Malpe, situated in the Udupi district of Karnataka in South India, is just 10kms from Udupi, the famous temple town. Once an important Indian port, this beach town with its endless stretches of pristine beaches fringed by stately palm trees is ideal for a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  Malpe is known also for the temple of Vadabhandeshwara which houses the idol of Sri Balarama which was installed by Sri Madhwacharya, the renowned exponent of Shaivaite philosophy. The Ananteshwara temple is another well known temple here.

There are three islands to the west of Malpe.The southern most is Kari-Illada-Kallu, the middle one is Daria-Gadara-Kallu and the northern most island is Daria bahdur Gad. The sea between the rocky islands and the shore offers a safe anchorage for vessels during rough weather. The fort on Daria Bahadurgad said to be built by Basavappa Nayaka of Bidanur is worth a visit. St. Mary’s Island where Vasco da Gama is said to have landed in 1498 is a picturesque, uninhabited island, famous for its basalt rock formations. It was declared a National Geological Monument in 1979. Visitors can travel to the island in boats plying between the shore and the island. Malpe is known for its fishing and industries. From Malpe, one can easily travel to the nearest city of Mangalore.