St Mary's Island
Discover St. Mary's Island, a geological wonder with unique hexagonal basalt rocks and stunning Arabian Sea views, accessible via a scenic boat ride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
St Mary's Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover St. Mary's Island, a geological wonder with unique hexagonal basalt rocks and stunning Arabian Sea views, accessible via a scenic boat ride.
"A geological marvel with stunning basalt formations and a picturesque boat ride."
🚢 Boat Ticket Info
Ferry tickets cost around ₹350 per person. Book in advance if possible, especially on weekends.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and basalt formations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hexagonal Basalt Formations
Witness the stunning, naturally formed hexagonal basaltic lava rocks, a geological wonder millions of years in the making.
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Scenic Boat Ride
Enjoy a picturesque 30-minute boat journey from Malpe Beach, offering beautiful coastal views.
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Island Exploration
Wander across the small islands, marvel at the unique landscape, and soak in the serene Arabian Sea atmosphere.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Timing
Geological Marvels & What to Pack
+1 Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and water. While there are no resorts directly on St. Mary's Island, nearby Malpe offers accommodation options. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Ticket Info
Ferry tickets cost around ₹350 per person. Book in advance if possible, especially on weekends.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and basalt formations.
☀️ Sun Protection
Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as there's limited shade on the island.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Ticket Info
Ferry tickets cost around ₹350 per person. Book in advance if possible, especially on weekends.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and basalt formations.
☀️ Sun Protection
Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as there's limited shade on the island.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photography Ready
The unique rock formations and coastal views make for incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique hexagonal basalt rock formations, calling them a geological marvel. The scenic boat ride from Malpe Beach is also a highlight, offering beautiful coastal views. While the island offers stunning natural beauty, some find the facilities limited and suggest bringing essentials.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Mary's Island is accessible by boat from Malpe Beach in Udupi, Karnataka. The boat ride takes approximately 25-30 minutes.
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is about 60 km away from Malpe Beach. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Udupi and then to Malpe.
You can easily reach Malpe Beach from Udupi by local bus or by hiring an auto-rickshaw or taxi. The journey is relatively short.
There are no resorts or accommodations directly on St. Mary's Island. Visitors typically stay in Malpe or Udupi and take a day trip to the island.
No, private vehicles cannot be taken to the island. Access is solely by ferry from Malpe Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The boat ticket price to St. Mary's Island is approximately ₹350 per person for adults and ₹150 for children. Prices may vary.
Ferries to St. Mary's Island typically operate between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. It's advisable to confirm the exact timings before your visit.
While the boat ride has a fee, there is generally no separate entry fee for St. Mary's Island itself, but it's always good to check for any updated regulations.
Currently, online booking for St. Mary's Island ferry tickets is not widely available. Tickets are usually purchased at the counter at Malpe Beach.
To avoid queues, especially on weekends or holidays, it's best to arrive at Malpe Beach early in the morning to purchase your ferry tickets.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the unique hexagonal basaltic lava rock formations, a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. The island also offers beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Arabian Sea.
Activities are limited, focusing on exploring the geological formations, enjoying the beach, and taking photos. Some visitors enjoy swimming in the clear waters.
While you can walk around the islands, it's not a destination for extensive hiking. The terrain is rocky and uneven, best explored with caution.
Facilities are minimal. There are no restrooms or food stalls directly on the island. It's recommended to use facilities at Malpe Beach before departing.
Swimming is possible in designated areas, but always be mindful of the currents and waves. It's advisable to swim only when lifeguards are present, if available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food vendors or restaurants on St. Mary's Island. You should plan to eat before you go or after you return to Malpe Beach.
Malpe Beach and the surrounding areas in Udupi offer a variety of local eateries and seafood restaurants. You can find fresh catches and traditional South Indian cuisine.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water. However, it's important to dispose of any waste responsibly to keep the island clean.
Udupi is famous for its vegetarian South Indian cuisine, particularly its 'Udupi meals' (thali). Seafood is also a popular choice in coastal areas like Malpe.
While Malpe is more about casual beachside dining, Udupi town offers a wider range of restaurants, including some with more refined dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The hexagonal basalt rock formations are the prime subjects. Also, capture the coastline, the clear waters, and the boat rides for stunning shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but still good for capturing the unique rock textures.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expanse of the rock formations and the coastline.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected areas and near tourist attractions. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Expect dramatic shots of the geometric rock patterns, serene beach scenes, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities on the island are limited. Comfortable shoes are a must for little feet navigating the rocky terrain. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed for everyone. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the interplay of light and shadow on these formations, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic effect. The surrounding coastline and the clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea also provide beautiful backdrops. Don't forget to bring your wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and unique geological features. 🚶♀️ Nature & Geology Lovers
You can spend hours marveling at the ancient basaltic lava rocks and learning about their formation. The relatively untouched natural beauty of the islands, combined with the unique geological features, offers a serene and educational experience for those who appreciate the Earth's history. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Significance of St. Mary's Island
+1 The scientific classification of these formations as a National Geological Monument in 2001 highlights their importance. Visitors can witness these natural sculptures firsthand, offering a glimpse into Earth's ancient geological processes. The island is actually a cluster of four small islands, each contributing to this extraordinary landscape. The visual impact of these geometric rocks against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea is truly captivating. They are often compared to natural stepping stones or a honeycomb structure, making them a unique sight in India.
The scientific studies indicate that the basalt was formed from sub-volcanic activity, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. It's a place where nature's artistry is on full display, drawing in geology enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The Journey to the Islands
+1 The boat ride is often highlighted as a key part of the island visit, providing a refreshing transition from the mainland to the tranquil island environment. Boats operate daily, usually from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though timings can vary based on weather conditions and season.
It's advisable to check the latest ferry schedules and ticket prices, which are generally around ₹350 per person. +1 Arriving early, especially on weekends, can help avoid long queues and ensure a smoother departure. The journey is relatively short, making it an accessible day trip for most visitors. 
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