Scuba divers will fall in love with the island of Sri Lanka, home to over 1,600 km of stunning coastline and an extraordinary range of dive sites. From vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life to historic shipwrecks waiting to be explored, the island offers unforgettable underwater adventures for both beginners and seasoned divers.
Whether you're hoping to encounter majestic giants like the blue whale or capture macro marvels on camera, Sri Lanka’s warm Indian Ocean waters promise unmatched biodiversity and thrilling discoveries.
With over 100 diving sites across the west, south, and east coasts, friendly local dive operators, and breathtaking top-side landscapes, Sri Lanka is not just a dive destination — it’s a dream come true.
👇 Continue reading to explore the best dive locations around the Sri Lanka, complete with site depths, ideal seasons, and unique highlights for your next underwater adventure!
🌊 Dive Destination Index – Explore Sri Lanka's Coasts
- Scuba Dive in Colombo – West Coast
- Scuba Dive in Negombo – West Coast
- Scuba Dive in Kalpitiya – West Coast
- Scuba Dive in Hikkaduwa – South Coast
- Scuba Dive at Weligama / Mirissa / Tangalle / Polhena – South Coast
- Scuba Dive in Galle / Unawatuna – South Coast
- Scuba Dive in Kirinda – South Coast
- Scuba Dive in Trincomalee / Nilaweli – East Coast
- Scuba Dive in Batticaloa – East Coast
Scuba Dive in Colombo – West Coast
Colombo offers world-class wreck diving just off the bustling capital city near Bandaranaike International Airport. From coral-encrusted barges to a World War I shipwreck, over 15 accessible wrecks await exploration within recreational diving depths.
If you’re looking for variety beyond wrecks, Colombo also features sandstone and rocky reef dive sites, all teeming with colorful marine life. Whether you’re a history buff or a reef lover, Colombo’s underwater world will leave you amazed.
📍 Location Access: Most dive sites are just a short 30–45 minute boat ride from the Colombo harbour or Mount Lavinia area.
🐠 Marine Highlights: Expect to encounter schools of blue-striped snappers, moray eels, groupers, lionfish, batfish, and occasionally rays cruising along the deeper wrecks.
✅ Diver Tip: While many wrecks are accessible to Advanced Open Water divers, beginners can still enjoy shallow reef dives with dive instructors.
📅 Best Season: October – April
⏳ Duration: 6 Months
Dive Sites in Colombo
🛳️ Cardinal Barge
The Cardinal Barge is a small wreck in poor condition but has some decent marine life, including Cardinalfish – lots of them – and Snappers. The credits that this diving spot received for its unusual name, Cardinal Barge, goes wholly to these little creatures swimming freely in shoals of hundreds of thousands of members.
If you plan to dive off Mount Lavinia, south of Colombo, you should come and dive in Cardinal Barge.
Depth: 28 to 29 M
⚓ Lotus Barge Diving Site
Another shipwreck in the Colombo seas, the Lotus Barge diving site, is a superb location for scuba diving. Dharshana Jayawardena, a well-known diver from Sri Lanka who rediscovered the Wreck and gave it its name, very recently discovered this wreckage.
It is a small steam barge that was commonly used in Sri Lanka in the previous century. Recreational divers can now dive into this area and take in the immense beauty that this Wreck creates after years of work.
It is a tiny, lovely boat that is teeming with marine life. A boat ride takes 35 minutes, and the depth is 28 metres. There, wreckfish, notable snappers, make up most of the fish species.
Depth: 29 to 30 M
🌑 Black Coral Wrecks
Black coral wrecks are harder to see. However, visiting the Black coral Reef in the Colombo diving site can catch one of the most glorious views. These corals create a massive black ring around the water.
Colombo, without question, offers the finest assortment of wreck diving spots. Although the first Wreck you come across, Thermopylae Sierra, starts (deck) at roughly 10 metres, the shallowest one is about 25 metres. After that, practically every other one is 25 metres or more profound.
The shallow areas in the south are few and in poor condition. However, the ones in Colombo are surprisingly well-visited and significantly better sustained.
Lower down the line, and you detect a dark mass that is a cargo freighter's superstructure, like a gigantic black monster shadow. As you get closer, you'll notice a strange yellow abundance off in the distance: an academy of hundreds of blue-striped snappers swinging close to the Wreck's bow.
