Day trip to Inani Beach from Cox's Bazar

Getting there

Rent a motorbike from Kolatoli for $12/day and ride south on Marine Drive. The trip is 27 km and takes 40 minutes, passing Himchari National Park and several military checkpoints where you may need to show ID. Alternatively, local buses leave Kolatoli Bus Stand every 30 minutes starting at 7 AM; the fare is 50 taka and the journey takes an hour with stops. Arrive early—by 8 AM the beach is nearly empty; by noon it fills with picnickers.

Park near Inani Beach Resort and walk north along the sand. The beach is 18 km long but the best section is the first 3 km where the sand is finer and the water clearer. Unlike Cox's Bazar main beach, Inani allows swimming without battling shore-break and fishing nets. Visibility is better, though still not snorkeling-clear.

What to do

Swim in the morning when the tide is rising and the water is calmest. The coral stones scattered along the tide line are protected—look but do not collect. Climb the small rock formations at the southern end for views down the coastline toward Himchari cliffs. Rent a beach umbrella from vendors for 100 taka if you plan to stay past 11 AM; shade is limited.

Lunch at Inani Beach Resort restaurant: grilled pomfret with rice costs $5, and the open-air dining area catches the sea breeze. The resort allows non-guests to use facilities if you order food. Afternoon is for walking to the Marine Drive viewpoint 2 km south—a raised platform with photo ops and cold drinks sold from a shack. Return to Cox's Bazar by 4 PM to avoid the worst traffic.

Practical tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreen—regular brands are hard to find and the sun is brutal. Pack snacks and plenty of water; vendors are few and charge double mainland prices. If riding a motorbike, fill the tank in Cox's Bazar; there is one petrol pump near Inani and it often runs dry. Avoid weekends when Dhaka families descend for picnics and the beach loses its quiet charm. Currents can be strong; stay within sight of other swimmers.