Best Beaches of Sri Lanka
Watersports | Sea-boat Rides | Scuba Diving | Surfing | Snorkeling | Whale Watching
The wonderful combination of sun, sand & sea is just the thing to lift your spirits! Golden sand, crashing waves, swaying palms and ample beach action; is a foolproof concoction for a perfect holiday. And Sri Lanka offers you all this and more! Lounge in the sun, dive underwater, ride the waves or just take a boat out to watch splashing pods of whales & dolphins- the beaches in Sri Lanka have something for every beach bum!
For beach travels in the south & southwest Sri Lanka, December to March is a perfect time, while north & east coast beaches are divine from April to September.
South-West Beach Destinations of Sri Lanka
Mirissa
Its waters, a favorite haunt of whales & dolphins from December to April, make a perfect place to watch pods of sperm whales & bottle-nosed dolphins splash in abandon just a few nautical miles from the coast. And the lucky ones may sight a blue whale too!
Bentota
The perfect stretch of sand between the ocean and Bentara River; makes Bentota a popular honeymoon destination for both the natives and the tourists. The resorts here offer a variety of activities ranging from romantic river cruises to action packed stuff like jet skiing, surfing, snorkeling, parasailing & scuba diving.
Hikkaduwa
A splendid beach for surfing & snorkeling, Hikkaduwa is also famous for large marine turtles inhabiting tiny islands off the beach.
Koggala
A scenic spot, famous as a nesting place for marine turtles, Koggala is a perfect spot to just be your lazy self. Check out the Turtle Farm & the Folk Museum, take a boat on the lake or just sit still and learn the art of stilt fishing.
Weligama
A great place to ride your first wave- Weligama is loved by beginner surfers for its medium surf. Stilt fishing, the traditional way of fishing in Sri Lanka is quite popular on this scenic beach.
Unawatuna
A charming semi circled beach, with gentle waters and delicious seafood at the waterfront. Over sixty species of birds are found in the marshlands near the beach and its deep waters are home to colorful marine life & striking ship wrecks. A short tuk tuk ride on a narrow path through the jungle takes you to the pristine Jungle Beach.
Negombo
The largest port for cinnamon export during the colonial period, this sleepy fishing town is resplendent with a marvelous beach with water dotted with sharp corals & a magnificent shipwreck; making it a perfect place for surfing, snorkeling & scuba diving.
Induruwa
The sun & sand paradise of Induruwa is a picture perfect holiday destination for the idling beach bums. Walk bare feet on white sand, swim the gentle waves, or just take in the sights of the quaint village- all in leisure!
Kalpitiya Beach
A boat safari off the Kalpatiya coast during the months from November- April, to watch pods of graceful spinner dolphin, is a thrilling experience. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in kite-surfing, stand-up paddling, surfboarding, diving and horse-riding.
Colombo
A charming mishmash of heritage buildings, golden beaches, vibrant market streets, serene monasteries & glitzy night life; Colombo is a high rolling travel destination for the cosmopolitan travelers. Galle Face Green and Mt Laviana Beach are the perfect spots for the beach hoppers.
Northern and South-Eastern Beach Destinations of Sri Lanka
Trincomalee
The inviting sands & the warm waters of Trincomalee are all you need to block the drudges of daily life. Or in the months of May to September, just take a boat ride few miles off the coast to watch the majestic whales.
Tangalle
The allure of golden sand, gentle waves, lazy sun and cool toddy make Tangalle a wonderful place to relax & rejuvenate.
Arugam Bay
A perfect place to head with your surfboard and ride the breaking waves! Arugam Bay, with its expansive coastline and high surf, is a popular surfing spot amongst both the locals & the tourists.
Pasikuda
Pasikuda is a picture perfect horseshoe bay with shimmering shallow sea framed by beautiful corals. Wade in knee deep waters for miles or dive underwater with your snorkeling kit and check out the fascinating underwater marine life. You may also try your hand at wind surfing, water skiing & kite boarding.
Nilaveli
This happening beach is full of possibilities! Bask in the warm sun, ride the winds n waves on surfboard or go snorkeling in the waters of the Pigeon Island, just a few miles off the beach- the choice is yours to make!
Jaffna
This north province of Sri Lanka offers a glimpse into its rich historical & cultural heritage. Its beautiful coastline, adorned with tranquil beaches, is certainly off the beaten track. Kovalam, Charty and Casaurina Beach are perfectly laid-back spots to watch a glorious sunset in Jaffna.
