Beaches In Galle: An Immersive Experience Along The Sandy Shores Await You

Whether you want to enjoy an activity or relax along a water body, this city has got you.

Beaches in Galle offer a stunning stretch of coastline that caters to different interests. From Unawatuna, crowded with water sport enthusiasts, to the serenity of Mihiripenna as a secluded haven to relax or sunbathe, Galle is a perfect beach for every traveller. Here, you can slither into secret coves, encounter vibrant sea creatures, or relax on the pristine sands. Galle beaches offer an unforgettable coastal retreat, where the rhythm of the waves is harmoniously combined with the warmth of the sun in a perfect setting.

Top 10 Beaches In Galle

Explore a diverse array of beaches, catering to every traveller’s preference in the vibrant city of Sri Lanka. Here are ten of the best beaches in Galle that you must explore once.

1. Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach is one of the best beaches in Galle to explore for water enthusiasts

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

Unawatuna Beach is one of the best beaches in Galle, located south of Galle town. Its crescent-shaped golden sandy beach, cocoon palm trees, and turquoise waters, sheltered by a natural reef, provide you with a variety of activities for a fun day at the beach. Here, you can find restaurants, cafes, bars, and various shops lining up along the beach, offering local and international cuisine. Despite a large number of visitors, this beach seems to retain the feature of relaxation, hence making it a must-visit for anyone in love with beaches and travelling.

Top Activities: Snorkelling, picnic
How To Reach: You can take a direct taxi from Colombo or the Bandaranaike International Airport, which takes about 2 to 3 hours

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Galle With Top Attractions And Experiences For Every Traveller

2. Jungle Beach

One among the top five attractions in the city of Sri Lanka, this place is a must-visit.

Photo: Kavindu96 / Wikimedia Commons

Jungle Beach is one among the top 5 beaches in Galle. A few kilometres from Galle Fort, it is surrounded by dense jungle and rocky outcrops, harbouring a picturesque setting where turquoise waters are sheltered and calm. It has fine golden sand, warm waters, and gentle slopes, hence suitable for swimming and wading. The surrounding jungle and rocky terrain create a natural, unspoiled ambiance with native flora. The beach is perfect for marine life due to the serene waters and the silent surroundings. Colourful fish and even sea turtles are found in abundance in these waters.

Top Activities: Snorkelling, picnic
How To Reach: It’s accessible via a short walk through the forest or a quick tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna

3. Mihiripenna Beach

Mihiripenna water body is one of the best beaches in Galle for a serene experience.

Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Mihiripenna Beach is one of the popular beaches in Galle. Lined with palms and lush vegetation, it offers you a tranquil and secluded atmosphere. The isolation of this beach makes it perfect for an expedition or secluded moments while other visitors are simply strolling along the seashore or meandering through coastal paths. Mihiripenna Beach is one of the finest spots for nature lovers who prefer a more serene environment.

Top Activities: Swimming, nature walk
How To Reach: You can take a tuk-tuk or taxi from Unawatuna to Mihiripenna Beach

Suggested Read: Top Bentota Water Sports For Indulging In A Thrilling Experience

4. Bentota Beach

This is one of the best beaches in Bentota, Sri Lanka that you must visit once, for sure.

Photo: Vincent van Zeijst / Wikimedia Commons

Bentota Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka. With a fine sandy area, it is full of activity. Bentota Beach is 65 km to the south of Colombo and 90 km to the northwest of Galle, up the Bentota River. It offers a river cruise and water sports in the vicinity of the Bentota River and lagoon. It is popular as a rendezvous point for locals and tourists from other countries because of its well-developed infrastructure.

Top Activities: Boating, swimming
How To Reach: You can take a train from Colombo Fort to Bentota, or a bus, taxi, or a private car

5. Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa water body is one of the best beaches in Galle to enjoy thrilling activities.

Photo: Kaushiru90 / Wikimedia Commons

Hikkaduwa Beach is, probably, the best beach in Galle. The waves are consistent, and the marine life is abundant and colourful, while the atmosphere is so full of energy. It offers adventure, relaxation, and exploration, all mixed into one. Hikkaduwa is the epitome of nature’s beauty and lively energy. From adrenaline-pumping water sports and tranquil relaxation to beguiling nightlife, Hikkaduwa has everything, with its perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Top Activities: Snorkelling, diving
How To Reach: You can take a train from Colombo Fort to Hikkaduwa, then a bus, or a taxi

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

6. Ahungalla Beach

It's a perfect spot if you are looking for a low-key and a rejuvenating experience.

