Cox's Bazar
The world's longest natural sea beach
Quick Travel Facts & Visitor Guide (2026)
Cox's Bazar is a prominent travel destination in Chattogram Division, Bangladesh. The optimal time to visit is November to March for a recommended trip duration of 2–3 days. Entry ticket is Free Entry to all public beach points and weekly off day is Open 7 Days a Week (Public beaches open 24/7). An unbroken 120 km stretch of golden sand where the Bay of Bengal meets endless sky — the crown jewel of Bangladesh's coastline.
Part of the curated Bangladesh tourism network. Explore interconnected attractions in this region.
Overview
Cox's Bazar is home to the longest unbroken natural sea beach on the planet, running for roughly 120 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal. The gentle slope of the shore, the warm water, and the spectacular sunsets make Cox's Bazar sea beach the most popular holiday destination in Bangladesh, drawing millions of visitors every year.
The main Cox Bazar beach is divided into key points — Laboni, Sugandha and Kolatoli — each lined with hotels, deck-chairs and food stalls. As you travel south along the coast the crowds thin out, the cliffs rise, and the scenery becomes wilder at Himchari and Inani Beach. The famous Marine Drive, hugging the shore between hills and sea, is one of the most beautiful road journeys in the country, and leads directly to Teknaf.
Beyond the sand, Cox's Bazar is a working fishing town. Trawlers unload their catch at the harbour, dried-fish (shutki) markets perfume the air, and oyster-shell handicrafts fill the souvenir stalls. The nearby Aggmeda Khyang Buddhist monastery and the Ramu temple complex reflect the rich cultural blend of the region, making it the perfect gateway for a cruise to Saint Martin's Island.
History & Culture
The town is named after Captain Hiram Cox, an officer of the British East India Company who was appointed superintendent of the area in the late 18th century to resettle refugees. A market — a 'bazar' — established in his memory eventually gave the town its name.
Long before the British, this stretch of coast was part of the historic Arakan kingdom, and the region retains a strong Buddhist heritage visible in the monasteries and the Rakhine communities who still live in and around the town.
Top things to do in Cox's Bazar
Walk the main beach at sunset
Start at Laboni Point and stroll south as the sky turns gold. Sunset is the signature Cox's Bazar experience — bring a camera and settle in with roasted corn or fresh coconut.
Drive the Marine Drive to Inani & Teknaf
Hire a car or jeep for the 80 km coastal highway between hills and sea. Stop at Inani Beach to see the coral-like rock formations exposed at low tide.
Visit Himchari National Park
Just south of town, Himchari offers a seasonal waterfall and a hilltop viewpoint over the Bay — best in or just after the monsoon when the falls are full.
Take a day trip to Maheshkhali Island
A short boat ride brings you to this hilly island known for its Adinath temple, Buddhist pagodas, betel-leaf farms and salt fields.
Try water sports & beach activities
Parasailing, jet-skis, banana-boat rides and beach bikes are all available around Sugandha and Kolatoli points.
Eat your way through the seafood
Grilled lobster, coral fish, crab and prawns are everywhere. The Burmese Market is the place for handicrafts, pickles and snacks.
Video Guide: Experience Cox's Bazar
Watch cinematic 4K footage and essential visual travel highlights before planning your trip to Cox's Bazar.
Cox's Bazar in pictures
Curated photography via Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons licensing.
Highlights
- ✓Laboni, Sugandha & Kolatoli beach points
- ✓Himchari waterfall and cliff viewpoint
- ✓Inani Beach coral-like rocks
- ✓Marine Drive coastal road to Teknaf
- ✓Fresh seafood and the dried-fish bazaar
- ✓Sunset over the Bay of Bengal
How to reach Cox's Bazar (Transport Routes)
Cox's Bazar Airport has daily flights from Dhaka (about 1 hour) and Chattogram. It is the fastest and most comfortable option.
Luxury and AC coaches run overnight from Dhaka (roughly 9–11 hours) and from Chattogram (about 4 hours). The road is well served by many bus operators.
A direct rail line from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar now operates; alternatively take a train to Chattogram and continue by bus along the highway.
