2025 Teknaf Upazila Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Amazing experience on the coral island

They say paradise has an address—mine turned out to be Saint Martin. The moment I stepped onto this dual-nation Caribbean island, I knew I was somewhere unforgettable. This wasn’t just another beach destination. Saint Martin had soul. I stayed on the French side, in Grand Case, a quiet fishing village turned culinary capital. Waking up to the scent of buttery croissants and the soft hum of the sea became my new rhythm. Mornings were spent sipping espresso at a beach café, afternoons snorkeling in the crystal waters of Anse Marcel, and evenings indulging in Creole cuisine while the sun dipped behind the horizon. What truly set Saint Martin apart was the blend of cultures. The Dutch side (Sint Maarten) bursts with nightlife, shopping, and adrenaline—jet skis, casinos, and clubs that pulse until dawn. I crossed the invisible border multiple times, marveling at how seamlessly two worlds could coexist on one tiny island. But the moment that stayed with me the most? Climbing to Fort Louis just before sunset. The panoramic view of Marigot Bay below, the wind tugging at my shirt, and the quiet reminder that beauty doesn't need to shout—it just needs to exist. If you're wondering when to go, aim for December through April. The weather is dry, warm, and just perfect. Hurricane season ends by November, so the island is fully open and vibrant during the winter months. Tips: Rent a car to explore hidden gems like Baie Rouge and Pinel Island. Visit the Loterie Farm for hiking, zip-lining, and treetop cocktails. Don’t miss the planes landing just feet above your head at Maho Beach! Location: Saint Martin/Sint Maarten Best For: Couples, solo travelers, foodies, adventure seekers #SaintMartin #CaribbeanEscape #Wanderlust #TravelDiaries #BeachVibes #IslandLife #TravelMore #HiddenGems #FrenchSideMagic #DutchSideFun

#historicallandmarks #familytrip #travel Saint Martin’s Island is truly a slice of paradise nestled in the Bay of Bengal. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and a slow-paced island vibe—it’s everything a peaceful getaway should be. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had stepped into a dream. The air was fresh, the sunsets were golden, and the stars at night lit up the sky like a canvas. I spent my days walking barefoot on the beach, watching the waves gently roll in, and enjoying delicious seafood freshly caught and cooked with love. Coconut groves, coral reefs, and quiet stretches of coastline made every moment magical. Whether snorkeling in the shallows, exploring the coral beauty of Chera Dwip, or simply lying under a palm tree listening to the ocean—I felt completely at peace. A huge part of this wonderful experience was made possible by Trip.com. Booking my hotel and transport was incredibly smooth and reliable. I found a cozy, beachside resort that was even more beautiful than the photos, thanks to the accurate listings and honest reviews. Their customer support was friendly and helpful, making sure I had everything I needed before and during the trip. Trip.com took away the stress of planning so I could truly enjoy every moment. I’m grateful for the convenience, great deals, and trustworthy service that turned my dream into a reality. Saint Martin is more than just a travel destination—it’s a feeling. A place where time slows down, where nature speaks in waves and winds, and where your soul finds quiet joy. I came back refreshed, recharged, and already planning my next escape. Thank you, Trip.com, for helping me discover this hidden gem. Saint Martin, you will always hold a piece of my heart.

I’ve officially reserved my Saint Martin tour through Trip.com, and I couldn't be more excited! The countdown has begun for a tropical escape to one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, Saint Martin has always been on my travel bucket list — and now it's happening. Trip.com made the booking process super easy and stress-free. I was able to compare tour options, read detailed reviews, and find the perfect package that includes all the must-see spots and fun experiences. From lounging on Maho Beach watching planes land overhead, to exploring the colorful streets of Philipsburg and enjoying fresh seafood by the ocean — every part of this trip promises to be unforgettable. I’m especially looking forward to the mix of Dutch and French influences on the island. It’s like getting two cultures in one tropical paradise! And let’s not forget the water activities: snorkeling, sailing, maybe even a catamaran cruise if I’m feeling fancy. This trip is all about relaxing, discovering new places, and making memories. Whether it's watching the sunset with a drink in hand or exploring hidden coves, I’m ready to make the most of every moment. If anyone has been to Saint Martin and has recommendations — food spots, secret beaches, local experiences — send them my way! Can’t wait to share the journey. Saint Martin, here I come! #Tripcom #SaintMartin #TravelGoals #IslandVibes #Wanderlust #BookedAndReady #CaribbeanEscape

