Tourism in the Dakshina Kannada district is a most pleasurable experience located, as it is, amidst the soaring Western Ghats on the East and bordered by the blue waters of the Arabian Sea. Pristine beaches, picturesque mountain ranges, temple towns and a rich culture make it a sought after tourist destination. Dakshina Kannada is well known for Yakshagana- a fabulous costumed dance drama form, Kambala- the sport of buffalo racing by farmers, Kori-katta (Cock Fight) and Bootha Kola.

Leisure Tourism
Venoor is 19 Kms from Belthangady and about 54 Kms from Mangalore. The chief objects of interest here are the colossal Monolithic statue of Gommata of 38ft in height and a few basadis. This statue was sculpted by Janakacharya and set up in 1604 AD by Veera Thimanna Ajila IV.

The Sultan Batheri is situated in Boloor, 6 Kms away from Mangalore city bus stand. It was built in Black stones by Tipu Sultan to prevent warships to enter Gurupur River. The construction is bafflingly exquisite. Although it is a watchtower, it gives the impression of a miniature fortress with its arrangements for mounting cannons all round.

The Jamalabad Fort was built in 1794 by Tipu Sultan in memory of his mother Jamalabee. Located about 65 Kms from Mangalore, it is a good site for trekkers.

Nature Tourism
The Kadri Hill Park is the highest and largest garden in Mangalore. Situated 4 Kms away from Hampankatta to the East which is adjacent to NH-17, it is maintained by the horticulture department. The park is mainly meant for children. Toy Train and other such facilities are present in the park.

Located at Mudushedde, just 10 Kms from Mangalore, Pilikula Nisargadhama is an integrated nature park offers a delightful variety of attractions to the eco-tourist and nature lovers. Spread over 300 acres of land, the park has a lake with boating facilities, a wild life safari, a mini aquarium and science centre.

A number of beautiful beaches are also found strewn across the Dakshin Kannada district. Summer Sands Beach Resort situated at Ullal Beach is around 15 Kms away from Mangalore to the South. Set in 14 acres of casuarina groves, it has well furnished cottages and makes a pleasant getaway from the city. The restaurant here serves good seafood to satiate one`s appetite. The picturesque Surathkal beach is known for its clean surrounding and the lighthouse located here. This beach is few minutes away from National Institute of Technology, Karnataka. One of the best beaches in Dakshina Kannada is the Tannirbavi Beach. One can enjoy the sunset view here. It is about 12 Kms away from Mangalore. The Panambur Beach is situated 10 Kms from Mangalore, to the left of the harbour and about 1Km fro NH.17. It is and ideal place for a picnic. 9 Kms to the south of Mangalore, and 1/2 Km from the Someshwara Bus stand is the Someshwar Beach. This beach is well known for the large rocks called "Rudra Shile". The historical Somanath Temple constructed during the regime of the famous queen Abbakka Devi is situated in the north side.