Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach, also known as Covelong Beach, is a sandy beach located in the fishing village of Kovalam on the East Coast Road in Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, about 40 km south of Chennai. It is distinct from Kovalam in Kerala. The beach is known for its fishing hamlet, sandy shoreline, surfing conditions and views of the Bay of Bengal, and for the nearby historic Covelong Fort.

Visitors can expect a long sandy shoreline along the Bay of Bengal with fishing boats and catamarans pulled ashore, a traditional fishing village setting, and open sea views. The beach area is relatively quiet compared to Chennai city beaches, with stretches for walking, photography and relaxing. Surfing and swimming are commonly observed, and visitors can see local fishing activity, small beachside eateries and views of the remnants of Covelong Fort near the backwaters.

The area was historically known as Covelong and developed as a port town in the 18th century by Nawab of the Carnatic Saadat Ali Khan. A fort was constructed at Covelong which was later occupied by the French and subsequently by the British. The fort ruins remain near the beach and backwater area, reflecting its colonial-era port history.

The beach is centered around a traditional Tamil fishing hamlet where fishing remains the primary livelihood. The village culture, fishing practices, catamarans and local seafood cuisine reflect the coastal heritage of the Coromandel Coast.