Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Marina Beach is a natural urban beach in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, along the Bay of Bengal. Stretching approximately 13 kilometers from Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south, it is the longest natural urban beach in India. The beach is renowned for its wide sandy shores, averaging 300 meters in width, with the broadest point reaching 437 meters. Marina Beach is not only a place of natural beauty but also a cultural and historical landmark, making it one of the most iconic and must-visit destinations in Chennai.
Chennai Lighthouse: A prominent landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Bengal
Memorials: The beach is home to several significant memorials, including those dedicated to C. N. Annadurai, M. G. Ramachandran, and J. Jayalalithaa, all former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu
Statues and Monuments: Along the 6 km promenade, visitors can find statues of historical figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Annie Besant, and Thiruvalluvar
Wide Sandy Shores: The beach features wide sandy shores averaging 300 meters in width, with the broadest point reaching 437 meters
Promenade: A 6 km long promenade perfect for walking, jogging, and enjoying the sea breeze
Food Stalls: Numerous food stalls offering local delicacies and street food along the beach
Beach walks and jogging along the 6 km promenade
Kite flying, especially during festivals and weekends
Beach cricket and other recreational sports
Pony rides for children and families
Enjoying local street food and delicacies from beachside stalls
Watching sunrise and sunset over the Bay of Bengal
Visiting the Chennai Lighthouse for panoramic city views
Exploring memorials and statues along the promenade
Note: Swimming and bathing are legally prohibited due to strong undercurrents. Visitors are advised to enjoy the beach from the shore and follow safety guidelines.
Location: Along the Bay of Bengal, stretching from Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, Chennai – approx. 20 km
Major Railway Stations:
Chennai Central Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Chennai Egmore Railway Station – approx. 5 km
MRTS Stations: Chepauk and Thiruvallikeni stations on the Chennai Mass Rapid Transit System are close to the beach
The beach is easily accessible via Kamaraj Salai, a major arterial road that runs parallel to the beach, providing convenient access from various parts of Chennai.
Marina Beach is well connected by road and public transport. The beach is accessible via Kamaraj Salai, a major arterial road that runs parallel to the beach, providing excellent connectivity to Chennai city center and surrounding areas. The Chennai Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) has stations like Chepauk and Thiruvallikeni close to the beach, offering convenient rail access. Public bus services operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) provide regular connectivity, with several bus routes serving the area with stops near the beach. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly, offering convenient access for visitors. The beach is easily accessible from major railway stations and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The best time to visit is from November through February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.