Where to Stay in Trincomalee Sri Lanka (10 TOP Hotels & Best Places to Stay in 2025)

I know the term ‘hidden gem’ gets thrown around way too much these days, but honestly, I think Trincomalee in Sri Lanka deserves the title.

While most tourists flock to the beach and surf towns on Sri Lanka’s south coast, not nearly as many make their way up to Trincomalee on the northeast coast. It’s a super laid-back town with just a handful of resorts and hostels, gorgeous beaches, and some amazing culture and beautiful nature.

In this guide, we’ll cover where to stay in Trincomalee, the best areas, and the top hotels we found during our trip. We just got back from Sri Lanka and spent some time here, so we’re excited to share everything we learned about this underrated little beach town.

Where is the Best Place to Stay in Trincomalee Sri Lanka? (Our Favorites)

Amaranthé Bay Resort // Best Luxury Hotel in Trincomalee

The best luxury accommodation in Trincomalee, in our opinion, is the Amaranthé Bay Resort. This beautiful resort is located just a short walk from the beach and offers stunning views of the ocean from its luxurious rooms. The resort features an outdoor swimming pool, a pool bar, a spa, and a restaurant serving delicious food, including a Sri Lankan breakfast.

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C Beyond Nilaveli // Best Boutique Hotel in Trincomalee

The coolest hotel in Trincomalee is C Beyond Nilaveli. This boutique hotel features unique and stylish rooms, each with a private balcony overlooking the lush gardens or the ocean.

We loved the entire decor and design of the place. They have a huge outdoor swimming pool, rooms with private plunge pools, free Wi-Fi, and private beach access. Definitely one of the best hotels in Trincomalee!

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Palmera Eco Resorts Nilaveli // Best Cheap Trincomalee Hotel

One of the most popular hotels on Nilaveli Beach is Palmera Eco Resorts. This Trincomalee hotel is located in the middle of greenery and rice fields, with barely any neighbors, making it feel very private and secluded. It’s a short walk from the beach and offers spacious rooms, a nice restaurant with a good breakfast, and reasonable prices.

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Trincomalee Area Guide – Best Places to Stay in Trincomalee Sri Lanka

If you look up Trincomalee on Google Maps, it seems like a pretty big town with a city center and multiple neighborhoods—not exactly a small, sleepy beach town. And that’s true.

When people say they’re going to Trincomalee, they don’t usually mean the entire town. They’re actually talking about just two or three areas, which I’ll break down in this guide. That’s something to keep in mind when booking a hotel because, as a tourist, you’ll want to stick to these specific areas. They’re the ones with that relaxed, beachy feel, while the rest of Trincomalee is much busier and louder.

Uppuveli Beach is the #1 area people are referring to when they say they’re staying in Trincomalee. It’s on the northern outskirts of the city and has the perfect mix of beach life, popular hotels, and beachfront restaurants.

Nilaveli Beach is a little further up the coast and feels more like its own little beach town. It’s quieter than Uppuveli, with nice hotels and resorts, beautiful beaches, and a super chill atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more relaxed escape, this is a great option.

Not many tourists stay in the city center because it’s busier and doesn’t have that beach town feel. But if you need to stay here for budget reasons or convenience, there are plenty of accommodation options available. Just keep in mind it’s more of a local city experience than a beach getaway.

💡Planning a trip to Hiriketiya Beach? Be prepared and check out our guides on Where to Stay in Hiriketiya & The Best Restaurants in Hiriketiya.

Trincomalee’s 3 Best Areas to Stay in

Wondering where the best place to stay in Trincomalee is?

Here’s a breakdown of the top hotels and our favorite neighborhoods to help you choose the perfect spot for your trip to Trincomalee.

1.Uppuveli Beach – Where to Stay in Trincomalee for Your First Time

If it’s your first time in Trincomalee, Uppuveli Beach is the best place to stay. It’s just outside the city center but feels like its own little beach town, with plenty of hotels, beachfront restaurants, and easy access to the ocean. . It’s got just enough going on to keep things fun but still feels peaceful.

