Casuarina Beach sits on Karainagar island, about 20 kilometres from Jaffna town and reached by a causeway across the shallow lagoon. Named for the feathery casuarina trees lining its shore, this 1.5-kilometre stretch of white sand is widely considered the best beach on the Jaffna peninsula.
Its great appeal is the water: shallow, calm and free of strong currents, it stays comfortably wadeable far from shore, making it one of the safest swimming spots in the north and a favourite with local families — especially on weekends and holidays. Facilities are simple, so bring what you need. Many travellers pair the beach with the boat trip out to Fort Hammenhiel nearby.
Good to know
- Calm, shallow water — ideal for families and hesitant swimmers
- Weekday mornings are quietest; weekends are lively and local
- Simple facilities — carry towels, water and snacks
- Pairs with Fort Hammenhiel and the Karainagar causeway drive