Saint Martin: Current Status (2025) Saint Martin, a small Caribbean island shared by France (north) and the Netherlands (south), continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination. Known for its stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and multicultural vibe, the island is currently welcoming visitors from around the world. As of 2025, both the French and Dutch sides of the island are open to international tourism, with no major travel restrictions in place. Air traffic has resumed regular service, with Princess Juliana International Airport (Dutch side) and Grand Case Airport (French side) operating smoothly. Cruise ships are also making frequent stops at the island, contributing to a boost in local economy. Tourism infrastructure has seen steady improvements following the damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017. Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions are fully operational, and new developments continue to enhance the island’s appeal. Beaches like Maho, Orient Bay, and Baie Rouge remain top highlights, and activities such as snorkeling, sailing, and hiking are widely available. Safety and health services have also been strengthened, with local authorities maintaining high standards for visitors. The French side adheres to EU health regulations, while the Dutch side aligns with Caribbean and Dutch protocols. In terms of social and economic conditions, Saint Martin is stable, with both sides investing in sustainable tourism and infrastructure development. The island’s dual cultural identity—blending French sophistication with Dutch friendliness—continues to be a unique draw. Overall, Saint Martin is open, safe, and ready for travelers seeking a vibrant island escape in 2025. Whether for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration.

Saint Martin is a slice of paradise tucked away in the Bay of Bengal. With crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and a laid-back island vibe, it’s the perfect escape from the chaos of city life. Fresh seafood, friendly locals, and breathtaking sunsets make every moment magical. Whether you're snorkeling in turquoise waters or stargazing under an open sky, Saint Martin offers an unforgettable experience. A hidden gem of Bangladesh that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. #travel#naturalwonders#seascapes#familytravel#localfood

Great experience along with 2 night staycation at this mesmerizing coral view iceland of beautiful Bangladesh

🌴✨ Dreamy Escape to Saint Martin! ✨🌴 Just returned from an unforgettable trip to Saint Martin, booked through Trip.com, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! From the moment we landed, the island greeted us with its stunning turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and a perfect blend of French and Dutch charm. 🏖️ Beaches & Views Maho Beach was an absolute thrill—watching planes fly right over our heads while soaking in the sun was surreal! We also spent time at Orient Bay, where the waves were calm, and the vibes were just right for relaxation. Grand Case Beach, with its picturesque sunset views, was the perfect romantic spot. 🍽️ Food & Culture One of the best parts of Saint Martin is the amazing food! We indulged in delicious French-Caribbean cuisine, fresh seafood, and mouth-watering pastries. The local markets were filled with vibrant colors, friendly faces, and unique souvenirs to take home. 🚤 Adventures & Activities Our itinerary included an incredible catamaran cruise, where we explored hidden coves and went snorkeling with tropical fish. The water was crystal clear, making it an unforgettable experience! We also took a day trip to Pinel Island, a tiny paradise just off the coast with shallow waters and a laid-back atmosphere. 🌟 Overall Experience Booking through Trip.com was seamless—great deals, smooth planning, and no hassles! Saint Martin is truly a slice of paradise, and I’d go back in a heartbeat. If you’re looking for a tropical escape, this island has it all—relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. Already dreaming of my next getaway! ✈️🏝️ Who’s ready for a trip? 😍 #SaintMartin #IslandVibes #BeachLife #TravelDiaries