This is where most tourists end up, and for good reason—it is pretty affordable and has that laid-back Sri Lankan beach vibe. The beach itself is long and sandy, great for morning walks or just chilling by the water.

When we stayed in Uppuveli, we loved how everything was within walking distance. Mornings started with a swim in the ocean, afternoons were spent at little beachside cafés, and evenings usually ended with our feet in the sand, watching the sunset with a cold drink.

💡We loved some of the luxury hotels in Trincomalee. If you want to see some more cool luxury hotels around Sri Lanka check out our guide.

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon // Best Hotel in Uppuveli Beach

One of the more affordable beachfront resorts in Trincomalee is Trinco Blu. We didn’t stay here, but we visited their restaurant and bar, had some drinks, and enjoyed the pool. It’s located right by a beautiful beach, so you can enjoy the ocean anytime you want. They also offer good food and free Wi-Fi!

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Nongu Home // Our Favorite Hotel in Trincomalee

One of our favorites in Trincomalee was Nongu Home. It’s just a small B&B-type accommodation, but the rooms are very spacious and feature air conditioning. Even though it’s located in a traditional red brick house, the rooms feel spacious and modern. The best part is the friendly owner, who will organize all kinds of things for you, from taxi rides and bus tickets to a whole trip to Pigeon Island. A nice place with friendly staff—big recommendation from us!

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Silaa Cabana

Super affordable and eco-friendly, the little huts at Silaa Cabana offer a unique stay. The whole place has a relaxed, eco-hippie vibe, which is definitely something you need to appreciate to enjoy the experience. The wooden cabanas are surprisingly spacious and well-equipped with a kettle, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. The accommodation also includes a free breakfast in the mornings. Overall, it feels almost like a hostel, with a great social atmosphere.

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Things to Do in Uppuveli Beach:

• Go snorkeling at Pigeon Island – Just a short boat trip away, this marine park is home to vibrant coral and reef sharks, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in Sri Lanka.
• Visit Koneswaram Temple – A renowned Hindu temple offering breathtaking sea views.
• Cafe on the 18th – Our favorite restaurant in Trincomalee! It features stunning decor and even better food, from great coffee to avocado toast and sushi.
• Take a whale watching tour – If you visit at the right time, you might even spot blue whales!
• Visit Fernando’s Beach Market – it’s a super fun evening activity with food, souvenirs, and drinks. However, everything is very westernized, including the prices!

2.Nilaveli Beach – Best Place to Stay in Trincomalee for Families

If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back beach location, Nilaveli Beach is our recommendation. It’s about 15 minutes north of Uppuveli and feels more like its own little beach town, with fewer tourists, wide sandy beaches, and calm, shallow water.

There are some great hotels and resorts here, many with direct beach access, so you can wake up and be in the ocean within minutes.

When we went to Nilaveli, it felt a lot like some of the beach towns on the south coast. Our days were spent hopping between the beach and the pool and eating way too much seafood. It’s peaceful, but there’s still plenty to do, especially if you love the ocean.

Cardamon Hotel Nilaveli Beach // Best Hotel in Nilaveli Beach

Located on Nilaveli Beach, this hotel offers private beach access, an outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant with a bar. The spacious rooms are equipped with a TV, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, the hotel features a 24-hour tour desk, making it easy to book tours without breaking the bank.

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Moon Isle Beach Bungalow // Most Popular Hotel in Nilaveli Beach

We absolutely loved this beachfront bungalow. It’s so cute, and it’s right on the beach—you can step out of your room and practically onto the sand, which is amazing. The place is family-run and has a fantastic restaurant offering affordable, delicious local dishes. The rooms are basic, nothing fancy, but the location more than makes up for it. During peak season, this place apparently gets fully booked, so be sure to check availability in advance.

