Gabit Keni Beach near Ankola, Karnataka, India (© Amith Nag Photography/Getty Images)

When people think of South India, they often picture spice trade routes, classical music, folk dances and a coastline that has connected India with the world for centuries. Follow that coastline west into Karnataka and you'll reach a quieter stop near Ankola: Gabit Keni Beach. Life here revolves around the Arabian Sea, with fishing boats setting out before dawn and returning with the day's catch.