Marina Beach

Activity Charges / Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Time Required
Two to three hours
Timings
Open round the clock
Difficulty Level
Easy
Best Suited For
Families, Couples, Nature Lovers and Photo Fanatics.

Quick Info

With a length of 12 km and a width of 450 metres, the Marina Beach in Chennai is India's largest and the world's second largest natural urban beach. The beach is always bustling with many activities. There are quiet spots too. At the beach, you will find food stalls, shops, joggers' track, joyrides, merry-go-rounds, mini giant wheels, an aquarium and much more. The beach welcomes people of all ages to have a good time against the backdrop of the unending ocean.

Rankings & Ratings



A vast beach bustling with many interesting activities.
Editor's Rankings

#1 in 3 Things to Do in Chennai

TripAdvisor Ratings

Editor's Review

The Marina Beach, being the largest in the country, has become extremely popular among tourists. It has so many wonderful activities to offer. You can really expect to have good fun. The best part about the beach is that people of all ages can have a good time. You just cannot return disappointed.


PROS

  • Lots of things to see and do at the beach.
  • Delicious food at the stalls.
  • Ideal for people of all ages.
  • Great place for relaxation.

CONS

  • No bathing or swimming in the ocean.
  • Cannot expect complete cleanliness.
  • The weather gets humid sometimes.
  • A bit of walking is required to get to the beach.

Detailed Info

Marina Beach is probably the most prominent sightseeing attraction in the city of Chennai. It is India's largest and the world's second largest natural urban beach. The sandy beach stretches across a length of about 12 km which includes a 6 km promenade. It is always bustling with wonderful activities. At the beach, you will see memorials, statues, food stalls, souvenir shops, joggers' track, lovers' spot, water fountains, joyrides, merry-go-rounds, mini giant wheels, an aquarium, the Ice House, a skating arena and much more.

Because of the diverse variety of activities and the backdrop of the marvellous ocean, the beach attracts people of all ages. The strong waves from the ocean only add to the spectacular view. Swimming is not allowed in the ocean because of the strong currents. But there are two swimming pools on the shore where you can enjoy a good swim. At both ends of the beach, there are fisherman colonies. 

Since the beach is very popular, it holds many important events. For instance, Independence Day and Republic Day parades and air shows are held at the beach. The festival of Vinayaka Chavithi brings many locals to the beach to immerse their idols. About 150, 000 people visit the beach for celebrating Pongal. Every year, the Chennai Marathon is held at the beach.