The Best Beaches in Sri Lanka

There’s only so long a person can go without enjoying some well-earned R&R on the beach…! ‘What is the best beach in Sri Lanka?’ is a frequently asked question from most of my clients. To answer that question, in a tropical island surrounded by miles of amazing beaches, there is no one-best-beach. It depends on the season and what you want from your beach holiday.

For Surfers

If catching a wave is all that you’re interested in, the beach for you is Arugambay, one of the best surf spots in the world. The surfing season is from April to October.

For Divers

From November to April, the West Coast is what’s ideal for diving enthusiasts and Colombo is the best spot on the West Coast with over 10 wrecks and several picturesque reefs. From May to October however, the dives are best on the East Coast in Passikudah.

  

Photo credit to Island Scuba...

For Snorkeling

During the West Coast beach season, Hikkaduwa is best for snorkelling and Nilaveli Beach on the East Coast is best during the East Coast Beach season.

For Whale and Dolphin Watching

Depending on the wind and the waves, November to April is the best season to see Blue Whales, Spinner Dolphins, Sperm whales and sometimes even Killer Whales in Sri Lanka. Mirrissa on the South Coast and Kalpitiya on the West Coast are the best places to experience this.

For active days and lively nights

Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna are the best if action is what you’re looking for. There’s the beach, plenty of water sport options and many restaurants and bars along the beach who most often host beach parties at night.  

Unawatuna Beach

Quiet Beaches

If you want to avoid the crowds and spend your time on a deserted beach, I’d recommend Thalpe… There are some lovely beach bungalows in Thalpe and it is much more peaceful when compared to busy beaches like Unawatuna.

Calm Beaches

In my experience, Passikudah Bay beach during its season is the most calm… It’s almost like a shallow salty swimming pool with no waves and is ideal for people who are not too confident in the sea.

Whatever you’re into, it seems like Sri Lanka has a beach that you’ll love…!

Want to find out more about beaches in Sri Lanka? Email me on gbot@mylankandream.com!