Hi, Hello, Namaste Xplorers. After visiting the St Mary’s Island, Udupi, I am excited to drive you through all the do’s and don’ts. According to the local legend which I read there on a board, this island is widely known for its historical reasons because Vasco Da Gama landed his foot for the first time (1498) in India on this island. You will also see the God-crafted geological formations and golden beaches made of sea shells on this island. These rocks are age older than yours grand grand grandparents and surprisingly the formations are 88 million years old. The island is one of the National Geological Monuments of India.
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Best Time to Visit St. Mary’s Island
The best time to visit St. Mary’s Island is during the winter months, from October to February, when temperatures are moderate, ranging between 22°C and 27°C. The weather at this time is pleasant and will soothe your soul. The rainy days (June – September) are riskier to visit because of heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions.
| March – May (Summer) | June-September (Monsoon) | – Rainfall: 12 – 27 inches – Less Enjoyable Experience – Rough Sea conditions – Island is closed to visitors |
| – 28°C – 32°C – Extreme Heat – Risk of Skin burn – Avoid visiting in afternoon | – Rainfall: 12 – 27 inches – Less Enjoyable Experience – Rough Sea conditions – Island is closed for visitors | – 22°C and 27°C – Pleasant Weather – Calm Seas – Island is open for visitors |
Where is St. Mary’s Island in Udupi?
St. Mary’s Island is located approximately 6-7 kilometres west of Malpe Beach in Udupi, a coastal town in Karnataka. Malpe Beach has a Sea Walkway with a view of St. Mary’s Island. The Malpe beach can be extremely crowded on the weekends so plan your journey accordingly. You can access the island from Malpe Beach, where visitors can take a ferry. This island is part of a cluster of four small islands. It is the only island of the four that tourists visit and that is accessible to them.
How to Reach Udupi’s St Marys Island?
Pinned Location
Cost of the Ferry to St. Mary’s Island
To reach St. Mary’s Island, you must take a ferry from the ferry point in Malpe, which will cost you around Rs 300 per person (back and forth). The ride will give you a groovy vibe as the DJ plays music along the way.
Ferry Timings at St. Mary’s Island of Udupi
The ride will usually take 30 minutes from Malpe beach to the island and will take one hour of halt at the island. The timings of the ferry ride are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The last ferry usually departs before 5 p.m. so make sure to arrive early enough to fully explore the island and enjoy the warm sunset. The ferry is closed during Monsoon months (Mid-June to Mid-Sept).
What to do at St. Mary’s Island?
- Marvel the octagonal Rock formations: St. Mary’s Island is famous for its 88-million-year-old octagonal rock formations. They are also 1 of 34 geological monuments of India which makes it a special and rare place to visit. You can touch and feel the unique rock formations and capture vibrant pictures with them.
- Enjoy splashing on the Beach: The island’s pristine beaches are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. The soft, shell-strewn sands and clear blue waters provide a serene environment to unwind.
- Enjoy a Beach Picnic: The island’s peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot for a picnic. Pack some snacks and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
- Relax and enjoy the 360 views around you The ferry journey to and from the island itself is an enjoyable activity. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the coastline and the Arabian Sea, making it a scenic start to your visit.
Island Insider Tips: Do’s and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Visit the Island between October-February | Don’t plan your visit between June to September as it will be closed |
| Make sure to take an evening stroll on Malpe Sea Walk | Do carry some snacks and drinking water on the island |
| Do carry some snacks and drinking water at the island | Be a responsible citizen, don’t litter |
| Do carry some cash as you may have some network issues | Do not carry any plastics |
Pro Tip Before Visiting Udupi’s St Mary’s Island
Take the evening ferry to the island and return for a sunset on the ferry and get down at Malpe Sea Walk to enjoy a perfect sunset stroll. Avoid visiting the island in the afternoon sun.
If you are looking to explore other places in South India, check this – Wayanad, Kerala
Note:
There is a basic washroom and toilet facility on the island for the convenience of tourists. However it may not be in the best and well-maintained state through the year.
If you are planning a trip to Udupi and are in need of my suggestions for some cool places to stay there, here are my recommendations. I have divided them into 3 categories budget, comfort and luxury categories. I have chosen these recommendations either because I have visited them and would vouch for them or I trust the reviews and are recommended by someone.
Note: The links below are affiliate links which means that we get a part of the commission on sales if you book using our link at no additional cost to you.
Budget Hotels in Udupi (under INR 2000)
Comfort Hotels in Udupi (between INR 2000-5000)
Luxury Hotels in Udupi (above INR 5000)
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