Trincomalee is a port city on Sri Lanka's northeastern coastline. Once described by Nelson as the finest natural harbour in the world, the port has had a fascinating and at times conflicted history - and there is still a notable military presence thanks to Trincomalee's major naval base. There are a handful of notable landmarks in town that are worth checking out including the Koneswaram temple, which stands atop a cliff and offers impressive views over this serene stretch of coastline and, by contrast, the animated local fish market.

Of the two main beaches north of Trincomalee, Uppuveli is the most low-key. Only a few miles out of town, it's a pretty Sri Lankan village and quiet base from which to explore Trincomalee. Each evening the palms that fringe the golden sands wave in the fishermen and their nets. The town of Nilaveli is further north and is sat at the centre of Sri Lanka's longest beach. The rocky Pigeon Island is just off shore, surrounded by beautiful corals and calm and clear seas, so hiring a boat from the beach is easy and highly recommended.