The gorgeous coastal resort town of Nilaveli is located in Sri Lanka’s Trinco Region, roughly 16 kilometres northwest of Trincomalee. The town is known for its glorious beaches, excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities, and enthralling temples (make sure to visit the magnificent Koneshwaram Temple and Gokanna Raja Monastery). The soft, golden sands of the town’s four-kilometre-long beach draw sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts, and boast warm, turquoise waters and swaying palm trees. The area is home to colourful, marine-rich coral reefs, which can be explored in numerous places, most significantly the jaw-dropping Pigeon Island National Park, where divers are likely to spot turtles and sharks. Neighbouring Uppuveli Beach is a great spot for travellers looking to dine with a view - numerous excellent cocktail bars and restaurants look out over the ocean.