Marine Drive is a 3 km long promenade along the coast of the Arabian Sea near Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road in Mumbai. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Mumbai. If you’re planning a Mumbai trip, add Marine Drive to your Mumbai travel itinerary. It is also famous among locals for family outings or evening walks. In the evening, you will see people chilling around Marine Drive with their friends, family, partners, and even solo.
It is one of the best places to go on a family trip in Mumbai. Whether you’re a couple, friends, family, or a teenager, Marine Drive Mumbai has something for everyone. In this blog, we will learn more about Marine Drive, its history, nearby attractions, food junctions, and much more.
About Marine Drive
- Marine Drive, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mumbai.
- It is a 3.6-kilometer-long promenade along the Arabian Sea, stretching from Nariman Point to Girgaum Chowpatty.
- This crescent-shaped boulevard is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the sea, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Popular Activities to do in Marine Drive
Marine Drive is a fun place where you can sit for a long time, watch the sunset, listen to songs, enjoy a cup of tea with a sea view, dance around, eat street food, and gossip with your friends and family. Apart from this, you can do various activities on Marine Drive:-
- Morning yoga sessions
- Fitness walks.
- Street food indulgence at Chowpatty.
- Photography of the stunning sea and skyline
- Sunset watching
- Cruise watching
Marine Drive Nearby Attractions
Marine Drive is close to various local and famous tourist attractions including:-
- Chowpatty Beach
- Gateway of India
- Taraporewala Aquarium
- Wankhede Stadium
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
- St Teresa’s Church
- Thomas Cathedral
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalya
Places to eat near Marine Drive
Mumbai is quite famous for its food. On every corner, you will find tasty local street food including Pani Puri, Sev Puri, Bhel Puri, Vada Pav, Misal Pav, and more. When you’re at Marine Drive, we would recommend you try the local street food. Don’t forget to try the iconic “Vada Pav”.
Here is the list of some places where you can eat near Marine Drive:-
- Pizza By The Bay
- Foo Town
- Balwas Restaurant
- The Bay View
- L&S Bistro & Pizzeria
- Geoffrey’s
- Samrat
- The Sassy Spoon Nariman Point
- Jaffer Bhai’s Delhi Darbar
- Gaylord Restaurant
- Sassanian
- Pancharanta Restaurant and Bar
- The J
- The Gourmet Restaurant
- Relish International Veg Cuisine
How to Reach Marine Drive
Reaching Marine Drive in Mumbai is easy, as it is centrally located and well-connected by various modes of transport. Here’s a guide:
By Local Train
Mumbai’s local trains are the most efficient way to reach Marine Drive.
- Western Line: Get off at Churchgate Station, which is the closest to Marine Drive. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk.
- Central/Harbor Line: Disembark at Marine Lines Station and walk about 10 minutes to reach Marine Drive.
By Bus
BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) buses frequently ply to Marine Drive from various parts of Mumbai.
- Look for buses heading towards Churchgate, Marine Lines, or Nariman Point.
- Girgaum Chowpatty, Nariman Point, and Churchgate are the main bus stops near Marine Drive.
From Mumbai Airport
- By Taxi: A prepaid or app-based taxi like Uber or Ola will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
- By Train: From the airport, take a taxi or auto to Andheri or Vile Parle station, board a local train on the Western Line, and alight at Churchgate.
Best Time to Visit Marine Drive
Marine Drive is open 24/7. You can reach here whenever you want. The best time to visit Marine Drive is during the early morning or evening hours to avoid the midday heat. Winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring. During monsoon season, avoid going close to the sea as Marine Drive experiences strong waves.
Conclusion
Marine Drive is a popular picnic spot in Mumbai. This picturesque promenade is a testament to Mumbai’s vibrant spirit. Whether you’re soaking in the breathtaking sunset, enjoying a leisurely walk along the sea, or indulging in street-side delicacies, Marine Drive encapsulates the essence of the city. Its charm lies in its ability to connect you with nature while offering a glimpse into Mumbai’s bustling urban life. A visit to this iconic destination is not just a journey through Mumbai but also an unforgettable experience of tranquility, culture, and beauty.
FAQ
The best time to visit Marine Drive is during the evening to witness a stunning sunset, or at night when the “Queen’s Necklace” lights create a mesmerizing view. The winter months (November to February) are ideal for a pleasant experience.
Yes, some notable attractions near Marine Drive include Girgaon Chowpatty Beach, the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST), and the Hanging Gardens.
Marine Drive is considered safe for night walks, as it is well-lit and patrolled by police. However, it’s always advisable to stay alert and avoid secluded areas.
Marine Drive is famous for its stunning views of the Arabian Sea, the iconic “Queen’s Necklace” lighting, and its serene ambiance, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Absolutely! You can find everything from street food like pav bhaji and bhel puri to fine dining options at nearby restaurants. The famous “Bachelor’s” for shakes and ice cream is a must-visit.
Yes, there are plenty of benches along the promenade where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the view. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding or even reading a book.
Marine Drive stretches about 3.6 km from Nariman Point to Girgaon Chowpatty. You can spend 1-2 hours walking, sitting, and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Yes, photography is allowed and highly encouraged! Marine Drive offers some of the most picturesque views in Mumbai, especially during sunset or nighttime.
Marine Drive is well-connected by public transport. You can take a local train to Churchgate Station, which is a short walk away. Alternatively, taxis and buses are also easily available.
Yes, Marine Drive is a hub for various events and festivals, including the Mumbai Marathon and Ganesh Chaturthi immersion processions. During these times, the area comes alive with cultural vibrancy and energy.
