Offbeat Shores: India’s Lesser-Known Coastal Escapes

Discover India’s quieter coastal towns that offer sun, sand, and serenity, perfect for travellers who want to experience beaches away from the crowds. Each destination is ideal for a 2–3 day weekend with minimal travel stress, local flavour, and peaceful stays.

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From Mangalore/Udupi: Hidden Coastal Gems

Kaup Beach: (1–1.5 hours from Mangalore) — lighthouse views, quiet sands

• Lesser-known beach with a charming lighthouse and long uncrowded shores
• Ideal for beach walks, photography, and watching spectacular sunrises
• Small local shacks offer fresh seafood and coconut water

Perfect for a serene, offbeat seaside weekend close to Mangalore.

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‍Malpe & St. Mary’s Island: (45 mins–1 hour from Udupi) — island vibes, calm waters

• Malpe is a quiet beach with golden sands, and a ferry takes you to St. Mary’s Island with its unique basalt rock formations
• Great for swimming, boating, and exploring the island’s natural beauty
• Minimal commercialisation keeps it peaceful and relaxing

If you want a scenic coastal escape with a touch of adventure, Malpe and St. Mary’s Island are ideal.‍

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Maravanthe: (1.5–2 hours from Udupi) — dramatic coast, river meets sea

• Unique stretch where the highway runs between the Arabian Sea and the Souparnika River
• Clean sands, swaying palms, and few tourists make it perfect for a quiet getaway
• Simple homestays and small local eateries give an authentic coastal experience

Perfect for travellers who want dramatic landscapes and a tranquil beach break.

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From Goa: Beyond the Party Beaches

Galjibaga & Kakolem: (2–3 hours from Panaji) — turtle beaches, hidden coves

• Remote beaches with very few tourists, ideal for nature lovers
• Best time to visit during turtle nesting season for a unique wildlife experience
• Beach walks and gentle swimming are highlights

A quiet coastal escape for travellers seeking untouched shores.‍

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Cabo de Rama: (2 hours from Panaji) — fort, cliff views, sunset serenity

• Small beach near a historic fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea
• Great for photography, sunset watching, and slow exploration
• Low-key stays and beach shacks enhance the rustic charm

Perfect for a peaceful, culturally rich beach day trip in Goa.‍

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Butterfly Beach: (1.5 hours from Palolem) — hidden, tropical vibes

• Tiny, secluded cove accessible by boat or forest trek
• Pristine sands and surrounding cliffs give a sense of being far from civilization
• Ideal for picnics, sunbathing, and spotting wildlife

For travellers who want complete seclusion and tropical charm in Goa.

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From Kerala: Calm Coastal Towns & Backwater Beaches

Varkala (1–1.5 hours from Trivandrum) — cliff-side charm, peaceful sands

• Cliff-top cafés and quiet beach below make it a relaxing escape
• Activities include yoga, beach walks, and visiting natural springs
• Moderate tourist presence, quieter than Kovalam

Perfect for a rejuvenating weekend with sea views and cliff-top vibes.

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‍Bekal (5–6 hours from Kochi) — historic fort, unspoiled coastline

• Clean beaches near the iconic Bekal Fort
• Low tourist density compared to Kerala’s more famous beaches
• Local cuisine and homestays give a relaxed coastal experience

Ideal for travellers seeking history, calm beaches, and authentic stays.

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Meenkunnu & Ezhara Beach (3–4 hours from Kannur) — offbeat Kerala escapes

• Less crowded sands with coconut groves and gentle waves
• Great for swimming, exploring small fishing villages, and nature walks
• Simple homestays keep the vibe intimate and local

Perfect for a quiet, soulful coastal getaway in northern Kerala.

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Why Lesser-Known Coastal Towns Matter

• Short trips let you disconnect without the crowds and long drives
• Offbeat beaches offer authentic local experiences, slower pace, and scenic peace
• Small resorts and homestays make the weekend feel personal and relaxed

These destinations offer sand, surf, and serenity far from mainstream beaches.

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Final Thoughts

Travelling to these offbeat coastal escapes can require some planning, from ferry timings to local stays and hidden routes. With ACMA Holidays, all of that is taken care of — from flights and transfers to curated stays and activity suggestions. Whether you’re chasing serene beaches, quiet sunsets, or authentic local experiences, your weekend becomes seamless, relaxing, and truly offbeat, letting you focus on the joy of discovery.