Edward Elliot's Beach

Edward Elliot's Beach is a public shoreline in the Besant Nagar neighborhood of Chennai along the Bay of Bengal, where roughly two kilometers of sand stretch along the coast. The shore offers gently sloping access to the water with steady waves rolling in from the bay, while a planted promenade with walkways and seating runs behind it.

The shore took its name in the 19th century after Edward Elliot, who served as chief engineer for the Madras Railway during the British colonial administration. The area later developed into a popular gathering spot for the growing city of Chennai, drawing both residents and visitors to the waterfront.

The shoreline takes its name from a railway engineer who worked during British colonial times. Today, residents from nearby Besant Nagar spend their mornings and evenings here, walking along the waterline or sitting at the small snack stalls serving local bites.

Lifeguards watch the swimming area from sunrise to sunset, while security patrols continue walking the shore after dark. Early morning or late evening visits work best, when temperatures drop and space opens up along the sand.

A white stone structure stands at the southern end of the shore, marking where Karl Schmidt, a Dutch sailor, lost his life while rescuing others from the water. The memorial sits close to the waves and draws visitors curious about its story.