With its golden sands, roaring waves, and vibrant atmosphere, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches on India’s eastern coast. 🏖️
Stretching along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, Chennai’s coastline offers a mix of serenity, local culture, street food, and recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful sunrise walk, a fun family day out, or a quick weekend escape, beaches in Chennai have something for everyone.
From the world-renowned Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, to quieter gems like Elliot’s Beach, Thiruvanmiyur Beach, and Covelong (Kovalam) Beach, each shoreline tells its own story. The local culture blends seamlessly with the rhythm of the waves, offering an unforgettable experience for travellers and locals alike.
Let’s explore the top beaches in Chennai, the things you can do there, the best time to visit, and how to reach this coastal gem via train, bus, or flight.
🏖️ Top Beaches in Chennai
1. Marina Beach
One of the most iconic landmarks of Chennai, Marina Beach is the longest urban beach in India and the second-longest in the world. Stretching over 13 km, it buzzes with activity-from local vendors to early morning joggers and tourists. It’s the heart of Chennai’s coastal culture, offering mesmerising sunrises and a festive evening atmosphere. A visit to Marina is almost a ritual for anyone visiting Chennai.
Highlights:
- Watch the iconic sunrise 🌅
- Enjoy local snacks like sundal, murukku, and raw mango slices.
- Visit nearby attractions like the Lighthouse, Victory War Memorial, and MGR Memorial.
- Engage in street photography or buy trinkets from local vendors
Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool sea breeze.
2. Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
Calmer and cleaner than Marina, Elliot’s Beach in Besant Nagar is popular among locals for evening hangouts and peaceful walks. Flanked by cosy cafes and historic landmarks, it’s a favourite for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. The beach has a relaxed, laid-back vibe, perfect for enjoying Chennai’s coastal charm away from the crowds. It’s also known for being pet-friendly and well-maintained.
Highlights:
- A quieter alternative to Marina, perfect for evening strolls
- Visit the Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church nearby.
- Great cafes and restaurants around for a relaxing dinner post-beach time
- Pet- and family-friendly ambience 🐶👨👩👧👦
Pro Tip: Try a late evening walk here, followed by a filter coffee from a local cafe.
3. Thiruvanmiyur Beach
Tucked away in a quieter part of the city, Thiruvanmiyur Beach offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of urban life. With fewer commercial stalls and a cleaner shoreline, it’s perfect for morning meditation, jogging, or a quiet sunset. It’s loved by locals for its serenity and by photographers for its raw, natural beauty. A hidden gem for those who prefer solitude over crowds.
Highlights:
- Lesser-known beach is ideal for meditation and yoga sessions.
- Clean and peaceful – perfect for couples or solo travellers
- Occasional street food stalls and beach games during weekends
Pro Tip: Carry your yoga mat for a morning beach session 🧘♂️
4. Covelong (Kovalam) Beach
Located about 40 km from Chennai on the East Coast Road, Covelong Beach is a paradise for adventure lovers and surfers. Once a Dutch port, it now attracts global visitors for its annual Covelong Surf Festival and water sports like kayaking and jet skiing. Surrounded by a quaint fishing village, palm trees, and beachside resorts, it blends thrill and tranquillity in equal measure.
Highlights: ✅
- Famous for adventure sports like surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing 🏄♀️
- Host to the annual Covelong Surf Festival
- Picturesque fishing village nearby to explore local life
- Excellent seafood shacks and resorts
Pro Tip: Book a surf lesson or fishing trip for a memorable experience.
5. Palavakkam Beach
Less commercialised and off the typical tourist map, Palavakkam Beach is ideal for those who enjoy peaceful, uncrowded beaches. It’s known for its beautiful sunsets, wide sandy stretches, and clean surroundings. Popular among joggers, early risers, and photographers, this beach offers a serene escape within city limits. A perfect spot for quiet reflection or a romantic stroll.
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Highlights: ✅
- Hidden gem for those seeking tranquillity
- Ideal for watching sunsets and photo ops 📸
- Attracts joggers, cyclists, and early risers
Pro Tip: Great place for drone photography and pre-wedding shoots.
6. Neelankarai Beach
Neelankarai Beach is one of the cleanest and most scenic beaches in Chennai, known for its tranquillity and breathtaking sea views. It’s frequented by locals for early morning walks, pet outings, and peaceful getaways. The beach’s minimal commercial activity adds to its natural charm, making it a favourite for nature lovers. If you’re seeking solitude and sea breeze, Neelankarai is the place to be.
Highlights: 👇
- Known for its cleanliness and scenic beauty
- Popular with locals for morning walks and dog walking
- Enjoy coconut water from local vendors.
Pro Tip: Visit during weekday mornings for a peaceful solo retreat.
7. VGP Golden Beach
Part of the VGP Universal Kingdom amusement park, VGP Golden Beach is a well-maintained private beach that combines fun and relaxation. Ideal for families and children, the beach offers access to rides, food stalls, and entertainment zones. With lifeguards and safety in place, it’s one of the most secure beach experiences in Chennai. Great for a day-long picnic or weekend family outing.
Highlights: 👇
- Part of VGP Universal Kingdom, a popular amusement park
- Clean and family-friendly beach area
- Offers kids’ rides, games, and beach access
Pro Tip: Combine your beach outing with a day of fun at the amusement park 🎡
🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Beaches in Chennai
Being a coastal city, Chennai is warm for most parts of the year. However, certain months offer a more pleasant experience, especially for beach outings.
🌤️ Ideal Time: November to February
- The weather is cooler and ideal for beach walks, water sports, and sightseeing.
- Sunrises and sunsets are exceptionally beautiful during the winter months.
- Perfect for attending festivals like Pongal or Chennai Music Season.
☀️ Avoid: April to June
- Peak summer months with high humidity and temperatures above 40°C.
- Outdoor activities can become exhausting.
🌧️ Monsoon: July to October
- While the city receives occasional downpours, monsoon adds a romantic charm to beach visits.
- If you love moody skies and empty beaches, this could be your ideal time!
Travel Tip: Early mornings and post-sunset hours are the best times during any season to enjoy Chennai’s beaches without facing the heat.
🚉 How to Reach Chennai via Train, Bus & Flight
Chennai is well-connected with the rest of India through a robust network of railways, roads, and air routes. Whether you’re coming from nearby cities or far-off metros, reaching Chennai is smooth and budget-friendly.
🚆 By Train:
Major Railway Stations in Chennai:
- Chennai Central (MAS): One of India’s busiest and most iconic railway stations.
- Chennai Egmore (MS): Serves trains from southern Tamil Nadu and other regional cities.
- Tambaram Railway Station: Convenient for travellers from the suburbs or south Tamil Nadu.
Popular Train Routes:
- From Delhi: Tamil Nadu Express, Grand Trunk Express
- From Mumbai: Chennai Mail, Chennai Express
- From Bangalore: Shatabdi Express, Lalbagh Express
- From Kolkata: Coromandel Express, Howrah-Chennai Mail
🚌 By Bus:
Chennai has an extensive network of state-run and private buses that connect it with cities across South India.
Key Bus Terminals:
- Koyambedu CMBT (Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus): One of Asia’s largest bus terminals
- Madhavaram Bus Terminus: Serves buses towards Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
- Tambaram Bus Stand: Ideal for short-distance travellers
Popular Routes:
- Bangalore to Chennai: 6-8 hrs via NH48
- Pondicherry to Chennai: 3 hrs scenic drive along East Coast Road (ECR)
- Coimbatore to Chennai: 9-10 hrs, overnight buses available
Travel Tip: Opt for AC sleeper buses for comfortable overnight journeys.
✈️ By Flight:
Chennai International Airport (MAA) is well-equipped and caters to both domestic and international flights.
Major Domestic Flights to Chennai:
- From Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata: Daily direct flights
- Carriers include IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet.
Final Thoughts: Catch the Chennai Coastal Vibe 🌊☀️
Chennai’s beaches are more than just sandy stretches-they’re a reflection of the city’s soul. Whether you’re looking to meditate at sunrise, feast on street snacks, indulge in water sports, or simply enjoy a scenic escape from the urban grind, Chennai’s beaches deliver it all.
From the hustle of Marina to the calm of Neelankarai, and the surf-friendly waves at Covelong to the family-friendly VGP Beach, the diversity is refreshing and the experiences unforgettable.
So, pack your flip-flops, charge your camera, and head to Chennai for a sun-kissed, beach-filled adventure. 🏖️📷✨
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