Saint Martin is a small coral island in the northest part of the Bay of Bengal, about 9 km. south of the tip of the Cox's Bazar -Teknaf peninsula, and forming southernmost part of Bangladesh. It has become a popular tourist spot of Bangladesh. It is the only coral island in Bangladesh. The local name of this island is "Naricl jinjira", meaning "the island of coconut".
Currently three shipping lines run daily trips from Teknaf to the island. Tourists can also visit there from Cox's Bazar By local boats. They can book their tripeither from Chittagong or Cox's Bazar. The surrounding coral reef of the island has an extension named "Chhera dwip".
In the past five years Saint martin's visitor population has increased dramatically. While the situation has proven to be lucrative for the islanders, it is causing the natural beauty of this island to deteriorate. Presently there are many efforts being put forth to preserve the several species of turtles that nest on the island, as well as the corals, some of which are found only on Saint Martin island. Species of fish, a few just recently discovered. Every year the fisherman here must venture further out to sea to get their catch. Most of them use motorless boats.
It is possible to walk around the island in a day because it measures only 8 sq km, shrinking to about 5 sq km during high tide. Most of islands inhabitants live primarily from fishing, and between October and April fisher people from neighboring areas bring their catch to the island's temporary wholesale market.
In this island, you will find beautiful coral reef and long coral beach and lots of coconut trees. Accommodation in Saint Martin's island is limited, so it advisable to book accommodation before you plan to visit this is land. Motel Nijhum is one of the best hotel in Saint Martin's island, You can confirm your reservation there from Dhaka.
Overnight staying in Saint Martin island is really a great experience, where you will feel and listen the sound of sea. If you are lucky enough then you can spend the exotic moonlit night at Saint Martin's island. The beauty of full moon in Saint Martin island can not be expressed in words.
