St. Martin’s Island | Coxs Bazar

Information

Landmark: St. Martin’s Island
City: Coxs Bazar
Country: Bangladesh
Continent: Asia

St. Martin’s Island, Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, Asia

St. Martin’s Island is a small coral island located in the northeastern part of the Bay of Bengal, off the coast of Bangladesh.

Visual Characteristics

The island features a coastline composed of coral rocks and sandy beaches. The water surrounding the island is clear, with varying shades of blue and green. Vegetation is sparse, primarily consisting of coconut trees and some low-lying shrubs. The island's highest point is approximately 3 meters above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

St. Martin’s Island is situated approximately 9 kilometers south of the tip of the Cox's Bazar-Teknaf peninsula. Access is exclusively via sea. Ferries and local boats operate from Teknaf, a town located about 85 kilometers south of Cox's Bazar city. The journey from Teknaf to St. Martin’s Island typically takes 2 to 3 hours by ferry. There is no direct road access to the island. Limited parking is available at the Teknaf ferry terminal.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The island is a geological formation of coral, formed over millennia. It is the only coral island in Bangladesh. Ecologically, it supports a marine ecosystem with diverse fish species and benthic organisms.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking along the beaches, observing marine life in tidal pools, and exploring the island's interior. Boat trips around the island are available. Visitors can observe the local fishing practices. Swimming is possible in designated areas during calm sea conditions.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic accommodation in the form of guesthouses and huts is available. Several local food stalls and small restaurants operate on the island, serving fresh seafood. Restrooms are available at most accommodation sites and public areas, though facilities can be rudimentary. Shade is provided by natural vegetation and temporary structures. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is generally available but can be intermittent.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from October to March, offers the most favorable weather conditions with calm seas and clear skies. The best time of day for photography is generally during sunrise and sunset due to the quality of light. High tide can affect accessibility to certain beach areas.

Facts & Legends

A local belief suggests that the island was named after Saint Martin, a Christian missionary who is said to have visited the area centuries ago. The island experiences significant erosion during the monsoon season, altering its shape annually.