St. Mary's Island
Volcanic Rock Wonder: St. Mary's Island is a collection of four small islands in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Malpe. It is famous for its unique geological formations of columnar basaltic lava, which are vertical hexagonal columns formed millions of years ago. These formations are so rare that t he island has been declared a National Geological Monument by the Geological Survey of India. Scientific studies suggest that these rocks were formed when Madagascar rifted away from India due to sub-aerial sub-volcanic activity. The island is also known as Coconut Island because of the towering coconut palms that line its shores. It is uninhabited, providing a raw and pristine coastal experience for travelers. According to local legend, the explorer Vasco da Gama landed here in 1498 and named the islands 'El Padrao de Santa Maria'. The crystal-clear blue waters and white shell-covered beaches create a postcard-perfect landscape. Visitors must take a ferry ride from the Malpe harbor to reach this secluded paradise. The island offers a tranquil environment where one can enjoy the sound of waves crashing against the ancient rocks. There are no permanent residents or commercial buildings on the island, preserving its natural state. The contrasting colors of the black basalt rocks against the turquoise sea are a sight to behold. It is a prime destination for those interested in geology, history, and photography. The island’s unique topography makes it stand out from any other beach destination in India.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 5 HoursPlace Type:
Geological Site / Island BeachEntry Fees:
Ferry and Entry: The combined cost for the ferry ride and island entry is approximately INR 300 to INR 500 per adult.
Child Discounts: Children usually pay a lower fare, around INR 150.
Camera Fees: Professi...Ferry and Entry: The combined cost for the ferry ride and island entry is approximately INR 300 to INR 500 per adult.
Child Discounts: Children usually pay a lower fare, around INR 150.
Camera Fees: Professional photography or videography using drones might require special permission and additional payments.
Wait Time: Be prepared for potential price hikes during the peak tourist season in December.Timing:
Regular Timings: Ferries operate daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The island is strictly closed during the Monsoon (June to September) due to high sea tides.
Ideal Visit Time: Catch the first ferry at 9:30 AM to avoid the midday heat and the ...Regular Timings: Ferries operate daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The island is strictly closed during the Monsoon (June to September) due to high sea tides.
Ideal Visit Time: Catch the first ferry at 9:30 AM to avoid the midday heat and the large crowds that arrive in the afternoon.
Last Ferry: The last boat usually leaves the island by 5:00 PM, and staying overnight is strictly prohibited.Special Events:
Coastal Festivals: During the January and February months, the Udupi district often organizes beach festivals near Malpe, which include boat races and cultural programs that extend to the island experience.
Geology Day: Educational camps for...Coastal Festivals: During the January and February months, the Udupi district often organizes beach festivals near Malpe, which include boat races and cultural programs that extend to the island experience.
Geology Day: Educational camps for students are occasionally held to mark the significance of the National Geological Monument status.Best Photo Spots:
The Hexagonal Pillars: The iconic vertical columns are the most photographed feature on the island.
The Palm Grove: The rows of coconut trees provide a classic tropical aesthetic for portraits.
The Western Shore...The Hexagonal Pillars: The iconic vertical columns are the most photographed feature on the island.
The Palm Grove: The rows of coconut trees provide a classic tropical aesthetic for portraits.
The Western Shoreline: Ideal for capturing the waves crashing against the black volcanic rocks.
The Shell Beach: Close-up shots of the infinite variety of shells provide a unique and colorful texture for photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Explore Basalt Rocks: Walk among the giant hexagonal pillars and feel the unique texture of the volcanic rock.
Ferry Adventure: Enjoy the 15-minute boat ride from Malpe harbor, offering great views of the coastline.
Beachcombing: Walk along the shell-covered shores and find unique sea shells washed up by the tide.
Photography: Capture the dramatic landscape where the black rocks meet the blue sea, especially during the golden hour.
Picnicking: Bring your own food and enjoy a meal under the shade of the coconut trees.
Swimming: Take a dip in the clear, shallow waters near the designated safe zones.
Sunbathing: Relax on the white sands and soak in the tropical sun....Explore Basalt Rocks: Walk among the giant hexagonal pillars and feel the unique texture of the volcanic rock.
Ferry Adventure: Enjoy the 15-minute boat ride from Malpe harbor, offering great views of the coastline.
