Saint Martin's Island
Bangladesh's only coral island
Overview
Saint Martin's Island, known locally as Narikel Jinjira ('Coconut Island'), is the only coral island in Bangladesh. Just 8 square kilometres in size, it sits in the Bay of Bengal near the Myanmar border, about 9 km south of the mainland at Teknaf, and feels like a different world entirely.
Crystal-clear shallows, coral formations and palm-fringed beaches make it a paradise for slow walks and snorkelling. At low tide you can wade or boat out to Chera Dwip, the island's detached southern tip, where the sea surrounds you on almost every side and the rocks teem with marine life.
Life here moves to the rhythm of the tides and the ferry schedule — fresh fish grilled on the beach, bicycles instead of cars, coconut groves, and nights lit by stars and lanterns. It is the southernmost inhabited point of Bangladesh.
History & Culture
The island was settled a few centuries ago by Arab traders and later by Bengali and Rakhine fishing families; the local name Narikel Jinjira reflects the coconut palms that cover it. The English name honours a Christian deputy commissioner of the colonial era.
Because of its fragile coral and turtle-nesting beaches, Saint Martin's has been declared an Ecologically Critical Area, and visitor numbers and overnight stays are increasingly regulated to protect it.
Top things to do in Saint Martin's Island
Visit Chera Dwip
Take a small boat or walk at low tide to the detached southern islet, the most scenic and least developed part of the island, ringed by coral rock and clear water.
Snorkel over the coral
The shallow reefs around the island shelter colourful fish and coral — bring or rent a mask and explore the calm patches near the shore.
Cycle or walk the island
With no cars, the best way to explore is by bicycle or on foot, looping past coconut groves, fishing hamlets and quiet beaches.
Feast on fresh seafood
Lobster, crab, coral fish and squid are grilled fresh on the beach each evening — among the best and cheapest seafood in the country.
Watch the sunrise and sunset
Because the island is narrow, you can catch the sun rising over the sea on one side and setting on the other, all on foot.
Saint Martin's Island in pictures
Photos via Wikimedia Commons under their respective Creative Commons licences. Click a photo credit for the source and full licence terms.
Highlights
- ✓Coral reefs and clear shallow water
- ✓Chera Dwip at the island's southern tip
- ✓Beach-grilled fresh seafood
- ✓Turquoise lagoons and palm groves
- ✓Cycling around the island
- ✓Star-filled night skies
How to get to Saint Martin's Island
First reach Cox's Bazar, then travel about 2–3 hours south along the Marine Drive to Teknaf, the departure point for the island.
Tourist ships and speedboats cross from Teknaf to Saint Martin's (roughly 1.5–2 hours) during the open season. Services depend on weather, the tide and current regulations, so confirm schedules in advance.
Best time to visit Saint Martin's Island
The island is best — and generally only open to tourists — during the dry winter season from November to February, when the sea is calm and crossings run reliably.
Outside this window, rough seas during the monsoon often suspend ferries entirely. Always check current government rules, as overnight stays and daily visitor caps have been introduced to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Where to stay
A range of simple guesthouses and beach resorts operate on the island, though overnight capacity is increasingly limited by conservation rules. Many travellers visit as a long day trip from Teknaf; if staying over, book a permitted resort well ahead.
What to eat
- 🍽️Grilled lobster, crab and coral fish on the beach
- 🍽️Fresh coconut water straight from the palms
- 🍽️Squid and prawn dishes at the beach shacks
Travel tips
- 💡Check the latest rules before travelling — visitor numbers, overnight stays and the open season are regulated and change year to year.
- 💡Do not touch or stand on the coral, and take all plastic and litter back with you; the reef is fragile and protected.
- 💡Carry cash and any medicines you need, as facilities on the island are basic.
- 💡Crossings depend on weather and tide — build flexibility into your plans in case ferries are delayed.
Nearby Attractions
The southern tip of mainland Bangladesh and the gateway port for the island, with its own beaches and the Naf River along the Myanmar border.
The world's longest sea beach, and the main hub you pass through on the way to the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to Saint Martin's Island?+
Travel to Cox's Bazar, continue about 2–3 hours south to Teknaf, then take a tourist ship or speedboat across to the island (around 1.5–2 hours). Crossings run mainly in the winter season and depend on weather and regulations.
What is Saint Martin's Island famous for?+
It is the only coral island in Bangladesh, known for turquoise water, coral reefs, coconut palms and fresh seafood. Its detached southern tip, Chera Dwip, is the most scenic spot.
When is Saint Martin's Island open to visitors?+
The main season is the calm, dry winter from November to February. Outside this window rough monsoon seas usually stop the ferries, and visitor numbers are increasingly regulated to protect the ecosystem.
Can you stay overnight on Saint Martin's Island?+
Yes, simple guesthouses and resorts exist, but overnight capacity is limited by conservation rules that change year to year. Many people visit on a day trip, so confirm current regulations before planning to stay over.
