How to Reach Marine Drive from Marine Lines Station – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Marine Drive from Marine Lines Station easily by foot, local trains, or cabs with practical tips for a smooth Mumbai commute.
Marine Lines Station and Marine Drive are two iconic locations in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Marine Lines Station is a key stop on the Western Line of Mumbai's local train network, while Marine Drive is a famous seaside promenade known for its stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
This route is commonly traveled by daily commuters, tourists, and locals who want to enjoy the scenic Marine Drive after arriving by train. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel between these two points, including walking, local transport, and cabs.
Getting from Marine Lines Station to Marine Drive – Main Options
Walking
Walking is the most popular and convenient option for many travelers because Marine Drive is very close to Marine Lines Station. It is suitable for those who enjoy a short stroll along Mumbai's busy streets.
The walking distance between Marine Lines Station and Marine Drive is approximately 1 to 1.5 kilometers, which usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes depending on your pace and crowd.
The route is mostly flat and passes through well-known areas like Marine Drive Road and Chowpatty Beach, offering pleasant sea views and photo opportunities.
During peak hours, the sidewalks can be crowded with office-goers and street vendors, so be prepared for some foot traffic and occasional delays.
Walking is free and allows you to experience Mumbai's local life, but avoid walking late at night due to reduced street lighting and safety concerns.
Local Train and Bus
Though Marine Lines Station is on the Western Line, there is no direct train to Marine Drive as it is a road-side promenade. However, local buses and trains can be used for nearby stops if you prefer not to walk.
From Marine Lines Station, you can board a BEST bus towards Girgaum Chowpatty or Marine Drive; buses run frequently every 10 to 15 minutes during the day.
The bus fare is very economical, usually between ₹10 to ₹20, making it a budget-friendly option for short distances.
Marine Drive is well connected by several bus routes, but buses can get crowded during peak hours, especially mornings and evenings.
Local trains do not stop directly at Marine Drive, so using the train for this short route is not practical.
Car / Self-Drive / Taxi
Using a private car, taxi, or app-based cab service like Ola or Uber is a comfortable and quick way to reach Marine Drive from Marine Lines Station, especially if you have luggage or prefer a hassle-free ride.
The road distance is about 2 to 3 kilometers via Marine Drive Road or Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, taking around 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Taxi fares from Marine Lines Station to Marine Drive typically range from ₹100 to ₹200, depending on the time of day and traffic.
Traffic congestion is common during office hours and weekends, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid delays.
Prepaid taxi counters are available at Marine Lines Station, but app-based cabs offer more convenience and transparent pricing.
Parking near Marine Drive can be limited and expensive, so if you are driving yourself, look for designated parking lots or use valet services at nearby hotels.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Marine Lines Station to Marine Drive, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
Exit Marine Lines Station via the main gate to reach Marine Drive Road; this is the shortest and safest route to Marine Drive.
If walking, follow the pedestrian sidewalks along Marine Drive Road, keeping an eye out for street signs and local vendors.
If you prefer a bus, check the BEST bus schedule at the station or use a mobile app to find the next bus heading towards Girgaum Chowpatty or Marine Drive.
For taxis or cabs, book your ride through Ola or Uber apps for quick pickup; avoid hailing random taxis to ensure safety and fair pricing.
Carry small change or a prepaid card for bus fares and keep your phone charged to navigate or call cabs easily.
During monsoon season, carry an umbrella or raincoat as the area can get slippery and wet, making walking less comfortable.
Practical Travel Tips
Marine Lines and Marine Drive are generally safe during the day, but avoid isolated areas after dark and keep your belongings secure to prevent pickpocketing.
Drink bottled water and avoid street food near the station if you have a sensitive stomach; however, Marine Drive has many clean cafes and restaurants to try local snacks.
Book train tickets in advance on IRCTC if you are arriving from outside Mumbai to Marine Lines Station, especially during festivals or weekends.
Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for reliable and transparent fares; avoid negotiating with random drivers to prevent scams.
Carry light luggage if you plan to walk, as the sidewalks can be crowded and uneven in some spots.
During the monsoon, be cautious of waterlogged areas and slippery pavements along the route.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to travel from Marine Lines Station to Marine Drive is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant, making walking and sightseeing enjoyable.
Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September when heavy rains can cause waterlogging and slow traffic. Early mornings and late evenings are less crowded and offer a peaceful experience.
Avoid peak office hours between 8 AM to 10 AM and 6 PM to 8 PM to escape heavy crowding on trains, buses, and roads.
During Ganesh Chaturthi and New Year’s Eve, Marine Drive attracts large crowds, so plan accordingly to avoid delays and parking issues.
Fog is rare in Mumbai, but heavy rains during monsoon can reduce visibility and increase travel time.
Midday departures are ideal for a relaxed walk and to enjoy the sea breeze along Marine Drive.
Arrival at Marine Drive & What to Expect
When you arrive at Marine Drive, you will find a wide promenade along the Arabian Sea, popular for evening walks and sunset views. The area is lively with street food stalls, local artists, and families enjoying the sea breeze.
Local transport options include auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs. Prepaid taxi booths and ride-hailing services are available near the promenade’s main entry points. Nearby neighborhoods like Nariman Point and Girgaum offer many hotels and guesthouses for accommodation.
Conclusion
The most efficient way to reach Marine Drive from Marine Lines Station is by walking, especially if you enjoy a short, scenic stroll. For those with luggage or in a hurry, taxis and app-based cabs provide a comfortable alternative with quick travel times.
Plan your trip considering Mumbai’s traffic patterns and weather conditions. Use prepaid or app-based transport options for safety and convenience. With this guide, you can confidently navigate the short but vibrant route from Marine Lines Station to Marine Drive and enjoy one of Mumbai’s most iconic spots.