Top Beaches In Chennai Worth Visiting On Your Next Trip

The capital city of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, is called the coastal gem of South India. With a vibrant culture, deep-rooted history, architectural marvels and striking coasts, Chennai makes a perfect destination for tourists who are willing to enjoy a holiday amidst incredible natural beauty, historical monuments, and South Indian traditions and culture. Chennai is one of the few cities in India that reflects a great mix of modernity and cultural vibes. The city attracts tourists with its magnificent temples, rich culture, classical music and dance, and great marine life. While there are numerous places to see in Chennai, the trip would be incomplete without exploring its picturesque beaches. Situated along the Bay of Bengal, Chennai is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches that are loved by both locals and travellers. Here is the list of the best beaches in Chennai that you must explore for a memorable vacation.

What Are the Best Beaches In Chennai For A Fun-Filled Adventure?

• Marina Beach
• Elliot’s Beach
• Kovalam Beach
• Mahabalipuram Beach
• Thiruvanmiyur Beach
• VGP Golden Beach
• Neelankarai Beach

Marina Beach

The famous beach in Chennai, Marina Beach is one of the longest beaches in India. Situated in the heart of Chennai, this stunning beach attracts tourists with its pristine water and scenic surroundings. Stretching over 13 kilometres, Marina Beach is a hub of activity and an ideal escape from busy city life. You can visit Marina Beach to experience picturesque sunrises and sunsets, try typical street food, and enjoy sports activities.

What are the best things to do at Marina Beach?

• Enjoy a walk or go for a horse ride along the shore.
• Get a glimpse of marine life at the Government Marine Aquarium.
• Enjoy delicious South Indian snacks from the vendors on the beach.
• Visit the Ice House and various statues of prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose and Swami Vivekananda.

Elliot’s Beach

Next on the list of top beaches in Chennai, India, Elliot’s Beach is also known as Besant Nagar Beach. Located just 10 km from Marina Beach, Elliot’s Beach is regarded as the cleanest beach in Chennai. A pleasant destination, Elliot’s Beach is a significant part of Chennai tourism, reflecting cultural richness, natural beauty, and serenity. There is so much to do at this exquisite beach. Named after Edward Elliot, the former British governor of Chennai, it is a picture-perfect destination with crystal clear water, giving you the opportunity to capture some memorable photographs.

What are the best things to do at Elliot’s Beach?

• Relax by the sea and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
• Enjoy sunbathing and water sports activities like swimming, beach volleyball, surfing, etc.
• Savour delicious South Indian delicacies.
• Experience the stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.

Kovalam Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Chennai, Kovalam Beach offers a peaceful escape from the hectic city life. Located 40 km South of Chennai, it is known for its striking sunsets, clean blue water, and golden sand. Also called Covelong Beach, Kovalam is a perfect beach destination for those who love adventure and serenity. It is a popular spot for surfing and parasailing in India, with decent waves and the scenic beauty of the surroundings. It is the best beach near Chennai to enjoy vacations with friends and loved ones.

What are the best things to do at Kovalam Beach?

• Explore nearby attractions like Halcyon Castle, Kovalam Rock Cut Cave Temple, and Vellayani Lake.
• Enjoy snorkelling, jet skiing, parasailing, surfing, and other water sports activities.
• Attend the Covelong Point Celebration which is an annual surfing festival replete with live music and cuisine.
• Visit the underwater world at the Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium.

Mahabalipuram Beach

Located about 58 km away from Chennai, Mahabalipuram Beach attracts tourists with its breathtaking shore and historical significance. One of the highlights of this beach is its proximity to ancient monuments built during the Pallava dynasty. Mahabalipuram Beach serves as a perfect site for sunbathing, with great open space even during the peak tourist season. Recognised as one of the pristine beaches in Chennai, this beach extends for around 20 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal, encircled by the majestic hills and glittering sea. Drenched in a mysterious old-age charisma, the Group of Monuments in Mahabalipuram Beach is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with excellent craftsmanship and a glorious past.

What are the best things to do at Mahabalipuram Beach?

• Witness the most historically significant section in the world-famous Mahabalipuram Shore Temple.
• Enjoy water sports activities like diving, motor boating, windsurfing, etc.
• Try local seafood and other dishes.
• Explore the vast collection of seashells at the India Seashell Museum.

Thiruvanmiyur Beach

Also known as Breezy Beach, Thiruvanmiyur Beach is another name on the list of top beaches in Chennai. Nestled in the Thiruvanmiyur area, it is an ideal place to enjoy swimming in the clean water and capture some amazing pictures of sunrise and sunset. Despite being a part of the Thiruvanmiyur city, this beach is known for its clean water and peaceful seashores. Unlike other popular beaches in Chennai, Thiruvanmiyur Beach welcomes tourists with its discreet charm and off-the-beaten-path vibe.

What are the best things to do at Thiruvanmiyur Beach?

• Enjoy smart bike cycling or water sports and adventure activities.
• Try some of the finest regional delicacies and drinks at a variety of food joints.
• Witness spectacular sunsets and breathtaking sights of the surroundings.
• Visit the nearby fishing villages and markets.

VGP Golden Beach

Located on East Coast Road (ECR), Chennai, VGP Golden Beach is a picturesque coastal retreat offering a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities. One of the most beautiful beaches in Chennai, VGP Golden Beach is known for its clean golden sand, clear water, scenic coastal views, and stunning views. The beach is lined up with green vegetation and a surreal environment, making it a popular sea beach in Chennai for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy nature on the outskirts of the city. Whether you want to relax, enjoy sports activities, or capture striking pictures, Golden Beach offers a delightful escape from the urban hustle.

What are the best things to do at VGP Golden Beach?

• Enjoy swimming in clean and clear water.
• Relax in the sun and enjoy a leisurely walk along the coastline.
• Watch the spectacular sunsets to see the vibrant colours of the sky.
• Explore a variety of marine animals at the VGP Marine Kingdom and visit other nearby attractions.

Neelankarai Beach

The next name in the list of the best beaches in Chennai, India, Neelankarai Beach is all about its untouched natural beauty. Nestled in the beautiful neighbourhood of Neelankarai in South Chennai, this beach is famous for its many turtles that grace the seashores, making it an ideal spot for nature and animal lovers. There is a minimalist architectural approach with no extravagant structures around this beach. The focus here is on retaining the pristine natural beauty of the shoreline. Situated along the Bay of Bengal, Neelankarai Beach has calm and clear water, offering a refreshing respite from the tropical heat. The coastal landscape of this beach offers a tranquil backdrop for capturing striking photographs and creating lasting memories.

What are the best things to do at Neelankarai Beach?

• Make your beach experience thrilling with activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
• Enjoy local seafood delicacies offered by the several beachside shacks and restaurants.
• Explore nearby attractions like Ashtalakshmi Temple, Birla Planetarium, DakshinaChitra, etc.
• Relax, soak up the sun, and take a stroll along the shoreline.

Along with these, Muttukadu Beach, Palavakkam Beach, and Santhome Beach are some other beaches in Chennai, India, that you should not miss out on. Beaches in Chennai are surely a great way to relax and take a break from routine life. Check out the specially curated range of Chennai tour packages that Veena World offers and experience the true beauty of this Indian state.