With winter approaching, Cox’s Bazar, the world’s longest natural sea beach, has begun drawing visitors eager to enjoy its calm waters and golden sands.

On Friday and Saturday, thousands of tourists from across the country flocked to the beach to relax and soak up the sunshine.

The sea remained relatively calm, allowing visitors to enjoy the vast sandy shoreline and the soothing rhythm of the waves. Tourists were seen splashing in the surf, floating on tubes, and venturing into deeper waters on jet skis. Families played on the sand with children, rode horses along the beach, and explored the stretch on beach bikes. Others simply relaxed on the dunes, taking in the sea breeze and the expansive sky.

Hafizur Rahman from Gazipur said, “Sitting on the dunes and watching the sea is a unique joy. I can enjoy both the blue sea and the vast sky — it’s truly refreshing.”

Raihan Azim, visiting from Savar, said, “The sea always draws me in. I came with friends this time, and we are thoroughly enjoying the waves.”

Ibrahim Kader added, “Playing in the sand with my daughter makes me feel like a child again and brings back fond memories of my own childhood.”

Local businesses welcomed the early surge of tourists, expressing optimism for the season. Jet ski operator Saddam said, “Tourist numbers are increasing at the start of the season, boosting business. We expect even more visitors in the coming days.” Shell trader Kamal added, “We have been waiting for the tourist season all year. Seeing visitors arrive so early is encouraging and gives hope for a successful season.”

For visitor safety, 27 lifeguards are deployed across three points along the beach, supported by 30 volunteers who provide guidance and instructions. Meanwhile, tourist vessels on the Cox’s Bazar–Saint Martin’s Island route, permitted to operate since 1 November, have yet to depart due to restrictions on overnight stays on the island.