Along the East Coast Road (ECR), Neelankarai Beach is a great seaside retreat. If you want to head to a new beach and step away from the crowded ones then this beach is the perfect choice and a great contrast from the busier ones in the city.
Well-maintained and completely safe, the beach has a serene atmosphere. You can jump into the water and take a dip but be careful though, some areas are very deep and the beach has strong tides as well. If you're someone who feels uncomfortable swimming at crowded beaches, you can leave that worry aside when you visit this beach. Neelankarai Beach is loved for its limited crowd. So you have plenty of space to play sports, run with your pet, or just meditate and lay on the beach. Although there is a lot of space for you to relax and chill, your vehicle won't have much space though parking is very limited and it can be challenging to find a spot.
Things To Do:
The beach has breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset amidst palm trees. You can probably see a lot of photography enthusiasts capturing the views. A very unique sight which is also a highlight of the beach is the numerous turtles that can be found on the shores. During certain seasons, you can witness turtle nests and participate in turtle walks that start from Neelankarai. Chennaiites usually visit the beach to walk along the coastline and watch the turtles during the evenings.
LBB Tip:
Although the beach is generally clean, it is common knowledge to preserve it especially because of the turtles. Environmental awareness events are also usually hosted here as well. If you do plan to have a picnic please be mindful to take any waste with you and dispose of it properly.
Where To Eat:
Since the beach is pretty laid back there isn’t much to do here. There are a few ice gola stalls and games. We do recommend bringing your refreshments, for this will make for a great picnic.
If you don’t feel like bringing your snacks but still want to have a hearty meal, check out East Coast by Madras Square. This charming restaurant is known for its delightful pasta, tender roasted chicken, and irresistible steaks.
Asvah 24 is also a great restaurant, the vibes are magical, and their rooftop has an amazing view overlooking the sea. They specialise in French, Italian as well as Mexican cuisine, so get your hands on some baby pork ribs and beef khurchan tacos.
If baked goods are what you're looking for, Tryst is a favourite spot in ECR. Their cakes and macaroons are delightful. The breads are a must-try, from bagels of multigrain, sesame and plain variants, to burger buns, and challah bread. Starting from fresh Beef Quiche, Chicken Strudel and even vegetarian dishes, Tryst Bakery has something to satisfy your craving quickly.
How To Reach:
You can have a great road trip with your friends or family while you head to the beach. It takes about a 54-minute drive from Chennai City to Neelankarai.
