A brief boat ride from Nilaveli, Pigeon Island National Park is a haven for sea life. Surrounded by colorful coral reefs that are home to tropical fish, reef sharks, sea turtles, and even manta rays, the island is a diver's and snorkeler's heaven. Though one can find this sea heaven while diving or snorkeling, for those who would rather stay on land, there is also a chance to walk around the island and enjoy its nature. The island further has a unique rock shore, and it is thus a perfect place for photography.
Pigeon Island is one of the most ideal places in Sri Lanka for snorkeling because of its crystal clear, shallow waters and beautiful coral reefs. You will get to swim with shoals of multicolored fish, watch turtles swim lazily by, and even see harmless reef sharks. The serenity of the site makes it ideal for beginners, and the diverse range of sea creatures makes even seasoned snorkelers gasp in awe.
For the more thrill-seeking who wish to go deeper into the sea, scuba diving in Trincomalee is simply a necessity. There are several dive sites, from coral reefs filled with marine life to ancient shipwrecks that uncover history beneath the sea level. Dive schools centered around Nilaveli and Uppuveli provide schooling and guided dives, so novices as well as masters can enjoy this thrilling activity.
