Marina Beach

Chennai

World’s second longest urban beach

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Chennai Marina Beach Landscape Image

Overview

Running for about 13 km, Marina Beach is the heart beat of the city, best known for its sweeping waves, refreshing breeze, attractive promenade and friendly community ambience.

Suggested Duration - 2 to 3 hours

What To Expect?

Revel in the beauty of the rising and setting sun, marvel at historical statues, learn all about marine life at the aquarium or enjoy local delicacies at food stalls here.

Tips

  • Visit early in the mornings to escape the afternoon humidity.
  • Due to sharp currents, swimming and bathing in the sea is strictly prohibited.
  • Those eager to swim can make use of the large public swimming pool right next to the sea.
  • For photographers, the lighthouse is open to public and offers great views of the sea.
  • Adventure junkies should try their hand at the ‘Go Karting’ racing track next to the beach.
  • November to March are the best months to enjoy the beach

Marina Beach Overview, Chennai


If you are in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Marina Beach is a must-see attraction. This spectacular location has gained recognition as one of the world's longest urban beaches at 13 kilometres long stretching across Bay of Bengal waters.

Its fame has spread beyond its hometown borders as it is famous among locals and loved by tourists worldwide. Marina Beach presents an awe-inspiring view of vast seas, and golden sandy strips accompanied by breathtaking sunrises or sunsets that touch hearts across all age groups. It provides an excellent recreational facility for rejuvenating your senses in a serene environment with cool refreshing breezes provided by its waterfront scenery.

Visitors interested in history will appreciate this destination�s rich cultural heritage manifested through historical statues such as Mahatma Gandhi Statue and Victory War Memorial, decorating its promenade.


Highlights of Marina BeachThe vast expanse of golden sand, bordered by the Bay of Bengal, offers a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and relaxation.
TimingsOpens: 12:00 AM
Closes: 12:00 PM
Entry FeeThere is no entry fee
TipsThe best time to visit Marina Beach is during the winter months, which typically span from November to February.
Required Time3-4 hours
Restricted ItemsAlcohol, glass containers, sharp weapons, littering, firecrackers and plastic bags

More About Marina Beach

The beach is known for its vibrant and bustling atmosphere. It is a hub of activity with numerous food stalls, vendors selling toys and souvenirs, and horse and camel rides for children. For lovers of local cuisine like murukku as well as sundal comprising rice and legumes plus an assortment of ice cream flavours, Marina Beach holds inexorable allure. Weekends and holidays present prime time for families, acquaintances and good couples to come for beach sports, picnics or even engage in kite-flying accompanied by other fascinating pursuits found here.

The fact that Marina Beach boasts various events spread across the calendar year plus the added attractions including cultural performances, food stalls and thrilling opportunities available at its beachside, all serve to make it an irresistible destination for many visitors including locals alike. Whether taking leisurely strolls or enjoying carriage rides through its promenade before ultimately lounging on its sandy coastline, there is no dearth of activities here.


Sightseeing Around Marina Beach

Marina Beach boasts stunning geological formations and natural beauty and offers a variety of exciting activities for its visitors. Here are some options to consider:

  • For history buffs, Fort St. George is a must-see destination. Located just three kilometres from Marina Beach, it's a historic fort and the first English fortress in India.

  • You'll have the opportunity to explore the Fort Museum, which houses many artefacts and memorabilia from the colonial era.

  • Kapaleeshwarar Temple is another famed attraction just four kilometres away from Marina Beach that's sure to impress you.

  • This famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva boasts intricate sculptures and gorgeous Dravidian architecture.

  • Around six kilometres from Marina Beach lies Santhome Cathedral Basilica, an awe-inspiring Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles. Culture seekers shouldn't miss the Government Museum, located about seven kilometres away.

  • The museum is home to an expansive collection of ancient artefacts and archaeological findings.

