I had visited gokarna in the month end of may, during the weekdays. It is famous for the mahashiva rathri festival held in february. However, in the off season yiu can caoture its true essence. Kudle beach is clean. There are shacks that conpensate for the stay and is veey cheap. It ranges from 300 to 1200.
The food is decent in most of the restaurant. It is very safe and is isolated providing a peace of mind.