Beachcombing: Walk along the shell-covered shores and find unique sea shells washed up by the tide.
Photography: Capture the dramatic landscape where the black rocks meet the blue sea, especially during the golden hour.
Picnicking: Bring your own food and enjoy a meal under the shade of the coconut trees.
Swimming: Take a dip in the clear, shallow waters near the designated safe zones.
Sunbathing: Relax on the white sands and soak in the tropical sun.
Birding: Spot coastal birds like gulls and terns that frequent the rocky shores.
Island Trekking: Walk the entire perimeter of the island to see the different rock formations on each side.
Sunset Watching: Stay for the last ferry to witness a spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Information
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Why Famous:
Unique Geology: It is world-renowned for its columnar basaltic rocks, a feature shared with places like the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. It is a major site for geological research worldwide.
Historical Landmark: The association with Vasco d...Unique Geology: It is world-renowned for its columnar basaltic rocks, a feature shared with places like the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. It is a major site for geological research worldwide.
Historical Landmark: The association with Vasco da Gama adds a significant historical layer to its fame. It is considered one of the most beautiful and unique island groups in the Arabian Sea, attracting thousands of international tourists annually. -
Architecture:
Geological Columnar Structures: The "architecture" of the island is purely natural, consisting of vertical basalt columns.
Dimensions: The largest island is about 500 meters long and 100 meters wide. The hexagonal columns vary in height, wi...Geological Columnar Structures: The "architecture" of the island is purely natural, consisting of vertical basalt columns.
Dimensions: The largest island is about 500 meters long and 100 meters wide. The hexagonal columns vary in height, with some reaching up to 6 meters. These columns are perfectly interlocking, looking like man-made pillars but are actually cooled lava. The coastline is jagged and rocky, featuring a natural stone staircase-like formation created by the cooling of the lava flows. There are small shaded resting points made of eco-friendly materials like thatch and wood to blend with the surroundings. The lack of concrete structures helps maintain the island's prehistoric and primitive aesthetic. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the closest, roughly 60 KMS from Malpe Beach.
By Train: Udupi Railway Station is the nearest stop, about 10 KMS from the Malpe ferry point.
By Road: Take the NH 66 ...By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the closest, roughly 60 KMS from Malpe Beach.
By Train: Udupi Railway Station is the nearest stop, about 10 KMS from the Malpe ferry point.
By Road: Take the NH 66 from Mangalore towards Udupi. The journey takes about 1. 5 to 2 hours.
By Local Transport: Frequent city buses run from Udupi bus stand to Malpe beach. From the beach, a government or private ferry will take you to the island. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Different Seasons: Winter (October to February) is the only time the island is accessible and pleasant. The weather is cool and the sea is calm.
Parts of the Day: Early Morning is best for a peaceful walk. Late Afternoon is preferred for p...Different Seasons: Winter (October to February) is the only time the island is accessible and pleasant. The weather is cool and the sea is calm.
Parts of the Day: Early Morning is best for a peaceful walk. Late Afternoon is preferred for photographers wanting to capture the sunset against the basalt rocks. Avoid midday as the sun can be very harsh with no shade. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Malpe Beach (6 KMS) 2. Udupi Krishna Temple (10 KMS) 3. Kapu Lighthouse (25 KMS) 4. Manipal End Point (15 KMS) 5. Delta Beach (18 KMS) 6. Pajaka Kshetra (20 KMS) 7. Anantheshwara Temple (10 KMS) 8. Coin Museum Corp Bank (10 KMS) 9. Hoode Beach (12 KMS) 10. Mangalore City (65 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear sturdy footwear with good grip as the basalt rocks can be very slippery and sharp. Do not venture too deep into the water due to strong currents.
Packing: Carry plenty of water and snacks as there are no shops on the i...Health & Safety: Wear sturdy footwear with good grip as the basalt rocks can be very slippery and sharp. Do not venture too deep into the water due to strong currents.
Packing: Carry plenty of water and snacks as there are no shops on the island. Wear high SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Accommodation: Stay in Udupi or Malpe where there are numerous beach resorts and hotels.
Cash & Connectivity: Carry Cash for ferry tickets; ATMs are available at Malpe Beach but not on the island. Connectivity is poor once you reach the island.
Environment: It is a zero-plastic zone; ensure you bring back all your trash to the mainland.
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