best beaches in sri lanka
The beaches of Sri Lanka offer unique experiences that invite every type of traveller from around the globe.
With over 1,600 kilometres of coastline, this island nation boasts diverse sandy shores, each possessing its unique charm.
From the peaceful bays of Mirissa, where gentle waves invite leisurely swims and sunset strolls, to the electrifying shores of Unawatuna, alive with the rhythms of beachside cafes and water sports, Sri Lanka’s beaches cater to every kind of adventurer.
For those looking for more adventure, the world-famous surfing spots Weligama and Arugam Bay offer more unique travel experiences for your relaxing holiday.
One of the best things about beaches in Sri Lanka is that every beach offers a unique experience with its own culture, making every Sri Lankan beach an exceptional place to visit.
This article is organised in the west, south, east, and north parts of Sri Lanka. So when are you looking for a beach near me?
You can easily find the best beaches wherever you’re in Sri Lanka.
Beaches in Colombo
Galle Face Green
Located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital.
Galle Face Green is a historic urban oasis. Stretching over half a kilometre along the Indian Ocean’s edge, this iconic promenade offers a vibrant blend of leisure and cultural experiences.
This expansive green space offers stunning panoramic views of the sunset, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for picnics, leisurely strolls, and kite flying.
From breathtaking sunset views to delectable street food stalls serving authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, Galle Face Green is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.
Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle or a taste of Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage, Galle Face Green promises an unforgettable beachside adventure in the heart of Colombo.
Mount Lavinia Beach
Located along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka lies the enchanting Mount Lavinia Beach, a picturesque haven that epitomizes tropical paradise with its golden sands and crystal-clear blue water.
Mount Lavinia Beach offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Colombo.
Unlike Galle Face Green, you can engage in a myriad of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to beach volleyball and water sports.
As the sun dips below the horizon, Mount Lavinia Beach transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, with beachside cafes and bars serving refreshing cocktails and mouthwatering seafood dishes. It is the best place to escape the busy Colombo life.
Sri Lankan west coast beaches
Kalutara beach
Located along the western coast of Sri Lanka, approximately 40 kilometres south of Colombo,.
Kalutara Beach is a hidden gem often ignored amidst the more popular beaches.
Kalutara Beach is a peaceful sanctuary best for travellers seeking tranquillity and adventure.
Despite its underrated status, this stretch of coastline boasts pristine sands, sky-blue waters, and a serene ambience that captivates visitors.
Kalutara Beach is a perfect place for water sports enthusiasts. From exhilarating jet skiing to mesmerizing diving adventures and captivating snorkelling excursions, there’s a wide variety of aquatic activities to indulge in.
Wadduwa beach
Wadduwa Beach is a tranquil sanctuary famous for its cosy and laid-back atmosphere.
Unlike other beaches in Sri Lanka, Wadduwa offers a relaxed vacation destination away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Here, you can relax amidst the gentle lull of the ocean waves, with evenings spent around campfires on the beach rather than in noisy clubs and bars.
Wadduwa offers a plethora of accommodation options, from modest budget hotels to opulent resorts, ensuring every traveller discovers their perfect haven.
Moreover, the beach town is home to many spas and wellness retreats, catering to those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation.
Browns Beach Negombo
Are you searching for a vibrant beach near the Colombo airport?
If so, Browns Beach Negombo is the perfect destination for you.
This lively stretch of beach offers a delightful blend of relaxation and activity.
Browns Beach is one of the most sought-after and unspoiled Sri Lankan beaches.
Its pristine beauty and tranquil ambience attract many travellers.
Located near the vibrant fishing village of Negombo, Browns Beach provides a picture-perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sri Lanka South Coast beaches
Mirissa
One of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
Mirissa is a must-visit place for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. Its serene blue waters, laid-back beach ambience, vibrant nightlife, and many adventurous water activities make it a great choice.
Located approximately 150 kilometres from the capital city of Colombo, Mirissa is a charming small town that captures the hearts of every traveller with its coastal charm.
From whale-watching tours to surfing the waves, there are endless attractions and activities to indulge in during your stay in Mirissa.
Whether you’re lounging on the sun-kissed sands, sipping coconut water under the shade of palm trees, or dancing the night away at beachside bars, Mirissa promises an unforgettable experience that displays the essence of Sri Lanka’s coastal charm.
Hiriketiya
Located along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Hiriketiya Beach is a hidden gem that captivates travellers with its untouched beauty and peaceful ambience.
This horseshoe-shaped bay, situated just outside Dickwella, is a relatively new beach, meaning you can relax here without the crowds of tourists you might find elsewhere.
Hiriketiya’s crystal-clear waters offer the perfect playground for water enthusiasts, whether riding the waves on a surfboard, refreshingly swimming, or exploring the vibrant marine life while snorkelling.
