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Beaches near Chennai offer a refreshing escape from the bustling city life, providing stunning coastal vistas and a serene environment. With a variety of options to choose from, each beach presents its unique charm and atmosphere. From the popular Marina Beach, known for its lively ambiance and long sandy stretch, to the tranquil shores of Mahabalipuram, famous for its rock-cut temples, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to unwind by the sea, enjoy water sports, or indulge in local seafood delicacies, the beaches near Chennai promise memorable experiences for all visitors.
Top 10 Beaches Near Chennai
Here are the top 10 beaches near Chennai to make your trip more memorable.
1. Marina Beach
Photo: KARTY JazZ / Wikimedia Commons
Marina Beach, stretching over 13 kilometres, is the longest beach in Chennai and one of the most popular beaches in Chennai. It’s a hub of activity, especially in the early morning and late evening. The beach’s vast sandy stretch is perfect for walking, jogging, or enjoying the sea breeze. You can find statues of prominent historical figures along the coast, making it a mix of culture and leisure. Though swimming is prohibited due to strong currents, visitors can enjoy the various stalls selling local snacks like roasted corn and Sunday.
Things To Do: Stroll along the promenade, visit the lighthouse, and try local snacks
Location: Marina Beach Road, Chennai
How To Reach: Via public buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis from any part of Chennai
2. Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Elliot’s Beach, located in the upscale neighbourhood of Besant Nagar, is a quieter and cleaner alternative to Marina Beach. It’s a popular hangout spot for families and young people. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, this beach offers a more relaxed vibe, perfect for evening walks or just lounging by the shore. The Velankanni Church and the Ashtalakshmi Temple, located nearby, add a spiritual dimension to the area. The beach is also lined with cafés and restaurants, making it a favoured spot for food lovers.
Things To Do: Visit Velankanni Church and relax at beach front cafés
Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai
How To Reach: By bus, auto-rickshaw, and taxi from various parts of the city
3. Covelong Beach (Kovalam Beach)
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons
Covelong Beach, located about 40 kilometres from Chennai, is a peaceful rhaven for those in search of secluded beaches in Chennai. Covelong, also known as Kovalam Beach, is famous for its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for water sports like windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing. The beach is also home to the historic Covelong Fort, adding a touch of history to your beach day. Several resorts nearby make this an excellent place for a weekend getaway. The combination of water activities and scenic beauty makes Covelong a must-visit for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Things To Do: Engage in water sports and visit Covelong Fort
Location: Kovalam, 40 km south of Chennai.
How To Reach: By East Coast Road (ECR) via car or public bus services
4. Breezy Beach
Photo: Andre Carrotflower / Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away in the calm neighbourhood of Valmiki Nagar, Breezy Beach is a lesser-known destination ideal for those seeking solitude. True to its name, the beach is known for its cool breeze and serene atmosphere. Unlike the more commercialised beaches of Chennai, Breezy Beach has fewer visitors, making it perfect for peaceful evening walks or sitting by the shore with a book. The beach’s clean environment and quietude have made it increasingly popular among those looking to escape the crowds.
Things To Do: Enjoy peaceful walks and photography
Location: Valmiki Nagar, Chennai
How To Reach: Bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw from central Chennai can be reached
5. Golden Beach
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
Golden Beach is located within the VGP Universal Kingdom, an amusement park that offers a full day of entertainment. As one of the more family-friendly beaches near Chennai, Golden Beach attracts visitors who come to enjoy both the beach and the amusement park’s rides and activities. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with golden sands and calm waters. Whether you’re looking to relax by the shore or indulge in some fun activities, Golden Beach offers a perfect blend of both worlds.
Things To Do: Visit the amusement park and relax by the clean shore
Location: VGP Universal Kingdom, Injambakkam, Chennai
How To Reach: Via East Coast Road (ECR) by taxi, bus, or private vehicle
6. Thiruvanmiyur Beach
Photo: Vkraja / Wikimedia Commons
Thiruvanmiyur Beach is another placid spot in Chennai, less crowded than the city’s more commercialised beaches. It’s a favourite among locals for morning jogs, yoga, and meditation due to its quiet and amazing environment. The beach offers a panoramic sunrise view, making it a great place to start your day. With fewer vendors and less noise, Thiruvanmiyur Beach, among the famous beaches in Chennai. It’s perfect for people who want to escape the city’s busy life without travelling too far.
Things To Do: Morning walks, meditation, sunrise viewing
Location: Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai.
How To Reach: Accessible by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws
7. Neelankarai Beach
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
Neelankarai Beach is one of the hidden gems along the Chennai coastline. Situated off the beaten track, this beach is known for its peaceful environment and relatively untouched beauty. It’s not as commercialised as other beaches in Chennai, so you’ll find fewer vendors and fewer crowds here. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to spend some quiet time by the sea, enjoying the sound of the waves and the gentle breeze. The beach’s clear waters and clean surroundings make it a favourite among locals who prefer a more natural beach experience.
Things To Do: Relax by the shore and enjoy the serenity
Location: Neelankarai, Chennai
How To Reach: Accessible via East Coast Road (ECR) by taxi or private vehicles
8. Palavakkam Beach
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
Palavakkam Beach, located just beyond Thiruvanmiyur in Chennai, is a quieter and less-crowded coastal spot compared to other city beaches. Known for its clean sands and peaceful surroundings, it attracts locals for early morning walks and serves as a calming retreat in the evenings. The beach has minimal commercial activity, offering a more natural and unspoiled atmosphere for those seeking a break from the city’s hustle. Palavakkam Beach is a preferred choice for visitors who value a serene coastal experience without the typical noise and crowds of more popular beaches.
Things To Do: Take long walks and enjoy the serene view
Location: Palavakkam, Chennai
How To Reach: Reachable by bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw via ECR
9. Akkarai Beach
Photo: Dazzlershoot12 / Shutterstock
Akkarai Beach is a hidden gem among the beautiful beaches in Chennai, known for its cleanliness and peaceful environment. Its spacious and quiet surroundings make it ideal for picnics and family outings, offering a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle. The beach remains less crowded than others along the coastline, providing a tranquil atmosphere for visitors. Akkarai Beach stays clean and well-maintained with minimal commercial activity, allowing guests to experience nature without distractions. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a serene and unspoiled seaside destination in Chennai.
Things To Do: Ideal for picnics and family outings
Location: Akkarai, Chennai
How To Reach: Easily accessible via ECR, taxi or private vehicle
10. Muttukadu Beach
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Muttukadu Beach, located on the way to Mahabalipuram, is famous for its backwaters and water sports. The Muttukadu Backwaters make it a popular destination for boating and kayaking. The beach offers scenic views, sole surrounding, especially at sunset, and is a favourite spot for people looking for adventure near the sea. The calm backwaters and the proximity to the beach make it a unique destination along Chennai’s coast. It’s perfect for those who want to combine relaxation with water-based adventure.
Things To Do: Enjoy water sports like boating and kayaking
Location: Muttukadu, 36 km from Chennai.
How To Reach: By car via East Coast Road (ECR), with frequent buses from Chennai
The beaches near Chennai offer diverse experiences for all types of visitors. From the vibrant and bustling Marina Beach to the secluded Akkarai Beach, unique charm and activity suit every mood and preference. Make your trip unforgettable by exploring these beautiful beaches, and don’t forget to check out TripXL for exclusive travel deals and curated itineraries that cater to your beach getaway needs.
Cover Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