Best time to visit Cox's Bazar& Seasonal Advisory
The cool, dry winter season from November to March is by far the best time to visit, with calm seas, comfortable temperatures and clear skies — ideal for swimming and long beach days.
April to June is hot and humid. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rain and rough surf, though the landscape turns lush and hotel rates drop sharply.
Expect large domestic crowds during national holidays and the winter peak — book accommodation well in advance for those periods.
Where to stay near Cox's Bazar
Kolatoli and Sugandha points have the highest concentration of hotels, from budget guesthouses to five-star resorts. For quieter surroundings, look at the resorts strung along the Marine Drive towards Inani.
Local food & dining
- 🍽️Grilled coral fish, lobster and crab
- 🍽️Shutki (dried-fish) curries — a regional specialty
- 🍽️Fresh coconut water on the beach
- 🍽️Rakhine and Burmese dishes near the Burmese Market
Essential Travel Tips & Rules for Cox's Bazar
- 💡Swim only in flagged areas and respect lifeguard warnings — currents can be strong.
- 💡Agree on prices before water sports, beach photos or rickshaw rides.
- 💡Dress modestly away from the beach; this is a conservative town.
- 💡Carry cash, as smaller stalls and the Marine Drive area may not accept cards.
Nearby Places to Visit around Cox's Bazar
Combine your visit to Cox's Bazar with these closely located attractions and scenic destinations.
10.1 km (E)A peaceful cultural cluster in Ramu featuring ancient Rakhine Buddhist monasteries, golden stupas, and a massive 100-foot bronze Buddha statue.
12.4 km (S)Himchari is a forested hilly area 16 km south of Cox's Bazar, home to a protected national park with sweeping coastal views, a seasonal waterfall and a small elephant population.
14.3 km (N)A peaceful island retreat near Cox's Bazar, blending tranquil mangrove forests, ancient hilltop temples, and traditional island life.
14.6 km (NW)A tranquil, crescent-shaped island near Cox's Bazar, famous for its untouched sandy beaches, swarms of red crabs, and migratory birdlife.
Curated Destination Highlights
Bangladesh's only coral island, reached by boat from Teknaf at the southern end of the Marine Drive.
A quieter stretch of coast about 30 km south, famous for its rock formations and calmer atmosphere.
A hilly island across the bay with temples, pagodas and betel-leaf gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cox's Bazar
Why is Cox's Bazar famous?+
Cox's Bazar has the longest unbroken natural sea beach in the world, stretching about 120 km along the Bay of Bengal. It is Bangladesh's most popular beach destination, known for its sunsets, seafood and the scenic Marine Drive.
What is the best time to visit Cox's Bazar?+
The best time is the dry winter season from November to March, when the weather is cool, the sea is calm and skies are clear. Avoid the monsoon (June–September) if you want to swim and sunbathe.
How do I get to Cox's Bazar from Dhaka?+
You can fly (about 1 hour), take an overnight AC coach (roughly 9–11 hours), or use the direct Dhaka–Cox's Bazar train line. Flying is the fastest and most comfortable option.
How many days do you need in Cox's Bazar?+
Two to three days is ideal — enough to enjoy the main beach, drive the Marine Drive to Inani, visit Himchari, and take a side trip to Maheshkhali or Saint Martin's Island.
Related Destinations & Travel Guides
Explore 5 interlinked destinations in Chattogram Division& surrounding regions
A tiny tropical island ringed by turquoise water, coconut palms and coral reefs — the southernmost tip of the country.
A tranquil, crescent-shaped island near Cox's Bazar, famous for its untouched sandy beaches, swarms of red crabs, and migratory birdlife.
A peaceful island retreat near Cox's Bazar, blending tranquil mangrove forests, ancient hilltop temples, and traditional island life.
An uninhabited coral island attached to St. Martin's Island, famous for its crystal-clear water, living corals, and absolute tranquility.
Inani Beach is a long, quiet stretch of white sand about 32 km south of Cox's Bazar, famed for its coral and limestone rocks that appear at low tide.