11 potential Blue Flag beaches in Karnataka

11 potential Blue Flag beaches in Karnataka

Why in news

• The Karnataka Tourism Department has identified 11 potential Blue Flag beaches in the State, as announced by Secretary K.V. Thrilok Chandra at the Coastal Karnataka Tourism Conclave.

Objective & Strategy

• Purpose: To elevate coastal tourism standards by developing 11 beaches as potential “Blue Flag” candidates, addressing the region’s status as “under-developed” despite holding immense potential for hospitality experiences.
• Target Area: The initiative focuses on Coastal Karnataka, which currently accounts for 21% to 38% of total tourist visits to the State.
• Development Strategy: Involves a multi-faceted approach including educational programmes, installation of information signages, introduction of adventure and water sports, and the organization of beach festivals.
• Maintenance & Standards: Operational focus includes rigorous beach cleaning, garbage collection and disposal, regular water quality tests, and the maintenance of public amenities to meet international standards.

Identified Potential Beaches

• Dakshina Kannada District:
  • Someshwara Beach
  • Ullal Beach
  • Sasihitlu Beach
• Udupi District:
  • Asare Beach
  • Kodi Kanyana Beach
  • Padukere Beach
  • Kodi Beach (Kundapura)
  • Shiroor Beach
• Uttara Kannada District:
  • Bailur Beach
  • Apsarakonda Beach
  • Rabindranath Tagore Beach

River Cruise Projects

Five national waterways have been identified for developing river cruise tourism:

• Kali River: 53 km
• Netravathi River: 30 km
• Sharavati River: 29 km
• Kabini River: 23 km
• Gurupura River: 10 km

Tourism Statistics (2023-2024)

The region has seen a significant rise in tourism numbers:

• Domestic Footfall: Increased from 28 crores to 30 crores.
• Foreign Footfall: Increased from 09 lakh to 4.85 lakh.

Current Blue Flag Status (As of January 2026)

Karnataka currently holds two Blue Flag certified beaches:

• Padubidri Beach (Udupi District)
• Kasarkod Beach (Uttara Kannada District)

About Blue Flag Certification

• Origin: Initiated in France (1985) and expanded globally in 2001.
• Awarded By: Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
• Aim: Promotes sustainable practices in marine and freshwater ecosystems.
• Key Criteria:
  • Water Quality: Maintains high cleanliness and safety standards.
  • Environmental Management: Implements sustainable eco-friendly initiatives.
  • Safety Measures: Ensures visitor security and accessibility.
  • Education: Promotes environmental awareness and responsible tourism.

Blue Flag Beaches of India

• Shivrajpur (Gujarat)
• Golden Beach (Odisha)
• Ghoghla (Diu)
• Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka)
• Kappad and Chal (Kerala)
• Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh)
• Radhanagar (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
• Kovalam (Tamil Nadu)
• Eden Beach (Puducherry)
• Minicoy Thundi and Kadmat (Lakshadweep)