The Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is the ideal island for a tropical beach holiday. Enjoy endless stretches of golden sand lined with palm trees and an inviting ocean that invites swimming or snorkeling. However, Sri Lanka is far from being unspoiled and some beaches can be overrun with tourists. So to help you pick the perfect spot for your holiday, we've compiled this comprehensive guide featuring 11 of Sri Lanka's Best Beaches!
1. Unawatuna
Unawatuna Beach is one of Sri Lanka's top beaches, popular with beachgoers for its soft sands, calm waters and wide crescent-shaped shoreline.
The main beach is lined with beach bars and restaurants offering cheap cocktails. It's also an ideal spot to watch the sun set over the horizon.
2. Mirissa
Mirissa's main beach is a popular destination for surfers and offers great snorkelling opportunities as well. It's also a popular spot for watching sunset, so make sure you visit on a sunny day! Climb up Parrot Rock, located out at sea. A rickety bamboo bridge will take you from the beach to its top where you can sit and take in the view! Coconut Tree Hill is another spectacular tourist destination to explore in Mirissa. Although it can be a bit challenging to reach, the view is well worth all the effort!
3. Dickwella
Dickwella is a small fishing village on the south coast of Sri Lanka surrounded by golden sands and tropical trees. It's the ideal spot to unwind with family, friends or just yourself! If you're searching for a tranquil massage, Dickwella Beach is an ideal spot. Local Sri Lankan masseurs will provide one free of charge in their studios that usually have deck chairs and umbrellas set up.
4. Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a beach town renowned for its breathtaking surf, vibrant coral reefs and exciting nightlife. It also attracts snorkelers and scuba divers who come to explore the abundant marine life off this shore. Snorkelling trips to the nearby coral reef are one of the most popular activities in this area and can easily be organized through a local tour operator. Prices for snorkelling excursions start from 2,000 rupees an hour - an affordable way to discover our underwater world!
5. Koggala
Koggala, with its palm trees dotting the sand and one of India's longest beaches, is a haven for beachgoers. Additionally, there's an impressive turtle hatchery, lake, and folk art museum to enjoy. For a stress-free holiday without the crowds or parties, this is your ideal destination. Staying at the 3-star Koggala Beach Hotel is an ideal way to unwind and take pleasure in this scenic area of Sri Lanka. It provides complimentary parking, a pool, as well as a garden.
6. Arugam Bay
Surfers will love this moon-shaped curve of sand, home to Sri Lanka's best point break. But it also boasts an inviting seaside community with a relaxed vibe that draws visitors from around the world each year. Arugam Bay offers plenty of beach-lovers with international restaurants and guesthouses along Panama Road, running parallel to the shore. For an even more indulgent experience, book a room at The Hideaway Resort.
7. Polhena
Polhena Beach is a tranquil, protected stretch of sand that's often listed among Sri Lanka's top beaches. It makes an ideal destination for both families and couples. At Polhena Beach, there's plenty to do. Swim, watch turtles, visit Paravi Duptha (Island), and snorkel! Polhena is a prime destination for whale watching during the winter months. It's one of the best places in the world to observe blue whales!
8. Dalawella
Dalawella is one of Sri Lanka's most beloved beaches, featuring the iconic palm tree rope swing and 'Ship Rock' - a rock that looks like the bow of a ship. If you're in search of a tranquil swim, make sure to book one of our snorkel tours! You may even spot sea turtles!
The southern portion of the beach is lined with luxury hotels and boasts some great watersports activities. Don't forget about that iconic palm tree rope swing - perfect for a fun afternoon or photo op!