"Thrilled to share that I’ve just booked an incredible trip to Saint Martin through Trip.com! This dream destination has been on my bucket list for a while, and I can’t wait to experience its breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and stunning beaches. From the crystal-clear waters to the lively markets and amazing cuisine, Saint Martin promises to be an unforgettable adventure. Whether it's relaxing on the famous Orient Bay Beach, exploring the charming streets of Marigot, or indulging in some delicious French-Caribbean fusion food, I’m ready to soak it all in. One of the things I’m most excited about is the unique dual-nation charm of this island. The mix of French and Dutch influences makes it a one-of-a-kind travel experience. I plan to visit Maho Beach, where planes fly thrillingly low over the shore, and take a boat tour to nearby islands. A huge shoutout to Trip.com for making the booking process smooth and hassle-free! From great deals to easy itinerary management, planning this trip has been a breeze. Now, it’s just a countdown to departure day! #SaintMartin #IslandLife #TripComAdventures #BeachVibes #Wanderlust"

Saint Martin Island Tour (#familytrip) Saint Martin Island, the only coral island in Bangladesh, offers a breathtaking experience with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Here's a quick review: Pros: ✅ Stunning Natural Beauty – White sandy beaches, blue waters, and beautiful sunrises/sunsets. ✅ Peaceful Atmosphere ✅ Fresh Seafood – A paradise for seafood lovers with delicious fish, lobsters, and crabs. ✅ Snorkeling & Water Activities – Explore coral reefs and colorful fish. ✅ Friendly Locals – Warm hospitality and welcoming people. Cons: ❌ Limited Electricity – Power supply is often restricted at night. ❌ Basic Accommodation – Few high-end hotels; most are simple guesthouses. ❌ Seasonal Access – Best visited between November and March; rough seas in monsoon. ❌ Littering Issues – Some areas suffer from plastic waste and lack of proper waste management. Total Estimated Cost (Per Person for 2 Days, 1 Night): Mid-range Trip – BDT 7,000 - 12,000 Costs vary based on season, personal preferences, and travel style! Final Verdict: Saint Martin is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering a unique island experience in Bangladesh. However, proper planning is needed for a comfortable stay. Best enjoyed for 1-2 nights! #trip.com - easy to buy trip.

Excited for my upcoming trip to Saint Martin Island! 🌴✨ Can't wait to explore the vibrant culture, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and relax on stunning beaches. From the French side to the Dutch side, adventure awaits! Saint Martin Island offers a unique blend of French and Dutch cultures, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Explore its rich history, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy various water activities. Plan your future tour to experience the island's breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality firsthand. Saint Martin Island is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. With its crystal-clear waters, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and sailing. The island's diverse culinary scene features delicious Caribbean flavors and gourmet dining options.🏖️✈️ #SaintMartin #TravelGoals #AdventureAwaits: #beachlife #travel #naturalwonders #Futuretrip #future

We went on holiday to Saint Martins Island, it is so beautiful! I found baby goats, dogs and stayed right next to the beach so I was happy! #dhaka #holiday #beach #dog #goat

If you come to Bangladesh, never miss to visit here. It's a little maldives in Bangladesh.

beach, sand beach, natural beauty

LONELY PLANET described St. Martin's Island with the phrase 'tomorrow never come', but for the average traveler, tomorrow will eventually come, and farewells are inevitable. Because it was Eid al-Adha, the owner of the hotel we stayed at invited all the guests to have curry beef. After the meal, it was about time to pack up and head to the pier to take the cruise back to Teknaf. The Keari Sindbad company's ship looked like a steel beast. The cruise ship departed from the pier on time at three o'clock, and St. Martin's Island gradually turned into a silhouette under the intense sunlight, just like when we arrived. The stability of the ship gave a strong sense of security, and I quickly fell asleep under the cool sea breeze. The sea breeze lulled people to sleep, and the short rest invigorated the spirit. The ship sailed right in the middle of the Naaf River, and the coastline of Myanmar could be clearly seen from the opposite side. The golden coast, tall coconut groves, distant mountains, Buddhist golden pagodas with their spires poking out, and incongruously, a series of white cement pillars forming a barbed wire fence stretched along the entire coastline, with a watchtower every kilometer or two, displaying an attitude starkly different from its neighbor. Then I saw the long pier of Shahparirdwip, like a dream under the sunlight, which remained in my memory for many years to come. In the evening, the mangrove island Jaliadwip appeared in sight, and the pier opposite, Teknaf Ship Jetty, was the final destination.

