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When heading to this tropical paradise, we all have one thing in mind: the beach. I have put together a list of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka so you can slip your swimwear on as soon as you step foot here.
The beaches of Sri Lanka are spectacular and may be why you visit the country. With silky white sands and clear blue waters, the Island gives off dreamy vibes. At most beaches, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean, and a sun-kissed glow as the sun goes down. The beaches I have selected for you have a little extra: views, activities, etc.
I have arranged the list from West to East, making it easier for you to place it on the map. So let’s get started in the magnificent town of Bentota.
Bentota Beach
If you are looking for an easy-to-reach beach close to Colombo, Bentota is the place for you. About a 1-hour drive from the capital, surrounded by palm trees, is Bentota beach. Soft white sand and clear blue waters make it the perfect spot to chill. Bentota’s close proximity to the airport is filled with resorts and is great for shorter stays in the country.
- Close to the airport.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Located in the South of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa beach quickly became a favourite stop for tourists. Offers excellent waves for the surfers and soft silky sand for the sunbathers. The beach is clean and the waters warm. Not so far from the beach is a protected reef zone, and it is not unregular to spot turtles here.
- Surf and turtle spotting.
Wijaya Beach, Unawatuna
Located in the South, the small town of Unawatuna is the neighbour of the more famous city of Galle. Wijaya beach is easy to access and well worth the trip. Bordered by a small reef, the beach is home to warmer, shallow water making it the perfect playground for smaller kids. The reef is home to diverse marine life you can enjoy with a snorkelling session. A day to remember for big and small, it is said that turtles are often spotted in the area. The beach is home to different resorts, all offering drinks and food.
- Shallow waters, snorkelling.
Jungle Beach, Unawatuna
The less known Jungle beach is not so far from Wijaya beach and a step away from Galle centre. In a short tuk-tuk ride, you can view the entire bay from a smaller beach. Its name was inspired by its surrounding scenery: palm trees. Easy enough to access, it is more suitable for adults wanting a calm day. The water gets deep quickly but is excellent for paddle boarding.
Before you head down to the beach, you can visit the spectacular ” Japanese peace temple”. Make sure to be dressed before entering the grounds.
- Scenery, Japanese peace pagoda.
Weligama Beach
Weligama beach is the place all beginner surfers head to. The long sandy bay is home to three different surf spots. Suitable for different levels, you can find boards and classes in the many surf schools on the beach. Whether you come here to surf or just chill on the beach, Weligama is the perfect place to go. Boarded by one main road, the beach has all the cafes and restaurants your heart desires. The sand is soft, and the water slowly gets deeper making it the perfect place to swim. Weligama also has some beautiful sunsets in the high season. Offers fiery red skies and a fantastic view from the top of the Marriott hotel.
- Swim, surf, sunset, and touristic zone.
Mirissa Main Beach
Located on the South coast, Mirissa is one of the main fishing ports in the country. The central bay is where to head for a fun-filled day, composed of three bays. Here you will find a beautiful beach surrounded by palm trees and rocks. As you head to the left of the bay, you will see ” parrot rock”, an island you can access when the tide is low. During the day, it is a great place to chill, take a dip, and play some sports. You will find restaurants serving food and drinks along the beach to keep you full and hydrated. At nighttime, the beach turns into a party zone. Lights, smoke and great tunes!
- Parrot rock, party area.
Tangalle Beach
Another Southern spot worth the visit for a day full of fun in the sun. Tangalle beach is a typical Sri Lankan beach. Made up of soft, dry sand that slopes down into darker blue water. On this type of beach, the waters get deeper pretty fast, so keep an eye on the younger ones. The beach is surrounded by trees and small shrubs that offer shaded spots for those who can’t take the heat. Less developed than the other beaches, it tends to get not as busy. But sometimes, all we want is some peace and quiet.
- Calm, clean.
