Pasikuda

Pasikuda's defining feature is its water — shallow and calm for an unusually long distance from shore, a result of the bay's natural coral shelf, which makes it one of the safest and most swimmable beaches on the island, including for families with young children.

The area has developed steadily as a beach resort destination over the past decade, with a quieter, more spread-out feel than the busier south-coast towns.

It pairs naturally with Trincomalee and Nilaveli further north for travellers building an east-coast beach itinerary outside the southwest monsoon season.

The same shallow coral shelf that keeps swimming calm here also makes for decent snorkelling close to shore, without needing a boat trip to reach reef life. It's a quieter alternative to Nilaveli further north for travellers building an east-coast stop around calm water rather than diving or big-wave surf.