Start your trip by beach hopping the popular beaches in Gokarna. Kudle beach is ideal for surfing but can get crowded during peak hours. Om Beach is great for water sports activities and offers a variety of food options. Paradise beach is secluded and requires a bit of a hike, but offers stunning sunset views.
Explore the religious side of Gokarna by visiting some of its famous temples. Start with Mahabaleshwara temple, which is nearly 1200 years old and features a beautiful mural of Lord Shiva painted on its wall. Later visit the Maha Ganapati temple and Koti Tirtha - a holy pond believed to have every wish fulfilled. Finally, visit the Bhadrakali temple with striking architecture.
Experience Gokarna's natural beauty by visiting some well-known waterfalls and trekking through its picturesque scenery. First, go for a hike at Yana rocks surrounded by a forest of teakwood and seasonal mist. Later, head towards the Dudhsagar waterfall, which means the "sea of milk" and is surrounded by lush green forest. End the day by returning to the hotel.
Additional places worth visiting are the Gokarna beach, Half-moon beach and Mirjan Fort. If you have more time, you can try the famous local seafood delicacies available at the Gokarna Market. In contrast, if you have less time, exclude Yana Rocks, as a hike might take almost half a day. Also, keep a note of the weather forecast, ideally visit during the winter months (Oct-Feb) when weather conditions are mild and pleasant. Upcoming monsoon might hinder your beach activities.