Casuarina Beach Jaffna is aptly named after the Casuarina trees along the shoreline. This famous beach is 23 kilometres northwest of Jaffna City on Karainagar Island. A peaceful retreat from the city amidst the calm, clear, warm waters of the Indian Ocean, Casuarina is the most famous beach in Jaffna, with both locals and foreign visitors to the North. Unspoiled and pristine, with much fewer crowds than the more famous southern beaches, Casuarina is a tranquil setting for a day out on the beach while in Jaffna.
Casuarina has a long shoreline of around 1.5 kilometres, which couples can stroll, taking in the unspoiled landscape. The nearby Casuarina trees provide shade amidst the warm Jaffna sun and cool breezes. Clear waters ensure plenty of snorkelling, and the calmness of the water makes it ideal for both snorkelling and boating.
While the beach has minimal facilities, you can hire paddle boats, kayaks, and snorkelling gear at the local shops. A few local shops also sell souvenirs and trinkets so that you can return with a memento of your visit to the north.
The beach season for Casuarina and most beaches in the northern peninsula is between November and March. If you plan to visit in the morning, you will witness the local fishermen bustling to get out to sea. The evening is tranquil as the sun sets, painting the skies in vibrant colours for magical sunsets and photographs.
Casuarina Beach
Karainagar, Jaffna
Open: Daily 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
Tickets: Not Required (Current as of October 2024)