Sri Lanka’s east coast: beaches for the summer months

When the south-west monsoon brings rain to the south and west coasts from May to September, the east coast has its dry season. The sea is calm, the beaches are long and much quieter than in the south, and the towns have a different culture, with strong Tamil and Muslim influences.

Trincomalee, Uppuveli and Nilaveli

Trincomalee has one of the largest natural harbours in the world. In the town, the Koneswaram temple stands on a cliff above the sea, inside the old Fort Frederick, where deer walk between the buildings.

North of town are the beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli. From Nilaveli, boats go to Pigeon Island National Park, where you can snorkel over coral with reef fish, turtles and often small reef sharks.

From about May to October, whales can be seen off Trincomalee.

Pasikudah

A long, very shallow bay with clear, calm water. You can walk far out into the sea, which makes it ideal for children and for anyone who wants a quiet beach stay.

Arugam Bay

A relaxed surf village and one of Asia’s well-known surf spots. The surf season runs roughly from April to October. Nearby are lagoons for boat trips, Kumana National Park for birds, and small temples in the jungle.

How to include the east coast

• In July and August we build the round trip around the east: the hills, Arugam Bay, Pasikudah, Trincomalee and the Cultural Triangle. See our summer round trip.
• From Sigiriya, Trincomalee is only about two hours away, so it is easy to add a few beach days to the end of a round trip.

Best time to visit

May to September is best. From November to February the north-east monsoon brings rain and rough seas to the east coast, and many places close.

Read more: Surfing in Sri Lanka · Surf spots by season · Sri Lanka’s best beaches and when to go