Cox’s Bazar is a town on the southeast coast of Bangladesh. It’s known for its very long, sandy beachfront, stretching from Sea Beach in the north to Kolatoli Beach in the south. Aggameda Khyang monastery is home to bronze statues and centuries-old Buddhist manuscripts. South of town, the tropical rainforest of Himchari National Park has waterfalls and many birds. North, sea turtles breed on nearby Sonadia Island. ― Google
Known for: 120+ km long sandy beach along the Bay of Bengal
Nickname: "Tourism Capital of Bangladesh"
Location: Southeastern Bangladesh, in the Chittagong Division
October to March (Winter & Dry Season):
Best time — clear skies, pleasant temperatures (20–28°C), and calm sea.
April to June (Pre-monsoon):
Hot but manageable — fewer tourists.
July to September (Monsoon):
Heavy rain, strong tides — not ideal for swimming or sightseeing.
By Air:
Direct domestic flights from Dhaka, Sylhet, or Chattogram to Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB).
Upcoming Cox’s Bazar International Airport may expand international access.
By Road:
From Dhaka: ~10–12 hours by AC coach or private car.
From Chattogram: ~4–5 hours drive.
By Train (NEW):
Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar rail service launched in late 2023 — more scenic and comfortable!
Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach:
Main attraction — stretches from Laboni Point to Inani and Teknaf.
Laboni Point:
Central and busiest beach spot with shops, street food, and camel rides.
Himchari:
Waterfalls and hilltop viewpoints, ~10 km south of town.
Inani Beach:
Rocky sea beach with golden sand and clear water, ~32 km south.
Sugandha Beach:
Food court zone and beach bikes.
Marine Drive Road:
Scenic 80-km road along the coastline from Cox’s Bazar to Teknaf.
Saint Martin’s Island (via Teknaf):
Coral island with crystal-clear water — accessible by boat from Teknaf (November–March only).
Ramu Buddhist Temples & Pagodas:
Cultural detour to traditional Buddhist villages and the 100-ft reclining Buddha statue.
🏊♂️ Beach swimming & sunbathing (Laboni, Inani)
🐪 Camel or horse rides along the beach
🛍️ Local shopping (shell products, pearls, handicrafts)
🛥️ Boat rides, jet skiing (at Sugandha or Inani)
🥾 Short hikes at Himchari & Ramu
🌅 Sunset watching — Inani & Marine Drive are top spots
🐠 Island trip to Saint Martin’s and Chhera Dwip
Luxury:
Sayeman Beach Resort
Seagull Hotel
Long Beach Hotel
Ocean Paradise Hotel
Mid-range:
Hotel Sea Crown
Hotel The Cox Today
White Orchid
Budget:
Hotel Kollol
Sea Alif
Local motels and guesthouses around Kolatoli Circle
Tip: Book well in advance during holidays or weekends.
Must-Try Local Dishes:
Fresh seafood: prawns, lobster, hilsa, crab
Rupchanda fry and masala fish curry
Rakhine traditional food (try dry fish, bamboo chicken)
Top Restaurants:
Mermaid Café (near Himchari) – beachfront & eco-style
Salt Bistro & Café – fusion and seafood
EFC Restaurant – family-friendly, seafood platters
Poushee Restaurant – local Bengali cuisine
Jhaubon Restaurant – known for fresh sea fish
People: Predominantly Bengali Muslims, with minority Rakhine and Buddhist communities in nearby Ramu
Crafts: Shell ornaments, jute products, hand-woven textiles
Etiquette: Modest dress appreciated on beaches, especially for women
Language: Bengali is spoken widely; English is understood at hotels and major restaurants
Avoid swimming during high tide or red flag days.
Bring sunscreen, flip-flops, and beachwear.
Use ride-sharing apps like Pathao or local CNG (tuk-tuks) to get around.
Carry cash — most shops and small restaurants don’t accept cards.
Saint Martin’s trips are seasonal (Nov–March) and require early ferry booking.
Day 1:
Arrive → Visit Laboni & Sugandha beaches → Sunset at Himchari → Dinner at Salt Bistro
Day 2:
Marine Drive to Inani Beach → Lunch at Mermaid Café → Visit Ramu Temples → Shopping at Burmese Market
Day 3 (optional):
Day trip to Saint Martin’s Island from Teknaf (starts very early!) → Return by evening or overnight in Teknaf