Best Beaches of Sri Lanka
Watersports | Sea-boat Rides | Scuba Diving | Surfing | Snorkeling | Whale Watching
Nothing says holiday better miles of golden sand giving way to gleaming blue sea! Feel the incredible sensation of fine sands under your bare feet, stretch out in the sun, sample fresh toddy, swim in the lagoons, jet ski the surf or dive underwater to feats your eyes on the scintillating corals- the options in Sri Lanka are endless.
Often known as a perfect place for all seasons and all reasons, the West & the East have dramatically opposite weather. So, if rain god is blessing one coast then you are sure to find hats & swimwear weather on the other. The best time for the south-west beaches is from December to March while the north & the South-east are best travelled in April to September.
Beaches on the Southwest Coastal Belt
Mirissa
With over 26 species of whales and dolphins gracing the blue waters in this area from December to April, you are sure to sight a sperm whale or a bottle-nose dolphin within a few nautical miles from the coast.
Bentota
Bentota is a popular honeymoon destination for the locals as well as foreigners. Both Bentara Ganga River and the tranquil lagoon are perfect to experience a romantic river safari, and thrilling adventurous activities like parasailing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Tangalle
Miles of soft sands, deep blue ocean, warm sun and a cool drink- all combine to make Tangalle a postcard holiday destination.
Hikkaduwa
High surf, stunning coral reefs and tiny islets off the beach inhabited by large turtles, make Hikkaduwa a fun place for surfing, scuba diving & snorkeling.
Koggala
A short distance from Galle, Koggala is a perfect spot to laze around. The beach is a nesting place for marine turtles during their breeding season. Visit the Turtle Farm, Martin Vikramsinghe Folk Museum, ride a boat on the lake or learn the traditional art of Stilt fishing- all in leisure.
Unawatuna
Swim the clear waters, frolic on the shores and enjoy the delicious seafood on this banana shaped beach. This stretch of marshland, rich in biodiversity, is home to over sixty species of birds and its deep waters are home to exotic marine life & ship wrecks.
Weligama
A fascinating combination of a fishing village & a beach resort, Weligama is well known for its mid level surf that is perfect for the beginners to ride their first wave. The waters beyond the beach are lined with poles used for Stilt fishing, a traditional way of fishing.
Negombo
The tiny fishing town of Negombo was the key port for cinnamon export during the colonial era. It’s white sandy beach, coral reefs & an old ship wreck; makes it perfect for scuba diving, kite surfing & snorkeling.
Kalpitiya
Ride on a boat safari to spot pods of graceful spinner dolphins, diving in the clear ocean. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in kite-surfing, stand-up paddling, surfboarding, diving and horse-riding.
Induruwa
Induruwa is a haven for those looking for a dose of sun & sea. Long walks on the clean beach, frolicking in the waves, reading a book in the sun or walking the streets of the quaint village- feel free to take your pick!
Colombo
Colonial buildings, beautiful monasteries, lavish beaches, colorful bazaars, rolling casinos and a lively night life blend together to make Colombo a dream destination. If you are a beach bum, then Galle Face Green & Mt Laviana Beach are sure to be on your to-do list in Colombo.
Beach Destinations in the & South-East & Northern Coastal Belt
Arugam Bay
Wide shore, long coastline, soft sand, swelling waves and crystal waters; all blend in together to make Arugam Bay a surfer’s paradises.
Tangalle
Miles of soft sands, deep blue ocean, warm sun and a cool drink- all combine to make Tangalle a postcard holiday destination.
Trincomalee
This tiny town on the Sri Lankan east coast, endowed with tranquil beaches is a picture perfect holiday destination. Trincomalee is also renowned for whale watching from May to September.
Nilaveli
This serene beach offers you abundant options- relax on its pristine sand & watch the swaying palms; wind-surf it’s breaking waves or take a short boat ride to the Pigeon Island for an astounding snorkeling experience.
Pasikuda
Pasikuda is known for its shallow waters framed by beautiful coral reefs that enable you to walk miles into knee deep the sparkling waters. Grab a snorkeling kit and feast your eyes on the rainbow wonders lingering beneath the azure waves.
Jaffna
Besides its rich historical & cultural heritage, Jaffna has a beautiful coastline dotted with charming beaches. Kovalam Beach, Charty Beach and Casaurina Beach, all are perfectly quiet spots to get a tan, while the waters of Thiruvadinilai hold holy significance for the Tamil Hindus.
