Tamil Nadu Beaches

Tamil Nadu's 900 km coastline boasts of several captivating beaches. Long stretch of golden sands, palm-casuarina groves, gentle breeze and the sand dunes makes one spell bound. Marina, Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari Beach are some of the lovely beaches for beach holidays and are frequently visited.

Marina Beach

It is one of the world's longest beaches and is the pride of Chennai. Tourists can see many important buildings such as the Fort St. George, the University of Chennai and the Senate House along the Marine drive. Long strolls on the golden sand are enjoyed by the visitors here especially in the early mornings and evenings. One must also visit the Sunday market on the Marina beach.

Kanyakumari Beach

It lies at the coinfluence of three oceans namely the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. The Gandhi Mandapam, the Kanyakumari Amman temple and the Swami Vivekananda memorial situated amidst the sea are the major attractions of this beach. The beach being the popular sunrise and sunset sights is also an important pilgrimage center.

Rameshwaram Beach

The beach is situated away from the main land and is surrounded by Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. Legend says that before invading Lanka, Lord Sri Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here to rescue his wife from the clutches of Ravana. It is believed that mythological bridge to Srilanka was constructed here only by Sri Rama.

Covelong Beach

It lies in a picturesque fishing village, 40 km away from Chennai.This unspoilt beach is widely known for its fishing activities. The beach is perfect for swimming and wind surfing. An ancient church, a mosque and the fort are worth visit here.

Elliots Beach

The beach is less frequently visited and is close to Marina beach. The Velanganni Church and the Ashtalakshmi temple pulls in tourists to this beach.

Mahabalipuram Beach

This beach is also called Mammallapuram beach and is 58 km from Chennai. One can see many temples built by the Pallavas here which enhances the beauty of the beach.

Vattakotai Beach

It is one of the serene beaches of Tamil Nadu and is close to Kanyakumari. The beach has been develped into a picnic spot and one can see plenty of coconut groves here.

Velankanni Beach

It is an important pilgrimage centre for the Catholic Christians. The church located here adds to the splendor of the beach.

Kodikkarai Beach

This beach is near the Velankanni beach and is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal on the east and the Palk Straits on the south. Popularly known as Point Calimere, one can see diverse flora and fauna in this beach. The beach also has a wild life sanctuary covering an area of 333 sq km covered with tropical dry evergreen forest.

Best Time to Visit

The weather is pleasant and cool during the month of November-March. It is best to plan a 'beach holiday' some time in the winter season.

Leisure Activities on the Beaches

Visitors enjoy long strolls on the wide stretch sandy beaches in the evenings. Swimming sun bathing and pony ride are common here. On request tour operators arrange for the motorized boat ride and water sports activities like wind surfing and jet skiing. One can also enjoy angling and fishing here. The beaches also offer facilities for shopping on the beaches and tourists must go for excellent shell made handicrafts.