Saint Martin’s Island in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh: A Tropical Jewel in the Bay of Bengal

 Saint Martin’s Island in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh: A Tropical Jewel in the Bay of Bengal

Saint Martin’s Island

Saint Martin’s Island, locally known as “Narikel Jinjira” (meaning "Coconut Island"), is the only coral island in Bangladesh. Located in the northeastern part of the Bay of Bengal, it falls under Teknaf Upazila of Cox’s Bazar District, about 9 kilometers south of the tip of the mainland. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, coconut palms, and coral reef ecosystem, Saint Martin’s Island is one of the most serene and beautiful tourist destinations in Bangladesh.

The island spans an area of about 8 square kilometers, but during high tide, the visible land area becomes smaller. It is surrounded by turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.

Geography and Access:

Saint Martin’s Island lies about 120 kilometers from Cox’s Bazar and 9 kilometers from Teknaf, the southernmost point of the mainland. The island is separated from Myanmar by the Naf River and lies very close to the Bangladesh-Myanmar maritime border.

To reach Saint Martin’s Island, tourists usually travel from Dhaka to Teknaf (by bus or car), and then take a sea cruise or ferry. Regular ships like Keari Sindbad, MV Bay Cruise, and others operate from Teknaf Jetty during the tourist season, which typically runs from November to March.

The journey from Teknaf to the island takes about 2–2.5 hours, offering scenic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Helicopter and trawler services are also available for those seeking faster or more adventurous travel options.

Natural Beauty and Attractions:

Saint Martin’s Island is known for its untouched beauty and peaceful ambiance. Unlike other crowded beach destinations, it offers a tranquil escape from urban life. Key attractions include:

1. Coconut Grove and Beaches:

The island is dotted with thousands of coconut trees, giving it the name “Narikel Jinjira.” The beaches are clean, calm, and perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or just relaxing by the sea.

Journey to Saint Martin’s Island

2. Chhera Dwip:

Chhera Dwip is a small extension of Saint Martin’s Island, located at its southern tip. During low tide, it is possible to walk to Chhera Dwip through shallow water. This uninhabited piece of land is ideal for exploring coral rocks, sea birds, and tide pools.

3. Coral Reefs and Marine Life:

Saint Martin’s is the only coral island in Bangladesh, and its underwater environment hosts a variety of corals, sea urchins, starfish, and tropical fish. While coral health has declined in recent years due to tourism and environmental changes, the island remains a hotspot for marine diversity.

4. Sunrise and Sunset:

Watching the sunrise over the Bay of Bengal or the sunset beyond the ocean horizon from the western beach is one of the most enchanting experiences the island has to offer.

Activities:

Visitors to Saint Martin’s can enjoy several activities:

• Swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue waters.
• Boat rides around the island or to Chhera Dwip.
• Cycling on rented bikes around the island’s sandy paths.
• Fishing with local fishermen or watching them haul in their daily catch.
• Beachside camping or staying overnight at eco-friendly resorts and hotels.

Local Life and Culture:

The island is home to a small community of approximately 7,000 residents, most of whom are involved in fishing and tourism. The local people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Seafood, especially lobster, crab, and dried fish, is a local delicacy and a must-try for visitors.

The culture here is simple, peaceful, and influenced by the sea. Despite the influx of tourists, life on the island still maintains a rural, relaxed rhythm.

Environmental Concerns and Conservation:

Due to its ecological importance, Saint Martin’s Island is under threat from over-tourism, coral harvesting, plastic pollution, and climate change. The government and environmental groups have stressed the importance of sustainable tourism, urging visitors to avoid littering, collecting corals, or disturbing marine habitats.

Efforts are underway to declare the island a Marine Protected Area (MPA), to conserve its fragile biodiversity and promote responsible ecotourism.

Travel Tips:

• The best time to visit is between November and March when the sea is calm.
• Bring cash, as there are no banks or ATMs on the island.
• Mobile networks may be limited or weak in some areas.
• Book accommodation and ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
• Respect local customs and the environment- leave nothing but footprints.

Conclusion:

Saint Martin’s Island is a rare natural wonder in Bangladesh- a place where you can experience coral reefs, serene beaches, and authentic island life. Whether you're watching a glowing sunset, exploring tide pools, or enjoying fresh seafood by the sea, the island offers a deeply refreshing escape. As Bangladesh’s only coral island, it’s both a national treasure and a reminder of how fragile and beautiful our natural world can be. With sustainable tourism and mindful exploration, Saint Martin’s can remain a peaceful paradise for generations to come.