For someone who has been working in Sri Lanka for months 3 years in a row, I had a chance to explore different regions of the country to find Sri Lanka best beaches. I went diving, snorkeling and surfing almost every listed beach.
I can tell Sri Lanka has to offer wonderful ocean beaches, located mainly on the south and east coast. Some of the beaches offer fantastic unique attractions – like swimming with giant turtles in a public Hikkaduwa beach. Here is all you need to know about best beaches in Sri Lanka for all types of experiences.
Where to find Sri Lanka best beaches?
Definitely not in the capital city of Sri Lanka – Colombo. For a pleasant seaside walk you can hit Galle Face Green – a mile long promenade overlooking the ocean near Colombo Port City. The easiest way to reach one of Sri Lanka best beaches is taking a train or Grab south direction: from Colombo toward Galle.
I traveled few times by train, it’s slow and can be crowded but it’s safe and it’s a great adventure! Sri Lanka’s railways are a great way to get around. One of the most popular scenic train journeys in the world is from Colombo to Ella (taking around 9 hours).
If you are traveling by train departing from Colombo there are several beaches south direction worth stopping!
COLOMBO – HIKKADUWA – GALLE – JUNGLE BEACH – UNAWATUNA – KOGALA – MIRISSA
Hikkaduwa Beach.
Hikkaduwa is quite popular tourist destination, for that reason during weekends and holidays it can be a bit overcrowded. But if you get there during more quiet time, you will be amazed with onsite set-up and attractions. Hikkaduwa is not just one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beaches but it’s also a hub for adventure. It’s a great place for sunbathing, snorkeling and swimming with giant turtles (I came back 5 times to visit the spot).
There are several reasons why Hikkaduwa is my favourite beach in Sri Lanka. First of all – Hikkaduwa offers excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Best things to do in Hikkaduwa beach:
- diving
- surfing
- swimming with giant turtles
- sun bathing
The train ride from Colombo takes 2-2.30 hours.
Turtle Beach Hikkaduwa.
There are plenty hostels in Hikkaduwa. This is a small touristic friendly town, with many local craft shops and seaside restaurants with delicious seafood.
One of my favourite things is having a breakfast in a wooden local cafe bar hanging above the sea.
The biggest attraction in Hikkaduwa is an opportunity to swim with giant turtles in the open ocean. Locals bring seaweed to attract the giant turtles come very close to the shore. It’s such a unique attraction, susually requiring diving in a deep sea to get an opportunity to swim along giant turtles. Absolutely incredible experience. You can rent a snorkel mask from local gyus for only 500 SL Rupee.
How to get to Turtle Beach Hikkaduwa?
TRAIN: You can catch a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Galle, and get off at the Hikkaduwa station.
CAR: Alternatively you can take Grab or hire a car – the drive takes about 2 hours from Colombo.
TOUR: Galle Day Trip with River Safari, Sea Turtle & Stilt Fishermen.
There are one of the best sea food restaurants I’ve seen across whole Sri Lanka, $15-$20 per dish.
Which part of Sri Lanka has the best beaches?
Best beaches in Sri Lanka for swimming and water sports are located on the southwest coast. or mid-east coast.
Best month to visit south-west of the country:
- November-April
- Yala monsoons occur May to August.
Where are white sand beaches in Sri Lanka?
Some of the most incredible wild and white sand beaches are located on the east coast, which is less popular and offers a plenty luxury jungle bungallows and private spa resorts.
Two most amazing places with heaven beaches and dolphin & whale watching spots are:
- Trincomalee
- Nilaveli
The best beach places to stay near Trincmalee:
- 108 Palms Beach Resort offers villa accommodations on the private beach for ~ $35/per night.
- ‘That’s why Beach Nilaveli’ has rooms in Trincomalee.
- Coconut beach resort, located in Trincomalee, a few steps from Uppuveli beach for less than $30/per night.
For more luxury you can stay in Adaar or Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa.
Best time to visit Sri Lanka.
The peak season and best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March, with lowest rainfall and most sunshine out of the year.
Mirissa Beach.
Mirissa Beach is one of Sri Lanka best beaches, known for stunning sunsets and whale watching, that draws the most adventurous travelers here. It’s an amazing beach surrounded by palm trees, popular spot for surfing.
From November to April, you can hop on a boat and set out to witness the majestic blue whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
Tangalle Beach.
Tangalle is much quieter urban beach with more relaxed atmosphere, towering palm trees and golden sandy shores perfect for long walks.
For adventurous travelers an interesting options are renting a kayak and paddle along the coastline, or trying your luck at deep-sea fishing.
Kogala Beach & stilt fisherman.
Kogala Beach is one of those few places where you can observe STILF FISHING – a fascinating fishing method in action.
Stilt fishing is an ancient fishing technique that dates back to the 19th century. It involves fishermen perching themselves on long poles, or stilts, planted in shallow waters.
This practice is uniquely performed in just few locations around Sri Lanka. It’s possible to interact with these fishermen, for small money they are often willing to share stories about their craft, the history and stilt fishing.
Best surfing beaches in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”. Here are Sri Lanka best beaches for great surfing:
- Arugam Bay: the “Main Point” produces powerful waves that attract experienced surfers from around the globe.
- Hikkaduwa Beach – combines a lively atmosphere with excellent surfing conditions, particularly during the monsoon season.
- Unawatuna
- Mirissa
- Galle – on the photos below.
Galle - southwest coast of Sri Lanka.
Galle is a beautiful seaside town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adventurous travelers can explore the narrow streets, visit the museums and galleries, and admire colonial architecture. Unwawtuna is juz 10 minutes drive from Galle center.
Unawatuna Beach is the best surf beach for intermediate and beginners.
The beach has surf schools where you can rent boards and take lessons. We had absolutely amazing time with the instructors and just look at the purple sunset.
Unawatuna has become a favorite among surfers and backpackers alike. The beach is also home to a variety of beach bars, restaurants, and shops, where you can try delicious local cuisine and pick up unique souvenirs.
Most popular souvenirs in Sri Lanka:
- Ceylon tea,
- traditional masks,
- elephant figurines,
- batik
Unawatuna Beach.
Unwatuna is my second choice among Sri Lanka best beaches. Surfing and beach night bars were my favourite, we had a great relaxing time after work, surfing and chilling with a coconut.
Unawatuna Beach is the best place for freestyle travelers thanks to its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike other popular tourist destinations, Unawatuna Beach has managed to maintain its charm and authenticity, making it the ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So it was a great swap from crazy sport live event to a relaxing beach bar.
You’ll find amazing places to stay in Unwatuna. One of the most exceptional accommodations is Kaju Green Eco Lodges is unique Nature resort just in the middle of Eluwilla bird sanctuary.
For adventurous travelers Dunes Unawatuna hotel would be a great choice – it’s an eco friendly boutique hotel 5 minutes walk the beautiful Unawatuna beach.
4* Agnus Unawatuna – Unawatuna is located in Unawatuna, less than 0.6 mi from Japanese Peace Pagoda.
TOP 3 OUTSTANDING TOURS IN SRI LANKA YOU CANNOT MISS | TRIPADVISOR:
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