This 40-meter-long black Wreck is only accessible to qualified Deep Divers with prior training. Despite its diminutive size, the shipwreck is covered with massive black corals and attracts a lot of aquatic life.
Depth: 39 to 40 M
Scuba Dive in Negombo – West Coast
Divers have great opportunities along the southwestern coastlines between October and April. Negombo Beach, stretching for miles, is one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning beaches, perfect for both relaxation and underwater exploration.
Located just 35 km north of Colombo, or about an hour’s drive from the capital, Negombo is a favorite for fun and scenic dive trips. While boat rides to dive sites may take longer compared to the east coast, the diversity of marine life and reef structures make it worth the journey.
📍 Location Access: Dive boats typically depart from Negombo Beach or Dutch Canal area, reaching the reefs within 30–60 minutes.
🐠 Marine Highlights: Expect to encounter lionfish, eels, groupers, sweet lips, black coral, Teddy bear coral, and sometimes rays in deeper waters.
✅ Diver Tip: Most sites are beginner-friendly, but some (like Diyamba Suda) require advanced skills due to strong currents and depth.
📅 Best Season: October – April
⏳ Duration: 6 Months
Dive Sites in Negombo
🪨 Diyamba Gala
Small caverns and rocks at the bottom can be explored, and there is rich aquatic life here — especially eels and nocturnal species hiding in crevices.
Depth: 22 to 26 M
🐟 Mutian Gala
Two reef systems situated on sandy bottoms are rich in marine biodiversity. You can spot lionfish, moray eels, fusiliers, blue-striped snappers, and more!
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🪸 Goda Maha Gala
A beautiful dive site around 6–7 miles offshore, featuring black corals, lobsters, snappers, and a wide range of reef fish, ideal for underwater photographers.
Depth: 12 to 15 M
🚢 Ula Gala
Located around 5 km away, this reef is home to giant groupers, oriental sweet lips, Trevally, and yellow jack. Remains of the Asia Carrier shipwreck from 1980 are also visible here.
Depth: 2 to 12 M
🌈 Mutu Paraya (Pear Reef)
Roughly a 30-minute boat ride from shore, this reef is among the most visually stunning with Teddy bear coral and an abundance of colorful fish species.
Depth: 16 M
🌊 Diyamba Suda (Third Reef)
The most distant and adventurous dive from Negombo (~22 km). This legendary reef has dome-shaped corals, crystal visibility, and strong currents — great for spotting rays.
Depth: 15 to 30 M
🐠 Maha Gala
A large, healthy reef that supports groupers, lobsters, lionfish, and plenty of snappers. Great for both beginners and intermediate divers due to moderate depths.
Depth: 14 to 16 M
Scuba Dive in Kalpitiya – West Coast
Kalpitiya is a prominent destination for diving on the west coast of Sri Lanka, known for having the country's longest coral reef system. This reef remains pristine and relatively undisturbed, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.
Home to colourful fish, corals, and a diverse array of marine life, Kalpitiya offers a spectacular underwater environment for both beginner and experienced divers.
Dive visibility ranges between 15–25 meters on good days, and the waters here are typically calm, especially from November to March.
Kalpitiya is ideal for macro photography lovers, reef explorers, and those interested in less-crowded, eco-friendly dive tourism. Several PADI-certified dive centers in Kalpitiya offer guided tours and equipment rentals.
📅 Best Season: October – April
⏳ Duration: 6 Months
🔍 Visibility: 15 – 25 M
🌍 Best For: Reef Diving, Nudibranch Spotting, Underwater Photography
Dive Sites in Kalpitiya
🌊 Anne's Reef
Famous for Napoleon Wrasse, Barracuda, Reef Fish, Trevally, and Yellow Line Snapper.
