Top 5 Places for Snorkelling Experiences in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and has some of the most breathtaking underwater scenery in Asia. Its warm tropical waters, marine life, and coral reefs provide great opportunities for snorkelling. Whether you are a novice or an expert, the waters of the island have some truly vibrant marine ecosystems waiting to be explored. Here are the top five destinations for snorkelling in Sri Lanka:

Pigeon Island National Park, off the coast of Trincomalee in the northeast, is one of the best places for snorkelling in Sri Lanka. It is a popular marine sanctuary due to its crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and abundance of marine life – which include blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles.
The coral reefs off Pigeon Island are among the most pristine and untouched in the country. You’ll be able to spot numerous tropical fish, reef sharks, and even go snorkelling with turtles in Sri Lanka. Waters are shallow and calm, making this spot ideal for beginners. The best period to visit Pigeon Island for snorkelling is between April and September, when the waters are calm and the visibility is good.

Hikkaduwa is a famous beach town on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful coral sanctuary. It is probably the best beach in Sri Lanka for snorkelling. The shallow waters here make it a perfect spot for exploring underwater, and the marine biodiversity is simply stunning.

Visitors will be able to view various types of coral formations, including brain corals and staghorn corals. Common fish species include parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. Renting snorkelling gear and going on guided tours is also easy to do in Hikkaduwa. Snorkelling in Hikkaduwa is best from November to April, as the sea remains calm and clear during this period.

Travellers to the area can find top accommodation in Galle, located about 30 minutes away. For a luxury stay overlooking the ocean, Jetwing Lighthouse is a great pick. If you want to experience a secluded getaway amidst the southern jungles, consider Jetwing Kurulubedda, a tranquil boutique hotel.

Located off the northwest coast of Kalpitiya, the Bar Reef forms one of Sri Lanka’s biggest coral reef ecosystems, and is teeming with vibrant marine life. Snorkelling in Kalpitiya is one of the best activities for travellers. The pristine coral reefs with rays, reef sharks, and colourful fish species are a wonder to behold.

It is one of the better-preserved reefs in the country and is biodiverse. Visitors will have a chance to see dolphins, and even go snorkelling with whales in Sri Lanka during the season.
The area is not crowded, making it perfect for peaceful water activities. The best months for snorkelling in Bar Reef are between December and April, when dolphins can also be seen around Kalpitiya.

Jungle Beach, located near Unawatuna on the southern coast, is a snorkeller’s paradise. It is accessible via a short trek through a jungle path, which adds to the adventure. Once you reach the beach, you will find clear waters with colorful fish and coral formations.
This is a secluded area, and visitors can enjoy snorkelling without the crowds. It has good underwater visibility during the dry season, and the coral and marine life here is great for underwater photography. The best time for snorkelling on Jungle Beach is from November to April when the sea is mostly calm.

Snorkelling in Weligama promises to be a wonderful experience due to the shallow waters, marine life, and colourful coral formations. Unlike other famous snorkelling spots, Weligama is noted for having a gentle bay suitable for beginners and families. The reefs off of Taprobane Island, in particular, are home to different tropical fish, sea turtles, and colourful corals.
Although Weligama is more famous for surfing, its underwater beauty is an underrated attraction. The best time for snorkelling in Weligama is between November and April, when the sea is calm and visibility is good.

Sri Lanka’s coastline is a paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts, with each location offering a unique and unforgettable underwater experience. Plan your visit during the right season to make the most of Sri Lanka’s spectacular marine biodiversity.