Emily & Tom
United Kingdom
Cultural Triangle Adventure
East Coast Beach Tour: Trincomalee & Arugam Bay
Tour Overview
Discover Sri Lanka’s less-visited east coast, home to some of the island’s clearest waters and best surf breaks. This 5-day tour combines Trincomalee’s Pigeon Island snorkeling and Fort Frederick with Arugam Bay’s world-famous surf point at Whiskey Point – ideal for travellers who want beaches without the crowds.
Ideal for: Surfers, snorkelers, beach lovers wanting a quieter alternative to the south coast, divers
Activities & Highlights
- Snorkeling trip to Pigeon Island National Park, home to reef sharks and colourful coral
- Visit historic Fort Frederick and the Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee
- Relax on the powder-white sands of Marble Beach
- Surf (or watch surfers) at Arugam Bay's world-renowned Whiskey Point break
- Optional surf lessons for beginners at Arugam Bay
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day
1
Colombo to Trincomalee
Drive to Trincomalee on the east coast. Evening at leisure, with an optional sunset visit to Fort Frederick and Koneswaram Temple.
Day
2
Pigeon Island Snorkeling
Morning boat trip to Pigeon Island National Park for snorkeling among reef sharks and coral gardens. Afternoon at Marble Beach.
Day
3
Trincomalee to Arugam Bay
Scenic drive south to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka's premier surf town.
Day
4
Arugam Bay - Surf & Beach
Full day at leisure in Arugam Bay - optional surf lesson at Whiskey Point, or simply relax on the beach.
Day
5
Arugam Bay to Colombo & Departure
Morning at leisure before the drive back to Colombo / the airport for departure.
Price Includes
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver for road transfers
- Fuel, tolls, and parking fees
- 4 nights hotel accommodation (bed & breakfast)
- One snorkeling boat trip to Pigeon Island (mask and snorkel provided)
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Price Excludes
- International and domestic airfares
- Surf lessons and board rental (optional, paid locally)
- Pigeon Island National Park entrance fees
- Lunch and dinner (unless specified)
- Personal expenses and tips
What to Expect
What to Bring
Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and a rash guard for snorkeling
Beach sandals and light, breathable clothing
A hat and sunglasses - the east coast sun is strong
Underwater camera or phone case if you have one
Fitness & Accessibility
Snorkeling requires basic swimming ability. Surfing is optional and available at various skill levels through local surf schools. Please note the east coast season runs roughly May-September (opposite to the south/west coast) - we'll advise on the best timing when you enquire.
Responsible Tourism
Please use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching or standing on coral at Pigeon Island - it is a protected marine national park.
Photo Gallery
Guest Moments
Guests Who Loved This Style of Tour
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Frequently Asked Questions
The east coast (Trincomalee and Arugam Bay) has calmer seas roughly from May to September, the opposite season to the south and west coasts. We'll advise on timing based on your travel dates.
No, local surf schools offer lessons for complete beginners as well as breaks suited to experienced surfers - Whiskey Point itself is better suited to intermediate/advanced surfers, but there are beginner-friendly spots nearby.
Basic swimming ability and comfort in open water is recommended for snorkeling. Life jackets can be provided for less confident swimmers.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- 30 days or more before travel date: 90% refund of payments made (10% retained for processing/administration).
- 15 to 29 days before travel date: 50% refund of payments made.
- 7 to 14 days before travel date: 25% refund of payments made.
- Less than 7 days before travel date or no-show: no refund.
- Date changes requested 30+ days in advance: one free change (subject to availability and supplier terms).
- Any non-refundable third-party costs already committed (hotels, permits, transport, tickets) will be deducted from refund amount.
- All cancellation/change requests must be sent in writing by email from the booking email address.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- 30 days or more before travel date: 90% refund of payments made (10% retained for processing/administration).
- 15 to 29 days before travel date: 50% refund of payments made.
- 7 to 14 days before travel date: 25% refund of payments made.
- Less than 7 days before travel date or no-show: no refund.
- Date changes requested 30+ days in advance: one free change (subject to availability and supplier terms).
- Any non-refundable third-party costs already committed (hotels, permits, transport, tickets) will be deducted from refund amount.
- All cancellation/change requests must be sent in writing by email from the booking email address.
