St. Mary's Island Udupi Karnataka India
Discover St. Mary's Island, a geological marvel with unique basaltic lava rocks and stunning seashell beaches off the coast of Udupi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures and sunset
St. Mary's Island Udupi Karnataka India
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures and sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover St. Mary's Island, a geological marvel with unique basaltic lava rocks and stunning seashell beaches off the coast of Udupi.
"A must-visit for its unique rock formations and brilliant sea views, offering a pristine island experience."
🚢 Ferry Ticket Info
Round trip ferry from Malpe Beach costs INR 300-400 per person. Book early, as trips can be cancelled.
☀️ Beat the Sun
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water. Limited shade on the island makes it hot during midday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Columnar Rocks
Island interior
Marvel at the distinctive hexagonal basaltic lava formations, a rare geological wonder found nowhere else in India.
+2Pristine Shell Beaches
Island shores
Walk along shores covered in a unique carpet of colorful seashells instead of sand, perfect for collecting souvenirs.
Scenic Sunset Views
Western side of the island
Experience a breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea, offering a picturesque end to your island visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Schedules & Weather
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Ticket Info
Round trip ferry from Malpe Beach costs INR 300-400 per person. Book early, as trips can be cancelled. +1
☀️ Beat the Sun
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water. Limited shade on the island makes it hot during midday.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The unique rocks and scenic views offer fantastic photo ops. Capture the island's beauty!
💧 Refreshments Available
A small shop on the island sells water and snacks, but it's wise to carry your own.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Ticket Info
Round trip ferry from Malpe Beach costs INR 300-400 per person. Book early, as trips can be cancelled. +1
☀️ Beat the Sun
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water. Limited shade on the island makes it hot during midday.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The unique rocks and scenic views offer fantastic photo ops. Capture the island's beauty!
💧 Refreshments Available
A small shop on the island sells water and snacks, but it's wise to carry your own.
🌊 Check Ferry Status
Ferries are subject to weather conditions. Always check for cancellations before heading to Malpe Beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Mary's Island is a must-visit for its unique geological formations and beautiful seashell beaches, offering a serene escape. While the ferry ride is enjoyable, visitors should be prepared for the heat and limited amenities. The island's pristine nature and scenic sunset views make it a worthwhile destination despite potential ferry cancellations.
"One of the main attractions in Udupi is St. Mary’s Island. To visit, you need to take a ferry. They usually allow only one hour on the island, which is not enough—you need at least two hours to explore properly. So before buying the ticket, ask how much time they will allow you to stay.
The ferry drops you on the island and returns after one hour to pick you up. The ride takes about 20–25 minutes. I took a big ferry that goes near the island, and then they shift you to a small boat that takes you to the actual drop point.
On the island, you can see beautiful rock formations. Instead of sand like regular beaches, this island has sea shells everywhere—almost the whole surface is covered with shells, and you can enjoy collecting them. They have also made some small art pieces using waste materials.
Important: Plastic is not allowed on the island. Do not carry plastic water bottles, or you will have to leave them at the ferry point."
Pravin Patil
"Scenic island off the coast of Malpe. Island is made from ancient natural basalict lava columns. One has to take a ferry to reach here. Cost of ferry is Rs 350 for 10 years and above. Cost of camera is Rs 250. Note that one has to wait for minimum 30 people for the ferry to fill up. There are other small boats from malpe beach as well. No plastic is allowed. There are few stalls in the island, also they have now built a toilet. Ferry will be open only when the weather is fine. Monsoon season it is closed. Crowded during pubilic holidays and weekends. First ferry starts at 10am and last ferry at 3.30pm"
Mukunda Madhava
"It’s a must have experience. You go in boat to the island. It takes 30 min one side journey. Today the ticket for adult is 350 and kids bellow 10 years is 150. You get 1 hour in the island to explore. This island provide some amazing landscapes for perfect pictures."
Satish Kumar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach St. Mary's Island, you first need to get to Malpe Beach, which is about 6-7 km from Udupi. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi from Udupi to Malpe Beach. From Malpe Beach, regular ferry services are available to St. Mary's Island. The ferry ride takes about 25-30 minutes.
The ferry ticket price for St. Mary's Island from Malpe Beach is typically around INR 300 to INR 400 per person for a round trip. Prices can vary slightly. +1
Ferries usually start around 9:00 AM and operate until 6:00 PM, but timings can be flexible and are subject to weather conditions. The last ferry back from the island is usually in the late afternoon. It's advisable to reach Malpe Beach early.
