Just off Nilaveli Beach, Pigeon Island Marine Park is Sri Lanka’s premier snorkelling spot. Protected and teeming with marine life, it offers shallow coral gardens, blacktip reef sharks and green turtles. With calm waters and easy access, it’s perfect for beginners and marine life enthusiasts seeking colourful, safe and unforgettable underwater adventures in the island’s northeast.

• Best snorkelling site in Sri Lanka
• Swim with reef sharks and turtles
• Bright corals and colourful reef fish
• Shallow waters, great for beginners
• Protected marine park with entry permits
• Seasonal access May to September

Pigeon Island Marine National Park, located just 1 km off Nilaveli Beach near Trincomalee, is one of the best preserved coral reef ecosystems in Sri Lanka. Named for the rock pigeons that roost here, this island is surrounded by shallow coral gardens ideal for snorkelling, especially from May to September when seas are calm.

The vibrant reef hosts an impressive array of marine life, expect to swim alongside green turtles, clownfish, butterflyfish and even the graceful blacktip reef sharks, which are harmless and often seen cruising through the reef in small groups. The surrounding white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water add to the experience, making it one of the most photogenic and accessible marine parks in South Asia.

Pigeon Island is a protected national park, so snorkellers must enter with a permit and are required to follow guidelines to avoid damaging the reef. Local guides help ensure safe, responsible encounters. Boats depart regularly from Nilaveli Beach and take just 10 to15 minutes.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made recommends Pigeon Island for those seeking a top tier snorkelling experience with minimal effort and maximum reward. It’s a place where even first time snorkellers can feel like underwater explorers.