  • If serene walks on the beach are more your speed, Elliots Beach, also known as Besant Nagar Beach, around eight kilometres away is a tranquil alternative to the bustling Marina Beach.

  • Located approximately ten kilometres from Marina Beach is Theosophical Society, a breathtaking green oasis that promotes spirituality and peace.

  • Nature enthusiasts will want to visit Guindy National Park around twelve kilometres away within city limits. This protected area boasts diverse flora and fauna including deer, birds, reptiles and much more!

Water Activities at Marina Beach

Marina Beach offers exhilarating aquatic activities that visitors can explore. Although swimming isn't permitted due to strong currents, there are other exciting options available:

  • Jet Skiing:Embark upon an adventurous journey riding on speedy waves at the Bay of Bengal aboard a Jet Ski rental, an ideal activity for travellers who crave adrenaline-pumping action.

  • Banana Boat Ride:Share joyous moments with loved ones as they hop onto an inflatable banana-shaped boat tied up behind a speedboat ride. This recreational excursion guarantees lots of laughter.

  • Speed Boat Ride:Glide through coastline panoramic vistas at thrilling sea speeds as wind and salt sprays sensation overtake you, creating a sense of unmatched freedom.

  • Kayaking:Take in spectacular seaside views while paddling leisurely along the Bay of Bengal coastline, savouring moments of tranquillity and exploring the wonders of marine life.

Marina Beach Nightlife

Marina Beach offers visitors an eventful nightlife with diverse activities featuring abundant attractions well past dark hours. While public accessibility on beaches diminishes post-sunset, there are plenty of places near Marina Beach that cater to visitors that want to enjoy different activities and merriments:

Nightclubs and Bars:One can experience the urban energy in Chennaiby visiting popular nightclubs and bars surrounding Marina Beach. These establishments offer vigorous live music, exceptional DJ performances, dance floors along with extensive beverages.

Beachside Cafes and Restaurants:Whether you want to try some exotic cuisine or have a delightful dining experience while enjoying the waterfront view, the beachside cafes and restaurants near Marina Beach present ideal options.

Promenade Walk:Night or not, a leisurely walk across the Marina Beach promenade always emanates a lively aura.


Restaurants at Marina Beach

Located near Marina Beach, there are a few restaurants where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine and satisfy your taste buds.

  • Titanic Fast Food:Located near Marina Beach, Titanic Fast Food is a popular eatery offering a range of fast food options. The menu includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, making it suitable for all preferences.

  • Mobile Sea Food Restaurant:As the name suggests, Mobile Sea Food Restaurant is a mobile food truck specialising in seafood dishes. This restaurant offers a variety of fresh and delicious seafood options, including fish, prawns, crabs, and more.

  • Chicken Paradise:Chicken Paradise is a popular restaurant near Marina Beach that specialises in delectable chicken dishes. From grilled chicken and tandoori chicken to flavorful curries, this restaurant caters to chicken lovers with its wide range of preparations.

Nearby Tourist Spots

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Marina Beach

How to explore a place by yourself?

"Adventure is out there!" - You just need to know the 'whats' and the 'hows' of it. You need to realize the things that will make exploring a place completely worthwhile and satisfy all of your travel cravings. This can be achieved by -
  • Taking Yourself Out To Eat At A Restaurant
  • Learn The Public Transportation Routes
  • Check Out A Local Planetarium Or Observatory
  • Take A Drive To The Nearest Coastal Town Or National Park
  • Join A Group Of Tourists On A Sightseeing Tour
  • Take Pictures At A Botanical Garden
  • Go Shopping At A Local Farmers Market
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    To plan the perfect trip, the following will help cover any caveats for your to arrive at the best plan for your vacations :
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  • Figure out how to travel to a destination, where to stay and what are the things to do amongst other things. Trip Ideas by MakeMyTrip brings you a plethora of knowledge about a destination ranging from images and videos to lists of all the activities
  • Read posts by travel bloggers who have been there and if needed email them
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