Depth: 19 to 20 M
🐟 Shantha's Longer Reef
Known for Napoleon Wrasse, Reef Fish, Moray Eel, Yellow Line Snapper, and Sting Ray. Features many dome-type corals and excellent visibility.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
🦄 Unicorn Reef
Unicorn Fish, Napoleon Wrasse, Reef Fish, Moray Eel, Yellow Line Snapper, and Sting Ray make this a vibrant site.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
⚓ Broken Anchor Reef
Look out for Nudibranch, Lobster, Nemo, Moray Eel, and Octopus amid colorful reef fish.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
🌟 Sir Maciek Reef
Popular for Yellow Line and Blue Line Snapper, Sea Shells, Groupers, Barracuda, Nudibranch, Reef Fish, and Moray Eels.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
🌸 Mona's Reef
Soft corals, reef fish, Nudibranch, Pufferfish, Moray Eel, Snapper, Stone Fish, Octopus, Decora, and Fire Bellany reside here.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
🐠 Snapper Point
Features Snappers, Grouper, Moray Eel, Nudibranch, and rich soft coral life—an underwater wonderland.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
🚫 No Anchor Reef
A small cave, Pufferfish, Nudibranch, Snapper, Reef fish, and soft corals can be explored here.
Depth: 13 to 14 M
🐡 Bar Reef Right
Soft corals, reef fish, Snapper, Napoleon Wrasse, Moray Eels, and Groupers are abundant here.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
🐬 Agamara Reef
Observe Trevally, soft corals, and a wide range of reef fish in this beautiful dive site.
Depth: 17 to 18 M
Scuba Dive in Hikkaduwa – South Coast
Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant diving destinations, famed for its shallow coral gardens, historic wrecks, and rich marine biodiversity. Located on the southwest coast, it offers a mix of easy-access sites for beginners and deep-sea adventures for experienced divers.
Right in front of Walduwa, you’ll find rocky outcrops and coral patches perfect for snorkeling and freediving. In between dives, relax on the beach or enjoy close encounters with friendly green sea turtles that often swim up to shore.
📅 Best Season: November – April
⏳ Duration: 6 Months
🌊 Visibility: 10 – 25 M
💡 Ideal For: Beginners, Underwater Photography, Turtle Watching
Dive Sites in Hikkaduwa
⚓ Conch Oil Tank (1903)
A sunken oil barge surrounded by reef fish and coral-covered structures. Popular for beginners and wreck lovers.
Depth: 12 to 21 M
🌊 Akurala Point
A reef drop-off known for vibrant fish life and strong coral formations. Great for intermediate divers.
Depth: 12 to 21 M
🚢 Earl of Shaftesbury Sailing Ship (1847)
Historic wreck site featuring remnants of a 19th-century ship, now a reef for groupers and lionfish.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🪨 Seenigama Rock
A nearshore rock reef ideal for macro photography and turtle spotting.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🐠 Coral Garden Rock
Shallow coral beds buzzing with parrotfish, butterflyfish, and nudibranchs. Perfect for underwater photography.
Depth: 12 to 13 M
🏝️ Hikkaduwa Rock
A classic local dive filled with vibrant reef life and easy swim-throughs. Ideal for all levels.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🖤 Black Coral Point
One of the deepest dive sites in Hikkaduwa, featuring rare black corals and big pelagic species.
Depth: 17 to 33 M
🪸 Yakmuththa Rock
Rich in soft corals and schooling fish. A good choice for morning dives.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🌊 Kadawara Rock
A quiet reef ideal for novice divers and training dives, featuring small caverns and coral slopes.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🐡 Goda Rock
Noted for moray eels, pufferfish, and occasional cuttlefish sightings.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🌊 Meda Rock
One of the most consistent dive spots for schooling snapper and reef octopuses.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🛥️ Rangoon Sailing Ship
Wreck dive offering old timbers and marine growth — a favorite among wreck enthusiasts.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🚢 S.S. Orestes (1875)
Another historic shipwreck, now home to nudibranchs, lionfish, and small groupers.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🕳️ Cave
An exciting dive into a small underwater cave filled with shrimp, crustaceans, and resting rays.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
🌞 Sunil Rock
A shallow reef perfect for first-timers and snorkelers, featuring vibrant coral heads and clownfish.
Depth: 4 to 18 M
🚢 Ethiopi (1977)
A modern wreck with interesting marine life like batfish and triggerfish around its structure.
