Marina Beach, Chennai: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips

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Marina Beach Overview

Famous as the longest beach in India and the second-longest of its kind in the world, Marina Beach is one of the most famous beach holiday destinations in the country. Named so after the Italian word ‘marina’ by the then Governor-General, the beach has been a popular location in Chennai since 1881.

Stretched over 13 kilometres, the glistening sands of the beach are as rejuvenating as they are picturesque. Keeping in mind the popularity of the place, there has been a huge number of significant buildings and monuments build across the promenade since the beginning of the 19th century.

The most famous landmark in the city, Marina Beach is home to several iconic buildings and statues. For instance, it hosts India’s first aquarium which was constructed in 1909. Additionally, walking along the promenade, history lovers could find a great many statues commemorating the lives of some of the most illustrious dignitaries in Indian history.

Whether you wish to take a romantic horse ride by the seashore or enjoy a spellbinding 360° view of the city from the Chennai Lighthouse, Marina Beach is a must-visit in Chennai.

How To Reach

Below are the various ways you can reach Marina Beach:

By Air:
Chennai Airport is the closest and most convenient airport. It is well-connected with the rest of the country as well as the world. The airport is approximately 18.6 kilometres from the beach.

By Train:
The nearest train stations to Marina Beach are Chepauk, Thiruvallikeni, and Lighthouse. Most of these stations are connected to Chennai Central railway station through local trains. It usually takes from 3 to 10 minutes to from Chennai Central to one of these stations. Chennai Central is very well-connected to the rest of the country.

By Bus:
The closest bus stop to the beach is the Marina Beach bus stop. It has regular buses plying between the rest of the city and the beach.

By road/taxi:
Renting a private car or hiring a taxi is the most convenient way to get to the beach from anywhere in the city. It could be slightly expensive for tourists on a budget, but it saves a lot of time and effort.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Marina beach is between the months of November and February. These months are relatively cooler than the rest of the year. Visiting the beach during the summer months should be avoided as Chennai can get extremely hot and humid. The monsoon months are also not recommended due to the risk of high water tide and aggressive current.

Also, it is best to plan your visit to the beach early in the morning or in the evening. Avoid going out there during noon.

Other Essential Information

Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Timings: Open throughout the day

Entry fee: Free

Places to Eat at and near Marina Beach

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants surrounding the Marina beach. Here is a list of the most recommended places to eat at or near the beach:

1. Titanic Fast Food:
One of the most positive places to eat near Marina Beach, Titanic Fast Food is a no-frills, budget eatery suitable for all kinds of travellers. The place is best known for its finger food items such as chicken noodles, chicken fried rice, and Manchurian. It’s a great place to hang out after an exciting day on the beach.

2. Bharathi Mess:
Known to be one of the oldest eating joints in the city, Bharati Mess is almost an institution for food lovers in Chennai. Specializing in all types of healthy, organic food items, the place is known for their authentic mess style delicacies served on fresh banana leaves. The unique fact about Bharathi Mess is it has an all-women staff.

3. Firdouse Bayn Restaurant:
Bringing you the best of South Indian, North Indian, Arabian as well as Chinese cuisine, Firdouse Bayn is also one of the most loved places to eat near Marina Beach. The food served here is known for its supreme quality and taste. Expect to find a wide range of snacks and appetizers as well as main course dishes on the menu.

Places to Stay near Marina Beach

If you are planning on visiting Marina beach, please remember to keep these things in mind:

- Carry sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect yourself from sun rays.

- Wear appropriate footwear to walk around the beach.

- Do not attempt to swim in the sea except for the designated areas. Swimming anywhere else is prohibited to maintain the safety of visitors.

- Carry appropriate swimming gear and clothes with you.

- Carry a waterproof bag to put your valuables before you go into the water.

Marina Beach FAQs

What is Marina beach famous for?

For starters, Marina Beach is the second longest urban beach in the world and the longest in India. Reportedly, the history of Marina beach is as old as the city itself. Though the sea waters of the beach have always been there, the promenade and the official acceptance of the beach was initiated by Sir M E Elphinstone, the then General Governor of Madras, in 1881.

The promenade has been home to several iconic landmarks in the city. Since the 19th century, there have been many architectural masterpieces built around the area, including but not limited to the All India Radio, the University of Madras, and Queen Mary’s College.

The beach also houses statues of several notable Tamil personalities such as Subramania Bharati, Thiruvalluvar, and Avvaiyar. An interesting fact about the promenade states that it was the assembly venue for numerous public meeting from 1857 to 1947, the period of India’s struggle for freedom

Is Marina Beach the second longest beach?

In short, yes. Marina beach is the second longest natural urban beach in the world. It expands from Fort St. George to Foreshore Estate. Stretched over 13 kilometres, including a 6 kilometres long promenade, Marina Beach is the longest of its kind in India.

How far is Marina Beach from Chennai airport?

The distance between Marina Beach and Chennai Airport is approximately 18.6 kilometres.

Is Marina couple friendly?

Yes. Marina Beach is extremely couple friendly. In fact, there are several hotels that offer special rooms and packages for couples. Some of the hotel providers are also open to offering comfortable rooms for unmarried couples. But we suggest that you check with the hotel in advance on their guest policy.

Why it is called Marina Beach?

The beach has been known as the Marina Beach since the 19th century. It was named so by the then Governor of Madras (now known as Chennai), Sir Mount Stuart Elphinstone. Sir M E Elphinstone visited the area shortly after he became the Governor of the city in 1881. He fell in love with the beach almost immediately and ordered for a promenade to be built around the beach. He also named the beach as ‘Marina’ beach after the Italian word Marina, that translates to promenade.

Are washrooms available at Marina Beach?

Yes. There are toilets available at Marina Beach. Visitors can find public restrooms near the Triumph of Labor Statue as well as opposite Vivekananda House. There are separate toilets for men and women. Additionally, special toilets for differently-abled people can also be found around the beach.

Is ATM available near Marina Beach?

Yes. There are several ATMs available near Marina Beach. Some of the popular ATMs near the beach include Indian Overseas Bank, Axis Bank, State Bank of India, ICICI, and HDFC.