10 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka, it is a true gem nestled in the Indian Ocean, offering a plethora of attractions that make it an ideal holiday destination. From ancient archaeological sites to stunning national parks teeming with wildlife, this island nation has something for everyone.
Its extensive coastline boasts hidden coves, pristine sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages waiting to be explored. Meanwhile, offshore, visitors can marvel at the delightful coral reefs and pods of whales.
It’s no surprise that Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is thriving, given the vast array of incredible sights on offer. The stunning beaches are just one of the many highlights that make Sri Lanka a must-visit destination.
Hiriketiya Beach is one of the 10 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
Hiriketiya Beach, situated on the outskirts of Dikwella, boasts a charming little cove that provides protection and tranquility. This makes it an excellent destination for swimming and snorkeling, with its calm waters. The beach offers a breathtaking scenery, with trees clustering around its golden sands. Along the coastline, there are numerous hidden hotels and resorts for visitors to choose from, although the area still maintains its undeveloped charm compared to other beaches in Sri Lanka.
For those seeking a secluded getaway, Hiriketiya Beach is an ideal choice. Its proximity to other delightful beaches allows visitors to explore the entire coast while using the market town of Dikwella as a convenient base.
Tangalle Beach
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Tangalle Beach is a serene and peaceful destination that stands out from the other beaches along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Its vast expanse of soft sand and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal spot for long walks, while the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean provide a soothing soundtrack. Tangalle is a complete holiday package, with a plethora of excellent restaurants, bars, and hotels scattered throughout the area. It is gaining popularity year after year, with many tourists opting to explore the nearby coral reefs through scuba diving. Aside from its picturesque appearance, Tangalle Beach is also conveniently located near several attractions that are well worth a visit, such as the Mulkirigala cave temple and the stunning Rekawa Lagoon.
Weligama Beach
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Weligama Beach boasts a breathtaking view of its shimmering golden sands, protected by the bay that shares its name. The beach is surrounded by a lush tree-line, which conceals a variety of hotels and restaurants. The locals here make their living from fishing, so visitors can indulge in fresh and delectable seafood. The bay’s waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with a small reef to explore. Additionally, the beach is a popular destination for those who want to learn how to surf, thanks to the surf breaks and swells.
Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination for surf enthusiasts. Its palm tree-lined beaches offer a picturesque setting where large waves consistently crash, creating a paradise for surfers. Despite its growing popularity among tourists, Arugam Bay has managed to retain its unspoiled charm. Unlike other tourist hotspots, you won’t find an abundance of large hotels or resorts here. Instead, the town boasts a delightful array of quaint cafes, restaurants, and cabanas that exude local charm.
In addition to the stunning beaches, Arugam Bay offers a plethora of activities to cater to every traveler’s interests. You can embark on a scenic tour of the Pottuvil Lagoon, witness breathtaking sunsets at Elephant Rock, or even go on an exhilarating safari at Yala National Park, where you can spot majestic elephants in their natural habitat. Arugam Bay truly has something for everyone.
Bentota Beach
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Bentota Beach, situated on a narrow stretch of land that separates the Bentota River from the Indian Ocean, offers a luxurious retreat for those seeking relaxation and the beauty of one of the country’s finest beaches.
Surrounding the river mouth are upscale hotels and resorts, providing visitors with a range of options to choose from. Additionally, there are world-class spas and health centers available for indulgence. While many of these establishments offer comprehensive packages, it is highly recommended to explore the beachside bars and restaurants to savor the delectable local cuisine.
Bentota is renowned for its exceptional water sports facilities, attracting enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, and sailing. These thrilling experiences can be enjoyed either on the river or in the vast ocean itself. One of the most popular attractions is the ‘river safari’ along the Bentota River, where you can navigate through picturesque and secluded waterways, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of sunbathing crocodiles along the riverbanks.