Photo: uemura / Wikimedia Commons

Ahungalla Beach is one of the secluded beaches in Galle. It has a relatively uncrowded shore. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation for tourists looking for a low-key beach day. It is well-known for its serene atmosphere and is an excellent example of nature, hence offering a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of crowds that characterise some of the other beaches in the region. Ahungalla Beach offers a picturesque coastline with palm-fringed shores and golden sands, turtle hatcheries for conservation, and water sports for various activities.

Top Activities: Fishing, nature walk
How To Reach: You can reach Ahungalla Beach by train from Colombo Fort to Ahungalla

7. Dalawella Beach

Dalawella water body is one of the famous beaches in Galle for an immersive experience.

Photo: frank mckenna / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Dalawella Beach is one of the famous beaches in Galle. Nestled in a small bay, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and palm trees, it offers a more tranquil and less commercialised environment. The beach features fine, golden sand and clear, warm waters, making it comfortable for walking, sunbathing, and relaxing. The surrounding area features dense palm trees and tropical plants, enhancing its natural and unspoiled character. Dalawella Beach is a charming and unspoiled escape with its soft golden sand, clear waters, and lush surroundings.

Top Activities: Picnic, turtle hatchery
How To Reach: You can take a tuk-tuk or taxi from Unawatuna to Dalawella Beach

Suggested Read: Take A Dive Into The Turquoise Waters Of The Popular Beaches In Unawatuna

8. Narigama Beach

Nestling in a remote area, this stunning attraction exudes serenity like no other place.

Photo: Ray Bilcliff / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Nargikama Beach is a stunning beach situated in Galle. Being set in a remote area gives the beach an aura of peace and a more real feel. Visitors often flock here to escape the rush and enjoy the silence with fewer tourists around. The tranquil atmosphere of Narigama Beach tends to be just a place for unwinding or relaxing. It is a quiet and picturesque destination characterised by soft, golden sand, clear water, and a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for those looking for a more relaxed beach experience.

Top Activities: Picnic, surfing
How To Reach: You can easily reach here by walking or taking a short tuk-tuk ride from Hikkaduwa Beach

9. Kabalana Beach

One of the secluded beaches in Galle, this place leaves you with a fulfilling experience.

Photo: Amy Orsini / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Kabalana Beach is one of the secluded beaches in Galle. Compared to some of the more popular beaches in the area, it doesn’t seem to get too crowded, and here real attention is paid to the preservation of its scenic beauty. The beach itself is low-key with very little commercialisation. The place is ideal for those who want to enjoy a really quiet, uncommercialised beach experience within easy reach of the attractions of the Galle region.

Top Activities: Picnic, surfing
How To Reach: You can reach here by tuk-tuk or taxi from Ahungalla

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka

10. Koggala Beach

One of the most beautiful places in the city, it is known for natural beauty and serenity.

Photo: Natalia Sozonova / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Koggala Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Galle. This is widely known for its natural beauty and tranquillity. The beach has lush palms and tropical vegetation, providing a quiet and scenic setting. It features soft, golden sand and transparent, warm waters ideal for swimming, walking, and conducting various activities on the beach. The area maintains its nature and pristine role due to a low level of commercialisation. Compared with other popular beaches, Koggala Beach has a peaceful and serene atmosphere and attracts visitors who seek a peaceful beach experience.

Top Activities: Picnic, boating
How To Reach: You can take a train or bus from Galle to Koggala, or a taxi

Beaches in Galle offer an unforgettable coastal experience, from the vibrant energy of Unawatuna to the serene beauty of Mihiripenna. Therefore, whether you’re an adventure seeker or a relaxation enthusiast, there’s a perfect beach for you. Indulge in water sports, explore hidden coves, or simply soak up the sun. So, start planning your Galle getaway today with TripXL, and get ready for a blissful experience.

Cover Photo: Hash Milhan / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

You can partake in activities like: surfing, snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding in Galle.
With a perfect blend of South Asian traditions and European architectural styles, Galle is known for its centuries old fort.
For a remarkable holiday, you can book a comfortable stay in Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, or Bentota.
While spending some time along the seashore, you can savour seafood, rice and curry, and kottu roti here.
It is recommended to carry sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and an insect repellent for a beach vacation in Galle.

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