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Beaches in Sri Lanka are well known for their pristine ambiance, providing visitors with a dream getaway. Famous for their golden sandy texture, pristine waters and leafy palm edges, they offer a different mix of action and leisure, from the lively coastlines of Unawatuna and Mirissa to the peaceful expanses of Alankuda and Arugam. These beaches provide a unique tropical experience, whether you want to surf, snorkel or just relax and bask in the warm rays of Sri Lankan sun.
10 Beaches In Sri Lanka
Here’s a list of the 10 famous beaches in Sri Lanka that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.
1. Unawatuna Beach
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Unawatuna Beach is a tropical heaven in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its sandy beach and sapphire ocean. This crescent-shaped beach, surrounded by gorgeous palm trees, gives an ideal mix of thrill and relaxation. Colourful coral reefs just offshore boast over 50 species of fish, starfish, sea turtles, and sea anemones, among other marine life that inhabit it. At the same time, the gentle currents make swimming or snorkelling possible. Hence, tourists flock to it for relaxation and exploration, as it has many beach restaurants and local markets nearby.
How To Reach: You can take a bus from Colombo, and then hire a tuk-tuk from Galle
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Sri Lanka For Adventure Enthusiasts And Thrill Seekers
2. Dalawella Beach
Photo: Umeshani Wickramanayake / Wikimedia Commons
Dalawella Beach is in the proximity of Unawatuna, between Mirissa and Unawatuna, along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. It is a hidden gem that offers peace with its white sandy beaches and clear sparkling waters. Tourists enjoy this place as it is renowned for being one of the most secluded beaches in Sri Lanka. The beauty around it creates a quiet atmosphere, while its shallow waters are great for swimming and wading. The surrounding traditional fishing village adds local flavour to this beautiful place.
How To Reach: You can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to Dalawella Beach from Galle
3. Mawella Beach
Photo: Oleksandra Zelena / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mawella Beach is a tranquil refuge famous for its pristine scenery and soothing mood. The beach is next to the town of Dickwell on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This beach has a long stretch of beautiful yellow sand wide enough to sunbathe, which makes it the best beach in Sri Lanka for leisurely sunbathing or silent swimming as there are calm waves that twist on gentle tides. Families searching for an easy-going environment can enjoy themselves due to its shallow waters and gentle wave currents.
How To Reach: You can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to Mawella Beach from Matara
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Sri Lanka For Your Next Getaway
4. Hiriketiya Beach
Photo: Sean Oulashin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hiriketiya Beach is a small, crescent bay on the southern coast of Sri Lanka known for its natural beauty. This beach boasts smooth golden sands and spectacular blue sparkling water, making it a quiet sanctuary amid the green hills and coconut palms surrounding it. It has gentle, welcoming waves and is perfect for novice swimmers and surfers. The atmosphere is complemented by small guesthouses and tiny restaurants by the sea that match the calm mood.
How To Reach: From Matara, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Hiriketiya Beach
5. Bentota Beach
Photo: Vincent van Zeijst / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Bentota Beach is well known for its extensive golden sands and clean, welcoming waves. This popular destination provides tourists with various activities, including swimming, water sports, sightseeing, and boat rides along the Bentota River. Palms surround the beach, while several luxurious resorts with diverse facilities and services are available for tourists to relax. Bentota Beach has become one of the popular beaches in Sri Lanka for tourists searching for tropical getaways. Its colourful sunsets and calm surf make it perfect for leisure and adventure.
How To Reach: From Colombo, you can reach Bentota Beach by train or bus
Suggested Read: National Parks In Sri Lanka With Stunning Vistas, Biodiversity & Wildlife
6. Alankuda Beach
Photo: Dlabacm / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the western coast of Sri Lanka near Kalpitiya, Alankuda Beach is a peaceful and relatively untouched beach. It is a relaxing retreat from busy tourist areas due to its stunning shores and serene ambiance. The calm waters with their shallows, rich in ocean life colours, make swimming and snorkelling possible. Alankuda Beach is an undiscovered paradise for those looking for a quiet holiday in a clean and picture-perfect location.
How To Reach: From Colombo, you can reach Alankuda Beach by car or taxi
7. Arugam Bay Beach
Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay Beach is known for its breathtaking views and lively surf spots. With an extended stretch of golden sands and steady rolling waves, this place lures surfers, from greenhorns to experienced professionals, no matter their level. There are several natural attractions near the beach, such as lagoons and wildlife reserves. Arugam Bay Beach has everything that Beachgoers need, making it one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka.
How To Reach: From Colombo, you can take a bus or train to Batticaloa and then continue by taxi or tuk-tuk to Arugam Bay
Suggested Read: Beaches In Galle Where An Immersive Experience Along The Sandy Shores Await You
8. Mirissa Beach
Photo: Praveenshashika / Wikimedia Commons
Sri Lanka’s Mirissa Beach is famous for its beautiful views and cheerful ambiance. Located on the south coast of the country, the beach has a crescent shape, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The rolling hills with palm trees combined with gentle waves make it the best place for relaxing. Additionally, Mirissa has become an attractive destination for snorkelling and whale watching, where visitors can see exotic marine creatures. Alongside the beachfront, cafes and restaurants serve local dishes with cocktails that attract many tourists.
How To Reach: From Colombo, you can take a train or bus to Matara and hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to Mirissa Beach
9. Hikkaduwa Beach
Photo: Kaushiru90 / Wikimedia Commons
Hikkaduwa Beach is a hidden gem that remains unrivalled worldwide. Hikkaduwa has earned itself fame for attracting tourists from across the globe with its breathtaking scenic beauty and lively spirit, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. Tourists can swim, sunbathe, or just lounge under the shade of palm trees. This beach is known globally for some of the best diving sites and snorkelling spots featuring stunning corals and an incredible diversity of reef species.
How To Reach: From Colombo, you can take a train or bus to Hikkaduwa
Suggested Read: Top Bentota Water Sports For Indulging In A Thrilling Experience
10. Uppuveli Beach
Photo: Honeplus / Wikimedia Commons
Uppuveli Beach is a peaceful and beautiful retreat located on the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka, close to Trincomalee. The long golden sandy stretch is perfect for a stroll or quiet dip since clear turquoise waters surround it. The gentle and mild waves make it ideal for families and individuals seeking relaxation. Due to its serene environment and low population density, Uppuveli Beach offers a peaceful respite from more crowded tourist areas. Its pristine charm and natural beauty make it the perfect spot to relax.
How To Reach: From Colombo, you can take a train or bus to Trincomalee, with the journey taking around 5 to 6 hours.
Beaches in Sri Lanka provide an unmatched combination of varied activities and scenic beauty. Sri Lankan beaches offer something thrilling and enchanting to their guests. Families and friends experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to blend in with the beach culture around this island country. So, plan your trip to Sri Lanka with TripXL to discover these beaches with your family and friends.
Cover Photo: Xandrium / Wikimedia Commons