Unawatuna Beach
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Unawatuna Beach, located just a short distance from the center of Galle, is renowned as one of the finest beaches in the country. Its stunning golden sands are bordered by the glistening waters of the Indian Ocean.
The small village that accompanies the beach exudes a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Whether you have a modest or extravagant budget, you will discover a diverse selection of bars, restaurants, and hotels to suit your preferences.
This beach holds immense popularity among both locals and tourists in Sri Lanka. It offers an array of captivating dive sites, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. If you time your visit right, you may even witness sea turtles nesting along the shoreline.
Furthermore, should you manage to tear yourself away from the breathtaking beauty of Unawatuna Beach, you can delve into the rich historical sites and cultural landmarks that Galle has to offer.
Mirissa Beach[SEE MAP]
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Mirissa Beach, with its breathtaking beauty, gracefully curves along the bay where it resides. The picturesque sight is further enhanced by the clusters of stunning palm trees that adorn its golden shores. The crystal clear waters of the beach offer an ideal setting for swimming, while the presence of a small coral reef just offshore makes it a perfect spot for snorkeling. Moreover, at one end of the beach, there is also the opportunity for some fantastic surfing.
Despite its unspoiled ambiance, Mirissa Beach offers a variety of beachside bars, restaurants, and hotels that are discreetly tucked away amidst the lush tree-line. While the atmosphere is laid-back and relaxing, there are also lively bars that provide guests with incredible views of the sun setting over the ocean.
Situated on the south coast of Sri Lanka, Mirissa Beach is renowned for its exceptional dolphin and whale-watching tours, offering visitors an incredible opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
With its abundance of attractions and stunning scenery, Mirissa Beach stands as one of the highlights of Sri Lanka.
Yala Beach
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While the majority of tourists flock to Yala National Park to witness the magnificent elephants in their natural habitat, Yala Beach offers an equally captivating and untamed experience.
Tucked away from the usual tourist routes, this secluded beach exudes a rugged and untouched beauty. The crashing waves that relentlessly hit the shore make it unsuitable for swimming. However, if you seek solace in unspoiled nature and desire to bask on a stunning beach with hardly any other individuals in sight, then this is the perfect destination for you.
Due to its remote location, the options for dining and accommodation are limited. Surprisingly, this scarcity adds to the allure for many visitors who choose to stay here. To make the most of their trip, most guests combine their beach visit with an exhilarating safari through the breathtaking landscapes of Yala National Park, which lies nearby.
Uppuveli Beach
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Uppuveli Beach, located in the northeastern region of Sri Lanka near Trincomalee, offers a serene and picturesque setting for a tranquil vacation. With its stunning white sands stretching over five kilometers, this beach is a true gem. Nestled among the palm trees, you will discover hidden hotels and restaurants, providing a peaceful escape. If you wish to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich history and indulge in its delectable cuisine, a visit to Trincomalee is highly recommended.
Moreover, Uppuveli Beach offers a plethora of exciting excursions. Many visitors opt for dolphin and whale-watching, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling along the breathtaking coastline. As this scenic area continues to gain popularity, it is advisable to seize the opportunity to visit now, while it still maintains its tranquility and picturesque charm.
Hikkaduwa Beach
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This charming beach, situated on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, has become a popular destination for tourists. Despite its popularity, the beach maintains its natural beauty and remains unspoiled, with palm trees gracefully leaning over its golden sands.
As a result of its popularity, numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels have sprung up along the beach, offering visitors a wide range of options. Additionally, there are several beachside bars and a couple of vibrant clubs, creating a lively atmosphere. While the town exudes a relaxed vibe during the day, many people choose to dance the night away after witnessing a breathtaking sunset, with the Indian Ocean as their backdrop.
Hikkaduwa Beach is also renowned for its stunning coral reef, located just offshore. If you are a fan of scuba diving, this beach is a must-visit. While exploring the abundant marine life, you are likely to encounter graceful sea turtles gliding through the water.
