Sri Lanka is not only endowed with stretches of endless golden sandy beaches, but it’s warm and tropical sea water is home to various species of endemic and migratory marine life and a wide coral reef which surrounds the coast of the island. From natural dive sites to shipwreck sites and from turtle hatcheries to being home to endangered species of turtles, Sri Lanka provides the full experience of life under water. Enjoy the true essence of a Sri Lankan beach holiday, escape the hustle and bustle of the city, truly relish in the wonders that the aquatic life has to offer and enjoy the comforts of Beach resorts in Sri Lanka.
Photo Credits: Pany Kseniya
Here are the must-visit destinations to capture the best of Sri Lanka’s Marine Life:
1. Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa has always been a hotspot among tourists for sun, sand and surf in Sri Lanka. But it has more to offer being home to one of the most diverse and accessible coral reefs in the island and Sri Lanka’s first National Marine Park. If you are not inclined to get wet, hop on a glass-bottomed-boat to enjoy the reef in your own comfort zone. If you’re more adventurous and looking for some first-hand experience of life under water, guided snorkeling and scuba diving programs are available in plenty to provide endless opportunities for underwater exploration and photography. Savour the beauty of the reef while you unwind and relax in the comfort and plush luxury of Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon.
Photo Credits: Mirielle
2. Bentota
Sri Lanka is world renowned for nesting five of the eight endangered species of sea turtles on its sandy beaches and you can catch a glimpse of them during your stay at Bentota Beach by Cinnamon. Depending on the season you visit Sri Lanka, you might see these turtles in their natural habitat and observe them from the foreshore as they come to lay eggs or you can touch, feel and take pictures with them at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery all year round. Either way, you are guaranteed an up-close and personal interaction with these endangered turtles.
3. Unawatuna
Unawatuna is most definitely a snorkeling and diving hotspot with its horseshoe-shaped bay protected by coral reefs. Apart from various turtles, brightly coloured fish and scintillating corals you can also observe some historic shipwrecks which have attracted many tourists. If you don’t know how to dive or snorkel, worry not! The surf schools in the vicinity will do the needful to ensure that your experience of marine life is top-notch. While you’re in Unawatuna, a visit to Jungle Beach and Rumassala Reef are absolutely essential to experience the vivacious marine life and the abundance of saltwater fish and corals.
4. Trincomalee
Trincomalee was once a war torn city, now home to Trinco Blu by Cinnamon committed to providing you with the 5-star comfort you deserve while you explore the life underwater. Being the whale experts in the region, we can take you on the best whale watching experience; you can spot, snorkel and dive with these giant kings of the sea. That’s not it, fishing and sightseeing on a fiberglass motor boat, witnessing Dolphins dance and play by the hundreds, spotting the Blue Whales and Sperm Whales on our Marine Mammal Safari, Rock Diving, Wreck Diving, Coral Diving and exploring the biodiversity that lies in Pigeon Island National Park, a unique underwater park are only but some of the ways of experiencing life underwater in Sri Lanka.
Photo Credits: Underwater Incredible
5. Mirissa
The little island nation of Sri Lanka is home to some of the largest mammals to ever inhabit our planet and there is no better place to head out to sea and observe these majestic creatures in their own habitat than in Mirissa. Embark on a journey never to be forgotten as you witness the acrobatic skills of Dolphins and Whales who swim along the boats, entertaining you. It’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss, so why not get the complete experience? Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon offers the best and definitely the most comfortable Marine Mammal Safari’s out there giving you the 5-star treatment you deserve.
Photo Credits: Nilantha Kodithuwakku
Photo Credits: Sunny Mirissa
So, don’t forget to get your snorkel on, dive into adventure and have a whale of a time in Sri Lanka!
Author – Shenella Fonseka
