Saint Martin’s Island – A Paradise in the Bay of Bengal

At the southernmost tip of Bangladesh, nestled in the Bay of Bengal, lies a little paradise—Saint Martin’s Island. Locals call it Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island). Surrounded by endless blue waters, white sandy beaches, and coral reefs, it offers a beauty found nowhere else in the country.

Geographic Location & Environment

This island is located about 9 kilometres south of Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar district. Covering only 8 square kilometres, the landscape changes daily with the rhythm of tides. During winter, it becomes crowded with eager travellers, but in the monsoon, Saint Martin turns quiet, mysterious, and almost deserted.

Nature & Biodiversity

• Coral Reefs: Saint Martin is Bangladesh’s only coral island. Corals glitter with the waves at high tide, while at low tide broken coral pieces scatter across the shore, fascinating visitors.
• Marine Life: Red crabs, seashells, conches, and a rich variety of fish make the island biologically diverse.
• Vegetation: Rows upon rows of coconut trees are the island’s signature, earning it the name Narikel Jinjira.

Life of the Islanders

Life in Saint Martin is simple yet full of struggle.

• Fishing: Fishing is the main occupation. Every day, hundreds of boats sail into the sea and return with different species of fish.
• Agriculture: Due to the salty environment, farming is limited, though coconuts, vegetables, and betel leaves are cultivated.
• Tourism: Tourism now plays a major role in the island’s economy. Locals work in shops, resorts, and restaurants to earn their livelihood.

Special Attractions of Saint Martin

• Chera Dwip: A small extension at the southern end of the island, accessible on foot during low tide. It remains more pristine and tranquil than the main island.
• Starry Nights: The sky here is so clear that, especially in winter, thousands of stars can be seen—an experience unimaginable in city life.
• Sunrise & Sunset: The crimson glow of dawn and the golden hues of dusk turn every moment into a work of art.

Tourism Potential & Challenges

Saint Martin is a unique treasure for Bangladesh’s tourism industry. However, lack of care, overcrowding, and pollution threaten its corals and biodiversity. Tourism here must be eco-friendly, and only responsible travel can preserve the island’s beauty for generations.

With its blue sea, green trees, coral reefs, and humble people, it creates a lifestyle unlike any other. For travelers, it is not only a destination but also a lesson in coexisting with nature.