Saint Martin's Island West Beach is a hidden gem, beckoning travelers with its pristine beauty and laid-back charm. Unlike the busier beaches on the island, the West Beach offers a tranquil escape, where the sound of gentle waves and rustling palm trees create a symphony of serenity. Immerse yourself in the beauty: Imagine soft, golden sand stretching as far as the eye can see, meeting the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal in a breathtaking embrace. Take a stroll along the shoreline, feeling the warm sand beneath your feet and the cool breeze caressing your skin. Let the worries of the world melt away as you witness the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. Embrace the local charm: Dotted along the beach are charming shacks offering fresh seafood delicacies caught just hours before. Savor the bounty of the sea, the taste infused with the essence of this unique island paradise. For a truly local experience, rent a bicycle and explore the nearby villages, where friendly smiles and warm hospitality await you. Tips for an unforgettable experience: Plan your trip: The best time to visit Saint Martin's Island is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and sunny. Pack essentials: Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Respect the environment: Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid littering. Support the locals: Choose to stay at locally-owned guesthouses and patronize small, family-run restaurants. This hidden gem stole a piece of my heart, and I'm sure it will steal yours too. Come experience the magic of Saint Martin's Island West Beach for yourself! #SaintMartinsIsland #WestBeach #Bangladesh #Travelgram #HiddenGem #ParadiseFound #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks

I originally thought that when I arrived at the Shahparirdwip pier, I could easily find a boat to St. Martin's Island, but the fact proved that when traveling in a country like Bangladesh, there is never easy, and there is no certainty. When I arrived at the pier, it was almost two o'clock in the afternoon. The sun was almost mad, and the Bangladeshi border guards on the coast were hiding in the shadows under the corridor chatting with the locals. I asked him if there was a boat to St. Martin's Island, he said no. Based on my understanding of the unreliability of the locals, I decided to ask others. The long pier leading to the middle of the river reminded me of a movie, but I couldn't remember the name. There were only three fishing uncles on the pier. They said no at first, and then they said yes, but they had to wait for three hours. Communication is completed with the few local language words I know and body language, so I still can't confirm. After waiting for about half an hour, the locals came and called to find a local person who knew him to communicate with him in the local language. The reply was to wait for two or three hours, not on time, and there were boats coming from Teknaf Ship Jetty. I really want to scold someone in my heart, thinking that I can just wait for the boat in Teknaf, why should I run to this remote corner of the sea. Later, some locals came and said that they were going to take things to the island, and I was a little bit bottomed out. Then there were several waves of locals, some said there were boats, some said there were no boats, some asked me to wait patiently, and some urged me to hurry back to Teknaf. Perhaps the greatest charm of travel lies in this uncertainty. I can also let time pass in the light and shadow without doing anything, so I just waited. Until the sky gradually darkened, a few locals with large and small packages came. When I was sure that they were the islanders of St. Martin's Island and they were going home for the festival, I was sure there would be a boat. That afternoon, I just lay on the exposed cement floor of the pier, immersed in the bright sunshine and deep blue sea and sky, at the geographical end of this country, doing nothing, as if I had escaped from the magic hand of time, waiting for a boat that may or may not come to the small island in the depths of the Indian Ocean. When the sunset at dusk sprinkled the afterglow, the world was plated with a layer of gold foil. The east of Myanmar fell into the night first, and the west of Bangladesh, the gold dissipated, and the sun still used the last energy to draw a shocking visual evening scene after sinking into the earth-a five-color sunset sky. The locals who boarded the ship together pointed to a dim black spot in the distance and said that the boat was coming. Under the last ray of daylight, a black spot that rolled bigger and bigger became a real boat, but when the boat approached, it was really stunned. This is a traditional Bangladeshi wooden boat about 8 meters long and about three meters wide. The boat is full of various goods, chickens and ducks, and everyone can only sit on the side of the boat, and some people lie directly on the bow. This is much worse than the boat I imagined would come, too crowded, and finally found a big butt position on the side of a cage of chickens. The small boat sailed south into the depths of the Indian Ocean under the quiet night. This night was calm and calm, and I could see the dark coastline of Myanmar on the left, and the endless sea in front and on the right. The white moonlight sprinkled on the sea, and this picture will flash back in my mind many years later. After bumping on the sea for nearly an hour and a half, the first impression of St. Martin's Island was a lighthouse flashing red light, a black silhouette on the sea, and the joy of being alive. The power shortage of St. Martin's Island hanging overseas, there is only electricity from 6 pm to 11 pm every day. Sitting on the balcony of the inn smoking, looking at the dark sea, the night on the small island in the distant Indian Ocean, hot and humid.

