Saint Martin’s Island: The Coral Paradise of Bangladesh

Introduction

Saint Martin’s Island, the only coral island in Bangladesh, is a breathtakingly beautiful tropical paradise. Known as “Narikel Jinjira” (Coconut Island) by locals, this small island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches.

As one of Bangladesh’s top tourist destinations, Saint Martin’s offers a perfect getaway for those seeking nature, adventure, and relaxation.

Geographical Location and Size

Saint Martin’s Island is located in the Bay of Bengal, about 9 km south of Teknaf at the southernmost tip of Bangladesh.

Total Area: Approximately 8 square kilometers
Distance from Cox’s Bazar: 120 km
Main Features: Sandy beaches, coconut palms, and coral reefs

Despite its small size, the island’s pristine beauty and biodiversity make it a must-visit destination.

History and Naming of Saint Martin’s Island

Saint Martin’s Island has a long history, dating back over 200 years.

It was first settled by Arabian sailors, who named it “Jinjira.”
The island was later renamed Saint Martin’s by the British in the 19th century.
It has historically been an important fishing hub for local communities.

Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction and a vital ecological site.

Natural Beauty and Unique Features

Saint Martin’s Island is famous for its tropical island charm, featuring:

White Sandy Beaches – Soft, golden sands perfect for relaxing walks.
Clear Blue Waters – Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Coconut Palm Trees – Giving the island a true tropical feel.
Coral Reefs – The only place in Bangladesh where you can see natural coral formations.

The combination of stunning landscapes and rich marine life makes Saint Martin’s a paradise for nature lovers.

Best Tourist Activities on Saint Martin’s Island

1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Explore colorful coral reefs and marine species.
Best locations: Near Chera Dwip and southern beach areas.

2. Boat Tours and Deep-Sea Fishing

Enjoy a boat ride around the island.
Try deep-sea fishing with local fishermen.

3. Beach Camping and Star Gazing

Camp on the beach under the open sky.
Experience one of the clearest night skies in Bangladesh.

Exploring Nearby Attractions

1. Chera Dwip (Small Island Extension)

A tiny uninhabited coral island near Saint Martin’s.
Accessible by boat or walking during low tide.

2. Coconut Gardens and Local Villages

Explore coconut tree plantations.
Visit traditional fishing villages and experience local life.

These attractions add to the island’s charm and adventure opportunities.

Biodiversity and Marine Life

Saint Martin’s Island is home to diverse marine and wildlife species.

Coral Reefs: Houses exotic fish, sea urchins, and starfish.
Sea Turtles: Green turtles and olive ridley turtles nest on the island.
Dolphins: Frequently seen playing in the Bay of Bengal.

Protecting these ecosystems is crucial for the island’s future.

Saint Martin’s Island as an Eco-Tourism Destination

With increasing tourism, eco-friendly practices are being promoted.

New eco-resorts and low-impact tourism initiatives.
Local businesses encourage plastic-free tourism.
Coral reef preservation projects to protect marine life.

Tourists are encouraged to respect nature and minimize waste.

Cultural and Local Lifestyle

Saint Martin’s Island is home to a small fishing community, with a unique culture.

Primary Occupation: Fishing and tourism.
Local Cuisine: Fresh seafood, including grilled fish, prawns, and lobsters.
Handicrafts: Made from coconut shells and seashells.

Experiencing the warm hospitality of locals makes a trip even more special.

Best Time to Visit Saint Martin’s Island

The best time to visit is November to March, when the weather is:

Cool and dry (20-28°C)
Perfect for water activities and sightseeing

The island remains closed during monsoon season (June – September) due to strong waves.

Transportation and How to Reach Saint Martin’s Island

Step 1: Travel to Teknaf
- By Bus: Dhaka to Teknaf (10-12 hours)
- By Air: Fly to Cox’s Bazar, then take a bus to Teknaf.
Step 2: Take a Ferry from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s
- Boats & Ferries:
  - Keari Sindbad (Most popular ferry service)
  - Private speedboats available

The ferry ride takes about 2-3 hours, offering scenic views.

Environmental Challenges and Conservation Efforts

Saint Martin’s Island faces several environmental threats, including:

Coral Reef Destruction – Due to unregulated tourism.
Plastic Pollution – Waste left by visitors.
Overfishing – Affecting marine biodiversity.

Efforts are being made to promote eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

Conclusion

Saint Martin’s Island is a true paradise, offering stunning beaches, rich marine life, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you love adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this island is a must-visit destination in Bangladesh.

By practicing responsible tourism, we can help protect this natural wonder for future generations.

Plan your trip and explore Bangladesh’s only coral island today!