Sri Lanka, the teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, is blessed with over 1,300 kilometers of stunning coastline. Whether you’re in search of vibrant surf spots, tranquil hidden bays, or postcard-perfect sunsets, Sri Lanka’s beaches deliver a magical experience all year round.
From the popular southern coastlines of Mirissa and Unawatuna to the untouched eastern gems like Nilaveli and Arugam Bay, here are 12 of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka to visit.
1. Mirissa Beach
A picturesque crescent-shaped beach on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Mirissa is famous for its vibrant energy, swaying palms, and brilliant sunsets.
During the season, it’s the island’s top whale-watching spot and offers a great blend of surf, scenic beauty, and Instagrammable sights like Coconut Tree Hill.
- Address: Mirissa, Southern Province
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Surfing, whale watching, snorkeling, relaxing on beach bars
- How to Get There: Take the Southern Expressway from Colombo (about 2.5 hours by car).
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Places to Eat: Zephyr Restaurant & Bar, Shady Lane
- Places to Stay: Triple O Six, Paradise Beach Club
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2. Unawatuna Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna, is known for its calm, turquoise waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Nestled in a horseshoe-shaped bay, coral reefs protect it and offer great visibility for spotting marine life. The area is lively with beach cafés and is also a great base for exploring the nearby Galle Fort and Jungle Beach.
- Address: Unawatuna, Galle District
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball
- How to Get There: Easily accessible by train or bus from Colombo to Galle, then a short tuk-tuk ride to Unawatuna.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Places to Eat:Kingfisher, Black & White Restaurant
- Places to Stay: Thaproban Beach House, Cantaloupe Levels
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3. Bentota Beach
Located along the southwest coast, Bentota Beach is where the river meets the sea, creating a serene and scenic coastline perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
With calm waters on one side and the Bentota River nearby, it’s a haven for water sports. The golden beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space to unwind without the crowds.
- Address: Bentota, Southern Province
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat rides
- How to Get There: Trains from Colombo or Galle stop at Aluthgama Station, followed by a short tuk-tuk ride.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April for dry weather
- Places to Eat:The Villa Cafe, Malli’s Seafood Restaurant
- Places to Stay: Taj Bentota Resort & Spa, Avani Bentota
4. Hikkaduwa Beach
Known for its vibrant coral reefs and energetic atmosphere, Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s most well-developed beach towns.
It’s a snorkeler’s dream, with marine turtles and colorful fish visible even close to shore. Hikkaduwa also boasts a lively nightlife scene, making it perfect for those looking to blend sun and surf with music and fun.
- Address: Hikkaduwa, Galle District
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing
- How to Get There: Take a train from Colombo to Hikkaduwa Station; tuk-tuks are easily available.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- Places to Eat: Nordic House, J.L.H. Restaurant
- Places to Stay: Citrus Hikkaduwa, Coral Sands Hotel
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5. Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is a globally recognized surf hotspot, especially during the surf season from May to September.
The laid-back vibe, cheap eats, and surf hostels give it a bohemian feel, attracting surfers and backpackers alike.
- Address: Arugam Bay, Eastern Province
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Surfing, yoga, lagoon safaris
- How to Get There: Take a bus or private transfer from Colombo or Ella; the journey can take 6–8 hours.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September, when surfing is at its peak.
- Places to Eat:Hideaway Blue, Gecko Restaurant
- Places to Stay: The Spice Trail, Jetwing Surf
6. Nilaveli Beach
Located on the northeastern coast near Trincomalee, Nilaveli Beach is famed for its unspoiled beauty and tranquility.
Its long stretch of white sand and clear, shallow waters make it an ideal getaway for couples and solitude-seekers. Just offshore lies Pigeon Island, a marine national park great for snorkeling and spotting reef sharks.
- Address: Nilaveli, Trincomalee
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Snorkeling, sunbathing, and island tours to Pigeon Island
- How to Get There: Reachable via train to Trincomalee, followed by a 20-minute taxi or tuk-tuk ride.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October for calm seas
- Places to Eat:Red Lobster Nilaveli, Coconut Palms
- Places to Stay: Anilana Nilaveli, Uga Jungle Beach
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7. Pasikuda Beach
Pasikuda’s shallow, calm waters stretch for hundreds of meters into the sea, making it a safe and fun beach for families and beginner swimmers.
The reef-protected bay creates a large natural pool with virtually no waves. This emerging beach destination is growing in popularity due to its serene waters and luxurious beachfront resorts.
- Address: Pasikuda, Batticaloa District
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Swimming, paddleboarding
- How to Get There: Take a train or bus to Batticaloa, then a 30-minute drive to Pasikuda.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Places to Eat: Machang Pasikuda, Captain Seafood Restaurant
- Places to Stay: Amaya Beach, Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa
8. Tangalle Beach
Tangalle is a peaceful haven where golden sands meet the turquoise ocean in a relaxed and uncrowded setting.
Unlike many southern beaches, Tangalle offers a raw natural charm, with palm groves, rustic fishing boats, and wide open skies. It’s also a key spot for witnessing sea turtles nesting at night.
- Address: Tangalle, Hambantota District
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Turtle watching, yoga, swimming
- How to Get There: Buses and private transfers are available from Colombo and Galle; also accessible by train to Matara.
Best Time to Visit: November to April for calm seas and dry, sunny weather. - Places to Eat: Cactus Lounge Restaurant, Break Point Cafe
- Places to Stay: Anantara Peace Haven, Lagoon Paradise Beach Resort
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9. Kalpitiya Beach
Famous for its dolphin-watching safaris and strong winds ideal for kite surfing, Kalpitiya is one of Sri Lanka’s emerging eco-tourism gems.
Located in the northwest, it’s a blend of rustic charm and adventure, with its lagoons, sandbanks, and marine biodiversity drawing nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
- Address: Kalpitiya, Puttalam District
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Kitesurfing, dolphin watching, lagoon safaris
- Places to Stay: Dolphin Beach Resort, Palagama Beach
How to Get There: About 4–5 hours by road from Colombo; direct buses are also available. - Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Places to Eat: Kite House Cafe
- Places to Stay: Dolphin Beach Resort, Palagama Beach
10. Mount Lavinia Beach
Mount Lavinia is Colombo’s closest and most loved beach, perfect for a quick escape from the city.
With a long shoreline, colonial-era hotel views, and a buzzing strip of beachfront restaurants, it balances urban convenience with tropical relaxation. It’s popular for sunset views, casual dining, and beach strolls.
- Address: Mount Lavinia, Colombo District
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Dining, jogging, beach walks
- How to Get There: Just 30 minutes from central Colombo by train, bus, or cab.
Best Time to Visit: December to March - Places to Eat: Buba Restaurant, The Shore by O!
- Nearby Hotels: Mount Lavinia Hotel, Berjaya Hotel Colombo
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11. Weligama Beach
Weligama, meaning “sandy village”, is a large bay that offers calm waves ideal for beginner surfers. It’s also home to the iconic Taprobane Island just off the coast.
This beach combines cultural charm with surf culture, and the long, gently curving bay is great for both water activities and long beach walks.
- Address: Weligama, Southern Province
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Surfing, snorkeling, fishing
- How to Get There: Take a train or bus from Colombo or Galle directly to Weligama.
Best Time to Visit: October to April - Places to Eat:Hangten Rooftop, Nomad Cafe
- Places to Stay: Weligama Bay Marriott Resort, Cape Weligama
12. Uppuveli Beach
Uppuveli, located just north of Trincomalee, offers a peaceful escape from the busier southern beaches. Its calm blue waters, swaying palm trees, and chilled beach cafés create a relaxed vibe ideal for unwinding.
The beach is also a great starting point for boat rides and snorkeling tours.
- Address: Uppuveli, Trincomalee
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Things to Do: Snorkeling, boat rides, beach yoga
- How to Get There: From Trincomalee town, it’s just a 10–15 minute tuk-tuk ride.
Best Time to Visit: May to September - Places to Eat: Fernando’s Bar, Rice ‘n’ Curry
- Places to Stay: Trinco Blu by Cinnamon, Amaranthe Bay Resort
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FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Sri Lankan beaches?
The best time to visit the west and south coasts is from December to April, while the east coast is ideal between May and September, due to regional monsoons.
2. Are Sri Lanka’s beaches safe for swimming?
Most popular beaches like Unawatuna, Nilaveli, and Pasikuda are safe for swimming. However, some beaches may have strong currents, so look for warning signs or ask locals.
3. Can I surf in Sri Lanka as a beginner?
Absolutely! Weligama and Hikkaduwa offer perfect waves for beginners, while Arugam Bay is ideal for more advanced surfers.
4. Are there private or secluded beaches in Sri Lanka?
Yes! Beaches like Tangalle, Nilaveli, and Uppuveli offer a quiet, less crowded experience perfect for couples or solitude seekers.
5. What should I pack for a beach trip in Sri Lanka?
Sunscreen, beachwear, flip flops, a reusable water bottle, snorkeling gear (optional), and a waterproof bag for your gadgets.
6. Is it expensive to stay near the beaches in Sri Lanka?
There’s a wide range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts, making it suitable for all kinds of travelers.