There is no public transportation from Teknaf Port to Shahparirdwip, the southernmost fishing village on the mainland of Bangladesh, only CNG (tuk-tuk) can be taken. I thought it would be an easy journey, but I didn't expect that the fishy sea breeze was very comfortable, but the unobstructed sun made people hot. I didn't expect that the bumpy road was still good. Walking and walking, the bridge in front collapsed into the river. Two old men were fishing at both ends of the river, and they could only cross the river by the sampan parked in the river. After breaking through the butcher's plate of the boatman, I paid the same price as the locals to cross the river surface of the broken bridge, and continued to walk through a puddle-filled tidal flat, and finally reached the normal asphalt road, and found another CNG to Shahparirdwip's breakwater. A long cement corridor extends five or six hundred meters to the Naaf River, and the end is the stubborn and lonely pier that looks. I thought I had walked the hardest part of the road, but I didn't expect that the pier that afternoon really looked as stubborn and lonely as it did, and staged a good show of people on the difficult journey.

Wake up at noon, ask clearly the return time of the boat back to Teknaf is at three o'clock in the afternoon from the pier, and then start walking around the island. It takes about 4 hours to walk around the island. St. Martin's Island is very narrow and long, with an area of only about 8 square kilometers. The north is a inverted triangle, there is a very narrow connection in the middle, and the south is a long irregular land. The southernmost cape is called Chera Dip, which is isolated from the main island when the tide rises and can only be passed when the tide recedes. This only coral reef island in Bangladesh was originally discovered by Arab sailors. During the British rule, it was renamed St. Martin's Island. It also has a local name - 'Coconut Island', because the island is rich in coconuts, which are very cheap. When you are thirsty, just drink coconut! The beaches of St. Martin's Island hardly have any sand. After the tide recedes, it is a soft hard ground. The locals directly play football on the beach. When they are tired, they soak in the sea to cool down. It is really comfortable. Walking to the northwest of the island, you will soon see the coral reefs that are endless after the tide recedes, densely covering the beach, becoming the hiding place for billions of small crabs. In the nearby small bay, fishing boats are full. Rows of coconut trees and mangroves on the coastline can effectively prevent waves and wind. The residents on the west side of the island are obviously much less than those near the pier on the east side, and tourists are basically invisible. The real charm of this forgotten island begins to emerge - an overseas island that is almost undisturbed by the outside world. Sitting on the root system of a mangrove to rest and blow the sea breeze, the huge and lush branches and leaves temporarily hide the scorching sun and pervasive heat wave. Because it is far away from the mainland, only 5 hours of electricity is supplied here every day. All kinds of electrical appliances in modern society are in a dispensable position here. Local people may prefer to take a nap in a hammock during the interval of fishing. For travelers, if you are not in a hurry, or if you want to find a place to escape from the world one day, this is really a good place that has been forgotten.

