15 Stunning Beaches In Sri Lanka That Will Make You Go ‘Wow’!

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15 Stunning beaches in Sri Lanka that will make you go 'wow'!

30 June 2015 Shuchi Bhatnagar

The beautiful island country of Sri Lanka is no short of natural beauty. What’s the first thing which comes to your mind when we talk about island? Indeed its beaches, and that what is Sri Lanka is mostly famous for.

People from all around the world come to explore the best beaches in Sri Lanka to experience the beauty, adventures, and offerings of these gorgeous sandy shores.

1. Unawatuna

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Unawatuna is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka which is famous for calm blue waters. The unique selling point of this beach is that one could spot a whale shark if lucky.

Best time to visit: Late August and early September as the rain start to set by mid-October

Famous for:

• Enjoy some water sport such as scuba diving and snorkeling
• Get some tan at the beautiful golden sand beach
• Take some blessings at the Temple Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya
• Treat yourself to an Ayurveda massage and get pampered at the sanctuary spa
• Relax at the Thaproban Beach House and enjoy some authentic Sri Lankan cuisine
• This beach is famous for turtle nesting

Must Read: 10 Drop Dead Beautiful Places in Sri Lanka You Have To Check Out Now

2. Bentota

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If you are looking for a Sri Lankan beach holiday and wish to stay at resorts that specialize in medicine centers and relaxing spa, Bentota is the place for you. is a perfect getaway for tourists who are looking spend few days away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

best time to visit: End August to mid-October

Famous for:

• This beach is relatively less crowded
• Try your hands on water sports such as water skiing and canoeing
• Visit the aquatic life protection center and get an opportunity to release a turtle into the sea
• Relax at the ayurvedic centers and enjoy a relaxing spa
• Book yourself a river safari and whale watching
• Start your morning with a bicycle tour of the city

3. Mirissa

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Number three on our list of best beaches in Sri Lanka is Mirissa. With views of aquatic wildlife in its natural habitat, Mirissa attracts people from all over the world come to Mirissa for both ecological purposes as well as for holidays.

Best time to visit: December to March to see turtle hatching, or through August to October

Famous for:

• Mirissa is one of those beaches in Sri Lanka which is ideal for swimming.
• West side of the beach is known for watersports, especially surfing, and a small coral reef
• Spot dolphins & whales, if you visit in December, you may spot turtles laying eggs too.
• Hire a boat and go fishing with the locals near the coral reef.
• Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic massage in Ayurveda centers in Mirissa
• A River safari would definitely money well spent as you could see nature at its best, well spread out paddy fields hovered by migratory birds and water animals are definitely a treat to eyes.

Must Read: 19 Reasons Why I Would Rather Be From Sri Lanka Than Anywhere Else

4. Dickwella

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Dickwella is the home to some of the plush resorts where many newly wedded couples often comes to celebrate their honeymoon. This is amongst the best secluded Sri Lankan beaches and offers the most tranquil environs.

Best time to visit: February to April and then August to October

Famous for:

• Dickwella beach is another excellent spot for swimming
• The cultural buffs must visit the Dickwella lace center to see & learn the techniques of lace making
• The calm waters of Hiriketiya beach are ideal for snorkeling
• Enjoy some delectable dishes mainly seafood pasta and vegetarian curries

5. Weligama

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One of the most popular and luxurious beaches in Sri Lanka is the Weligama beach on the south west coast of the country.

Best time to visit: October to March

Famous for:

• It’s the most ideal beach for surfing as there is no danger of sharks
• A perfect destination to enjoy diving and snorkeling as it is guarded by shallow coral reef.
• Enjoy the most amazing views of stilt fishing
• Leper king statue-it’s a carved statue of an old king whose identity is not yet known
• Weligama lace weaving factor is a must visit. Here you can see women weaving lace which are also sold to tourist. Also, the gem and jewelry factory is a must visit.

6. Galle

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Galle is one of the most visited beaches in Sri Lanka. With a wonderful history; Galle amazes you by the architectural beauty, the tropical weather, the aroma of spices such as the cinnamon and cloves & more. The picturesque environment of Galle often pulls many foreign artist, poets and writers.

Best time to visit: September to March

Famous for:

• Visit the old town of Galle to see its architectural beauty
• Take a tour of the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum Complex to experience the rich Sri Lankan culture.
• Explore the city on a bike, visit the Japanese peace Pagoda and enroll for yoga and Pilate’s class in Niyagama House
• Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a must visit if you want to see Sri Lankan wildlife at its best
  Deep sea fishing tours and whale watching tours are a must!

Must Read: 19 Photos that will make you wish you were in Sri Lanka Right Now!

7. Induruwa

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Induruwa beach promises scenic beauty of the villages along with some relaxation hot spots. You would feel ease and fresh after spending some quality time in the golden sand beach.

Best time to visit: January to August

Famous for:

• Get some golden tan while sunbathing on the beach, enjoy long walks along the banks of the sea and explore the Bopath Ella fall.
• Induruwa beach has a quite a few local markets where you can buy some gifts for your loved ones.
• Visit the sweet water lagoons and the Maadu river to have an excellent view of lush greenery and get some sights of birds and aquatic animals.
• Enroll for a wellness program and Ayurveda practices to rejuvenate yourself.
• Enlighten your senses at the Batatotalena cave and visit the small town of Batugedara for precious gemstones and jewelry.

 

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8. Hikkaduwa

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Hikkaduwa Beach is characterized by some of the most plush hotels and night clubs. This feature often attracts many overseas tourists. It promises loads of untouched natural beauty and relaxation for both body and soul.

