The point where the Netravati River meets the Arabian Sea, just north of Ullal, is one of the more scenic spots on this stretch of coast. The estuary creates a shifting landscape of sandbars and channels that changes with the tides and seasons. Fishing boats cross the river mouth on their way in and out of Mangalore's harbour, and the opposite bank offers a view back toward the city's skyline.
Early mornings are the best time — the light is good, the fishing activity is at its peak, and the egrets and herons that work the shallows are most active. The estuary is within easy walking or auto-rickshaw distance from the beach.