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Elliot's Beach, India - Things to Do in Elliot's Beach

Things to Do in Elliot's Beach

Elliot's Beach, India - Complete Travel Guide

Elliot's Beach, also known as Besant Nagar Beach, is one of Chennai's most popular and well-maintained coastal destinations located in the upscale Besant Nagar neighborhood. This pristine stretch of golden sand offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. The beach is named after Edward Elliot, a former Chief Magistrate and Superintendent of Police of the Madras Presidency during the British era. Unlike many other beaches in Chennai, Elliot's Beach maintains a cleaner environment with better facilities, including well-maintained walkways, seating areas, and food stalls. The beach is particularly famous for its stunning sunrises, peaceful atmosphere, and the iconic Karl Schmidt Memorial, which serves as a prominent landmark. The surrounding Besant Nagar area, often called 'Bessi' by locals, is known for its vibrant cafe culture, shopping outlets, and residential charm, making it an ideal base for exploring Chennai's coastal lifestyle.

Top Things to Do in Elliot's Beach

Watch the Sunrise

Experience one of Chennai's most spectacular sunrises from the sandy shores of Elliot's Beach. The early morning hours offer the most serene atmosphere with gentle waves and fewer crowds. The golden hues reflecting off the Bay of Bengal create a magical start to any day.

Booking Tip: No booking required - arrive by 5:30 AM for the best views. Bring a light jacket as mornings can be breezy. Consider staying in nearby Besant Nagar to make early morning visits easier.

Explore the Karl Schmidt Memorial

Visit this unique memorial dedicated to Karl Schmidt, a German who drowned while trying to save others from drowning at this very beach. The distinctive stone structure has become an iconic landmark and offers great photo opportunities. The memorial represents the beach's historical significance and community spirit.

Booking Tip: Free to visit anytime. Best photographed during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon). Combine with a beach walk for a complete experience.

Beach Walking and Jogging

Take advantage of the well-maintained promenade and clean sandy stretch for invigorating walks or morning jogs. The beach offers a 2-kilometer stretch perfect for fitness enthusiasts and casual walkers alike. The sea breeze and scenic views make it one of Chennai's best outdoor exercise locations.

Booking Tip: Best times are early morning (5-8 AM) or evening (5-7 PM) to avoid heat. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Consider joining local walking groups for safety and social interaction.

Street Food and Cafe Hopping

Indulge in Chennai's famous street food scene with vendors selling everything from fresh corn and sundal to local snacks. The nearby Besant Nagar area is renowned for its trendy cafes, ice cream parlors, and restaurants. Try the famous Murugan Idli Shop or explore the numerous coffee shops that dot the neighborhood.

Booking Tip: Street food costs ₹20-100 per item. Cafe meals range from ₹200-800. Visit during evening hours (4-8 PM) when most vendors are active. Always choose busy stalls for fresher food.

Photography and People Watching

Capture the vibrant local life and stunning coastal scenery that makes Elliot's Beach a photographer's paradise. From fishermen preparing their nets to families enjoying picnics, the beach offers countless opportunities for candid photography. The contrast between traditional fishing activities and modern beach culture creates compelling visual stories.

Booking Tip: Golden hour (6-8 AM and 5-7 PM) provides the best lighting. Respect privacy when photographing people and ask permission when possible. Protect camera equipment from sand and salt spray.

Getting There

Elliot's Beach is easily accessible from Chennai city center, located about 15 kilometers south in the Besant Nagar area. The nearest railway station is Thiruvanmiyur, about 3 kilometers away, while Chennai Central Railway Station is approximately 20 kilometers distant. Chennai International Airport is roughly 25 kilometers from the beach. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber provide convenient transportation options. The Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses also connect the area well, with several routes passing through Besant Nagar.

Getting Around

Getting around Elliot's Beach and the surrounding Besant Nagar area is quite convenient with multiple transportation options. Auto-rickshaws are readily available and ideal for short distances, though ensure the meter is running or negotiate the fare beforehand. App-based taxi services like Ola and Uber operate frequently in this area. The locality is very walkable, with most cafes, shops, and attractions within walking distance of the beach. Local buses connect Besant Nagar to other parts of Chennai. For longer stays, consider renting a bicycle from local shops, as the area has relatively flat terrain and decent roads for cycling.

Where to Stay

Besant Nagar
Adyar
Thiruvanmiyur
Palavakkam
Velachery
Guindy

Food & Dining

The Elliot's Beach area, particularly Besant Nagar, is a food lover's paradise offering everything from authentic South Indian cuisine to international fare. The neighborhood is famous for its numerous cafes, ice cream parlors, and restaurants. Must-try local establishments include Murugan Idli Shop for traditional breakfast, Amadora Gourmet Ice Cream for desserts, and the various beachside vendors selling fresh corn, sundal, and other local snacks. The area also features several multi-cuisine restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops catering to diverse tastes. Street food is abundant and affordable, while upscale dining options are available in nearby Adyar and other adjoining areas.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Chennai

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Annalakshmi Restaurant

4.5 /5
(12566 reviews) 3

Kailash Parbat- Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

4.7 /5
(7743 reviews) 3

Avartana

4.7 /5
(4955 reviews)

Savya Rasa

4.5 /5
(3820 reviews) 4

Broken Bridge Cafe Indian Restaurant

4.6 /5
(2530 reviews) 3
cafe meal_takeaway

Dakshin

4.6 /5
(2213 reviews) 4

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Elliot's Beach is during the cooler months from November to February when temperatures are pleasant and humidity levels are lower. Early mornings (5:30-8:00 AM) and evenings (5:00-7:00 PM) offer the most comfortable conditions year-round, with beautiful lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for beach activities. Avoid the monsoon season (June-September) due to rough seas and heavy rainfall. Summer months (March-May) can be extremely hot and humid, making beach visits uncomfortable during midday hours. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful experience.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekday mornings for the most peaceful experience and better parking availability
Try the famous 'Elliot's Beach Sundal' from local vendors - it's a spiced chickpea snack that's become synonymous with Chennai beaches
The beach has decent restroom facilities and parking, but arrive early during weekends as it gets crowded quickly

Explore Activities in Elliot's Beach