Crow Island Beach Park — Attraction in Colombo

For an island, we have a surprising number of islands. Pigeon Island. Slave Island. Taprobane Island. And also, Crow Island. Except, Crow Island isn’t really an island. It is connected to the mainland and is now arguably South Asia’s biggest coastal park spread over 7.8 hectares.

Crow Island is located in Modara, Colombo 15—roughly 7 kilometres north of Colombo’s CBD in Fort. With a history of criminal activity and extensive pollution, Crow Island has since transformed into a family-friendly, recreational beach park after years of public agitation.

With the assistance of the World Bank, the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development began work on the park in 2014. The Beach Park was completed at a total cost of Rs. 275 Million, and opened to the public in April 2016 as part of the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development’s efforts to develop the Colombo North region.

Bordering the mouth of the Kelani River, Crow Island boasts mixed coastal vegetation (as detailed in the 2014 Environmental Report by the Metro Colombo Urban Development Project). The Beach Park was developed amidst mangroves and marshes that house an ecosystem of unique flora and fauna.

The Dehiwala beachside restaurant, Barracuda, also opened a swankier branch at Crow Island. The beach, however, cannot be compared to that stretch south of Colombo. For now, consider this area a quieter, less-crowded alternative to Galle Face Green. However, developments that attract more visitors may also contribute towards increased pollution in the future, so it is important to be mindful of the beach park’s surrounding ecosystem when visiting.

Turning right from the entrance, a northern promenade leads to a watchtower with views towards Negombo, as well as a fresh perspective looking back at Colombo from the north.

From the watchtower, the coastal grassland dominates the foreground before the ocean. In the background, the port infrastructure of Colombo Harbour is visible, and only tall structures such as the Lotus Tower and World Trade Center stand over the buildings of the suburbs beyond Fort.

Tucked away under the trees lining the northern promenade is a large, well-maintained children’s playground that fills up on the weekends, with clambering kids and...

Crow Island Beach in Sri Lanka is a hidden gem that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I set foot on its pristine shores, I was captivated by its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This beach truly offers an idyllic escape from the bustling city life. The first thing that struck me was the sheer cleanliness of the beach. The soft, golden sand stretched for miles, inviting me to take a leisurely stroll along the shore. The crystal-clear turquoise waters were so inviting that I couldn't resist taking a dip. The beach was immaculately maintained, free from any litter or debris, which made it all the more enjoyable. What sets Crow Island Beach apart from others is its serene ambiance. The surrounding cocnut trees and other flower plants create a picturesque backdrop, casting gentle shadows on the sand. The absence of overcrowding and noise made it an oasis of tranquility. I could simply lay back on the beach, listen to the soothing sound of the waves, and feel all my worries melt away. For nature lovers, this beach is a paradise. As I explored the shoreline, I discovered an array of vibrant seashells and fascinating marine life. The beach is also home to numerous exotic bird species, which added an element of enchantment to my visit. Watching the graceful birds swoop and dive across the sky was a mesmerizing sight. Facilities at Crow Island Beach are top-notch. The clean restrooms and shower facilities were well-maintained, providing convenience for visitors. Additionally, the beach offers plenty of shaded areas with picnic tables, perfect for a family outing or a peaceful picnic by the sea. I highly recommend visiting Crow Island Beach for its natural beauty, tranquility, and overall serenity. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a place to unwind with your family, this beach has it all. I was left with unforgettable memories and a longing to return to this hidden paradise...

I visited this place on Sunday during the daytime with my friend. The entrance was free and it wasn't very crowded. It's a park with plenty of trees and a beach nearby. Part of the beach was not clean and the sea looked dark. You can choose to bathe in the sea( in my pov it's not suitable as it is dirty but I saw a few are bathing )or just enjoy the view. Overall, it's a good place to have a peaceful conversation without distractions. There are plenty of seating areas, which are hard to find in Colombo parks like Victoria Park, as well as a few food carts and a restaurant. Washroom facilities were available, but I didn't check them. They seemed to be in good condition. There's also a good parking area. I noticed that the children's park was not well-maintained. Security is good because there is a small police station. If you plan to visit, don't expect everything to be super clean and well-maintained with lots of entertainment. However, if you value inner peace or you enjoy exploring new places, regardless of the circumstances, this place is...