Edward Elliot’s beach is at the southern end of the Marina Beach. It is a popular place for tourists to have some fun and relaxation while enjoying an abundance of the sun. The beach personifies calmness and serenity as water sports are now allowed here, unlike on other beaches in Chennai.

Edward Elliot’s beach is the last part of the Marina Beach and is undoubtedly one of the cleanest beaches you will come across in Chennai. It is located in Annie Besant Nagar, which is 80 km from the main town of Chennai and is also known as Besant Nagar Beach or Bessie. It is named after the past Governor of Chennai Edward Elliot.

The Best Place for Fun and Relaxation

In the colonial era, entry to Edward Elliot beach was restricted to expatriates. Today, it is the most-favored outing zone for college students and the youth of Chennai, the tourists visiting here and for families looking for a weekend of enjoyment and fun. The beach is extremely crowded on weekends. There are many restaurants near the beach which cater to the gastronomical needs of the visitors.

Edward Elliot’s beach is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the feel of splashing waves caressing the feet and for those who love to enjoy the changing visions of nature as the rising and setting of sun create spectacular, awe-inspiring images. The beach is great for long walks but it is an activity that may be tough to enjoy during weekends because of the large crowds. Parking places will be hard to come across on weekends and holidays as locals throng to the beach to make the most of their leisure.

Temples and Churches

What makes Edward Elliot’s beach unique is the coexistence of temples, churches and other historical monuments just a few minutes from the main beach. The Velankanni Church dedicated to the Lady of Health is at the southern end of the beach and is believed to possess miraculous healing powers. Also, present here is the Ashtalakshmi Temple which is dedicated to the memory of Goddess Mahalakshmi in eight manifestations. The Goddess represents wealth and peace.

There are also temples of Tumbikai Aazhwar or Lord Ganesha, Guruvayurappan or a form of Lord Krishna, Chakrathaazhwar and Narasimhar which is a form of Lord Vishnu. Visitors also pay their respects to a stone monument built on the beach in honor of a Danish sailor, Karl Schmidt who lost his life here while saving a man from drowning in the sea.

Restaurants and Eating Places

The Edward Elliot’s beach is also popular for its restaurants that whip up a variety of delicious cuisines for the hungry visitors. You can enjoy the all-time favorite south Indian snacks or dig into some delectable Chinese dishes served at Shangri La. There is a Malaysian restaurant also present on the beach. At Edward Elliot’s beach, satiating your palatal needs is easy.

How to Reach

By Road

Edward Elliot’s beach is 60 km from Chennai and can be reached using MTC buses or private taxis.

By Rail

Nearest railway station is Chennai Central Railway Station which is about 4 km from the beach.

By Air

Nearest airport is Chennai International Airport which is 14 km from the beach.