If you are looking for a stunning and secluded beach in Sri Lanka, look no further than Marble Beach. This hidden gem in Trincomalee is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the country, with crystal clear water, white sand, and a rich coral reef. Whether you want to swim, snorkel, relax, or explore, Marble Beach has something for everyone. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Marble Beach, including how to get there, what to expect, where to stay, and what else to do in Trincomalee.
How to Get to Marble Beach
Marble Beach is located about 16 km south of Trincomalee town, on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. The easiest way to get there is by tuk tuk or motorbike, which will take about 30 minutes and cost around 500-700 LKR. You can also take a bus from Trincomalee to Kinniya, and then a tuk tuk to the beach, which will take about an hour and cost around 300-400 LKR.
The beach is under the control of the Sri Lankan Air Force, so you will have to pass through a checkpoint and show your ID. You will also have to pay an entrance fee of 100 LKR per person, which includes access to the beach, the resort, and the restaurant. There is a signpost for Marble Beach on the main road, so you won't miss it.
What to Expect at Marble Beach
Once you enter the beach, you will be amazed by its beauty and tranquility. The beach is a sheltered bay, surrounded by green hills and palm trees. The water is calm, clear, and turquoise, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The sand is soft, white, and sparkling, like marble. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, peacocks, and sea turtles.
You can enjoy the beach in many ways, depending on your mood and preference. You can swim in the warm water, snorkel in the coral reef, sunbathe on the sand, or relax in the shade. You can also rent a kayak, a paddle board, or a jet ski, and explore the bay. You can also visit the Marble Beach Air Force Resort, which offers a range of facilities and services, such as a pool, a spa, a gym, and a playground. You can also dine at the resort's restaurant, which serves delicious local and international cuisine, or have a drink at the bar, which offers a stunning view of the beach.
Marble Beach is a peaceful and relaxing place, where you can escape the crowds and enjoy nature. The beach is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and the best time to go is in the morning, when the sun is not too hot and the beach is not too busy. You can also catch a beautiful sunrise if you go early enough. The weekends are more crowded than the weekdays, so if you want to have the beach to yourself, plan your visit accordingly.
Where to Stay at Marble Beach
If you want to stay overnight at Marble Beach, you have a few options to choose from. The most convenient and luxurious option is the Marble Beach Air Force Resort, which offers comfortable and spacious rooms, with air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The resort also has a pool, a spa, a gym, and a playground, as well as a restaurant and a bar. The resort is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy the view and the breeze. The resort charges around 10,000 LKR per night for a double room, and you can book online or by phone.
Another option is the Marble Beach Cabanas, which are cozy and rustic wooden huts, with fans, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms. The cabanas are also located on the beach, and offer a more authentic and natural experience. The cabanas have a common area, where you can mingle with other guests, and a kitchen, where you can cook your own meals. The cabanas charge around 3,000 LKR per night for a double hut, and you can book online or by phone.
If you are looking for a cheaper or more alternative option, you can also camp on the beach, or stay at a homestay nearby. Camping on the beach is free, but you will have to bring your own tent and equipment, and use the public bathrooms and showers. Staying at a homestay is a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality, and you can find many options on Airbnb or Booking.com. The homestays charge around 1,000-2,000 LKR per night for a double room, and usually include breakfast and Wi-Fi.
What Else to Do in Trincomalee
Trincomalee is a historic and scenic town, with a rich and diverse culture and heritage. There are many attractions and activities to enjoy in Trincomalee, besides Marble Beach. Here are some of the highlights:
Koneswaram Temple:
This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on a hilltop overlooking the ocean. The temple is one of the most sacred and ancient sites in Sri Lanka, and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple is known for its colorful and intricate architecture, as well as its stunning views of the bay and the sea. You can also see the famous Lover's Leap, a rock where a young woman jumped to her death after being rejected by her lover.
Fort Frederick:
This is a colonial fort built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, and later occupied by the Dutch and the British. The fort is a historical and architectural landmark, and houses a military base, a museum, and a deer park. You can walk around the fort and admire its old walls, cannons, and buildings, and see the deer roaming freely. You can also visit the nearby Gokanna Temple, a Buddhist temple with a large Buddha statue and a peaceful atmosphere.
Commonwealth War Cemetery:
This is a cemetery where the soldiers who died in World War II are buried. The cemetery is a solemn and serene place, where you can pay your respects to the fallen heroes. The cemetery is well-maintained and landscaped, and has a memorial plaque with the names of the soldiers. You can also learn more about the history and the stories of the war from the caretaker, who is very friendly and knowledgeable.
Nilaveli Beach:
This is another beautiful and popular beach in Trincomalee, located about 10 km north of Marble Beach. Nilaveli Beach is a long and wide beach, with soft sand and clear water. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and sailing, and has many hotels and restaurants along the shore. You can also take a boat ride to the Pigeon Island National Park, which is a small island with a coral reef and a marine sanctuary. You can snorkel or dive in the reef and see the colorful fish and corals, as well as the endangered green turtles and blacktip reef sharks.
Marble Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves beaches and nature. It is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Sri Lanka, and offers a range of activities and facilities for all kinds of travelers. You can also explore the other attractions and activities in Trincomalee, and discover its rich and diverse culture and heritage.
Marble Beach is a place where you can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation, and we hope this article helps you plan your trip. If you have any questions, feedback, or experiences to share, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
