St. Mary’s Island Travel Guide: Ferry Timings, Entry Fee & Tips

St. Mary’s Island, also known as Coconut Island, is one of the most unique coastal destinations in Karnataka. Famous for its hexagonal basalt rock formations, turquoise waters, and white-sand beaches, this tiny island group near Udupi is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and day trippers.

This detailed guide covers everything—ferry timings, ticket prices, how to reach, best time to visit, and travel tips—to help you plan your trip easily.

About St. Mary’s Island

St. Mary’s Island is a cluster of four small yet stunning islands located just off the coast of Malpe Beach in Udupi, Karnataka. Known for their rare hexagonal basalt rock formations, these islands are believed to have formed over 60 million years ago due to volcanic activity. This makes St. Mary’s Island one of the most unique geological sites in India, often compared to the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland.

The islands are famous for:

• Pillar-like rock formations created by ancient lava

• Crystal-clear turquoise waters

• White sandy beaches with seashell beds

• Picture-perfect viewpoints and quiet picnic spots

Because of its natural beauty and scientific importance, St. Mary’s Island has been declared a Geo Heritage Monument by the Geological Survey of India.

It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, photographers, beach explorers, and families looking for a serene, offbeat coastal experience near Udupi.

Ferry Timings to St. Mary’s Island

Ferries to St. Mary’s Island operate exclusively from the Malpe Beach jetty in Udupi. The service usually begins around 9:00 AM, and boats run continuously throughout the day depending on weather and crowd flow. Ferries generally depart every 20 to 30 minutes, making it convenient for visitors to plan their trip without long waiting times. The last ferry to the island typically leaves by 4:30 PM, ensuring that all tourists return before evening. The final return ferry from the island is usually around 5:30 PM, after which no further boats operate.

It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the island by ferry, and visitors are usually allowed to spend about one to one-and-a-half hours on the island before boarding the return boat. These timings can vary slightly during weekends, holidays, or peak tourist seasons, as operators may adjust schedules based on crowd levels.

It’s important to note that ferry services remain completely closed during the monsoon months from June to September due to rough sea conditions. Even during the regular season, ferries may be postponed or cancelled temporarily if the sea turns choppy or if weather alerts are issued. All ferries depart from the main jetty area at Malpe Beach, where ticket counters and waiting areas are available for visitors.

St. Mary’s Island Entry Fee & Ferry Ticket Price

There is no separate entry fee to visit St. Mary’s Island; the only cost involved is the ferry ticket from Malpe Beach, which covers both the onward and return journey. Ferry ticket prices generally range between ₹300 to ₹400 for adults, depending on the season and operator. For children, the fare is usually lower, around ₹150 to ₹200, making it an affordable trip for families. The ticket price includes the short 15–20 minute ferry ride to the island and approximately 1 to 1.5 hours of allotted time to explore the island’s beaches, rock formations, and viewpoints.

Most operators do not charge extra for carrying cameras or mobile phones, and photography is allowed freely across the island. However, during peak tourist seasons, weekends, or special holidays, prices may vary slightly based on crowd levels. Visitors must purchase tickets directly at the Malpe Beach jetty, where designated counters and information boards display the day’s fare and operational timings. Overall, the ferry ticket is the only mandatory cost, making St. Mary’s Island a budget-friendly and memorable coastal experience.

How to Reach St. Mary’s Island

To reach St. Mary’s Island, visitors must first travel to Malpe Beach in Udupi, as this is the only point from where ferries operate to the island. Malpe Beach is located about 7 kilometers from Udupi city, and it is easily accessible by auto rickshaw, cab, or local buses that run frequently from the Udupi Bus Stand. If you're coming from Mangalore, the distance is around 60 kilometers, and you can reach Malpe by taking a bus or hiring a taxi, which takes roughly 1.5 hours. Once you reach Malpe Beach, all you need to do is head to the main jetty area, where the ferry counters are set up. You can purchase your tickets on the spot, wait in the designated queue, and board the ferry that takes you to the island in about 15 to 20 minutes. Since there are no direct road or water routes other than the official ferry service, taking the ferry from Malpe Beach is the only way to access St. Mary’s Island.

Best Time to Visit

• October to May – Best weather, calm seas

• Avoid monsoon (June–September) as the island is usually closed

Morning hours (9 AM–11 AM) offer the best lighting for photos and lesser crowds.

Top Things to Do on St. Mary’s Island

1. Explore the Hexagonal Basalt Rock Formations

One of the most iconic attractions on St. Mary’s Island is its unique hexagonal basalt rock formations, created millions of years ago by volcanic activity. These tall, pillar-like rocks give the island a dramatic landscape and are perfect for photography, sightseeing, and slow exploration. Walking along these formations feels like stepping into a natural sculpture gallery, making it one of the most memorable experiences on the island.

2. Relax on the Pristine Beaches

St. Mary’s Island is known for its serene beaches filled with white shells, soft sand, and clear waters. The beaches here are quieter compared to crowded mainland beaches, making them great for relaxing, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the peaceful sea breeze. Many visitors love sitting on the shores with their feet in the water, soaking in the calm coastal atmosphere.

3. Enjoy Photography and Scenic Views

The island offers endless opportunities for photography lovers. From the geological wonders and rugged rock cliffs to the turquoise waters and coconut trees, every corner looks like a postcard. The panoramic sea views, especially during early morning or before sunset, make it easy to capture frame-worthy shots. Whether you love landscape photography or candid travel clicks, this island is a paradise.

4. Spot Seashells and Marine Life

The shores of St. Mary’s Island are carpeted with colorful seashells of different shapes and sizes. Visitors can enjoy slow walks along the beach, spotting interesting shells, tiny crabs, and occasional small marine creatures in the shallow waters. Although collecting shells is restricted to protect the ecosystem, observing them up close is still a delightful experience.

5. Take a Leisurely Island Walk

The island is small enough to explore on foot, and a full circle walk takes less than an hour. The walking paths take you through coconut groves, open viewpoints, shell beaches, and rocky patches. It’s a refreshing experience for visitors who enjoy nature walks and want to discover the island at their own pace. The gentle sea breeze and peaceful environment add to the charm of the stroll.

Important Travel Tips

• No stay options on the island – only day visits allowed

• Carry water, sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen

• Wear comfortable footwear (rocks can be sharp)

• Dispose waste responsibly—maintain island cleanliness

• Follow ferry timings strictly

• Island may close suddenly during high tides or bad weather