Hiriketiya Bay
My favourite beach on the Island. Hiriketiya bay is located on the South coast of Sri Lanka. The small-sized sandy bay is a great place for lovers or family to visit. Surrounded by tall green palm trees and turquoise waters, the views are worthy of postcards.
Hiriketiya beach offers many activities, from swimming and paddleboarding to surfing. If you plan on passing your day at the beach, you will have everything you need from breakfast, lunch or dinner. Dotted along the coast are cafes offering some lovely food. The most popular and well-known is Dots. Just a step from the sand. This town’s vibe is much calmer than the busier Southern tourist spots.
- Beautiful scenery, surf.
Arugam Bay
Located on the East coast, this small town is a must-see. This long sandy bay offers beautiful views and significant surf breaks. With its curved shape, you can take in the whole beach: palm trees, coconuts, fishing boats and surfers. Highly touristic the town has everything you could need for a great day out. Fresh drinks, food, and snacks are just a step away from the beach. If you feel like a challenge, head to baby point to take your first steps on a surfboard. You can easily find boards and classes.
As you walk along Arugam bay beach, you will end up at one of the most famous surf spots on the Island. Located on Uppuveli beach is the “main point”. Hosting regular competitions, it is a great place to watch the locals surf and catch a glorious sunset. If you want a more unique stay, there is a resort here, and you can get food and drinks during the day.
- Main point: Surf point (reef), Baby point: surf point.
Uppuveli Beach, Trincomalee
Located on the calmer side of the East coast, this small rural beach is a sight to see. If you want to return from the busy tourist zones, this is where to head. With the calmer vibe comes fewer possibilities to refresh during the day. Bring water and some snacks with you. As you chill in the sun, admire the hard-working fisherman set out, or the cows wander free. The soft sand and the water are clean and ideal for families.
- Calm, rural beach.
Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee
Located 30 minutes from Trincomalee, this long golden sanded beach has been a massive success amongst tourists. With more than one reason to visit the North-East coast: Tamil culture, palmed landscapes and breathtaking marine life. Nilaveli beach offers you a unique experience. It is an excellent beach for families or couples that wish to kick back, soak up the sun or have a more adventurous afternoon snorkelling with sharks at pigeon island. The beach has a few restaurants dotted along the beachside and small huts where you can buy fresh water and ice creams.
- Snorkeling with sharks.
Now that you have the best spots for you, it’s time to dive into the dos and don’ts of beach life here. Most places are used to seeing tourists, but if you head out to a calmer, rural beach, there are a few things the locals will appreciate you respecting.
Do’s:
- Cover up in the streets: Knowing where you are and the population there is a plus. Sri Lanka is a multi-religious island, and keeping that in mind can save you from the long stares or laughs from the locals.
- Keep clean: The beaches in Sri Lanka are generally cleaned, but that is no reason to trash the place. Leave the beach As you found it.
- Protect your skin: Do not underestimate the sun’s strength here. Sunburn can quickly appear depending on your skin type and the weather conditions. Wear a hat whilst walking around and use sunscreen to protect yourself.
Don’ts:
- Play your music too loud: Everybody wants the best from their holidays so keep in mind that you will share the beach with others. Keep the volume low or use earphones.
- Take the dogs back to the hotel: Not something you would expect to hear. But it is a massive thing amongst tourists to want to try and help the street dogs here. Removing the animals from their surroundings and mother can cause severe damage to its following lifestyle. It’s better to care for the animal from where you find it and fly it home with you if you can afford it.
- Leave your bags: If you plan to head out to the beach, don’t leave your bags unattended whilst taking a dip. It doesn’t always happen, but in high season things can get busy on the beaches. The best option is to leave valuables at home and take some cash.
Hoping to see you soon on the sandy shores, enjoy your day! Sri Lanka has some prettiest beaches and is becoming increasingly famous as a beach getaway. This tropical paradise is like a Phoenix rising from its ashes after years of struggle. The Island is slowly getting back on track and is safe to visit. For more updates on the current situation in the country, check out our following article here.
