore, Kulai Beach is a haven for those looking to spend some quiet time by the seashore. Escape the crowds and sit by the shore, enjoying breathtaking seascapes and the gentle waves lapping by your feet. The perfect family escape, the level sands and calm sea make it ideal for a quick dip and letting the kids play in the water near the shore.
Things to do: Visit beachside stalls for local seafood, take a boat ride, and take stunning sunset photos.
(Feature image credit: Pranavjee, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
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The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Mangalore is home to several great beaches, suited for people of varied ages and with varied interests.
Panambur Beach and Tannirbhavi Beach are the best beaches for a night stroll.
Ullal Beach and Tannirbhavi Beach are among the cleanest beaches in Mangalore.
Yes, all beaches in Mangalore are family-friendly.
Panambur Beach and Tannirbhavi Beach play host to several fun events and festivals over the year including kite festivals, boat racing competitions, and sculpting festivals.
Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Senior Digital Writer - Growth, TravelEsha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked ..Read More
