Cox's Bazar Travel Guide
City Bangladeshi city famous for its beach
Cox’s Bazar delivers an unbroken stretch of sand, low‑rise guesthouses and seafood shacks beside the Bay of Bengal. Tourists arrive for long beach walks, fishing villages, evening markets and day trips to nearby Himchhari falls and fishing piers.
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Why Visit Cox's Bazar? #
Home to one of the longest sandy shorelines, Cox’s Bazar draws sun-seekers and surfers to wide beaches and colorful seaside markets. Nearby Himchari National Park and the Ramu Buddhist temples offer green escapes and cultural contrast, while seafood stalls serve freshly caught fish and local dried specialties. Beachside guesthouses and sunset walks give a laid-back coastal rhythm. It’s ideal for long stretches of sand, seafood and coastal scenery.
Who's Cox's Bazar For?
Cox’s Bazar’s long sandy stretch-Laboni and quieter Inani Beach-makes for memorable romantic walks and sunset dinners. Beachfront guesthouses and private cabanas offer affordable to midrange options for couples.
Shallow waters and long sandy beaches are ideal for families, with lifeguard-patrolled zones near Laboni and family-friendly hotels offering midrange rooms from roughly $20-60 per night during low season.
Surfing, kiteboarding and boat trips to nearby islands (St. Martin’s) satisfy adventure travelers. Local operators run dives, snorkeling and fishing excursions; expect day-trip prices that are generally affordable.
Budget guesthouses, beach dorms and cheap eateries make Cox’s Bazar a backpacker-friendly destination. Off-season stays are particularly cheap, and buses from Chittagong keep overland costs low.
Seafood dominates menus along the beachfront: fresh grilled fish, prawn curries and local spicy preparations are available at market stalls and casual restaurants. Expect very affordable local prices.
Beyond the sand, Himchari National Park and nearby hills offer short hikes and viewpoints. The coastline’s natural scenery and nearby wetlands are great for birdwatching and coastal walks.
Best Things to Do in Cox's Bazar
All Attractions ›
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Cox's Bazar Bucket List
- Cox's Bazar Sea Beach - The world's longest natural sea beach; miles of sand and lively shoreline activities.
- Laboni Point - Central access point to the beach with restaurants, souvenir stalls, and sunset viewpoints.
- Himchari National Park - Coastal park with seasonal waterfalls, palm-fringed cliffs and short rainforest hiking trails.
- Inani Beach - Pebble-strewn shore famous for large coral boulders and quieter swimming spots.
- Cox's Bazar Marine Drive - 2.5-kilometre coastal road ideal for scenic drives and evening ocean panoramas.
- Ramu Buddhist Village - A short drive inland for traditional wood carving workshops and Buddhist monasteries.
- Burmese Market - Bustling market where local artisans sell shell crafts, textiles and street food.
- Kolatoli Beach - Calmer stretch near town with beachfront cafes, early-morning kitesurfing, and relaxed crowds.
- Cox's Bazar Fishery Harbour - Early-morning fish market where fishermen land catches and locals buy fresh seafood.
- Maheshkhali Island - Island reachable by short boat ride, known for Adinath Temple and hilltop views.
- Teknaf - Southernmost town offering boat trips, river views, and access to wildlife corridors.
- Kutubdia Island - Quiet island with salt fields, mangroves and traditional fishing villages reachable by road and boat.
- Ramu (day visit) - Nearby craft village with Buddhist monasteries and traditional wood-carving workshops worth exploring.
Regions of Cox's Bazar #
Main Beach
Main Beach is the classic Cox’s Bazar experience: the long sweep of sand, vendors, and a steady stream of visitors. It’s lively, tourist-oriented and best if you want to be in the centre of the action, with easy access to eateries and hotels right on the sand.
Top Spots
- Laboni Point - The main access point to Cox’s Bazar beach with restaurants and shops.
- Main Beach stretch - Endless sandy shoreline ideal for long walks and sunbathing.
- Hotel row - Resorts and guesthouses lining the seafront.
Kolatoli & Marine Drive
Kolatoli and the Marine Drive have a slightly calmer feel than the main strip while still offering cafés, shops and easy beach access. Marine Drive is particularly pleasant for sunset drives and short stops to take in coastal views. Good for relaxed evenings and seaside photos.
Top Spots
- Kolatoli Beach - Slightly quieter beach area with cafés and shops.
- Marine Drive - Scenic coastal road with viewpoints and sunset stops.
- Local cafés - Spots for fresh seafood and evening drinks.
Himchari & Natural Sites
Head south from the town for Himchari and Inani - the stretch favoured for natural scenery rather than crowds. Himchari’s cliffs and forest give good views, while Inani’s stones and clearer water make for quieter beach time. Ideal for nature walks and day excursions away from the main promenade.
