Bangalore is a bustling metropolis where the pursuit of work-life balance can often leave you yearning for a break. While the city has various options to unwind and relax, it lacks a beach. But an easy few hours’ drive, a quick train ride or a short flight will take you to the serene beaches of Gokarna, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. So, pack those shorts, swimsuits, shades and sunscreen, as we introduce you to some of the best beaches near Bangalore to escape over the weekend.
Each of these coastal getaways possesses a distinct charm. Some remain secluded, offering a calm and carefree ambience, while others reverberate with spirited festivities and water-bound adventures. As you delve into this guide, you’ll find the ideal choice to match your weekend aspirations.
Best beaches near Bangalore
Auroville Beach, Pondicherry
Distance from Bangalore: 314 km away (6 hours approximately)
Kickstart your weekend in Pondicherry after driving for about six hours from Bangalore. Famously known as Auro Beach by the locals, it is located near Auroville, an experimental township designed to promote human unity. This town adds to the beach’s tranquil charm and attracts travellers to this popular destination.
You can swim, surf or spend the day lazing around and strolling alongside the shore during your mini vacation. Make sure to catch the stunning sunrise over the Bay of Bengal here as you explore the surroundings, where one can find various shacks, food stalls and hotels.
Best time to visit: April to June
How to reach:
By air: Although Pondicherry has its own airport, there are fewer commercial flights operating on the route; therefore, the best option is to fly out from Chennai International Airport, which is 145 km from Pondicherry
By train: Villupuram Railway Station is the closest, about 45 km away
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Marina Beach, Tamil Nadu
Distance from Bangalore: 338 km (7 hours approximately).
Nestled along the Bay of Bengal in Chennai, Marina Beach is India’s longest beach and one of the country’s coastal treasures. Spanning over 13 km, travellers are enticed to visit this beach for its vast shoreline, iconic landmarks, vibrant year-round activities and well-maintained promenade. Due to strong undercurrents, swimming is not advisable; however, one can grab snacks from nearby food stalls and enjoy the pleasant weather while munching on local delicacies. The best part about this beach is that one can unwind on the shore even after sunset, as the area remains well-lit.
Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach:
By air: Chennai Airport is the nearest airport, about 17 km from the beach
By train: Chepauk is the closest train station, one km away
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Panambur Beach, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: 357 km away (8 hours approximately)
If you like watching serene sunsets and enjoy thrilling water activities such as jet ski rides, surfing and parasailing, then Panambur Beach in Mangalore is an ideal location for all that. Other activities that one can do here are boating, ATV rides, horse and camel rides and dolphin viewing. You can also gorge on delicious vegetarian and seafood delicacies from many food stalls nearby, or just capture the moments with your camera and relax on this tranquil beach without a care. Add this beach to your itinerary for a fun-filled trip, as it is just an eight-hour drive from Bangalore.
Best time to visit: October to February.
How to reach:
By air: Mangalore International Airport is the closest, 13 km away.
By train: Surathkal railway station is the closest, 7.2 km away.
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Bekal Beach, Kerala
Distance from Bangalore: 361 km (8 hours approximately)
Overlooking the Arabian Sea is the stunning Bekal Beach in Kerala‘s Kasargod district. Located on the shoreline is Bekal Fort, one of the largest forts in the state and among the prominent landmarks here. It offers picturesque views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
The area is well-lit at night, which allows travellers to stay for a little longer than usual and admire the beauty of this place. The fort and the beach aren’t the only two attractions here. The nearby observation tower, the Anjaneya Temple, which has Theyyam sculptures built from laterite, a mosque built by Tipu Sultan, and a rock garden are also worth the visit.
Best time to visit: December to February
How to reach:
By air: Mangalore International Airport is the closest, 50 km from Kasaragod town
By train: Kanhangad Railway Station is the closest, 11.5 km away
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Paradise Beach, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: 490 km (7 hours approximately)
True to its name, Paradise Beach in Gokarna is really a tropical haven whose natural beauty is still intact, thanks to limited accessibility and non-existent commercial activity here. The whitish-brown sand beach can only be reached via hiking or taking the ferry from the town.
The 150 metres long beach allows travellers to rent camps and spend the entire day swimming, kayaking or opting for a beach trek since 70 percent of it is covered with rocks.
Overnight stay at these camps is another exciting activity to do, along with a night trek under the starry sky. A couple of things to remember: carry plenty of snacks, as there aren’t many food options around, and make sure to inform your loved ones that you might be unreachable due to poor connectivity.
Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach:
By ferry: Kudle Beach is the nearest port to reach Paradise Beach
Book your stay at SwaSwara Hotel in Gokarna on Booking.com
Book your stay at SwaSwara Hotel in Gokarna on Agoda.com
(Hero and feature image credit: Shutterstock)
Related: 10 Destinations In India That Remind You To #ProtectParadise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What are the best family beaches near Bangalore?
Auroville Beach, Panambur Beach, and Marina Beach are some of the best family beaches near Bangalore.
– What are the best adventure beaches near Bangalore?
Panambur Beach in Mangalore offers exciting adventure activities on the beach.
– What are the best beaches with nightlife near Bangalore?
Arambol Beach in Goa is one of the best beaches with a vibrant nightlife.
A post-graduate in journalism and mass communication, Ayushi is a digital writer who has worked with several Indian media organisations, including Times Internet Limited and Zee Media Corporation Limited, in the news, lifestyle and entertainment space. When she's not on her desk, she can be found dancing, trying new restaurants or packing her bags to explore a new destination.
