The beaches of Sri Lanka promise a unique and exotic experience from golden sand to deep turquoise waters. This magnificent tropical island enjoys an eternal summer all year through and is the place to have some fun in the sun.
West Coast
Beaches on the west coast are lively and entertaining lined with little seafood restaurants serving mouthwatering dishes. The Negombo beach is popular for the local pub scene as well as being conveniently located close to the airport. A little further down towards the south of Colombo, the Mount Lavinia beach is frequented by joggers and families every morning. While at sunset, the beach comes alive with restaurants and pubs along the shore.
Southern Coast
Moving further down the coastal line where southern beaches offer arguably the best beach experience one could desire. The aquamarine waters here are translucent and the sand more bronzed than anywhere else. Beruwala, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Ahungalla, Galle, Unawatuna, Tangalle, and Hambantota are some of the most popular beaches lining the south of Sri Lanka. Southern beaches are best visited from November to April each year as the weather is beautiful. Discover the coastal culture and indulge in some of the local fare while you are there. While seafood of all kinds is the obvious choice, we also recommend delicious cheese and bacon rotti or chocolate rotti which are popular snacks in Hikkaduwa. You will find an array of beach activities like snorkeling, boat rides, surfing, body-boarding, and also several clubs and pubs to party the night away. Going further south, Unawatuna Bay, Mirissa, and Hiriketiya beach are some of the popular beach destinations offering sun, surf, and a chilled-out vibe.
East Coast
Head over to the east of the country for a thrilling ride on the waves beginning with Arugambay, one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka for surfing. Arugambay is perfect for a peek at some of the shipwrecks and some underwater photography too. The weave of the story turns into a lovely romance along the Kalkudah and Passekudah beaches where the waters are reef-protected and phenomenal. As you move north along the east coast, make sure you stop by in Trincomalee to enjoy the pristine white sand and calm waters of Nilaveli beach.
Northern Beaches
Right at the northern tip, Jaffna has one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. Here the story winds down to an exciting yet relaxed experience as you chill and enjoy the Casuarina beach in Karainagar and the beaches at Santhakulam and Thondaimannar.
