Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
1. Hulhumalé Island
Artificial island offering a variety of marine life, including turtles and reef sharks.
- Diverse Marine Life: Wide range of fish, corals, and larger marine species
- Beginner-Friendly: Shallow waters ideal for snorkeling and easy access to diving sites
- Island Amenities: Modern facilities, accommodations, and dining options on the island
2. Kalpitiya Peninsula
Home to a large dolphin population and whale-watching opportunities.
- Dolphin Sightings: High chances of seeing Bottlenose, Spinner, and Rough-toothed Dolphins
- Whale Watching: Seasonal sightings of blue whales, sperm whales, and orcas
- Sandy Beaches: Beautiful beaches ideal for relaxing after diving or snorkeling
3. Waskaduwa
A place to witness the unique freshwater snorkeling experience in Sri Lanka.
- Freshwater Snorkeling: Uncommon experience as most locations offer saltwater snorkeling
- Rich Biodiversity: A chance to see a variety of freshwater fish and aquatic plants
- Eco-Tourism: Sustainable tourism practices that minimize impact on the ecosystem
4. Negombo Lagoon
A shallow lagoon with a variety of marine life and mangrove forests.
- Mangrove Forests: Provides shelter and food for many bird species
- Coral Reefs: Supports a diverse range of colorful reef fish and hard corals
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Colombo with various transportation options
5. Bentota Beach
An iconic beach destination offering snorkeling and diving experiences.
- Clear Waters: Ideal for viewing marine life without obstructions
- Historical Sites Nearby: Easy access to ancient temples, colonial-era buildings, and museums
- Water Sports Activities: Diverse range of water sports including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides
6. Mirissa Beach
Known for its stunning beaches and whale-watching opportunities.
- Whale Watching: Seasonal sightings of blue whales, sperm whales, and orcas
- Sunset Views: Beautiful sunset views over the ocean
- Boat Tours: Guided boat tours for whale and dolphin watching
7. Unawatuna Beach
A picturesque beach with coral reefs and opportunities for snorkeling.
- Coral Reefs: Beautiful coral formations ideal for snorkeling
- Beach Activities: Activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball
- Nightlife: Vibrant nightlife with bars, restaurants, and beach parties
8. Arugam Bay
Famous for its waves, also offering opportunities for snorkeling.
- Surfing: World-class surf spots for experienced surfers
- Snorkeling: Snorkeling opportunities in the coral reefs nearby
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Proximity to Yala National Park and Lahugala Kitulana National Park
9. Trincomalee
A historic city with a beautiful harbor offering excellent snorkeling.
- Snorkeling: Numerous snorkeling spots with diverse marine life
- Historical Sites: Fort Frederick, Koneswaram Temple, and Dutch Bay are nearby attractions
- Fishing Villages: Visit traditional fishing villages for an authentic experience
10. Nilawee Reef
A protected marine sanctuary with diverse coral formations.
- Coral Sanctuary: Protected area fostering healthy corals and marine life
- Snorkeling: Ideal for snorkeling with clear waters and abundant marine life
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Colombo with various transportation options
11. Bar Reef
A stunning reef featuring a diverse range of marine life.
- Rich Marine Life: Abundant coral formations, fish species, and turtles
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Colombo with various transportation options
- Diving Courses: Offers PADI-certified scuba diving courses for beginners and experts alike
12. Kudahuvadhu Kandu
A channel with strong currents ideal for experienced divers.
- Strong Currents: Ideal for experienced divers seeking adventure
- Marine Life: Possibility of encountering manta rays, whale sharks, and hammerhead sharks
- Accessibility: Requires a boat trip from Malé or Maamigili Island
13. Maaya Thila
A thila (underwater mountain) with rich marine biodiversity.
- Marine Biodiversity: Abundant marine life, including turtles, sharks, and a variety of fish
- Accessibility: Requires a boat trip from Malé or Maamigili Island
- Diving Conditions: Strong currents and deep waters suitable for experienced divers
14. Fish Head
A popular dive site with an underwater plateau shaped like a fish head.
- Unique Geography: A distinctive underwater landscape resembling a fish head
- Marine Life: Plenty of turtles, reef sharks, and eagle rays
- Accessibility: Requires a boat trip from Malé or Maamigili Island
15. Biya'hibehi Kandu
A channel with strong currents and diverse marine life.
- Strong Currents: Ideal for experienced divers seeking adventure
- Marine Life: Possibility of encountering manta rays, whale sharks, and hammerhead sharks
- Accessibility: Requires a boat trip from Malé or Maamigili Island