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Vitamin Sea Beach Cabana & Hostel // Best Hostel in Nilaveli Beach

If you’re looking for something a little different, I recommend staying in a hostel. Vitamin Sea Beach Cabana isn’t a traditional backpacker hostel, but they do offer dorm rooms, making it both affordable and social. It’s located right on a beautiful beach, complete with a beach bar and restaurant. They host plenty of social events, making it a perfect choice if you want beachfront accommodation without breaking the bank.

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Things to Do in Nilaveli Beach:

• Snorkel or dive at Pigeon Island National Park – It’s one of the best spots in Sri Lanka for underwater adventures.
• Go for a sunset beach walk – The soft sand and quiet vibe make it a perfect evening.
• Take a boat ride to see dolphins – If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales!
• Visit Fort Fredrick – A historic fort with monkeys, cannons, and stunning sea views.
• Join a safari – Minneriya National Park is a short drive away and offers the chance to see elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Dutch Bay – A beautiful beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

3.Trincomalee City Center – Best Place to Stay in Trincomalee on a Budget

If you’re traveling on a budget or just need a quick stopover, Trincomalee’s city center has the most affordable accommodations.

It’s not the typical beach town vibe most people come for, but it does put you close to markets, local restaurants, and transportation. You’ll find plenty of small hotels and guesthouses here, usually at much lower prices than the beachside resorts.

We stayed here for a night when everything near the beach was fully booked, and while it wasn’t the most exciting spot, it did have its perks. We found some amazing (and cheap) street food, got to explore local markets, and had an easy time getting around.

Bon Voyaage Tourist Inn:

Located in the heart of Trincomalee city, Bon Voyaage Tourist Inn offers comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation. The rooms are clean and cozy, with a private bathroom and basic amenities provided.

The inn also has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. It’s conveniently located within walking distance to the local market, where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables at affordable prices.

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Things to Do in Trincomalee Town:

• Visit the Trincomalee Market – A great spot to grab fresh fruit and experience local life.
• Try local street food – Cheap and delicious Sri Lankan snacks like kottu and roti. We personally love some samosas for lunch because you can get them for just a few cents.
• Hop on a tuk-tuk to Uppuveli or Nilaveli – Even if you’re not staying at the beach, you might as well go take a look. The beach is just a short ride away!
• Kanniya Hot Springs – Located just a 30-minute drive from the city center, these natural hot springs offer a unique cultural experience. Don’t expect a spa-like setting; it’s more about experiencing local traditions.

FAQs About Where to Stay in Trincomalee

What Hotel in Trincomalee should I avoid?

We haven’t personally stayed at these locations, so take this with a grain of salt, but we came across some mixed reviews and decided to look elsewhere. While Elegant Green Beach Resort and Skandig Beach Resort seem fairly popular, friends told us they weren’t worth the money (a bit pricey for what it is), and there are better options out there.

Where is the best place to stay in Trincomalee at the beach?

We highly recommend staying at one of the hotels or guesthouses near Uppuveli or Nilaveli Beach. These two beaches are beautiful and offer plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and activities. You can easily take a tuk-tuk from Trincomalee city center to either beach for a day trip as well.

How do I get to Trincomalee?

One thing about Trincomalee is that it’s never really on the way to anywhere, so you’ll have to take a bus directly in and then back out, rather than traveling along the coast like you would on the south coast. There are buses from pretty much everywhere in Sri Lanka to Trincomalee. You can catch one from the bus stand in Colombo, but we took ours from Sigiriya since it was the closest stop on our route—it just made the most sense to head to Trinco from there.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Trincomalee Sri lanka

Trincomalee in Sri Lanka is definitely worth a visit if you have the time. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach escape, a family-friendly destination, or a budget-friendly base to explore the area, Trincomalee ticks all the boxes.

Compared to many other beach towns in Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is much more affordable. If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly experience, it’s a great alternative to popular spots like Mirissa or Ahangama.

What we loved about Trincomalee is that it doesn’t feel as touristy as other parts of Sri Lanka, yet it still has everything you need to enjoy your stay. If you’re after stunning beaches, cultural experiences, and a relaxed vibe, Trincomalee could be your next perfect getaway.

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