Nilaveli Beach
If you’re looking for some serious beach time, then Nilaveli could be just the ticket, for the sands are golden and the ocean inviting. It is a stretch of beach which is situated approximately 16 kilometres North of Trincomalle, passing a thriving lagoon on either side and lush coconut palm groves and hordes of cattle, note that the people in the area are predominantly Hindu and consider the cows sacred. Arriving at the hamlet of “Errakkandy”, a sharp right turn will take you down a gravel road to Nilaweli beach, almost a kilometre of in lenght, white sandy beach with gentle surf. Further up North you will see a cluster of reddish rocks which are referred to as the red rock beach.
Places to visit
Pigeon Island
Pigeon Island
Across the beach about two kilometres into the ocean in a boat trip, you will see the famous pigeon island, named due to rock pigeons roosting on it by the hundreds and crystal clear water around it to snorkel on to the clear depths of a reef. It is a great place for snorkeling, diving and sea bathing. You may also visit the recently re-opened Marine Park which was closed for nearly two decades. Visitors could enjoy the rare corals and marine animals and observe endemic and migrant bird species. The National Park extends over 450 hectares.