Cox’s Bazar Beach | Coxs Bazar

Information

Landmark: Cox’s Bazar Beach
City: Coxs Bazar
Country: Bangladesh
Continent: Asia

Cox’s Bazar Beach, Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, Asia

Cox's Bazar Beach is a sandy coastline located in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. It is recognized as the longest natural sea beach in the world.

Visual Characteristics

The beach consists of a continuous stretch of golden-brown sand extending approximately 120 kilometers. The water is typically a murky brown due to sediment runoff from rivers. The shoreline is generally flat with a gentle slope towards the sea. Vegetation along the immediate hinterland includes palm trees and various coastal shrubs.

Location & Access Logistics

Cox's Bazar Beach is situated in the town of Cox's Bazar, approximately 150 kilometers south of Chittagong. Access is primarily via National Highway 1 (N1), which connects to Chittagong. Within Cox's Bazar town, local roads provide direct access to different sections of the beach. Parking is available along the main Marine Drive road and in designated areas near hotels and public access points. Public transport includes buses from major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong, arriving at Cox's Bazar Bus Station, from which local auto-rickshaws and taxis can be hired to reach the beach. Boat services are available for trips to nearby islands like St. Martin's, departing from the Cox's Bazar ferry terminal.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The geological formation of Cox's Bazar Beach is a result of alluvial deposits carried by rivers and deposited along the Bay of Bengal coastline over millennia. Ecologically, it is classified as a sandy beach ecosystem, supporting specific types of marine life and coastal flora adapted to saline conditions. Historically, the area has been a fishing community for centuries, with the beach serving as a natural harbor and resource base.

Key Highlights & Activities

Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Horseback riding is available along the shoreline. Visitors can purchase local handicrafts from vendors. Sunrise and sunset viewing are common activities. Local fishing boats can be observed operating offshore.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at public access points and within hotels and restaurants lining the beach. Shade is provided by umbrellas and temporary structures set up by vendors. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available along the main beach areas. Food vendors and restaurants are located along the Marine Drive and in the town adjacent to the beach, offering local seafood and snacks.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for clear photography is during the early morning (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM) for soft light and late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) for warmer tones. The optimal months for weather are from October to March, avoiding the monsoon season which runs from June to September. High tide can reduce the available sandy area for walking.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that the beach was named after Captain Hiram Cox, a British East India Company official who served as superintendent of the area in the late 18th century. A specific tip for visitors is to be aware of the strong undertow currents, especially during rough seas, and to swim only in areas supervised by local lifeguards.