Regarded as the 2nd largest beach globally, Marina Beach in Chennai, India, is a broad, 12km long stretch of golden beach. It extends from the lighthouse to the mouth of the Cooum River.
Image credit- Anoop Joy , Marina Chennai , CC BY-SA 2.0
Origins
Before the 16th century, Marina Beach wasn’t essentially a ‘beach’ as there was hardly a shoreline. After the construction of the harbour, the accumulated sand formed space between sea and shore. After that, Sir Mountstuart Duff, Governor of Madras in 1881, built a sprawling promenade transforming it into Marina Beach.
Historical entertainment venue
Before Chennai developed other forms of entertainment, Marina Beach was the hangout spot for locals and tourists in the evenings and on holidays. The beach has also been featured in several movies from the 1960s. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or some form of convenient corporate housing in Chennai, the likes of Somerset Greenways Chennai, the beach is just a stone’s throw away.
Marina Beach today
Today, the beach is a hive of activity. There is something for everyone, from family gatherings and recreational activities to public events and religious celebrations. Marina Beach features kiosks serving street food, horse riding, a carousel, swimming pools, parasailing, gardens for strolls, a skating rink and seating areas.
Famous landmarks
Marina’s promenade is home to famous landmarks, including the University of Madras, Queen Mary’s College, India’s first aquarium, several art installations and statues of notable figures such as Gandhi and Kannagi.
