Cox's Bazar

Cox's Bazar is an exposed sandy beach break where conditions vary dramatically—from small, mushy waves to occasional head-high closeouts. It works year-round but with inconsistent quality. The best swell direction is southwest with northeast winds optimal; waves respond well to all tidal stages. Best conditions occur from September through November, when cleaner and more consistent waves appear, though winter in particular (November especially) offers the most rideable swells. The main hazards include rip currents carved through the sandy shallows, algae-covered rocks along certain sections of the shore, and submerged boulders that pose collision risks.

Surfing arrived in Cox's Bazar in 1995 through a local named Jafar Alam, who founded Surfing Bangladesh as an organized club in 2002. The first surf contest took place in 2005, and by 2008 annual competitions became established. Beyond Jafar's local efforts, multiple surf clubs emerged including the Surfing Tigers Club, which offers instruction and lifeguard training. Bangladesh was admitted to the International Surfing Association and made its competitive debut at the Asian Games, marking the country's entry into international surfing competition.

Cox's Bazar sits in southeastern Bangladesh and is accessible via Cox's Bazar Airport (5 km away) or the larger Shah Amanat International Airport near Chittagong (94 km away). Train service connects directly to Dhaka on two daily routes. Getting around the beach area relies on local three-wheel taxis and cycle rickshaws. The Cox's Bazar Surf Club Resort operates on the beach and provides instruction as well as surf-boat access.