St. Mary’s Island—also known as Coconut Island or Thonsepar—is a stunning group of four small uninhabited islands located in the Arabian Sea, just off Malpe Beach near Udupi, Karnataka,India
🌋 What Makes It Special
- Striking geology: The islands are famous for unique hexagonal basalt rock formations—columnar lava rocks that resemble those at the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland. These formed around 80–100 million years ago during the rifting of Madagascar from India.
- National Geoheritage Monument: Recognized and protected for their geological significance by the Geological Survey of India.
- Pristine coastline: The western shores are lined with seashells instead of sand, offering a unique beach experience.
📍 Geographic & Historical Context
- Located approximately 5–6 km off Udupi, accessible via a 30-minute ferry from Malpe Harbour—about 4–6 km away depending on the ferry route.
- Local legend says Vasco da Gama landed here in 1498, naming it El Padron de Santa Maria after Mother Mary; the name stuck.
🚤 Planning Your Visit
🕒 Timings & Costs
- Ferry hours: 9:00–9:30 AM to 5:00–5:30 PM; return boats until ~6:00–6:30 PM.
- Ferry fare:
₹250–400 per person (round trip); camera charges may apply (₹200), depending on the operator. - Minimum group size: Some boats depart only if filled (usually ~12–30 people).
✅ Best Time to Visit
- Open months: October to January is ideal—with clear skies, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures.
- Closed during monsoon: Rough seas during June to late September, and the island is off-limits for safety reasons .
🎒 What to Pack
- Light, quick-dry clothing; sandals or slip-ons that are easy to remove (you may wade into the water to board the ferry).
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottles—there are no shops on the island.
- Note that plastic, food items, and shell collection are prohibited to preserve the ecosystem.
🧭 Things You Can Do
- Explore rock formations: Walk over the hexagonal basalt columns and shallow pools—perfect for photography.
- Shell spotting: One side of the coastline is covered entirely by shells.
- Bird-watching: Look out for brahminy kites, egrets, sandpipers, seagulls, and green bee-eaters.
- Relax or picnic: Bring snacks and unwind—scenic views and coconut groves make it tranquil.
- Sunset views: The west-facing coastline offers memorable sunsets if timed right (consider last ferry times).
Please note: Swimming and diving are generally not allowed due to strong currents and safety regulations.
🧳 Where to Stay
- No overnight facilities on the island.
- Stay options available in Udupi or nearby Malpe, which is only 5–6 km away.
- Udupi offers a variety of accommodation choices along with delicious local cuisine—you can enjoy Udupi specialties like spiced rice, tambuli, menaskai, and bakshya.
📋 Quick Guide at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | ~6 km off Udupi coast; reachable from Malpe Beach by ferry |
| Main Attractions | Hexagonal basalt columns, shell beaches, coconut palms |
| Best Time | October – January |
| Operational Hours | Ferry: ~9:00 AM to 5:30 PM; return ideally by ~6:00 PM |
| Costs | ₹250–400 per person (return ferry); camera fees extra |
| Amenities | No shops; basic toilets; environmental restrictions in place |
| Safety Tips | Wear water-friendly footwear, carry sun protection and water |