A small marine park off Nilaveli beach with coral reefs, reef sharks and turtles, ideal for snorkelling in the east-coast season.
Just off Nilaveli, one of the finest beaches on the east coast, Pigeon Island National Park protects two small rocky islands and the coral reef around them. It was declared a marine national park in 2003 and is one of the best and most accessible snorkelling spots in Sri Lanka.
Under the water
Clear, shallow water over the reef makes snorkelling easy, even for beginners. You are likely to see:
- Blacktip reef sharks, harmless and often seen near the shore
- Green and hawksbill turtles grazing on the seabed
- Parrotfish, butterflyfish and large schools of reef fish among brain and table corals
On the island
The larger island has a small sandy beach and a short trail to a viewpoint. It is named after the rock pigeons that nest on its cliffs.
How to visit
- Boats leave from Nilaveli beach and take about 15–20 minutes. Your hotel or a beach operator can arrange the boat, park ticket and snorkel gear.
- Go early in the morning, before the boats from Trincomalee arrive.
- Plastic is banned in the park; bring a reusable water bottle.
Protect the reef
Don't stand on or touch the coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen or a rash vest instead. The reef is still recovering from past bleaching and heavy visitor numbers.
Around Trincomalee
Combine your visit with whale and dolphin watching (March to August), Koneswaram Temple on Swami Rock and the beaches of Uppuveli.