Depth: 12 to 14 M
Scuba Dive at Weligama / Mirissa / Tangalle / Polhena – South Coast
Weligama and its surrounding southern coast are among Sri Lanka's top scuba diving destinations. These coastal towns offer access to deep pinnacles, historic wrecks, and vibrant reefs teeming with marine life. From beginner-friendly training spots to exotic dives with Blue Whales, Whale Sharks, and Manta Rays, the region promises world-class underwater adventure.
📅 Best Season: November – April
🌊 Visibility: 10 – 30 M
🌡️ Water Temperature: ~27°C / 81°F
💡 Highlights: Nudibranchs, Sea Turtles, Whale Encounters, Macro Photography
Dive Sites in Weligama / Mirissa / Tangalle / Polhena
🪨 Dispa Rock
This magnificent underwater pinnacle northeast of Weligama Bay features a sandy bottom with scattered boulders. Ideal for deep diving and spotting pelagic species like Blue Whales, Whale Sharks, and Manta Rays. Expect to see schools of triggerfish and barracuda.
Depth: 31 to 32 M
🪸 Yala Rock
Large rocky structures rise from 20m to 5m depth. Offers exciting swim-throughs and small caverns with lionfish, turtles, lobsters, and schooling fusiliers and snappers.
Depth: 23 to 24 M
🔊 Noisy Rock
A maze of swim-throughs and caves filled with exotic species like giant morays, pufferfish, nudibranchs, and glassfish. Sometimes Mantas and Rays glide by.
Depth: 19 to 20 M
📍 Patch Point
Also known as Prince Heinrichs Patch (PHP), this historic site features dumped ballast stones from merchant ships and abundant life like clown triggerfish, honeycomb morays, and stingrays.
Depth: 19 to 20 M
🌊 Mirissa Point
Perfect for beginner and night dives. Shallow depths and long bottom time with sightings of parrotfish, angelfish, and pufferfish.
Depth: 6 to 12 M
🐢 Moray Point
Frequent visits by hawksbill turtles and sightings of sweetlips, moray eels, triggerfish, and occasionally whale sharks.
Depth: 12 to 18 M
🪨 Rock Wall
Massive granite boulders with schooling fish and scattered coral. Look out for cuttlefish, octopus, and reef fish hiding in crevices.
Depth: 18 to 22 M
🐙 Octopus Point
Named after elusive octopus sightings, this site has a sandy bottom and is a macro photography haven with many nudibranchs and sea creatures.
Depth: 10 to 12 M
🚢 Wombat Barge
This wreck near Nilwella sank in 1975 and is home to giant groupers, snappers, fusiliers, and more. Often combined with a wreck dive and snorkel at Tangalle’s underwater museum.
Depth: 22 to 23 M
Scuba Dive in Galle / Unawatuna - South Coast
From the end of October to the end of April, the southern coast of Sri Lanka provides ideal diving conditions. Unawatuna is one of the most famous tourist spots in Sri Lanka. Coconut palms, modest eateries, and local artisan shops flank the lovely two-kilometre-long white sand beach.
Dive Sites in Galle / Unawatuna
The Ralagala Wreck
This is a fantastic diving location in the region. This is where the waves break, and you can view a lot of corals and aquatic life. Another ship is lying in this beautiful site 20 metres deep, but there are no documents concerning her. It will be an entirely different experience for you because there are many antique items to look at, many of which remain now. There are intriguing wreckage relics like oil drums, transmission pieces, and relatively complete portions of the enormous hull. She offered shade for Angelfish, Snappers, Prorcupinefish, Pufferfish and Large Titan Triggerfish.
The Galle Ship Wreck (Tango)
This landmark comprises around 20 massive iron cannons positioned between the islands of Gibbet and Closenburg. The site runs from near the beach in a generally southerly direction to a depth of around 24 metres. Some of the cannons on the shoreward side of the area had been severely damaged by sand abrasion, exposing the gun bore in some cases. The location is intriguing; it is located on what was previously Gibbet Island, west of the entrance (now filled in) to what was once a tiny harbour between Gibbet and Closenburg Islands.
Goda Gala (Lord Nelson Wreck)
This Wreck is a contemporary ship that went down in the year 2000. It was transporting cement. Most of the Wreck may be penetrated, and there are many reef fishes. This is also an excellent and enjoyable diving location near Unawatuna. This ship is full of fish, wildlife, and plants as it rests in the deep Indian Ocean. This diving area is exceptionally close to Pearl Divers and can be reached in a short amount of time. Mantas are abundant, and visibility is excellent. This stunning dive spot will stay with you forever.
