Hidden Beaches In Sri Lanka: Your Ultimate Guide To Off-The-Beaten-Path Coastal Retreats

Golden sand beach with gentle waves, scattered palm trees - Hidden beaches in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka, with its stunning coastline, is home to many hidden beaches that offer natural beauty away from the bustling tourist spots. Sri Lanka is truly a geographical wonder and a historical marvel, offering everything from pristine beaches to picturesque lagoons and estuaries, water sports, and much more. The 830-mile-long indented coast provides for the hidden beaches in Sri Lanka. These beautiful beaches and the intriguing stories behind them will captivate you and leave you wanting more. Here are some lesser-known beaches that you can explore.

Top 10 Hidden Beaches In Sri Lanka

Here’s a list of the top 10 hidden beaches in Sri Lanka that you must explore and make unforgettable memories.

1. Secret Beach

 Secluded beach with turquoise water, rocky formations, and lush greenery in Mirissa, Sri Lanka.

Photo: Praveenshashika / Wikimedia Commons

True to its name, this beach is hidden away from the main tourist areas of Mirissa in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. It is located about 2 km from the main Mirissa Beach and remains isolated throughout the year as it is separated by a bay fringed with palm trees. The crystal-clear waters and calm waves make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. The beach is accessible via a short walk or tuk-tuk ride on an unmarked trail from Mirissa town, offering visitors a peaceful escape with stunning sunset views.

Best Time To Visit: November to February
Timings: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Sri Lanka For Your Next Getaway

2. Silent Beach

 Tall green coconut trees lining a sandy beach with clear blue skies in the background.

Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Silent Beach is a stunning, semi-private beach in the Southern part of Sri Lanka. It is perfect for those who want to go and relax in a secluded place away from fancy hotels and restaurants. This pristine stretch of sand is fringed with lush vegetation and coconut palms, providing a perfect setting for relaxation. The gentle waves and shallow waters make it a safe spot for swimming. Silent Beach remains relatively untouched, offering an authentic and serene beach experience.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Timing: 4 AM – 6 PM
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

3. Hiriketiya Beach

 Large grey rock formation by a vibrant blue beach under a bright daytime sky.

Photo: Darina Çiço / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Also known as Hiri Beach, this horseshoe-shaped bay is a hidden paradise near Dickwella. Hiriketiya Beach is known for its laid-back vibe, soft golden sands, and clear blue waters. The beach is popular among surfers, especially beginners, due to its consistent waves. The surrounding area offers cosy cafes and guesthouses, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful getaway.

Best Time To Visit: November to January
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

Suggested Read: Water Sports In Sri Lanka For Adventure Enthusiasts And Thrill Seekers

4. Kudawella Beach

Lush green trees reflecting on the calm water under a cloudy sky near a serene shoreline.

Photo: Oleksandr P / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Kudawella Beach, close to the famous Hummanaya Blowhole, is one of the best secluded beaches in Sri Lanka. Located on the southernmost tip of the country, this crescent-shaped bay offers great opportunities for surfers as there are several local trainers who provide surfing lessons for beginners. The area is far from the last train and bus station, and only a few people visit.

Best Time To Visit: November to March
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Nearest Airport: Koggala (KCT) Airport

5. Pigeon Island Beach

Rocky island with dense greenery surrounded by clear blue waters, known as Pigeon Island.

Photo: Diluckshan Puviraj / Wikimedia Commons

The Pigeon Island National Park is well known among tourists who visit Sri Lanka. The Pigeon Island Beach, hidden behind piles of rocks on the smaller part of the island, offers a calm ambience, scenic sunsets, and impeccable stretches of coral reef along its shores. As you take in the beautiful surroundings and dip your feet in the cool water, make sure to have proper footwear on, as coral cuts are a real thing here.

Best Time To Visit: May to October
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

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6. Jungle Beach

Secluded Jungle Beach with golden sand, turquoise water - Hidden beaches in Sri Lanka.

Photo: Hirushini Dematagoda / Wikimedia Commons

Tucked away near the popular beach town of Unawatuna, Jungle Beach is a secluded and picturesque cove surrounded by dense jungle. There is a popular lore surrounding the island of Unawatuna, where the beach is located. It states that this island broke and fell off from a huge mountain that Lord Hanuman was carrying to provide medicinal herbs to Lord Lakshman during the war of Ramayana. The Jungle Beach itself is a small bay on the island that offers sunbathing beds and a small cafe with delicious dining options.

Best Time To Visit: November to February
Timings: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Bentota Railway Station (10 Kms)

7. Beruwalla Beach

Palm-lined Beruwala beach with golden sand, calm waves, and a peaceful ocean horizon.

Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons

Also known as the Golden Mile, this beach is in a remote part of Bentota, Sri Lanka. Adventure water sports, deep sea fishing, coral reef diving, and picturesque views make it one of the best hidden beaches in Sri Lanka. The delicious cuisine offered at the restaurants here includes authentic dishes like perch fish curry and grilled jumbo prawn.

Best Time To Visit: November – April
Timing: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka With Family

8. Kahandamodara Beach

Blue wooden dinghy boat resting on sandy shore - Hidden beaches in Sri Lanka.

Photo: Marian Florinel Condruz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Another lesser known beach in Sri Lanka is Kahandamodara Beach in the quaint village of Kahandamodara. The pristine shoreline and calm waters provide a great setting for swimming and relaxing. The beach is often deserted, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful environment. A special fact about this beach is that it is a favourite spot for sea turtles and serves as their breeding and nesting ground because its clean, golden sands remain undisturbed for a majority of the year. The ancient Rock Temple is also a must-visit place near the beach.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Timings: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

9. Marble Beach

Marble Beach with smooth white pebbles, clear turquoise water, and rocky cliffs surrounding it.

Photo: AntanO / Wikimedia Commons

Marble Beach, situated on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast near Trincomalee, is renowned for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. The iconic white sands are believed to get their colour from a nearby marble quarry, hence the name. Managed by the Sri Lankan Air Force, the beach is well-maintained and offers a clean, peaceful environment for visitors. Also known as Sariala Beach, it can be reached via a drive from Limenas, the capital of Thassos Island.

Best Time To Visit: October – April
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

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10. Talalla Beach

Wide sandy Ocean Beach with gentle waves, rolling surf - Hidden beaches in Sri Lanka.

Photo: David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Talalla Beach, located in the Matara district, is a picturesque crescent-shaped bay with golden sands and clear turquoise waters. This hidden beach is less crowded than other tourist spots, making it perfect for a tranquil retreat. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, and the beach is surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation, creating a tropical paradise. Talalla Beach also offers yoga retreats and wellness centres, enhancing its appeal as a holistic escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Timings: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport

These hidden beaches in Sri Lanka offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquillity, and adventure, allowing visitors to experience the island’s coastal charm away from the more crowded tourist spots. Whether you’re looking to relax, swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings, these hidden gems provide the perfect escape for a memorable beach holiday. Book your holiday trip with TripXL and find more insights.

Cover Photo:Vincent van Zeijst / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Facilities at hidden beaches are usually limited. Some might have small cafes or guesthouses nearby, but many are quite secluded with no amenities. It's advisable to bring your own water, snacks, and other necessities.
Some beaches, like Hiriketiya Beach, are popular with surfers due to their consistent waves. Others may not be suitable for surfing but offer excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing.
Bring essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and a first aid kit. Since facilities are limited, it's wise to come prepared.
Camping may be allowed at some hidden beaches, but it's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Always practice leave-no-trace principles to protect the natural environment.
Yes, many hidden beaches in Sri Lanka offer breathtaking sunset views that are perfect for capturing unforgettable memories.

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