Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Mangalore, Karnātaka, India
1. St. Mary's Islands
A group of four small islands known for their columnar basaltic lava formations. The clear waters around the islands offer excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Unique Geology: Columnar basaltic lava formations are a rare sight.
- Marine Life: Abundant marine life including fish, corals, and sea cucumbers.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by boat from Mangalore.
2. Ullal Beach
A serene beach with calm waters, perfect for beginners to learn snorkeling.
- Beginner-friendly: Calm and shallow waters make it ideal for learning.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush green landscapes and coconut palms.
- Local Culture: Close proximity to Ullal village allows for cultural immersion.
3. Someshwar Beach
A secluded beach with a natural freshwater spring and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Natural Spring: Freshwater spring is a unique feature.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters host a variety of marine life.
- Peaceful Environment: Less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
4. Kudremukh National Park
A hill range with a large variety of flora and fauna, also offering opportunities for snorkeling in the Somwarpet River.
- Biodiversity: Home to numerous species of plants, birds, and animals.
- River Snorkeling: Snorkeling in the clear waters of the Somwarpet River.
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers scenic hiking trails for nature lovers.
5. Kadri Hill Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse located on a hill offering panoramic views of the sea and potential snorkeling opportunities.
- Historic Significance: Built in 1904, it's a testament to colonial architecture.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Snorkeling Possibilities: Clear waters surrounding the lighthouse could provide snorkeling opportunities.
6. Tannirbavi Beach
A secluded beach with clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Seclusion: Less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
- Clear Waters: Offers clear waters for snorkeling.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and coconut palms.
7. Sultans Bathery Beach
A clean and well-maintained beach offering snorkeling opportunities.
- Cleanliness: Well-maintained, providing a clean environment.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters host a variety of marine life.
- Proximity to City: Located close to Mangalore city.
8. Kudremukh Lake
A scenic lake surrounded by lush green hills offering opportunities for snorkeling.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters host a variety of aquatic life.
- Hiking Opportunities: Adjacent to Kudremukh National Park, offering hiking trails.
9. Derlakatta Beach
A secluded beach with clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Seclusion: Less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
- Clear Waters: Offers clear waters for snorkeling.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and coconut palms.
10. Baskal Beach
A secluded beach with clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Seclusion: Less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
- Clear Waters: Offers clear waters for snorkeling.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and coconut palms.
11. Bhatkal Beach
A clean and well-maintained beach offering snorkeling opportunities.
- Cleanliness: Well-maintained, providing a clean environment.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters host a variety of marine life.
- Proximity to City: Located close to Mangalore city.
12. Padubidri Beach
A serene beach with calm waters, perfect for beginners to learn snorkeling.
- Beginner-friendly: Calm and shallow waters make it ideal for learning.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush green landscapes and coconut palms.
- Local Culture: Close proximity to Padubidri village allows for cultural immersion.
13. Maravanthe Beach
A unique beach with the Sabha River flowing along one side and opportunities for snorkeling.
- Scenic Beauty: Unique location with a river flowing alongside.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters host a variety of marine life.
- Proximity to City: Located close to Mangalore city.
14. Dharmadam Rock Gardens
A unique rock garden formed by hexagonal basaltic lava columns, offering snorkeling opportunities.
- Unique Geology: Formed by hexagonal basaltic lava columns.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear waters host a variety of marine life.
- Historic Significance: An ancient fort and St. Mary's Church are located nearby.
15. Panniyadi Beach
A serene beach with clear waters, perfect for beginners to learn snorkeling.
- Beginner-friendly: Calm and shallow waters make it ideal for learning.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush green landscapes and coconut palms.
- Local Culture: Close proximity to Panniyadi village allows for cultural immersion.