Known for the world’s longest natural sea beach, Cox’s Bazar offers rocky shores, green hills, casuarina forests and lively tourist spots. Visitors can explore Patuartek, Inani, Mermaid Beach and Himchari along the Marine Drive, while Laboni, Sugandha and Kolatoli points are close to the town centre.
Patuartek Beach: Waves crash against rocks
Patuartek Beach in Ukhiya offers views of the blue sea on one side and rows of hills on the other. At low tide, its rocky stretches emerge from the water. Crashing waves, red crabs, and colourful fishing sampans add to the beach’s charm. Visitors can also enjoy horse riding, quad biking and photography.
Visitors can travel from Dolphin Mor in Cox’s Bazar town by CNG-run auto-rickshaw or other local vehicles. According to the supplied fare information, a CNG-run auto-rickshaw may cost Tk1,000–1,500, while an open jeep may cost Tk1,800–2,500. Fares vary by vehicle and season.
Inani Beach: The beauty of coral rocks
Inani Beach’s main attraction is its coral rocks. At low tide, a wide stretch of rocks becomes visible. Visitors can walk along the shore in the afternoon and enjoy the sunset. However, sharp shells and other hazards may be present among the rocks, so use caution.
Visitors can travel from Cox’s Bazar town along Marine Drive by CNG-run auto-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw or jeep. A reserved jeep may cost around Tk1,800–2,500. Smaller groups can hire an auto-rickshaw, but itis best to agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Mermaid Beach and Eco Resort: An overnight stay amid nature
Mermaid Beach and Mermaid Eco Resort are located near Rezu Khal at Pechar Dwip in Ukhiya. Surrounded by casuarina trees, water bodies and the sea, the area offers a quiet setting for relaxation. The cottages and villas combine modern amenities with an emphasis on environmentally friendly management. The resort also offers a restaurant, juice bar and boating facilities.
At Mermaid Eco Resort, a one-bedroom bungalow for two guests starts at Tk8,000, a studio villa at Tk11,000, and a water villa at Tk16,000. At Mermaid Beach Resort, room rates range from about Tk12,000 to Tk36,000, depending on the accommodation type.
These are published starting or listed prices. Visitors should confirm current rates before booking.
Visitors can travel from Kolatoli to the resort area near Rezu Bridge by CNG-run auto-rickshaw. To book in advance at Mermaid Eco Resort, call 01841-416464.
Himchari: The sea from the hills
Himchari is about 18 kilometres south of Cox’s Bazar town. Along Marine Drive, hills rise on one side while the sea stretches along the other. Visitors can enjoy sea views from the hills and see the waterfall during the rainy season.
Tourists can reach the destination from town using reserved vehicles or local transport. Fares depend on the vehicle and the number of passengers.
Laboni Beach Point: Seaside attractions close to town
Laboni Beach Point, close to Cox’s Bazar town, is one of the area’s most popular tourist destinations. Easy access, a wide sandy beach and scenic views of the Bay of Bengal are among its main attractions.
Visitors can enjoy the waves, walk along the beach and watch the sunset. Shops, souvenir outlets, and stalls selling tourist goods line the area, offering local products, shell-made items, and other keepsakes. Seating areas and tourist information facilities are also available.
Tourists can easily reach Laboni Point from various parts of town by rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, or on foot. A range of hotels near the beach makes it convenient for both short visits and longer holidays.
Sugandha Beach Point: Food, shopping and lively surroundings
Sugandha Beach Point is one of Cox’s Bazar’s busiest tourist areas. Located between Laboni and Kolatoli points, it attracts visitors throughout the day and into the evening.
Visitors can enjoy the waves, walk on the sand, and watch the sunset, and also sample seafood, fried fish, and barbecue. Shops around the beach sell dried fish, shell-made products and other tourist items. The nearby Burmese Market also makes the area a popular shopping destination.
Sugandha Beach Road and its surroundings offer hotels, restaurants, and accommodation for all budgets. Visitors can reach the beach by rickshaw, auto-rickshaw or on foot from Cox’s Bazar town. Check prices before ordering food or shopping.
Kolatoli Beach Point: Swimming and seaside leisure
Located in the southern part of Cox’s Bazar’s main beach, Kolatoli Beach Point is another popular and busy destination. Its broad sandy shore, the sound of the sea and nearby recreational activities make it an attractive place to visit.
Tourists can walk along the beach, enjoy the sea views and swim when conditions are safe. Some areas offer recreational rides, including ski boats. Visitors should check prices and safety arrangements before using these services.
The Kolatoli area also has restaurants serving seafood and other dishes. Its range of hotels, motels and resorts offers accommodation options for visitors with different budgets. Visitors can reach the beach from Cox’s Bazar town and Kolatoli Mor by rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, or on foot.
Where to stay and safety tips
Hotels and motels across different price ranges are available in the Laboni, Sugandha and Kolatoli areas. Visitors seeking a quieter setting may consider Mermaid Resort along Marine Drive.
During holiday seasons, book rooms in advance. Checking accommodation rates, food prices and transport costs beforehand can also help visitors plan their budgets.
The authorities have advised visitors to follow safety instructions before entering the sea and to help keep the beach clean.
By Tarekur Rahman
Photo: Hussain Shetu
