The beaches identified as potential Blue Flag candidates are Someshwara, Ullal, and Sasihitlu in Dakshina Kannada; Asare, Kodi Kanyana, Padukere, Kodi Kundapur, and Shiroor in Udupi; and Bailur, Apsarakonda, and Ravidranath Tagore beach in Uttara Kannada.
Five national waterways have been identified for developing river cruise tourism in Karnataka, namely, Kali river, covering 53 km; Sharavati river, covering 29 km; Gurupura river, covering 10 km, Netravathi river, 30 km, and Kabini river, covering 23 km.
Draft Karnataka Beach Shack Policy aims to regulate and promote eco-friendly, sustainable and responsible tourism on the State’s coastline while ensuring local community participation, environment conservation and quality visitor experiences.
Karnataka is making a significant push to transform its 320-km coastline and inland waterways into world-class sustainable tourism destinations. The shift towards Eco-Tourism through the Blue Flag program and localized policies.
🌊 Blue Flag Certification: The Gold Standard for Beaches
The Blue Flag is an international eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark. It is one of the world’s most recognized voluntary awards for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.
1.Criteria for Selection (The 33 Points)
To earn a Blue Flag, a beach must comply with 33 stringent criteria across four main categories:
Environmental Education: Information about the ecosystem and local phenomena must be displayed.
Water Quality: No industrial, waste-related, or sewage-related discharges may affect the beach area.
Environmental Management: The beach must be clean; waste disposal bins and recycling facilities must be available.
Safety and Services: Adequate number of lifeguards, first aid equipment, and safe access (including for the disabled) must be provided.
Blue Flag Beaches in India & Karnataka
As of now, India has 12 Blue Flag certified beaches. Karnataka was one of the first states in India to receive this honor.
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🚤 National Waterways & River Cruise Tourism
While the coast attracts sun-seekers, the National Waterways (NW) project aims to explore the hinterlands.
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🏠 The Beach Shack Policy: A Balanced Approach
The draft policy is a game-changer because it moves away from permanent concrete structures to temporary, eco-friendly shacks, similar to the successful model in Goa but with a stricter focus on Karnataka’s culture and environment.
Why is it Important?
Sustainable Economy: Prevents illegal construction on the shoreline.
Local Pride: Licenses are prioritized for local residents, ensuring the profit stays within the community.
Night Tourism: Managed shacks with proper lighting and security allow for safe evening tourism, which is currently lacking in many areas.
🛡️ Importance of these Initiatives
Environmental Protection: Blue Flag standards prevent coastal erosion and pollution.
Global Recognition: International tourists specifically look for “Blue Flag” tags when planning vacations.
Economic Diversification: Reduces the dependency on traditional fishing alone, providing “Green Jobs” to the coastal youth.
🏖️ Potential Blue Flag Candidates in Karnataka
| District | Beach Name | Unique Tourism Potential / Features |
| Dakshina Kannada | Someshwara | Famous for the “Ullal Rocks” and the historic Someshwara Temple on the shore. |
| Ullal | Known for its scenic coastline and proximity to Mangaluru city. | |
| Sasihitlu | An emerging hub for International Surfing festivals; located at the confluence of the Shambhavi and Nandini rivers. | |
| Udupi | Asare | A quiet, pristine stretch ideal for eco-conscious travelers. |
| Kodi Kanyana | Located near a scenic estuary, perfect for bird watching and backwater views. | |
| Padukere | Recently connected by a bridge to Malpe, it offers wide sandy stretches and sunset views. | |
| Kodi Kundapur | Known for its lighthouse and the unique “Sea Walk” experience. | |
| Shiroor | Located at the northern tip of Udupi, it offers a serene environment near the Western Ghats. | |
| Uttara Kannada | Bailur | A secluded beach known for its crystal-clear water and white sand. |
| Apsarakonda | Unique for having a waterfall right next to the beach and ancient caves. | |
| Ravindranath Tagore | The main beach of Karwar; famous for water sports and the INS Chapal Warship Museum. |
Source: The Hindu