SnorkelingTurtles & Coral

Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island National Park is Sri Lanka's premier marine sanctuary, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving in the country. Located just 1 kilometer off Nilaveli Beach near Trincomalee, this tiny island paradise is home to vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.

What makes Pigeon Island special? The park protects two small islands surrounded by shallow coral reefs teeming with life. You can swim alongside hawksbill and green sea turtles, spot blacktip reef sharks, and explore colorful coral gardens - all in crystal-clear, warm waters.

Named after the rock pigeons that nest on the islands, Pigeon Island is easily accessible by boat from Nilaveli. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels, while deeper areas around the reef offer excellent diving. It's an essential stop for anyone visiting Sri Lanka's beautiful east coast.

Wildlife You'll See

Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Often seen feeding on coral

very high

Green Sea Turtle

Resting near coral

high

Blacktip Reef Shark

Harmless, shy sharks

high

Parrotfish

very high

Butterflyfish

very high

Moray Eel

In coral crevices

moderate

Rock Pigeon

Nesting on the island

very high

Blue-ringed Angelfish

high

Safari Options

half day Safari

$15-25 per person

Boat trip with snorkeling around the coral reef. Equipment usually included.

Duration: 2-3 hoursBest time: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

half day Safari

$40-60 per person

Diving trip for certified divers. Explore deeper reef areas and more marine life.

Duration: 3-4 hoursBest time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Safari Tips

Go early morning (8-10 AM) for calmest water and best visibility
Bring reef-safe sunscreen - regular sunscreen damages coral
Don't touch or stand on the coral - it's fragile and protected
Underwater cameras are a must - the marine life is incredible
Boats leave from the beach in front of Pigeon Island View resort
Negotiate boat prices before departure (around 2,000-3,000 LKR)
Bring your own snorkel gear if you have it - rental quality varies
Sea can get rough in the afternoon - morning trips are best

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see sea turtles at Pigeon Island?

Yes! Pigeon Island is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. Hawksbill and green sea turtles are commonly spotted feeding on the coral reef, especially in the morning.

Do I need to know how to swim to visit Pigeon Island?

Basic swimming ability is recommended for snorkeling. The water is shallow in many areas (1-3 meters), but life jackets are available. Non-swimmers can enjoy the beach on the island instead.

Are there sharks at Pigeon Island?

Yes, blacktip reef sharks are commonly seen at Pigeon Island. They are small (around 1-1.5 meters), shy, and completely harmless to humans. Seeing them is a highlight, not a danger!

When is Pigeon Island open?

Pigeon Island is best visited from April to October when seas are calm. During the northeast monsoon (November to March), rough seas often make the island inaccessible and the park may be closed.

How do I get to Pigeon Island?

Take a boat from Nilaveli Beach, about 25 km north of Trincomalee. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes. Boats are available from the beach near Pigeon Island View resort. Expect to pay around 2,000-3,000 LKR for a return trip.

Quick Facts

Best ForSnorkeling

Marine LifeTurtles & Coral

From Nilaveli1 km by boat

Best SeasonApril-October

Established2003

Size4.7 km²

Best Time to Visit

AprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctober

April to October offers the calmest seas and best visibility for snorkeling. The east coast monsoon (November to March) brings rough seas and the park may be inaccessible. Peak season is May to August with the clearest water.

Entry Fees

Foreign Adult$10 USD

Foreign Child$5 USD

VehicleN/A (boat access only)

Getting There

From Colombo

270 km (6 hours by car)

Nearest Town

Nilaveli / Trincomalee

Where to Stay

Jungle Beach by Uga

luxury$250-400/night

Pigeon Island Beach Resort

mid range$80-150/night

Nilaveli Beach Hotel

mid range$60-100/night

Nilaveli guesthouses

budget$25-50/night

Resources

Pigeon Island National Park - Wikipedia Book Park Entry Permits

Explore More Parks

Kumana National Park

Bird Nesting Colony

Gal Oya National Park

Boat Safaris

Yala National Park

Leopards