Marine clays possess poor geotechnical properties, rendering them unsuitable for construction activities without proper stabilization techniques. The study focuses on the compaction, strength, and plasticity characteristics of cement-treated marine clay collected from Chennai with emphasis on the microstructure of the treated soil. Strength characteristics were analyzed by conducting unconfined compressive strength tests (UCS), optimum moisture content (OMC) conditions with varying binder content (5, 10, 15, and 20%), and curing periods of 7 and 28 days. Variations in the liquid limit (LL) and plastic limit (PL) with the same binder content were examined to investigate the influence of stabilization on the plasticity characteristics of Chennai marine clay. The experimental results showed an increase in OMC, LL, and PL and a decrease in maximum dry density when stabilized with higher cement content. The UCS tests showed substantial strength improvements, with cement content attaining a maximum UCS of 367.73 kPa at 28 days of curing with 15% cement. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs illustrated a denser microstructure with higher cement content, which can be attributed to the formation of cementaceous gel that effectively bound the soil particles together. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and SEM analyses provided valuable insights into the mineralogical transformations and microstructural densification induced by cement stabilization. This study contributes to understanding the behavior of cement-stabilized marine clays and provides valuable insights for developing effective stabilization techniques. Further research on long-term durability and environmental implications is recommended to enhance the performance and sustainability of stabilized marine clays.