Besant Nagar Beach, also known as Elliot's Beach, is a popular coastal spot located in the southern part of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This serene beach attracts locals and tourists alike for its calm waves, vibrant street food stalls, and beautiful sunsets. Whether you're a Chennai resident or visiting from elsewhere, reaching Besant Nagar Beach is straightforward and offers multiple transport options.

This guide covers the best ways to get to Besant Nagar Beach, including train, bus, car, and taxi routes. You'll find practical advice on travel times, costs, and tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Chennai City Center to Besant Nagar Beach – Main Options

Train

While Chennai's suburban train network does not have a station directly at Besant Nagar, nearby stations provide convenient access combined with short auto or taxi rides. Trains are a budget-friendly and quick way to cover most of the distance.

• Nearest stations:

  Thiruvanmiyur and Adyar are the closest suburban railway stations to Besant Nagar Beach, located about 3-4 km away. Both stations are on the Chennai Beach–Chengalpattu line.

• Travel time and cost:

  From Chennai Central or Chennai Beach stations, suburban trains take around 20-30 minutes to reach Thiruvanmiyur or Adyar. Tickets cost between ₹10-20 depending on the class.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains run every 15-30 minutes during peak hours, offering a comfortable and air-conditioned option in some coaches. Avoid rush hour to escape crowding.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Auto-rickshaws and app-based taxis like Ola and Uber are readily available outside these stations for the short ride to the beach, costing ₹50-100.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains are reliable year-round, but monsoon rains can cause minor delays. Carry an umbrella during June-September.

Bus

Chennai’s Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses provide direct and affordable routes to Besant Nagar Beach from various parts of the city. This is a popular choice for budget travelers and those wanting to experience local life.

• Key bus routes:

  Buses numbered 19A, 19B, and 21D connect central Chennai areas like T Nagar, Egmore, and Adyar to Besant Nagar Beach.

• Travel time and fares:

  Depending on traffic, buses take 30-60 minutes from central locations. Tickets cost ₹10-20, making it an economical option.

• Bus stops:

  The main stop is Besant Nagar Beach Bus Stop near the junction of Elliot’s Beach Road and Kamarajar Salai.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Buses run every 10-20 minutes during the day but can be crowded during peak hours. Avoid traveling during Chennai’s afternoon heat without water.

• Local tips:

  Carry small change for tickets and be cautious of pickpockets during busy times. Use the MTC app or Google Maps for live bus tracking.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Besant Nagar Beach is a convenient and flexible option, especially for families or groups. The route offers scenic views and easy parking near the beach.

• Route details:

  From central Chennai, take Anna Salai (Mount Road) south towards Adyar, then turn onto Kamarajar Salai which runs along the coast to Besant Nagar.

• Distance and time:

  The drive covers about 10-12 km and typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

• Parking:

  Several paid parking lots and street parking are available near the beach. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

• Road conditions:

  Roads are generally well-maintained but can be congested during evenings and weekends. Avoid peak office hours for smoother travel.

• Fuel and tolls:

  No tolls on this route. Fuel stations are available along Anna Salai and in Adyar.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

Using Ola or Uber taxis is one of the easiest ways to reach Besant Nagar Beach, offering door-to-door service without parking hassles. This is ideal for visitors unfamiliar with Chennai roads.

• Booking:

  Both Ola and Uber operate widely in Chennai. Booking via their apps is straightforward and offers fare estimates upfront.

• Cost and time:

  A ride from central Chennai costs around ₹150-250 and takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.

• Convenience:

  Taxis drop you right at the beach entrance, saving time and effort. They are available 24/7, making late evening visits easy.

• Surge pricing:

  Be aware of surge pricing during weekends and festivals which can increase fares significantly.

• Safety tips:

  Confirm driver details and share your ride status with friends or family for added safety.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers reach Besant Nagar Beach smoothly, combining convenience and local insights.

• Book your tickets or plan your route:

  If using train or bus, check schedules on IRCTC or MTC apps a day before. For taxis, book via Ola or Uber apps in advance during peak times.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at Chennai Central or your bus stop 15-20 minutes early to avoid last-minute rush and secure good seats.

• Choose the right train or bus:

  Opt for suburban trains to Thiruvanmiyur or Adyar if traveling by train. For buses, confirm the route number with the conductor or app to avoid wrong stops.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  From train stations, use auto-rickshaws or taxis to cover the 3-4 km to the beach. Negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based rides for fixed pricing.

• Prepare for the beach visit:

  Carry water, sunscreen, and light snacks. Avoid carrying valuables and keep your belongings secure while enjoying the beach.

• Return planning:

  Check return train or bus timings in advance, especially if traveling late. For taxis, pre-book your ride back or use app services to avoid waiting.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Avoid isolated areas of the beach after dark. Use well-lit main entrances and stay in groups if possible.

• Food and water:

  Try local street food stalls near the beach but ensure they maintain hygiene. Carry bottled water to stay hydrated.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book tickets via IRCTC app to avoid queues. For buses, use MTC’s online tools or apps for real-time info.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid autos or app-based taxis for last-mile travel. Avoid unmetered autos to prevent overcharging.

• Luggage:

  Travel light as beach parking and carrying heavy bags on sand can be inconvenient.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon months (June–September) can bring heavy rains and occasional beach closures. Check weather forecasts before planning.

Best Time & Conditions

Besant Nagar Beach is pleasant year-round but certain seasons offer better experiences. Avoiding peak traffic and weather extremes ensures a comfortable trip.

The beach is busiest during weekends and evenings, so weekday mornings are ideal for peaceful visits.

• Avoid Chennai’s rush hours (8-10 AM and 5-8 PM) to escape traffic jams en route.

• Monsoon season brings heavy rains and rough seas; best to avoid June to September for beach activities.

• Winter months (November to February) offer cooler temperatures and clear skies, perfect for beach outings.

• Early morning or late afternoon departures provide pleasant weather and beautiful sunrise or sunset views.

Arrival at Besant Nagar Beach & What to Expect

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a clean, expansive shoreline with calm waters and a lively promenade. The beach is lined with coconut trees, food stalls, and benches, making it a favorite spot for families and young crowds alike.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and app-based taxis waiting near the main entrance. Nearby attractions include the Ashtalakshmi Temple and the Velankanni Church, both within walking distance. Accommodation options range from budget lodges to boutique hotels in the Besant Nagar neighborhood.

Conclusion

Among the various options, taking a suburban train to Thiruvanmiyur or Adyar combined with a short taxi ride offers a balance of cost-efficiency and convenience. For those prioritizing comfort and flexibility, app-based taxis provide hassle-free door-to-door service.

With multiple transport modes and clear travel tips, you can confidently plan your trip to Besant Nagar Beach and enjoy its tranquil beauty and vibrant local culture without stress.