Pasikuda Beach
A long, shallow bay on the east coast near Batticaloa, protected by a reef so the water stays calm and waist deep far from shore, ideal for families from around April to September.
Pasikuda Beach, on Sri Lanka's east coast north of Batticaloa, is known for one thing above all: its calm, shallow water. A coral reef across the mouth of the bay breaks the waves, so the sea inside stays gentle and clear, and you can wade out a long way from the shore while the water is still only around waist deep. That makes it one of the safest and most relaxing places to swim in the country, and a favourite with families.
The bay curves for several kilometres, lined with palm trees and soft pale sand. The central stretch is home to a string of beach hotels and resorts, while the ends of the bay and neighbouring Kalkudah Beach, just to the south, are quieter and more local. On weekends and holidays, Sri Lankan families come for picnics and long hours in the water.
Snorkelling is possible around the reef on calm days, and small boats offer trips along the coast. Otherwise, life here is slow: swimming, reading under the palms and watching the fishermen bring in their boats.
Pasikuda's season is the opposite of the south and west coasts. The weather and sea are best from around April to September, when the east coast is dry and sunny. From around November to February the northeast monsoon brings rain and rougher seas. Combine a few days here with the old Dutch fort and lagoon in Batticaloa, or the beaches and whale watching around Trincomalee further north.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening hours: Open all day
- Time needed: 1 to 3 days
- Best time: April to September, when the east coast is calm and sunny
How to get there
Near Valaichchenai, about 35km north of Batticaloa. Trains on the Batticaloa line stop at Valaichchenai, and buses and drivers run from Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa and Trincomalee.