Blogpost Lonely Planet – 10 best beaches of Sri Lanka
Beaches in Sri Lanka. Image credits – Oliver Sjöström @ollivves / Unsplash
From north to south, east to west, tropical beaches are everywhere on our island. This article highlights the 13 best beaches, according to Lonely Planet.
THE NORTH
Less known, but no less loved, in the north of our beautiful island, located on the Jaffna peninsula, we find Casuarina Beach. This barren beach is often crowded on the weekends with families wanting to enjoy the warm and shallow waters. Although the beach is somewhat remote, it is definitely worth the extra drive!
THE EAST
In the east, we find three great beaches, the first one being Nilaveli and located 13 kilometers from the well-known city of Trincomalee. The golden sand, palm trees and roaming cattle make this destination a true paradise with interesting views. May to September is the perfect period for whale watching and diving.
Go onboard a boat and head off to Pigeon Island, located close to Nilaveli. The surroundings of this island are home to many animals, for example, turtles and small sharks. This location is a true paradise for both snorkelers and divers.
The second beach is the somewhat remote and deserted Kalkudah Beach. Surrounded by coconut estates and cashew plantations, you can combine a visit to the beach with a culinary activity. On-site you can stay in either the local resort or a luxury tent.
The southeast is the perfect location for surfers, with the beautiful Arugam Bay. The incredible place is sometimes hard-to-reach and offers amazing views. Sit at the beach to look at the surfers or take your chance and brave the waves yourself.
THE SOUTH
The south coast is the true paradise on earth for many travelers, with dozens of amazing beaches. From east to west, you will first find Mawella beach, less known, but enormously mesmerizing. The waves are ideal for body boarding, but also swimming is no problem here.
Hiriketiya Beach is known for its low-key and laid-back atmosphere. The deep bay is exempt from seasonal changes, making year-round swimming possible. Around the beach, you will find many restaurants, coffee shops, and guesthouses.
The next beach, the most famous one of them all, is Mirissa. This place is considered the best place in the world to spot the Big Blue Whale. After your morning whale safari, several activities are on the menu, including snorkelling, surfing and yoga. On and around the beach, you can visit several restaurants with different menus. In the evening, the place comes fully alive!
Just half an hour from Mirissa is Weligama. This beach is always mentioned in the same breath as Arugam Bay when it comes to the best surf spots in the country. Due to the milder waves, this place is perfect for beginner surfers.
The last three beaches in the south, Kabalana Beach, Dalawella Beach, and Unawatuna Beach are all very popular with families due to their calm waters and laid-back vibe. Dalawella Beach the most, due to the turtles that occasionally make their appearance.
THE WEST
The west of our beautiful island has two beaches on the list, each with exceptional features. Bentota, surrounded by several hotels, is known for its water sports and lifeguards which makes it the perfect location for families with children. One can enjoy both the Indian Ocean beach and the beautiful lagoon.
Having a lagoon is a huge asset not only for Bentota but also for Kalpitiya Beach, located on the Kalpitiya peninsula. Here you can enjoy the beautiful views of the coloured sails of kite surfers or try your hand at this challenging sport yourself!
The beaches listed are only a fraction of what this island has to offer. Combine wildlife and culture after which you can rest at one of the aforementioned places or go beach hopping, anything is possible!