No, St. Mary's Island is a protected natural area and is only accessible by ferry from Malpe Beach. Private vehicles cannot go to the island.
Yes, you can find local buses from Udupi to Malpe Beach. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also readily available for a more direct and comfortable journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the ferry to St. Mary's Island are usually purchased at the ferry terminal at Malpe Beach on the day of your visit. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, as tickets can sell out.
There is no separate entry fee for St. Mary's Island itself. The cost you pay is for the ferry ride from Malpe Beach to the island and back.
The island is a natural reserve, so visitors are expected to maintain cleanliness and not disturb the environment. Ferry services can be suspended due to rough seas or adverse weather conditions.
Typically, visitors are given about an hour to an hour and a half to spend on the island. This allows enough time to explore the unique rock formations and enjoy the beaches.
It is generally not advisable to visit St. Mary's Island during the monsoon season (June to September) due to rough seas and potential ferry cancellations. The best time to visit is outside of the monsoon months.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the unique columnar basaltic lava formations, the pristine beaches covered in seashells, and the scenic views of the Arabian Sea. It's also a great spot for photography and enjoying the sunset. +2
There is very limited natural shade on the island, making it quite hot during the day. Seating arrangements are also minimal. Visitors are advised to bring their own umbrellas or hats for sun protection.
While the island is primarily for sightseeing and relaxation, activities like beachcombing, photography, and enjoying the sea breeze are popular. Some adventure activities like banana boat rides and jet skiing are available at Malpe Beach before or after your island visit.
Yes, families can enjoy the island, but it's important to keep a close eye on children due to the open sea and rocky areas. The unique shell beaches can be fascinating for kids. Carry essentials like water and snacks.
Light, comfortable clothing is recommended. Wear comfortable footwear like sandals or flip-flops as you'll be walking on beaches and rocky areas. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable for sun protection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small shop on the island that sells basic refreshments like water and some snacks. For a wider variety of food options, it's best to dine at Malpe Beach or in Udupi before or after your visit.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to St. Mary's Island. It's a good idea to pack a picnic, especially if you plan to spend a few hours there. Please ensure you dispose of your trash responsibly.
Near Malpe Beach and in Udupi, you can try delicious coastal Karnataka cuisine, including fresh seafood, Udupi vegetarian specialties, and local snacks. Don't miss trying the famous Udupi 'meals' (thali).
📸 📸 Photography
The unique columnar rock formations, the shell-covered beaches, the panoramic sea views, and the sunset are all excellent subjects for photography. The ferry ride itself also offers great photo opportunities. +1
Drone usage regulations can vary, and it's best to check with local authorities at Malpe Beach before flying a drone. Some TikTok videos show drone shots, but official permissions might be required.
The golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best lighting for photography. The late afternoon is particularly good for capturing the sunset and softer light on the rocks and beaches.
Many visitors recommend capturing the hexagonal rock formations from various angles and the vast expanse of the seashell-strewn beaches. The silhouette of the island against the sunset is also a popular shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Packing your own food and water can significantly reduce expenses on the island. +1📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+2 The seashell beaches provide a unique texture and color palette for shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvel: The Columnar Rocks
+1 This natural phenomenon makes the island a significant site for geological interest and a must-see for visitors. The striking patterns and shapes of these rocks create a surreal landscape, unlike anything else found in India. These formations are not just visually impressive but also hold scientific importance. They offer a glimpse into the Earth's geological past and the processes that shaped the Deccan Plateau. Visitors often spend time marveling at these natural sculptures, taking photos, and learning about their formation. The sheer uniqueness of these rocks is a primary draw for tourists seeking natural wonders.
+1Island Access: The Ferry Experience
+1The ferry service is subject to weather conditions. High tides, strong winds, or rough seas can lead to cancellations, sometimes for the entire day. It's crucial to check the weather forecast and ferry status before heading to Malpe Beach. Arriving early in the morning is often recommended, as trips can fill up quickly, and cancellations are more likely later in the day.
+1While the ferry ride itself is an enjoyable part of the experience, it's important to be prepared for potential disruptions. The boat operators are experienced, but safety is paramount. The journey provides a sense of adventure and anticipation as you approach the picturesque island.
Island Life: What to Expect
Due to its natural state, amenities on the island are minimal. There is a small shop selling basic necessities like water and snacks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit