Chennai is home to some of the most iconic beaches in India. From the popular Marina Beach to the serene Covelong Beach, other must-visit beaches include Elliot’s Beach and Besant Nagar Beach.

Famous Beaches to Visit in Chennai

1. Covelong Beach (Kovalam Beach)

Covelong Beach has been a rising star in terms of watersports, with windsurfing and swimming being the most likely choices. In fact, beach camping with a campfire in the sands is popular here. At the same time, this location is well-known for fishing, which has been practiced for generations and attracts a number of tourists every day.

Apart from providing pristine natural beauty surrounded by palm trees, the beach is near to old landmarks such as forts, churches, and mosques, as well as the ancient town of Mahabalipuram, since one will surely cross through this Covelong or Kovalam beach on the road to Mahabalipuram. The crocodile farm is also a popular attraction among the locals.

Timings: 5 AM to 10 PM

Address: Covelong, (South) Chennai, Tamil Nadu

2. Marina Beach

Marina beach extends over 13 kilometers, making it the country’s longest natural urban beach and the world’s second-largest, as well as India’s most crowded beach, with nearly 30,000 people every day. The scenery of Marina Beach is a mesmerizing and calm sight to behold, with a white sandy shore that appears to spread eternally. The beach has a mostly sandy surface and is lined with merry-go-rounds and tourist shops. You can enjoy the cool evening sea breeze and enjoy a hot plate of crispy sundal and murukku by going for a walk around the Marina beach with your loved ones or even by yourself. It’s breathtaking and wonderful to watch the sun crawl upwards into the sky or even disappear into the ocean from the beach.

Timings: Throughout the day

Address: Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600005

3. Elliot’s Beach

Elliot’s Beach is well-known among both tourists and locals of the state. It was an area where only white people were allowed during the colonial period. Local college students and families enjoy the beach. Near the shore, there are numerous eateries serving delicious foods. A police station is stationed at the beach, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are used to keep the crowd in check and avoid deaths at sea. Travelers visit the beach for sunbathing, relaxing, and seeing the nearby famous ancient structures. People love it since it is usually less crowded than the popular Marina Beach. Various youngsters can be seen walking around the beach in the nighttime hours, as this beach provides the ideal escape from the daily life of urban people.

Timings: 24/7

Address: 6th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600090

4. Breezy Beach

Breezy Beach is one of Chennai’s best family beaches, with plenty of exciting activities. There are fewer people here than at Marina Beach and other beaches, which is ideal for individuals who enjoy spending time on the beach in peace. Despite its proximity to Valmikinagar’s residential area, it provides a low presence and is less populated except on weekends. Unwind with a long evening walk on this peaceful beach. On this beach, horseback riding is very popular. Near the beach is a small café where you can get some hot and tasty idlis for a quick bite.

Timings: Open on all days

Address: Valmiki Nagar, Chennai

5. VGP Golden Beach

VGP Golden Beach is where you can see the real beauty of Chennai’s coastline. It’s perfect for individuals who wish to get closer to nature and find a peaceful location to spend their time. This resort also has many artistic objects on exhibit that will appeal to individuals who enjoy art and craft. Tennis, cricket, badminton, chess, carrom, and other indoor and outdoor recreational sports are available at this beach resort. When looking for family beach resorts in Chennai, don’t forget to have included VGP Golden Beach Resort in your plan.

Timings: 11:00 am to 7:30 pm (Monday to Friday) and 10:30 am to 8:00 pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Address: Injambakkam, Chennai

6. Akkarai Beach

Akkarai Beach is well-known for its beautiful greenery and peaceful expanses. Relax and enjoy walking along the beach, surrounded by the cold sea wind and the calming sounds of the water. Because the beach is less crowded, it is incredibly clean and serene. The play area is available for children to use. There is more to look forward to when you put in some time for fitness, with neatly constructed walkers’ routes, convenient benches, good lighting, lush green areas, and children’s playgrounds suggested for certain beaches initially.

Timings: Open 24/7

Address: Injambakkam, South Chennai

7. Santhome Beach

Santhome Beach, located nearby distance from the city center, is one of Chennai’s best family beaches. Late evening is the best time to visit this beach. During this time, you can find plenty of street food sellers surrounding the shore, selling a variety of local foods. The sea here is not as stormy as it is elsewhere, so you may splash around and swim. People, particularly children, enjoy themselves here by playing throw ball, flying disc, cricket, and other sports.

Timings: All days Open

Address: chennai

8. Neelankarai Beach

Neelankarai beach is located in the pleasant region of Neelankarai in Southern Chennai, has yet to experience a large number of visitors. In general, this is a better beach than many of Chennai’s other beaches. Sea turtles can be seen walking around on the beach due to the limited number of visitors. The isolated and peaceful beach provides sufficient chances for nature enthusiasts to wander along the coastline and enjoy the refreshing sea wind.