Beaches

Silver Beach refers to several globally recognized coastal destinations, most prominently in India and the United States. In  Cuddalore, India,  Silver Beach is celebrated as the second-longest beach on the Coromandel Coast and one of the longest in Asia, known for its “silvery” waves, historic  Fort St. David, and unique nearby mangrove forests. In  St. Joseph, Michigan,  Silver Beach County Park is a premier Lake Michigan destination famous for its wide sandy shores, the historic  Silver Beach Carousel, and its past as a landmark amusement park. Other notable locations include the serene “Yin Tan” in  Beihai, China, renowned for white quartz sand that glistens like silver, and a secluded family-friendly cove in  Famagusta, Cyprus.

Chennai’s coastline along the Bay of Bengal serves as the city’s vibrant natural lung, offering a diverse blend of historical landmarks, local street food, and serene escapes. The city is famously home to  Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, which acts as a cultural hub for iconic sunrises and evening carnivals. Beyond the bustle of  Marina, the shoreline features the cleaner and more relaxed  Edward Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar), tranquil stretches like  Thiruvanmiyur and  Neelankarai for quiet reflection, and the adventure-focused  Covelong Beach, a premier surfing destination. Whether visiting for the historic lighthouses, seasonal turtle spotting, or a weekend at a beach resort, Chennai’s beaches remain the heartbeat of the city’s social and recreational life in 2026.

Mahabalipuram Beach, also known as Mamallapuram Beach, is a stunning 20-kilometer stretch of coastline along the Bay of Bengal in Tamil Nadu, located approximately 58 km from Chennai. This UNESCO World Heritage-recognized destination is celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and ancient architectural marvels, most notably the 8th-century Shore Temple that sits directly on its golden sands. Visitors are drawn to its panoramic sunrise views, serene atmosphere, and opportunities for leisure activities such as sunbathing, photography, and windsurfing. Beyond the shore, the beach serves as a gateway to the rich cultural legacy of the Pallava dynasty, with iconic rock-cut monuments like the Five Rathas and Arjuna’s Penance just a short walk away.

Covelong (or Kovalam) is a vibrant coastal village and popular beach destination located approximately 40 km south of Chennai, along the East Coast Road (ECR) in Tamil Nadu. It is celebrated as India’s first surfing village, drawing enthusiasts to the waves and hosting the annual Covelong Point Surf, Music & Yoga Festival every August. The beach has earned the prestigious Blue Flag certification, a testament to its high standards of cleanliness, environmental management, and safety. Visitors can partake in a variety of water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and unique catamaran rides offered by local fishers. The locale is rich in history, featuring the ruins of a 17th-century Dutch fort, now integrated into the Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort, and an ancient Catholic church near the shore. The best time to visit this picturesque blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation is typically between November and February, before continuing south to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram.