Coastal Beaches
01.
Trincomalee (Trinco)
Trincomalee, also known as Trinco, is situated on one of the world’s most exceptional natural harbors. This ancient city has a long and storied history, possibly dating back to the historic Gokana mentioned in the Mahavamsa (Great Chronicle), and its Shiva temple may be the site of Trikuta Hill in the Hindu text Vayu Purana. It is a great place to visit on the way to the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli.
02.
Unawatuna
Moving down south, Unawatuna, located 6km (3.7 miles) from the historic Galle Fort, remains one of the most popular swimming beaches in Sri Lanka, despite ongoing development. Its calm azure waters, thanks to an offshore reef, make it an attractive destination for most of the year. The beach is lined with sun beds, and Jet Skis can be seen buzzing around the bay. Although it can get busy during peak season, it never feels overcrowded. Unawatuna also offers a sophisticated dining scene and hosts regular weekend beach parties.
03.
Dalawella
Just east of Unawatuna, Dalawella boasts the iconic Frog Rock overlooking its picturesque champagne sands. Also known as Wijeya Beach after its popular restaurant, this idyllic spot features an aqua-blue lagoon protected by a reef, allowing for swimming and paddling for much of the year. Families will find it to be an excellent location, especially as curious turtles often make appearances.
04.
Weligama
Weligama’s 2km (1.2-mile) bay is known for being one of the top surfing beaches in Sri Lanka for beginners, offering a forgiving sandy-bottomed break. Surfboards can be rented and lessons booked from the surf outfits located to the west of the bay, many of which are run by knowledgeable local surfers. The fine sand of Weligama also attracts families, and there are numerous dining, drinking, and accommodation options available to suit every budget.
05.
Kabalana
Kabalana, a part of the relaxed surf-and-yoga scene in Ahangama, provides a quieter and more intimate alternative to Weligama or Unawatuna. Surf lessons can be arranged from beachfront restaurants, and visitors can rent boards to ride the local breaks, including the renowned A-frame known as the Rock. In the evenings, the focus shifts to the foodie restaurants along the bustling Galle-Matara road.
06.
Mirissa
Mirissa’s moon-shaped bay attracts many visitors who come for the blue whales, with daily boat cruises during the season offering good chances of sightings. However, the appeal of Mirissa goes beyond whale watching, offering opportunities for snorkelling, surfing, yoga classes, and scenic walks to places like Mirissa’s Secret Beach. The area also boasts numerous restaurants and lively evening entertainment.
07.
Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya’s deep bay, flanked by jungle-tangled headlands, has become a popular destination for its dramatic setting, low-key atmosphere, and year-round swimming. The bay is home to a stylish collection of timber-frame restaurants, coffee shops, guesthouses, and villas nestled beneath coconut palms, stretching up and over the western hill toward neighbouring Dikwella’s expansive sandy bay.
08.
Bentota
Bentota, located on Sri Lanka’s west coast, is characterized by large package-holiday hotels overlooking fine stretches of sand. The best beach in the area is Bentota, where the long honey-hued beach leads to a spit of sand separating the Indian Ocean from a large lagoon. Families are drawn to the area for water sports, swimming, and the presence of lifeguards, although there are no independent restaurants directly on the beach.
09.
Mawella
Mawella is a lesser-known south coast beach with a mesmerizing 2km (1.2 mile) crescent-shaped bay, backed by a few boutique hotels, villas, and simple bungalows set amidst vast palm-shaded grounds. Despite being just 7km (4.3 miles) from Tangalla, Mawella offers a rare taste of southern escapism, attracting those seeking a tranquil retreat. The rolling waves are ideal for body-boarding, and the long beach is perfect for early morning runs.
10.
Arugam Bay
Bentota, located on Sri Lanka’s west coast, is characterized by large package-holiday hotels overlooking fine stretches of sand. The best beach in the area is Bentota, where the long honey-hued beach leads to a spit of sand separating the Indian Ocean from a large lagoon. Families are drawn to the area for water sports, swimming, and the presence of lifeguards, although there are no independent restaurants directly on the beach.
11.
Kalkudah Beach
If you’re yearning for wild and deserted beaches, Kalkudah’s vast stretch is as close to Crusoe-like perfection as you’ll find in Sri Lanka. Coconut estates and gnarled cashew plantations surround this idyllic east-coast beach. While swimming is possible here, be cautious during the off-season when the sea shelves deeply. Consider staying in one of Karpaha Sands’ chic tents or take a day trip from the upmarket resort-lined bay of Passekudah, just 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) to the north.
12.
Nilaveli
Located 13 kilometers (8 miles) north of Trincomalee, Nilaveli stretches for 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) along the east coast. Its wide ivory sands, palmyra palms, and roaming cattle create a serene atmosphere. Between May and September, when the shallow ocean gently laps the beach, Nilaveli transforms into Sri Lanka’s deep-sea diving and whale-watching hub. Just offshore lies Pigeon Island’s protected marine park, home to turtles and blacktip reef sharks—a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.
13.
Casuarina Beach
Venture all the way to the northernmost Jaffna peninsula, and you’ll encounter barren, windswept, and remote beaches. These untamed shores offer a unique experience away from the crowds.
Remember, each of these beaches has its own charm, and exploring them is like discovering hidden treasures along Sri Lanka’s captivating coastline.
12.
Kalpitiya Beach
Nestled on a 35-kilometer (22-mile) peninsula that extends from the northwest coast near Puttalam, Kalpitiya is a coastal gem. Here, the beach stretches almost uninterrupted to the very tip of the peninsula, where a ruined Dutch Fort stands as a testament to history. To the east lies the vast Puttalam Lagoon, where the colourful sails of kite-surfers dance across the skies during the windier months from May to September.
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