Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful beaches and coastal areas that attract thousands of tourists every year. With nearly 1,600 km of coastline, the country offers many stunning beaches, from long sandy beaches to secluded coves.
Sri Lanka is so full of fascinating places that you may not immediately think of the stunning beaches. They offer you the perfect balance to all the adventurous experiences you can have in Sri Lanka. Along Sri Lanka’s coastline, which stretches from Jaffna in the north to Dondra in the south, you can find everything your heart desires: from long, pristine beaches with fine, golden sand to bustling city beaches with plenty of water sports to dramatic rocky shores, it’s got everything you can imagine.
Tip: Read the post “Best time for beach vacations and water sports” to plan your ideal vacation.
The 10 most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka at a glance
1. Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna is located in the southern part of Sri Lanka and is one of the most popular beaches in the country. With its clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beach and vibrant nightlife, it attracts many visitors every year. The beach also offers a variety of water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. In addition, you can experience Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture by visiting the numerous nearby temples and historical sites. The sunset at Unawatuna Beach is breathtaking and gives you the opportunity to experience the spectacular color play of nature.
Unawatuna Beach Info
- Feature: Unawatuna is especially known for its well-preserved coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and diving excursions.
- Where/Location: Unawatuna Beach is located in the south of Sri Lanka, near the town of Galle.
- Getting there: From Bandaranaike International Airport, you can take a domestic flight to Galle and from there take a cab or bus to Unawatuna.
- Top activities: snorkeling, diving, sunset watching, temple visiting, nightlife experience.
2. Mirissa Beach
Mirissa is a crescent-shaped beach on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, known for its scenic beauty. With its crystal clear waters, this beach is an ideal place for swimming, snorkeling and surfing. The beach also offers the chance to spot whales and dolphins, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. On the palm-fringed beaches, you can relax and enjoy the tropical sun while listening to the sound of the ocean. Mirissa is also known for its fresh seafood and local food, which you can enjoy at the numerous beach restaurants.
Mirissa Beach Info
- Feature: The possibility to watch whales and dolphins is a unique feature of Mirissa. Between November and April you can join a whale watching tour and experience blue whales, humpback whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Where/Location: Mirissa beach is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, about 150 km from Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Getting there: You can take a domestic flight to Mattala Rajapaksa Airport and from there take a cab to Mirissa. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Colombo to Mirissa.
- Top activities: swimming, snorkeling, surfing, whale and dolphin watching, enjoying local seafood.
- Additional Information: Mirissa also has yoga classes and spa facilities where you can relax and unwind. And don’t forget to visit the famous “Coconut Tree Hill”, a small hill with a breathtaking view of the ocean.
3. Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay, located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, is a well-known surfer’s paradise and attracts water sports enthusiasts from all over the world every year. The bay is known for its consistent waves and is home to some of the best surf spots in the world. But Arugam Bay also has a lot to offer besides surfing. With its laid-back atmosphere and tropical charm, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy a walk along the long sandy beach, watch the breathtaking sunrises or relax in one of the many beach bars. The beach also offers a variety of other activities such as bird watching, fishing and elephant safaris.
Arugam Bay Info
- Feature: The most notable feature of Arugam Bay is the year round surfing with a peak season from May to November when the waves are at their best.
- Where/Location: Arugam Bay is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, about 320 km from Colombo.
- Arrival: Getting to Arugam Bay can be done either by domestic flight to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport and then by cab, or by direct bus or cab from Colombo.
- Top activities: surfing, bird watching, fishing, elephant safaris, yoga, Ayurvedic treatments.
- Additional Information: Arugam Bay is also home to numerous yoga and Ayurveda centers that offer you holistic relaxation. And if you are an animal lover, don’t miss the opportunity to join an elephant safari in the nearby Kumana National Park.
4. Negombo Beach
Just a short drive from the airport, Negombo Beach is a popular destination for tourists who want to spend a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is known for its wide sandy beach and calm waters, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Away from the beach, Negombo has much to offer – from historic buildings and churches to colorful local markets and a vibrant nightlife. A boat trip through the mangroves of Muthurajawela is another popular activity that gives you the opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife and plants.
Negombo Beach Info
- Feature: The proximity to the international airport and the rich cultural and historical significance make Negombo an attractive destination for tourists.
- Where/Location: Negombo beach is located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, about 40 km north of Colombo.
- Getting There: Negombo is easy to reach as it is only about 10 kilometers from Bandaranaike International Airport. You can take a cab, private transfer or bus from the airport.
- Top activities: swimming, sunbathing, visiting historical buildings and churches, boat trips through the mangroves of Muthurajawela.
- Additional Information: Negombo is also known for its old Dutch fort and canals, as well as its lively fish markets. It is also a good starting point for inland tours.
5. Bentota Beach
Bentota Beach, located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, is a dream destination for water sports enthusiasts. With its calm waters, the beach is ideal for windsurfing, water skiing and jet skiing. The wide, clean sandy beach stretches for miles and is lined with a number of luxury hotels and resorts. Away from the beach, Bentota offers a variety of activities, including boat trips on the Bentota River and visits to the nearby turtle hatchery. The beach also offers a variety of local and international restaurants and cafes.
Bentota Beach Info
- Feature: The possibility to practice various water sports and the nearby turtle hatchery make Bentota a special place.
