Overview
Saint Martins is Bangladesh's only coral island — a tropical cliché with beaches fringed by coconut palms and laid-back locals who barely acknowledge the tourist trade. At just 8 km², it is small enough to walk around in a day, yet peaceful enough that even mosquitoes are a rarity.
Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Diving · Island
Before you go
Connectivity
Cell coverage (Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink, Airtel) is good. No internet on the island — mobile modems work with cellular signal. Nearest full internet in Cox's Bazar.
Culture
Modest dress expected — no western swimwear in public. Primary Muslim island with conservative values. Avoid photographing locals without asking.
Electricity
There is no electricity on the island. Most guesthouses run generators for a few hours in the evening. Expect candle-lit nights. Bring a headlamp and power bank.
Environment
Do not buy sea shells or turtle products. Avoid eating fish daily — overfishing is a serious problem. Take all trash off the island. This is Bangladesh's only coral island with fragile ecosystem.
Money
There are no ATMs on Saint Martins Island — bring sufficient cash (BDT) from the mainland. Guesthouses and restaurants accept cash only. Prices are quoted in Bangladeshi Taka (Tk).
Safety
Generally very safe. No crime to speak of. Environmental hazards: sharp rocks at Chera Dwip, occasional cyclones, strong sun. Small hospital on island but limited medical capacity.
Transport
The island has no motorized vehicles — cycle-rickshaws and walking are it. Ferry from Chittagong (MV Bay One) runs weekly; launches also connect from Teknaf. No direct land access.
Weather
Best season is November to February. Cyclones can occur even then. March-May is hot; June-September is monsoon. Sea turtle nesting October-December.