Top Spots
- Himchari National Park - Clifftop views and a waterfall area a short drive south.
- Inani Beach - Famous for its rock formations and clearer water a bit further down the coast.
- Local boat trips - Excursions to nearby coastal spots and islands.
Plan Your Visit to Cox's Bazar #
Best Time to Visit Cox's Bazar #
Visit Cox's Bazar in the cool season (November-February) for clear skies, lower humidity and pleasant beach days - perfect for long walks along the world's longest natural sandy sea beach. Avoid the June-October monsoon when heavy rains and rough seas limit boat trips and outdoor plans.
Best Time to Visit Cox's Bazar #
Cox's Bazar's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with hot summers (peaking in May) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 15°C to 32°C. Heavy rainfall (3678 mm/year), wettest in July with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 15°C. The driest month with just 4 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is hot, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (102 mm).
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May
May is the hottest month, feeling like 34°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (285 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (816 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (997 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (740 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (351 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (218 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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How to Get to Cox's Bazar
Cox's Bazar is served by its own domestic airport (Cox's Bazar Airport, CXB) and is also reachable overland from Chattogram (Shah Amanat International Airport, CGP). Long-distance rail access is via Chattogram Railway Station; most visitors arrive by plane from Dhaka or by intercity bus from Dhaka/Chattogram.
Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB): Cox’s Bazar has a domestic airport with multiple daily flights from Dhaka and occasional services from Chattogram. The flight from Dhaka takes about 1 hour; one-way fares commonly range from ~3,000-8,000 BDT depending on carrier and season. From the airport to Cox’s Bazar town/sea beach it’s about 10-20 minutes by taxi; expect prepaid or metered taxis to cost roughly 300-600 BDT, while CNG auto-rickshaws cost about 60-150 BDT. Hotel transfers are common - confirm availability with your hotel.
Shah Amanat International Airport, Chattogram (CGP): If you arrive at Chattogram (Chittagong) rather than CXB, the road journey to Cox’s Bazar takes roughly 4-5 hours by car or bus (around 150 km). Regular AC and non-AC intercity buses run this route with fares typically in the 200-500 BDT range; private car hires/taxis cost substantially more (commonly 4,000-6,000 BDT one-way).
Train: Cox’s Bazar does not have a major long-distance passenger rail hub; the main nearby railway station is Chattogram (Chittagong) Railway Station. Long-distance trains from Dhaka and other cities terminate in Chattogram, and from there you continue to Cox’s Bazar by bus or taxi (road transfer ~4-5 hours). Check Bangladesh Railway for schedules into Chattogram, then connect by road onward.
Bus: Direct intercity buses run to Cox’s Bazar from Dhaka (Gabtoli departures) and from Chattogram and other regional towns. Dhaka→Cox’s Bazar buses take about 8-10 hours; fares typically range from ~700-1,500 BDT for AC services. Chattogram→Cox’s Bazar buses take about 4-5 hours with fares around 200-500 BDT. Many operators sell tickets online or from terminals - choose reputable AC operators for overnight comfort.
How to Get Around Cox's Bazar
Getting around Cox's Bazar is easiest by a mix of short CNG/taxi hops and walking along the beach; for longer distances (from Chattogram or Dhaka) choose flights to CXB or reliable intercity buses. For island trips or day excursions, arrange boats or a private car in advance - local operators and hotels can arrange most transfers.
- Domestic Flights (3,000-8,000 BDT) - Short domestic flights connect Dhaka and Chattogram with Cox's Bazar (about 1 hour from Dhaka). Flights are the fastest way to arrive and are convenient if you want to maximize beach time; expect luggage restrictions and seasonal price spikes, so book early in high season.
- Intercity Bus (200-1,500 BDT) - Buses are the most common budget option from Dhaka and Chattogram. Dhaka→Cox's Bazar takes ~8-10 hours, Chattogram→Cox's Bazar ~4-5 hours; AC sleepers/volvos are more comfortable for overnight trips. Buy tickets from reputable operators or online platforms and allow extra time during peak holiday periods.
- Private Taxi / Car Hire (4,000-6,000 BDT (one-way from Chattogram)) - Hiring a private car from Chattogram or Dhaka gives flexibility for stops (e.g., Foy's Lake, Teknaf) and is faster door-to-door. Expect higher cost but more convenience - typical private transfers from Chattogram run several thousand taka. Negotiate and confirm inclusions (driver meals, tolls) in advance.
- CNG Auto-rickshaw (Local) (60-150 BDT) - CNGs and three-wheelers handle short hops around town and to nearby beaches. Fares are inexpensive and ideal for short distances, but they can be cramped with luggage; always agree price upfront if the driver won't use a meter. Useful for first/last-mile transfers from the airport or bus stops.