Goda Kupatha
The depth is 18 metres, and the environment is coral and rocky. We may perceive several kinds of rays. One created from natural materials. This is an astonishing Mother Nature creation, and a large rock has risen from the seabed. This is accessible to both novice and experienced users. We can also see corals developing here, an incredible sight to behold. Many different types of fish and rays may be found here.
Galapita Gala Dive Site
This excellent diving spot is about 10 minutes away from Unawatuna. This is one of Mother Nature's most fabulous creations. There is a rock on top of another stone. This is a medium-sized rocky region. Slugs, Coral Trees, and several types of coral fish may be found in this 03-meter-long tunnel. The water depth is 25 metres. There are black corals, soft corals, and visible fan corals. There are also several sponges and marine worms that can be seen. You may easily spot Manta Rays, Blue Ring Sting Rays and Angle fish.
Goda Gala Diyamba (Napolian Reef)
Goda Gala Diyamba (Napolian Reef) diving location is located 10 minutes to the left of Unawatuna. This starts at 06m and goes down until 18m. The reef region may be seen from one kilometre away. There are many distinct types of reef fish. For example, Napoleon fish may be caught. One fish weighs 40 kg more than the other. In addition, there are several Groupers, Moray eels, sea plants, and snails. This is a fantastic and beautiful diving location near Unawatuna.
Reef Wreck
Reef Wreck is a fantastic diving spot in Unawatuna. You will encounter yellow-finned Trevally, Damselfish, Goatfish and Snappers, Bannerfish, Angelfish, Butterfly fish, Big eyes, and Fusiliers if you dive. It will be a wonderful memory for you. You may snap several images, which is an excellent opportunity to learn about the behaviour of rare fish species and their interrelationships.
Devaniyagala Diyamba
Diving at this moment is incredible. There are numerous corals and reefs, one of Mother Nature's outstanding creations and a close destination for Pearl Divers. Many Snappers, Angelfish, and Giant Morays may be seen in this area. Even so, this location provides excellent shade for a variety of species. You will never forget this diving area because the visibility is almost always perfect.
Navy Kupatha
There are several coral-covered rocky places. This diving site spans more than one kilometre, and we dive in pre-selected gorgeous locations. This location is suitable for beginners and advanced certified visitors, with several photo opportunities. There will also be a wide variety of coral fishes and critters to observe. Most of the time, the visibility is excellent, and you will have many fond recollections of this dive location. This will be a fantastic experience for you. Pelagics, Rays, Groupers, Snappers, Turtles, Eels, Jacks, Barracudas, and other marine life may be seen. You can get to this fantastic destination in a short amount of time.
Aluth Gala Rock
There is an astonishing design in this stone that is formed like a pinnacle, and you must dive in a pinnacle style. It begins 9 metres deep. Many species, such as Manthays and Leaf scorpion fish, may be seen 25 metres deep. Many lionfish may be seen, as well as snappers, stonefish, and barracuda. This is an excellent location for advanced divers. At the Aluth gala, you will have an unforgettable experience. There are several Groupers, Moray eels, sea plants, and snails.
Rangoon Wreck
Rangoon is a shipwreck near the opening of Galle Harbor. This stunning and extraordinary shipwreck is discovered 32 metres deep in the water. However, even this ship stands upright on the gorgeous unpolluted white sandy bottom. The front of the vessel is similar to a Viking Ship. The name of this lovely unspoilt gem is S.S. Rangoon, and it is 60 metres long and 1800 tonnes heavy sailing/steamer built in 1863 by Samuda Bros of London. G.F Henry was the skipper, and its steam engines powered 400 PHP round journeys from Suez to Calcutta.
Aluthgal Mattha
This diving location is unique in that it offers a variety of specialisations, with certain sections only accessible to advanced or highly expert divers. As a result, this is an excellent area for both novices and advanced users to enjoy. The diving centre accepts divers based on their expertise and certification. Even while this location is usually teeming with coral fish and coral, it also serves as a haven for various animals and plants.