On St. Martin's Island, you can nap in a hammock, drink extremely cheap coconuts and watch the blue sea, forgotten by time and the world. Of course, you can also be more special, such as walking around the island. If you walk around the island, it is recommended to cross the island from the center in addition to walking around the island, where the rural scenery is also very beautiful. After walking along the west coastline of the island, I accidentally broke into the barrier of coconut trees and mangroves, and found a vibrant rice field inside the island. The towering coconut trees are the boundaries of the rice fields, and some thatched farmhouses are scattered among them. The main economic source of the island is of course fishing, but there are also many people who plant rice in the gaps of fishing. However, in general, materials are very scarce, most of them can only rely on the mainland supply, it will become very dangerous to go out to sea in the monsoon season, and the life of the island residents will also become very difficult. When walking through the small road in the middle of the island, I passed some local villagers' houses. Because it was the slaughter festival, I could occasionally see the festive scene of slaughtering cattle. Children with henna painted hands were holding beef and running happily in the fields. In addition to the lonely and beautiful sea view on St. Martin's Island, the life picture of the locals is also full of attraction for me, a foreign traveler.

There are almost no cold winters in the South Asian subcontinent. Winter here is actually the most comfortable season, not as hot as summer, nor as humid and unpredictable as the rainy season. We set out again during Eid al-Fitr, and this time our destination was St. Martin, a secluded island isolated in the sea at the southernmost tip of Bangladesh. It was not easy to get to this island. After more than 9 hours of overnight bus ride from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar, and then transferring from Cox’s Bazar to go 80 kilometers south to TEKNAF, the southernmost fishing port town on the mainland of this country, we were already exhausted, our internal organs were almost shaken out, and our buttocks were numb. Finally, after passing the small town of Ukhia, the road began to parallel the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. From the car, you can see towering mountains not far away, which is Myanmar. The wide Naaf River outside the car window is the boundary river between the narrow strip of land in the southern part of Bangladesh and Myanmar. Before arriving at TEKNAF, you will pass by a cruise ship terminal, Teknaf Ship Jetty, which is where the cruise to St. Martin departs. At that time, there was only one cruise a day. I missed the departure time and had to find another way to get there. This decision made this day very embarrassing, full of ups and downs and uneasiness. To be honest, I still recommend taking this direct cruise. About 2 kilometers south of the pier is a hotel called Ne-Taung. If you missed the boat, you can stay here for a night; or if you come back from St. Martin and don’t want to travel back to Cox’s Bazar at night, you can also stay here for a night. The hotel is located at the foot of a hill. There was a power outage when I went there the next day. The decoration is full of nostalgic atmosphere of the colonial period. Portraits of the founding father Rahman and his daughter, then Prime Minister Hasina, are hung on the wall at the front desk. But I really recommend staying for one night, because it is difficult to experience this feeling anywhere else. At night, move a chair to the balcony, facing the dark and silent mountains of Myanmar and the Naaf River, watch the cigarette smoke dissipate into the void, and fall asleep listening to the concerto of insects. Let’s talk about TEKNAF. It is a crowded and noisy border town. However, the relationship between Bangladesh and Myanmar is tense, and they are determined to never have any contact with each other again. There are no direct flights and the border is closed (if you are interested in the tragic plight of the Rohingya people, search on Baidu). Tourists come to TEKNAF basically to take a boat to St. Martin. After arduous communication with the locals in English, Bengali and body language, I roughly learned that there are three ways to go to St. Martin. One is to take a cruise ship from the pier we just passed. There is only one trip a day, departing at 9 am, and no one will be accepted after the time. The second is to wait at TEKNAF for the local fishing boats that depart at 4:30 pm. The locals mainly travel between TEKNAF and St. Martin and the fishing villages along the way in this way. The third is to take a tuk-tuk and continue south for twelve or thirteen kilometers to a fishing village called Shahparirdwip at the southernmost tip of the mainland. The pier there can charter a speedboat to St. Martin. It is said that the scenery along the way to Shahparirdwip is very beautiful, but the locals actually expressed that it is very troublesome to go to Shahparirdwip, but I ignored it, so I was really displaced later. In addition, the information provided by the locals is actually very inaccurate, and they often change their minds. Later that day, I went to Shahparirdwip, but found that the roads along the way were damaged and there was no speedboat at the dock to go to St. Martin Island. If I want to go, I must confirm again and again.

#saintmartin_bangladesh #travel One of the most astonishing places that I've been to. Full of exuberant scenarios and a tremendous environment. Best few days it was and hope to go there again in near future. The best yet to come.