When most people consider Udupi as a travel destination, they mostly think of its famous temples (yes it is the ‘temple town’ of Karnataka), delectable food, and the beautiful coastline — often overlooking the lesser-known St Mary’s island.
St Mary’s Island in Malpe, Udupi is filled with unique rock formations, nature, and a laid-back feel and is the perfect getaway for any traveler who wants to experience a remote tropical island over a day trip.
This serene island is known for its distinct rock formations and is a must-have half- day trip if you are in Udupi.
Where is St Mary’s Island
St Mary’s island also known as Coconut Island comprises of four islands in the Arabian sea off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, Karnataka, India. These islands are Coconut Island, North Island, Daryabahadurgarh Island and South Island. The Coconut Island is what is accessible to public.
Trivia: St Mary’s island form one of the 32 Geological Monuments of India declared by the Geological Survey of India in 2001. It is considered one of the important sites for geo-tourism.
What makes St Mary’s Island unique
Did you know India and Madagascar are long-torn siblings? As fascinating as it seems, St Mary’s Island in India and portion of Madagascar were part of the same landmass millions of years ago.
The brownish-black hexagonal basaltic rock formation in the islands is the only one of its type in India.
It was formed from the cooling and solidification of lava and were once part of the same landmass as Madagascar millions of years ago. After the Ice Age, they drifted apart.
The water has a magnificent shade of aquamarine and the beach here is fairly clean with less trash.The island is covered with coconut trees and hence the other name for the island is Coconut island.
There is no habitation on the islands and is perfect for a day trip from Malpe.
Also Read : Itinerary for Hampi, Karnataka
Things To do in St Mary’s Island
What makes St Mary’s island unique apart from geological importance is that it is still not a tourist hotspot although it deserves all the hype. Plan to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours on the island.
Once you disembark at the sea-shore next to the island, walk towards the island entrance. There are signboards to guide you through. The entrance to the island has a bamboo-framed structure bearing the island name along with a brief history of the island.
1. Walk down the beach
The beach here is lined with coconut trees offering that quintessential coastal backdrop. It is mostly vacant – hence, expect some good quiet time.
The untouched crystal-clear water is an added beauty.
2. The ‘Peace’ installation
And who isn’t seeking Peace! Check out the king-size installation of the word Peace right on the beach with Arabian sea in the background.
It is visible from a distance and perhaps a great Instagrammable spot for your social media!
3. The Rocky Part Of The Island
Head on to the rocky part of the island now. This area is the unique part of the island.
The geological formations of the cylindrical basaltic rock structures are absolute beauty on the island
4. Photograph The Palm Trees
St. Mary’s Island is a photographer’s delight. Swaying palm trees along the coastline along with the black rocks provide an amazing backdrop for photo memories. Oh yes! And Instagram too!
5. Observe The Sea Shells
An interesting feature of St Mary’s Island, apart from the volcanic rocks, is that one side of the island has a beach that is made entirely of shells. Here, you will find tons of shells and no sand at all! Very unique!
6. Watch The Sunset
The geological treasures of St. Mary’s Island aren’t the only alluring things for you to experience here. If you are a sunset lover, then St Mary’s island a gorgeous spot to experience spectacular sunset views over the Arabian sea.
Just bear in mind the last ferry timing (which is 5:00 PM).
7. Get Refreshed With Fresh Coconut Water
For that perfect tropical island flavor, round up your island trip with a healthy dose of fresh coconut water. There are a handful of options just outside the exit gate (the same as the entrance. Pick up a few sea-shell artifacts as an island memory.
Things To Know Before Visiting St Mary’s Island
- The island is meant for day trips only.
- Plastic products are not allowed inside the island. This is a step taken towards an environment-friendly plastic-free island
- Bags will be checked while entering the island. Hence ensure not to carry plastic bottles, food items etc along with you.
- There is a food court inside the island that offers decent snack items. In case you feel hungry, be rest assured that will be taken care of
- Toilets are available.
St Mary’s Island, Malpe, Udupi – FAQs
The hexagonal basaltic rock formations of the island are its specialty and makes it geologically unique.
St Mary’s island is accessible from Malpe via ferry service a. You can reach Malpe from Mangalore
The 20 min boat-ride on the Arabian sea off the shores of Malpe beach is quite an experience.
The tickets for the ferry can be picked up from the ticket office at Malpe beach.
Ferry timings : 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
It is very affordable priced at 300 INR per Adult and 150 per Child, The Ferry services cover about 8 KM of distance and take around 25-30 minutes (Entry fees included).
There are photography charges. You will need to check the latest price while buying the entry tickets.
The island is closed to visitors due to rough seas during the monsoons (June to September).
Best time to visit St. Mary’s Island(preferred time): Morning slot at 9 AM unless you want to watch the sunset.
You cannot stay there. You have to travel by ferry and come back. If you want to stay beachside, there are beach-side resorts in Malpe.
St Mary’s Island is also known as Coconut Island or Thonsepar
St Mary’s Island is absolutely safe for public. There will be life jacket provided for tourists, once they get into ferry in Malpe, Udupi.
Closing Thoughts on St Mary’s Island
This serene and unique island is a lesser-known spot in Udupi and certainly going to win your heart. Don’t miss this while in Malpe.
Really wonderful writing Jayati. This looks like an awesome place. How far is St Mary’s Island from Goa? I go to Goa every 3-4 years. Can I visit the island from Goa?
Hey Lia! This place is actually at a 6-7 hour car drive from Goa. Alternatively, you can take the flight also from Goa. 🙂