No Name Wreck
Because there is no clear historical data for this ship, there is a no-name wreck. As we all know, this is a steam and sails British cargo ship passing close to Sri Lanka. In the event of an accident, she will have to halt her journey and recuperate near Galle. She is 24 metres deep. The ship is about 60 metres long. Visitors may view Stemmer and Propeller. Many species, such as Mantha and Leaf scorpion fish, may be found 25 metres deep. Many lionfish may be seen, as well as snappers, stonefish, and barracuda. This is an excellent location for advanced divers.
Talpe Reef
Talpe Reef is a vast spread naturally formed coral reef with beautiful fauna, flora, and a wide range of dive sites. The dive location is located in the Indian Ocean, not too deep, and this lovely coral reef provides shade for numerous species such as Snapper and Moray Ells.
Scuba Dive in Kirinda – South Coast
Kirinda is a beach settlement in Sri Lanka's Southern Province. It is roughly 10 kilometres south of Tissamaharama and is popular with international and local visitors. There is a rocky outcrop to enjoy a spectacular view of this barren shore with its long stretch of golden beach, dunes, and the vast blue ocean beyond.
During the inter-monsoon season, Kirinda is an excellent location for scuba diving. The archaeologically significant diving places, caverns, and the Long Basses reef with crystal clear water, cliffs, shallow water soft corals, and a long sandy beach inspire every recreational diver to have a wonderful experience in Serendib's pristine waters.
Dive Sites Kirinda
Bottle Wreck at Great Basses Reef
This is a shallow area along the reef, directly across from the Silver Coin wreck. Mr. Peter Throckmorton and Dr. Arthur C. Clarke discovered this early British Wreck. According to legend, a ship stopped in the Port of Galle on its way east to pick up a consignment of soda bottles from a company called "Clarke and Company," which sells pointed-bottom soda bottles. The strange bottle wreck may be seen on the landside of the Great Basses hill. Unfortunately, this wreck has been severely damaged due to the shallow water and persistent surge conditions.
Silver Coin Wreck at Great Basses Reef
On March 22, 1961, a team of divers led by the late Rodney Jonklaas, Sir Arthur C. Clarke, and Mike Wilson discovered an undiscovered wreck in Great Basses holding bags of silver coins made in Surat, India. This ship belonged to Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb, son of the renowned Shah Jehan, who constructed Agra’s Taj Mahal. The rich cargo had been on its way to the Far East for commerce when the ship sank off the Great Basses during a storm.
Ancient Harbour Site at Godawaya
Godawaya is a mediaeval settlement located south of Ambalantota. The discoveries and excavations made at the remnants of this ancient port and stone-pillared pier have given fresh insight into Sri Lanka's maritime past. The old wreck is located 2½ nautical miles south of Godawaya at a depth of 100 feet. The finding of ancient clay pots at this location provides solid evidence of Sri Lanka's naval history, which goes back 2500 years.
Iron Wreck at Little Basses Reef
This massive iron wreck is located 4 kilometres west of the Little Basses reef in relatively shallow water. Following the exploration in 2008 and 2009, the Maritime Archaeology Unit Team measured and wrote a report on it. Unfortunately, explosions used by fishermen and treasure hunters have damaged the wreck. The engine's upper section is only two feet underwater. A giant propeller is still attached to its shaft, and the additional propeller is nearby. The stern remains undamaged and has become an ideal breeding ground for aquatic life.
Copper Wreck at Little Basses Reef
The wooden shipwreck of Dutch provenance is located in Little Basses at depths ranging from 18 to 20 metres. This wreck's history is unknown, and it is also under attack from treasure seekers. It is a tiny steamship with one boiler and a copper plate hull. Only the propeller shaft, engine, boiler, and keelson are visible.
Scuba Dive in Trincomalee / Nilaweli – East Coast
The shallow dive spots in front of Uppuveli Beach are primarily covered by hard and soft corals, with various coral fishes. The Uppuveli and Trincomalee Dive Sites range from shallow deep from 6 m to 35 m. More superficial diving locations provide a variety of hard and soft corals and coral fishes from the Indian Ocean. Barracudas, Trevallies, String Rays, Moray Eels, and other types of fish can be found in deeper dive areas with fewer corals. There are also a lot of macro things to view. It is ideal for newly certified open-water, less experienced, and relaxed advanced divers. Whale Sharks and Mantas are occasionally spotted. However, they are infrequent. So when you see one of these creatures, you can rejoice. In addition to some of the finest scuba diving in Sri Lanka, the Trincomalee region is becoming increasingly recognised for its religious history, colonial past and whale and dolphin watching.