- Motorbike / Scooter Rental (400-1,200 BDT/day) - Motorbike rental is an easy, flexible way to explore the beach, nearby villages and viewpoints - traffic is light outside the main beach area. Helmets may not always be provided; inspect the bike and rental terms carefully. Not recommended in heavy rain or for inexperienced riders due to variable road surfaces.
- Boat (Island Transfers) (600-2,000 BDT+ (varies by route)) - Boat trips run from Cox's Bazar and nearby Teknaf to places like St. Martin's Island and local fishing hamlets; schedules depend on season and tides. Book through a reputable operator or via your hotel; expect journey times of 2-4+ hours and variable prices depending on vessel and route.
- Walking - Much of the tourist area, including the long sea beach, is best explored on foot - it's flat and pedestrian-friendly along the promenade and beachfront. Walking is the easiest way to enjoy sunrise/sunset and hop between shops and eateries; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Where to Stay in Cox's Bazar #
- Long Beach Hotel (budget rooms) - Basic beachfront rooms available
- Local guesthouses (Cox's Bazar) - Affordable options near the beach
- Sayeman Beach Resort - Popular mid-range beachfront resort
- Long Beach Hotel - Comfortable rooms, beachfront location
- Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa - Luxury beachfront resort and spa
- Hilton Cox's Bazar (newer upscale) - International chain with luxury services
- Sayeman Beach Resort - Central beachfront, easy to reach sights
- Long Beach Hotel - Good orientation base for beach activities
- Sayeman Beach Resort - Pools, family rooms, beach access
- Long Beach Hotel - Child-friendly facilities and beachfront
- Sayeman Beach Resort - Reliable Wi‑Fi and relaxing work spots
- Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa - Quiet corners and business facilities
Where to Eat in Cox's Bazar #
Cox’s Bazar’s food scene revolves around its enormous beach and the nearby fish market. Fresh seafood is king - eat grilled whole fish, prawn curry and fried hilsa at Laboni Beach stalls or one of the Inani shacks. The atmosphere is casual and sea-salty, best enjoyed with bare feet in the sand.
For less rustic fare, the hotels along Marine Drive and beachfront cafés serve international dishes and more polished seafood plates, while small bakeries and cafés provide vegetarian options.
- Laboni Beach seafood stalls - Grilled fish, prawn curries and bangladeshi fish fry.
- Cox's Bazar Fish Market - Huge variety of fresh catches and local sellers.
- Inani Beach shacks - Cheap seafood platters and beachside grills.
- Hotel restaurants on Marine Drive - Seafood and international buffet options.
- Beachfront cafés - Pizza, burgers and international snacks.
- Tourist-oriented restaurants - Fusion menus and western-style plates.
- Beach cafés - Salads, vegetable curries and rice plates.
- Local bakers - Vegetarian snacks, sweets and breads.
- Hotel buffet options - Vegetarian choices in larger hotels' spreads.
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Cox's Bazar's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Cox's Bazar #
Cox’s Bazar is the country’s main beach town and its nights are largely centered on the seafront: Laboni Beach, Marine Drive and the long stretch of beachfront hotels and restaurants. Evenings mix seafood dinners, beachfront bars and casual beach parties during high season.
Most beach restaurants and bars slow down around midnight to 1 a.m.; peak season extends hours. Dress beach‑casual and be cautious with open‑air setups after storms. Alcohol is available at many hotels and licensed beachfront bars.
Best Bets
- Laboni Beach promenade - The busiest evening strip for food, bars and people‑watching.
- Marine Drive beach road (evening restaurants) - Sundown restaurants with sea views and casual nightlife.
- Beachfront bars and hotel terraces (search) - Hotel terraces and bars hosting live music and drinks.
- Laboni night market and street stalls (search) - Street food, souvenirs and lively evening atmosphere.
- Inani Beach (day trip, evening calm) - Quieter nights - good if you prefer relaxed seaside evenings.
- Seafood restaurants along the beach (search) - Fresh catches and bustling dining spots at night.
Shopping in Cox's Bazar #
Cox’s Bazar is as much about beach souvenirs as shopping: lanes off Laboni Beach are lined with stalls selling handicrafts, seashells and cheap beachwear. The Burmese Market is the go-to place for carved wood, textiles and imitation gems. Prices are tourist-oriented; bargain firmly and compare multiple stalls before committing.
Best Bets
- Burmese Market (Tekpara area) - Main souvenir market for carvings, textiles and imitation jewellery.
- Laboni Beach stalls - Beachfront stalls selling bracelets, shells and tourist trinkets.
- Cox's Bazar Main Market - Everyday market with clothing, seafood and household items.
- Parkside kiosks and shops - Small vendors selling snacks, souvenirs and beach gear.
- Independent handicraft stalls - Shops and stalls selling local woven goods and small crafts.
- Local tailors and clothing shops - Tailors who can stitch quick beachwear and custom garments.
