Malpe Beach

Malpe Beach in Udupi (celebrated across Southern India as Karnataka's most lively, impeccably maintained, and action packed coastal leisure shoreline, famous for its sweeping golden sand beaches, thrilling water sports, free public Wi Fi, the iconic Malpe Sea Walk promenade, and regular ferry departures to the geological marvel of St. Mary's Island), located along the Arabian Sea coastline of Udupi in Karnataka, stands as Coastal Karnataka's top beach destination.

Historically operating as one of Kanara's largest natural commercial fishing ports situated at the mouth of the Udyavara (Malpe) River, Malpe has evolved into an internationally acclaimed tourist resort strip, smoothly combining traditional coastal fisher culture with modern marine adventure infrastructure.

It's the home of the expansive 6 kilometer stretch of sparkling golden sand washed by gentle, swim friendly ocean waves, the popular Malpe Sea Walkway (a paved 450 meter scenic stone pier jutting into the open sea with statues of coastal fishermen and 360 degree sunset panoramas), the adrenaline pumping water sports zone offering parasailing, jet skiing, speed boat rides, banana tube rides, and sea kayaking, the ferry boarding point for the world famous UNESCO Geo Heritage volcanic basalt columns of St. Mary's Island (Thonsepar), the lively beachside food shacks serving sizzling fresh Malpe fish fry, ghee roast seafood, neer dosa, and tender coconut water, and an intensely energetic, festive coastal atmosphere where playful sea breezes and colorful parasails illuminate the horizon.

It represents a rich Tulu Nadu maritime fishing tradition, coastal recreation infrastructure, and island exploration where golden sands, Sea Walk piers, parasailing flights, and St. Mary's Island ferries unite in Malpe Beach Udupi.

Located in Malpe coastal suburb, it sits just 6 km west of Udupi city centre, 9 km from Udupi Railway Station (UD), 60 km from Mangaluru International Airport (IXE), and 400 km from Bengaluru, easily accessible by city bus, auto rickshaw, app taxi, or private car with expansive beach parking grounds.

Malpe Sea Walk Pier & 360 Degree Sunset Views

The Malpe Sea Walk is an iconic 450 meter pedestrian breakwater extending straight into the Arabian Sea between Malpe Harbour and the beach.

decorated with artistic statues representing local fisherfolk life, seating benches, and decorative lighting, it offers front row views of fishing trawlers returning against fiery orange sunsets.

Truth is, walking out along the Sea Walk jetty as cool waves splash against the granite boulders is the ultimate evening therapy.

St. Mary's Island Ferries & Volcanic Basalt Columns

St. Mary's Island (Thonsepar): Regular tourist ferries run from Malpe to this National Geological Monument, renowned for unique hexagonal columnar basalt lava rock formations formed 88 million years ago.

Clean Island Beaches: St. Mary's Island features crushed seashell beaches, turquoise crystalline waters, and towering rock pillars offering incredible photography opportunities.

Water Sports & Udupi Coastal Circuit

Marine Adventure Hub: Certified operators offer high flying parasailing, high speed jet skis, bumper rides, speed boat cruises, and surfing lessons under lifeguard supervision.

Udupi Destination Circuit: Malpe pairs smoothly with Udupi Sri Krishna Matha (6 km), Manipal university township (10 km), Kaup Beach Lighthouse, and Pajaka Kshetra.

After basking on golden Malpe Beach, take the ferry to St. Mary's Island, stroll along the Malpe Sea Walk, or receive blessings at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha.