Posted on Tuesday, 30 January 2024

A dizzying array of sandy stretches make Sri Lanka a mecca for beach lovers - whether you want idyllic solitude or sun-drenched parties.

While Sri Lanka boasts incredible wildlife, awe-inspiring ruins, and fabulous food - its beaches are its biggest draw.

With an epic 833-mile coast you can find pretty much any type of beach imaginable - from deserted coves to party-centric backpacker hide-outs. And in many of these locations you can glimpse the island’s famous green turtles - both as hatchlings and fully grown adults.

Be monsoon-savvy

Two opposing monsoons affect Sri Lanka’s weather, which means beaches come into meteorological favour at different times of the year. From May to September, the eastern coast is your best bet; from November to April, the south coast is where to plant your parasol.

Determining the best beach in Sri Lanka really comes down to what you’re looking for. Thankfully, this island nation has it all.

Here are 11 of the best beaches in Sri Lanka.

Mirissa, Matara District

Find your perfect spot on the golden sands of Mirissa, where fabulous seafood - including barbecued lobster - can be prepared by one of the many seafront restaurants and brought out to your sun lounger.

Such delights, washed down with a cold, locally brewed Lion lager, would make Mirissa fabulous enough - but visit in February or March and you'll get to experience the migrating whales, too.

Arugam Bay, Ampara District

Boasting some of the best breaks on the island, Arugam is perfect for laid-back surfer vibes.

While surfers are numerous from April through September, there's a vibrant backpacker scene year-round, thanks to the regular beach parties, low-cost guest houses, and plethora of beach bars and cafes.

Koggala, Galle District

Koggala is one of the best places to see Sri Lanka's famous stilt fishermen - although they are not quite as authentic as they once were. Indeed, the 'fishermen' make more money from tourist tips than from perching on the stilts and bagging the day's catch!

Kalpitiya, Puttalam District

If you're a seasoned kite surfer - or harbour a desire to be one - Kalpitiya is probably the best place to try this sport in Sri Lanka. Indeed, beginners are just as welcome as those with more experience.

The stronger winds run from May to September.

Even more impressive than the kite surfers are the frolicking dolphins - best enjoyed on a boat trip.

The dolphin season runs from November to April.

Marakolliya, Hambantota District

Those seeking a quintessential tropical paradise should head for Marakolliya. It has it all: golden sand, clear blue waters, and cute little tracks in the sand - evidence of the overnight turtle nesting that occurs here.

There's only one place to eat nearby, but that only adds to the desert-island tranquility.

Nilaveli, Trincomalee District

If you're seeking a peaceful Sri Lanka beach day, amenity-light Nilaveli could be just the ticket.

Azure-blue waters lap the expansive stretch of white sand, while regular boats make ready for trips to Pigeon Island National Park, where world-class snorkelling and diving are the main pursuits.

Under the waves are hundreds of species of fish, and innumerable turtles.

Also worth visiting is the free-to-enter Fort Frederick, a colourful reminder of the days before independence from Britain.

Uppuveli, Trincomalee District

Unique Uppuveli is a 'working beach', where local fishermen launch their colourful boats in search of the day's catch, as tourists look on, soaking up the rays.

The main activities include playing volleyball, scuba diving, and taking snorkelling trips - and of course, come sunset, kicking back in one of the handful of beach bars.

 

Kosgada, Galle District

While many Sri Lanka beaches play host to hatching turtles, Kosgada arguably offers one of the best-organised experiences.

Observe the miraculous sight of baby green turtles making their ocean dash from November to May.

The experience is enhanced with a well-managed conservation centre and hatchery.

Hikkaduwa Beach, Galle District

Hikkaduwa might be described as a 'party beach' - one of a handful in what remains a traditional country.

Alongside the vibrant nightlife and western-style eateries, the beach is a magnet for divers and snorkellers.

As a stalwart of the Sri Lankan tourist scene since the 1970s, Hikkaduwa is showing signs of wear - especially as regards the coral. Whether the coral erosion was down to the 2004 tsunami or the heavy presence of tourist boats, is debatable. However, Hikkaduwa remains a fun, affordable way to enjoy some beach vibes - and one of the most popular south Sri Lanka beaches.

Bentota Beach, Galle District

Pristine sand, swaying palms, and lots of watersports options have made Bentota a firm favourite among holidaymakers.

Alongside swimming, snorkelling, diving, and jet skiing, you can also take a boat ride along the pretty Bentota River.

The Bentota Turtle Hatchery is also nearby, where you can better understand ongoing conservation efforts - and see some devilishly cute baby turtles. However, other less scrupulous hatcheries operate along this coast - entities who may be involved in the illegal trade of turtles while also taking money from unwitting tourists.

With this caveat, Bentota remains one of the most rewarding south Sri Lankan beaches.

Goyambokka, Hambantota District

If you're seeking a tranquil, unspoilt Sri Lanka beach, head to idyllic Goyambokka. This undeveloped stretch of clean sand is lapped by gas blue waters and fringed with nodding palms.

Amenities (which include a couple of beach cafes selling coconuts) are limited, but this is all part of the beach's charm.

To glimpse the opulent side of Sri Lanka tourism, pop in to nearby Amanwella Hotel for some food.

Looking for activities to do away from the beaches of Sri Lanka? Why not explore Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle?

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