- Where/Location: Bentota beach is located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, about 65 km south of Colombo.
- Getting there: You can reach Bentota either by train, bus or cab from Colombo. There is also a direct bus service from Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Top Activities: Windsurfing, water skiing, jet skiing, boat rides on the Bentota River, visit the turtle hatchery.
- Additional Information: Near Bentota is Brief Garden, an impressive landscape garden designed by landscape architect Bevis Bawa, brother of famous architect Geoffrey Bawa. A visit is highly recommended.
6. Pasikudah-Strand
Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, Pasikudah Beach is known for its shallow waters and long, soft sandy beach. With its clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, the beach is an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is known for its natural beauty and the area is home to several wildlife reserves. The beach also offers a number of luxury resorts and restaurants serving a variety of local and international dishes.
Pasikudah Beach Info
- Special feature: The special feature of Pasikudah is its calm, shallow waters, which make it an ideal place for families and novice swimmers.
- Where/Location: Pasikudah is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, about 35 km north of Batticaloa.
- Getting There: Pasikudah can be reached by car or cab from Colombo in about 5-6 hours. You can also take a domestic flight to Batticaloa Airport and then take a cab to the beach.
- Top activities: swimming, snorkeling, visiting wildlife reserves, enjoying seafood at local restaurants.
- Additional Information: Pasikudah is also known for its nearby mangrove forests, which are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna.
7. Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa, located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant place known for its lively nightlife and beach parties. The beach itself is long and sandy, with consistent waves that make it a popular destination for surfers. The area is also known for its coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkelers and divers. There are some interesting sights nearby, such as the Turtle Sanctuary and the Tsunami Museum.
Hikkaduwa Beach Info
- Feature: The combination of vibrant nightlife and natural beauty makes Hikkaduwa a unique destination.
- Where/Location: Hikkaduwa is located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, about 100 km south of Colombo.
- Getting there: You can reach Hikkaduwa by train or bus from Colombo. There is also a direct bus from Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Top activities: surfing, snorkeling, diving, visiting the turtle sanctuary and the tsunami museum.
- Additional Information: Near Hikkaduwa is Galle, a town with a well-preserved Dutch fort. A trip there is highly recommended.
8. Tangalle Beach
Tangalle Beach is located in the southern part of Sri Lanka and is a relatively quiet and secluded beach. This picturesque beach is known for its pristine beauty, soft golden sand and clear blue-green waters, making it an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. It is perfect for those looking for a quiet retreat. The beach is also a popular place for sea turtles, which lay their eggs here.
Tangalle Beach Info
- Special feature: The tranquility and seclusion, coupled with the chance to observe sea turtles, make Tangalle unique.
- Where/Location: Tangalle is located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, about 195 km south of Colombo.
- Getting there: You can reach Tangalle by bus or cab from Colombo. There is also a direct bus from Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Top activities: swimming, sunbathing, walks on the beach, sea turtle watching.
- Additional Information: Near Tangalle is Yala National Park, which is famous for its leopard population. A visit is highly recommended.
9. Trincomalee Beach
Trincomalee Beach, located on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, is a stunningly beautiful beach known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The beach stretches for several kilometers with its soft white sand and turquoise waters. The nearby town of Trincomalee is home to several ancient Hindu temples, including the famous Koneswaram Temple. The beach is also a popular destination for whale watching and diving, with the area known for its diverse marine life.
Trincomalee Beach Info
- Feature: The unique blend of natural beauty, rich history and fascinating wildlife makes Trincomalee an unforgettable destination.
- Where/Location: Trincomalee is located on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, about 257 km northeast of Colombo.
- Getting there: You can reach Trincomalee by train or bus from Colombo. There is also a domestic flight from Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Top Activities: Whale watching, scuba diving, visiting ancient Hindu temples, swimming and sunbathing on the beach.
- Additional Information: Near Trincomalee is Pigeon Island National Park, a famous diving and snorkeling spot with rich marine life.
10. Nilaveli Beach
Nilaveli Beach on the east coast of Sri Lanka is a picturesque, quiet beach that is perfect for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. The beach is known for its soft, white sand and clear, blue waters, making it an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also home to several luxury resorts, making it a popular destination for honeymooners and anyone looking for a romantic getaway.
Nilaveli Beach Info
- Feature: The tranquility and luxury that Nilaveli offers make it an ideal place for a romantic or relaxing vacation.
- Where/Location: Nilaveli is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, about 16 km north of Trincomalee.
- How to get there: You can reach Nilaveli by bus or cab from Trincomalee. There is also a domestic flight from Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Top activities: swimming, sunbathing, visiting nearby Pigeon Island, enjoying the luxurious resorts.
- Additional Information: Nilaveli is known for its tranquil atmosphere and luxurious resorts. It is an ideal place for a romantic getaway or a relaxing vacation.
Each of these beaches offers a unique experience tailored to your individual interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, culture or history, you’re sure to find a beach in Sri Lanka that’s perfect for you.
Each of these beaches offers a unique experience tailored to your individual interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping surfing adventure, a relaxing sunbathing break, or the chance to observe Sri Lanka’s abundant wildlife, you’re sure to find a beach that’s a perfect fit.
Are you ready to begin your journey to Sri Lanka’s breathtaking beaches? Contact us today to book your dream vacation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s beaches and discover your personal highlights!