Sun beds welcome weary travellers to relax and soak up the sun along the shore.
Hiriketiya captivates visitors with its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm.
Whether seeking adventure on the waves or simply craving a tranquil escape, Hiriketiya Beach promises an unforgettable experience showcasing the essence of coastal paradise.
Dickwella
The small village of Dickwella welcomes travellers with its laid-back charm and stunning coastal beauty.
Despite its small size, Dickwella boasts a long stretch of pristine beach, offering a peaceful retreat for beach lovers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Stretching along the coastline, Dickwella Beach is flanked by luxury resorts and rustic beach bars.
To the west lies the opulent Dickwella Resort and Spa, a haven of comfort and indulgence in a tropical paradise.
Meanwhile, in the east, visitors can discover charming beach bars decorated with beach beds and swings, inviting guests to unwind and soak in the breathtaking ocean views.
Dickwella Beach offers scenic beauty, ideal for experienced swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
Dickwella’s serene ambience and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal escape in the south of Sri Lanka.
Unawatuna
Unawatuna is a charming beach town that lies between the vibrant coastal towns of Hikkaduwa and Mirissa in Sri Lanka.
It is a must-visit destination on any southern coast road trip. The town welcomes travellers with its captivating beauty and charming beach vibe.
Unawatuna Beach is famous for its Instagram-worthy charm and has become an iconic place for its picture-perfect crescent of golden sand, embraced by lush greenery.
The gentle waves that caress the shore create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for swimming and basking in the warm Sri Lankan sun.
But Unawatuna has much more to offer than just sun and sand. Its coastal town ambience is bustling with life, featuring a vibrant array of beachside cafes, bars, and shops. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a slice of Sri Lankan beach life, Unawatuna Beach promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of a coastal paradise.
Sri Lanka East Coast beaches
Nilaveli
Nilaveli Beach is highly regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
With its powdery white sands stretching as far as the eye can see and crystal-clear sky-blue waters, Nilaveli Beach offers a picture-perfect paradise for beach lovers and sun-seekers alike.
The peaceful atmosphere of Nilaveli Beach is exceptional, inviting visitors to relax under the shade of palm trees.
Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or soak in the breathtaking coastal views.
Whether you’re lounging on the soft sands, swimming in the refreshing waters, or indulging in water sports like snorkelling and diving to explore the vibrant marine life, Nilaveli Beach promises an unforgettable seaside experience that captures the essence of tropical bliss.
Uppuveli
Located just 3 kilometres north of Trincomalee, Uppuveli Beach is a well-known tourist haven celebrated for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear emerald waters.
This coastal gem welcomes travellers with its inviting ambience and many amenities, including various restaurants and hotels catering to every taste and budget.
Uppuveli Beach offers a wealth of opportunities for leisure and adventure, from thrilling whale-watching excursions to refreshing swims in the sea. Beach sports enthusiasts will find ample space to indulge in their favourite activities.
At the same time, those seeking relaxation can unwind in the tranquil waters, calmed by the soothing sounds of the ocean waves.
Whether you’re basking in the sun, exploring the vibrant marine life through snorkelling, or simply savouring a seaside meal at one of the beachside eateries, Uppuveli Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience filled with warmth, beauty, and adventure.
Kattan kudy beach
Kattankudy Beach, often hailed as one of the cleanest beaches in Sri Lanka, is known for its pristine beauty and vibrant local beach life. It is located 6 km from Batticaloa town.
Unlike other beaches in Sri Lanka, Kattankudy Beach offers an authentic glimpse into local beach life.
Where fishermen fish in their traditional boats, and you can relax with locals near the shore.
It’s important to note that swimming and snorkeling are not recommended here due to the big waves and rocks beneath the sea’s surface.
Despite lacking amenities like beach lounge chairs, visitors can still enjoy the golden sands and picturesque views from a few benches scattered along the shoreline.
With its untouched beauty and authentic charm, Kattankudy Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience immersed in the rhythm of local life.
Pasikuda beach
Pasikudah Beach, regarded as the best beach on Sri Lanka’s east coast, is a pristine paradise that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and tranquil ambience.
Its long stretch of shallow waters makes it an ideal place for everyone to swim, from families with children to avid water sports enthusiasts.
The crescent-shaped beach boasts powdery white sands that stretch as far as the eye can see, bordered by dense palm trees swaying gently in the breeze.
This idyllic setting provides the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely strolls along the shoreline.
Whether you’re lounging on the soft sands, taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply unwinding beneath the shade of a palm tree, Pasikudah Beach promises an unforgettable seaside experience that embodies the essence of tropical paradise.
