Highlights
- Long white beaches with shallow water for safe swimming
- Red Rock Beach near Nilaveli has unusual pink boulders
- Coral reefs lie a short way offshore from Nilaveli
- Hotels and resorts line the beaches
- The best beach weather is from about April to September
Overview
Trincomalee, on Sri Lanka's north-east coast, is surrounded by long sandy beaches. When the south and west coasts are hit by the monsoon from about May to September, the sea here is usually calm and clear, so it is the island's best beach area mid-year.
The main beaches
- Uppuveli: about 5 to 6 km north of town, with guesthouses, restaurants and a relaxed mood. Good for swimming in season.
- Nilaveli: around 15 km further north, a long, quieter beach with larger hotels. Boats leave here for Pigeon Island, the best snorkelling spot on this coast.
- Marble Beach: south of town near China Bay, a sheltered bay with clear water, run by the Sri Lanka Air Force. A small entry fee is charged.
- Dutch Bay: close to the town centre, more local and less suited to swimming.
What to do
Swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing are the main activities. Dive centres run trips to reefs and wrecks, and boats go out for whale and dolphin watching in season.
When to go
The season is about May to September. From about November to January, the north-east monsoon brings rain and rough seas.
How long it takes
Most visitors stay at least two or three nights.
Getting there
Trincomalee is about 4 to 5 hours by road from Colombo, and around 2 hours from Sigiriya or Habarana.
Practical tips
- Dress modestly away from the beach.
- Do not stand on coral when snorkelling.
- Swim only where it is calm; there are few lifeguards.
See things to do in Trincomalee and Trincomalee hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.
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