🧻 Tip: Keep toilet paper handy at all times during dive day trips, especially around remote dive base areas
Trincomalee Region Scuba Sites
Swami Rock is a one-of-a-kind dive location that has been widely photographed. Swami Rock is home to various marine life, including giant rays and schooling fish. In addition, there are several dive spots where you can see underwater stonework and other things. The legendary Arthur C Clarke, in his 1957 book 'The Reefs of Taprobane', mentioned these locations.
- Butterfly Rock – Depth: 11 to 12 M
- Kalathe Par – Depth: 20 to 35 M
- Swami Rock – Depth: 21 to 22 M
- North Reef – Depth: 5 to 20 M
- South Reef – Depth: 12 to 18 M
- Navy Island – Depth: 11 to 12 M
Nilaweli Region Scuba Sites
Along the bay near Uppuveli and Nilaweli beaches, this diving location has a spectacular reef reaching over 700 meters (2,300 ft) from the coast. This shallow reef is ideal for divers of all skill levels, especially those enrolled in courses. More experienced divers may pass through tiny swim-throughs as they explore the various underwater topography. Despite prior harm, the reef is rebounding nicely and is home to a diverse range of species. Be on the lookout for moray eels! Sulphur head moray eels, white-eyed morays, enormous morays, and honeycomb moray eels have all been seen here. Nudibranchs, cephalopods, and various fascinating bottom dwellers such as scorpionfish, frogfish, stonefish, and stingrays are among the highlights.
- Anemone Garden – Depth: 21 to 22 M
- Iravakandy – Depth: 9 to 10 M
- Goda Gala – Depth: 15 to 16 M
- Pidgeon Island – Depth: 7 to 15 M
- Pidgeon Rock – Depth: 20 to 21 M
- Crow Island – Depth: 9 to 10 M
- Knife Rock – Depth: 13 to 14 M
- Dijamba Gala – Depth: 32 to 33 M
- Mortar Rock – Depth: 9 to 10 M
- House Reef – Depth: 9 to 10 M
- Madagala – Depth: 9 to 10 M
- Kalawa Pare – Depth: 16 to 20 M
- Welluore Rock – Depth: 9 to 10 M
- Sithanane Pare – Depth: 17 to 18 M
Scuba Dive in Batticaloa – East Coast
Batticaloa in the Bay of Bengal has access to over a dozen diving spots. Due to the abundance of dive sites, it is recognised as Sri Lanka's diving paradise. The weather is pleasant, with often excellent visibility. Many places are generic, ranging from countless wrecks to incredible rocky landscapes teeming with life. You may also watch and potentially swim with whales, of which two types are frequent in the area: blue whales and sperm whales.
🌊 Tip: Always double-check dive site currents in Batticaloa—some deeper wrecks may require advanced certification and calm-day diving for safety.
Dive Sites in Batticaloa
- Wreck H.M.S. Hermes (Ship Wreck) – Depth: 42 to 53 M
- British Sergeant (Ship Wreck) – Depth: 14 to 25 M
- Boiler Wrecks – Depth: 4 to 8 M
- Butterfly Rock – Depth: 14 to 22 M
- White Rock – Depth: 5 to 8 M
- Proppa Rock – Depth: 4 to 8 M
- Kalpara Rock – Depth: 24 to 25 M
- Wreck M.F.A. Athelstane – Depth: 41 to 42 M
- Nawalady – Depth: 8 to 12 M
- Hollyhock – Depth: 41 to 42 M
- Wreck 3 – 6 MK Lady Blake – Depth: 11 to 12 M
- Mushroom Rock – Depth: 17 to 18 M
- Passekuda Domes – Depth: 17 to 18 M
- Elephant Rock East – Depth: 12 to 14 M
- Passekuda Boiler Wreck – Depth: 9 to 10 M
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