Best time to visit: March to September

Famous for:

• Indulge in some shopping spree in the local markets & treat yourself with silver jewelry and gemstones.
• Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at the beach side cafes and party late in one of the best nightclubs
• Be a part of the local community in celebration of the Hikkaduwa Beach Festival
• Learn some facts about the turtles and the coral life at the Coral sanctuary where the turtle eggs are buried in the sand for hatching.
• Take a boat ride on a glass bottomed boat to have a look at the most beautiful aquatic life in the coral sanctuary

9. Koggala

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Koggala is a small homely town which was built around the Second World War right after the Japanese air strikes.

Best time to visit: July end to October

Famous for:

• Witness the most uncommon and rare species of turtles namely Loggerheads and the Leathery turtle
• Hire a motor boat and explore the beautiful Koggala Lake. Some of the striking features consist of the cinnamon plantation and the Buddhist temple
• Stop over at the Ananda Spice garden & taste herbal wines & buy herbal products which helps cure sunburns
• Learn about the culture of Sri Lanka by visiting the Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Museum
• Kottawa reserve indeed promises to be a beautiful excursion which displays a variety of flora and fauna
• Enjoy some surfing in the beach situated between Koggala & Weligama Bay Beach

10. Negombo

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Negombo is one of the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka, frequented by international visitors as it is very close to the airport. The city of Negombo still shows Dutch characteristics in its architectures and is a must visit on your trip to Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit: March to September

Famous for:

• Take a bike trail and explore the beautiful village and a boat ride to explore the coral reefs
• The blue lagoon is the most appropriate place for bird watching. The calm waters of the lagoon promises excellent diving and snorkeling experiences.
• Visit the gem mines and indulge in some gem shopping
• Take an elephant ride and tour the dense forest, discover the adventurous side of you while trekking through the forests.
• Sights some whales and dolphins in their natural habitat & enjoy the breathtaking views of roaring waterfall especially during monsoon

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11. Arugam Bay

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Arugam bay is amongst the top beaches in Sri Lanka known especially for surfing. The blue waters of the Arugam bay provide ample opportunities for fishing and underwater photography.

Best time to visit: March to October

Famous for:

• Arugam Bay is synonymous with one of the best surfing points across the world. You can rent all the basic equipment from the locals shop and indulge in this activity.
• Book a lagoon tour which provides a slow and relaxing journey through the hidden treasures of Pottuvil lagoon.
• If you happen to visit the Arugum bay during off season you would be amazed to see millions of migratory birds.
• Plan a walk to the Elephant Rock while enjoying the serenity of this marvelous beach.
• Visit the Hulannuga Caves which is situated on top of the hill is the home to the reclining Buddha statue
• Plan a trip to the Yala East National Park which is indeed the twin of the Yala Ruhuna National Park is famous for elephants and leopards.

Must Read: Most-Visited Tourist attractions in Sri Lanka

12. Uppuveli

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Uppuveli is amongst the beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. If beautiful landscape, classic accommodation and authentic cuisine are one your mind then Uppuveli is indeed the most suitable choice. You would be amazed how the locals welcome the tourist and make them a part of their festivities. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city this village is packed with natural beauty and relaxation.

Best time to visit: August to mid-October

Famous for:

• Hire a rickshaw and ride across the beautiful village to explore the natural beauty.
• Moonlight strolling on this beach is a wonderful experience
• Swami Rock of Trincomalee definitely is a must visit which not only protects the village by Tsunami but also makes the each perfect for watersports such as diving, swimming and snorkeling
• Enjoy a relaxing massage followed by some yoga to rejuvenate your senses.
• Explore the seabed at the Pigeon Island which is not too far from the beach.

13. Trincomalee

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The bay of Trincomalee’s harbor is very famous for its trade and cargo. It’s a big beach which is indeed famous for ancient temples, trade & water sports. It is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit: August to October

Famous for:

• Hot Springs of Kanniya is a definite visit, its located just over 5 miles off the Anuradhapura Road
• The great Hindu Shrine sacred to Koneswaran are visited by many which is one of the 5 Isvaram Hindu Shrines
• Visit the beautiful tank called Periyakulam is a Buddhist Temple and spot the frontal bone relic of Buddha, built in the 3rd century is worth a visit.
• The finest Circular Shrines which is as old as the 7th century is located at Tirivava
• The marble bay promises variety of watersports such as diving and surfing

Must Read: 10 Reasons Why Sri Lanka Should be Your Next Holiday Destination

14. Polhena

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Polhena beach is indeed one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka which is both a treat to the eyes as well as provided an excellent stop for some water sports. It’s one of the few beaches which are suitable for swimming. Since it is protected by the soft coral reef therefore it is protected by strong waves.

Best time to visit: March to October

Famous for:

• Take a snorkeling tour and dive in the pristine waters
• Watch the turtles up close and personal through the turtle view balcony terrace
• Witness the most beautiful untouched aquatic life along the 4 km long coral reef
• Take the tour of this tranquil and scenic village & book a boat trip on the Nilwala Ganga river where you get to spot crocodiles and beautiful birds
• Enjoy some live acrobatics which is practiced by the locals on the beach.

15. Mount Lavinia

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Whether it is a boat ride or an elephant ride, Mount Lavinia is one of the best beaches to visit in Sri Lanka. Apart from having all the striking features of a beach, Mount Lavinia is a perfect destination to enjoy a great beach holiday.

Best time to visit: January to March and August to November

Famous for:

• Turtle Conservation Project is one of the most popular aquatic projects in Sri Lanka
• Enjoy an elephant ride and explore the beautiful city. Go scuba diving & snorkeling in the blue waters.
• Sri Lanka Air force Museum is a must visit

So, which one of these beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka have you fallen in love with?