Besant Nagar (Edward Elliot’s) Beach Chennai – Timings, History & Tips
A Cleaner, Chilled Version of Marina in Chennai with a Monument to a Danish Soldier
Overview
Besant Nagar Beach in Chennai was fairly exclusive only to white people during the Colonial era.
Contains a monument to a Danish sailor who saved an English girl from getting drowned in 1930.
Preferred by some people for being quieter and more relaxed than Marina, it is a favourite hotspot among locals.
The beach has a wheelchair accessible wooden pathway that extends from the road to the shoreline.
The 190-meter-long, 2.8-meter-wide pathway can also be used by anyone who might want to avoid the sand in the beach to reach the shoreline.
The beach is surrounded by top class restaurants and cafes serving all kinds of cuisines (Jonah’s Bistro, Starbucks, Dindigul Thalappakatti, Murugan Idli Shop, etc.), making it an ideal spot for families, friends and couples.
The beach itself includes food stalls and drink stalls offering a variety of items for reasonable prices.
It comes truly alive in the evenings with a carnival-like atmosphere and games/activities such as balloon shooting and ring toss being available during this time.
Tickets and Timings
Timings: Open 24 hours
Closed Days: Open Daily
Ticket Price: Free
Know Before You Go
Parking slots are minimal. During evenings/weekends, be prepared to park in interior Besant Nagar streets and to walk to the beach from the parking site.
Expect it to be crowded during evenings and weekends.
Do not enter the water beyond ankles. The undercurrents are strong and unpredictable.
Be cautious with purchases of cut fruits, chat items with exposed toppings and Ice cream from non-branded carts.
Avoid expensive shoes. Wear sandals/footwear that are ok with sand.
It is recommended to not stay in the beach beyond 10:00/10:30 PM.
Location
Elliot’s Promenade, Besant Nagar
