As always, thousands throng Cox’s Bazar for Eid retreat

Once again, thousands of tourists have flocked to Cox's Bazar during the extended Eid-ul-Adha holidays, eager to soak up the festive spirit along Bangladesh's longest sea beach. 

The second day of Eid (Sunday) saw a significant rise in tourist turnout, with more than 60,000 visitors arriving in the city, according to tourism insiders.

Hotel and resort owners say over 50% of rooms in Cox's Bazar's 550-plus hotels, motels and resorts are already booked, with full occupancy expected from Monday.

The beach was bustling with both local residents and out-of-town tourists. From early morning to dusk, they mingled on the sand, took dips in the sea, played beach games, rode horses and beach bikes, and captured moments on camera — all defying the intense heat and safety warnings.

The Sea Safe Life Guard team had raised red flags across three beach zones due to high waves and dangerous underwater pits, warning tourists of risky conditions. "The sea is rough, and strong sunlight has made it worse," said Md Selim Uddin, in charge of the Sea Safe Life Guard. 

"But despite red flags, many tourists are venturing into the water. We've deployed a three-tiered safety system to prevent accidents," he added.

The Cox's Bazar weather office reported the day's highest temperature at 34°C with 65% humidity, creating an oppressive atmosphere. "High humidity is amplifying the heat stress," said Assistant Meteorologist Md Abdul Hannan.

Still, the warnings and heat did little to dampen the festive spirit.

At Sugandha Point around 11am, the beach was dotted with families, groups of friends, and children. Some floated on rented tubes, others built sandcastles or rode horses, while many simply sat under the sun, enjoying the sea breeze.

"We wanted to make the most of the long Eid break with our family, so we came to Cox's Bazar," said Mir Mahbub, a tourist from Dhaka. "Despite the heat, the sea and the beach are worth it."

Another tourist, Shoeb Karim, echoed the sentiment, saying, "The sea may be rough, but Eid joy doesn't stop for red flags. We're enjoying ourselves to the fullest."

Cox's Bazar Hotel, Motel and Guesthouse Owners' Association President Abul Kashem Sikder confirmed that bookings are rising steadily and full capacity is expected by Monday.

To manage the influx and ensure safety, Tourist Police have stepped up security with a three-layer system, including watchtowers, mobile teams, and plainclothes officers. 

"Our forces are present at every beach station," said ASP Nityananda Das of the Tourist Police Cox's Bazar Zone.

Meanwhile, Executive Magistrate Nafis Intesar Nafi of the District Administration's Tourism Cell said several mobile teams are patrolling to prevent harassment and ensure tourists enjoy a smooth experience.

As the holidays continue, Cox's Bazar remains the epicentre of Eid festivities, offering sun, sand, and celebration for all.

The surge in visitors is not limited to Cox's Bazar beach. 

Tourist spots like Himchari Waterfall, Inani and Patuartek's rocky beaches, Ramu's Buddhist Vihar, Maheshkhali's Adinath Temple, Burmese markets, Radiant Fish World, and the Dulahazra Safari Park are also seeing a high footfall.