Sri Lanka, the teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, is home to some of the most captivating beaches in the world. From the golden sands of the south coast to the pristine shores of the east, this tropical paradise offers a beach for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a perfect beach day, a luxurious beach resort, or a secluded strip of sand, Sri Lanka’s coastline has it all.
This guide to Sri Lanka’s best beaches will take you on a journey along the south coast, east coast, and west coast, exploring beach towns and hidden coves that make this island nation a top beach holiday destination. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to discover why Sri Lanka’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Sri Lanka 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: Cinnamon Bentota Beach
- 🏨 4-Star: Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Rockside Cabanas Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Dharma Place
- 🏢 Apartment: Green Hill Mirissa
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Palm Paradise Cabanas & Villas
- 🏩 For Couples: C Beyond Nilaveli
🌞 Top 10 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
1. 🌴 Unawatuna Beach – Best for All-Round Beach Experience
Unawatuna Beach boasts a crescent-shaped bay with golden sand. Palm trees line the shore, providing natural shade. Known for its calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Vibrant beach bar scene with cocktails and sunset views. Popular among both tourists and locals for its beauty and amenities. Offers water sports activities like jet skiing and banana boat rides. Nearby coral reefs provide excellent snorkeling opportunities. Walking distance to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Great spot for beach yoga and relaxation.
Best Hotels Near Unawatuna Beach 🏨
- Araliya Beach Resort & Spa – This beachfront resort offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and direct access to Unawatuna Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the south coast of Sri Lanka. It features multiple dining options, a spa, and an infinity pool overlooking the sea.
- Green Escape Unawatuna – Nestled in lush tropical gardens, this eco-friendly hotel is just a short walk from Unawatuna Beach. It offers comfortable rooms with balconies and a restaurant serving Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The hotel’s peaceful setting makes it ideal for those looking to relax while still being close to the beach and local attractions.
- Rockside Cabanas – These beachfront cabanas offer a rustic and authentic Sri Lankan experience right on Unawatuna Beach. Each cabana features a private terrace with sea views, and the on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood. The hotel’s location is perfect for beach lovers and those wanting to explore the southern Sri Lankan coast.
2. 🐳 Mirissa Beach – Best for Whale Watching
Mirissa Beach is famous for its whale and dolphin watching tours. Golden sand beach with a laid-back, tropical atmosphere. Popular surfing spot with consistent waves for all levels. Iconic coconut tree hill offers stunning panoramic views. Lively nightlife with beachfront bars and seafood restaurants. Home to the Instagram-famous Parrot Rock formation. Great for sunbathing and beach relaxation during the day. Offers beautiful sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
Best Hotels Near Mirissa Beach 🏨
- Handagedara Colonial Villa – This colonial-style villa offers a luxurious stay just a short walk from Mirissa Beach. It features antique furnishings, a pool, and lush gardens. The villa’s location provides easy access to whale watching tours and the famous Mirissa palm-fringed beach, making it a perfect addition to any Sri Lanka itinerary.
- Beach Mirissa – This beachfront hotel offers direct access to Mirissa Beach, one of the best beaches in southern Sri Lanka. It features comfortable rooms with sea views and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s location is ideal for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the golden beaches of the south coast.
- Green Hill Mirissa – Perched on a hill overlooking Mirissa Beach, this hotel offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It features a rooftop infinity pool and a restaurant serving Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The hotel’s elevated position provides stunning sunset views and a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach below.
3. 🏊♀️ Hikkaduwa Beach – Best for Snorkeling and Marine Life
Hikkaduwa Beach is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving right off the beach. Popular surfing destination with good waves for beginners and intermediates. Lively beach town with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. Home to the Hikkaduwa National Park, protecting the coral reefs. Offers glass-bottom boat tours for viewing marine life. Famous for its annual beach fest and full moon parties. Turtle hatcheries nearby offer educational experiences.
Best Hotels Near Hikkaduwa Beach 🏨
- Riff Hikkaduwa – This modern hotel is located right on Hikkaduwa Beach, known for its vibrant surf scene and marine life. It features stylish rooms, a beachfront restaurant, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views. The hotel’s location is perfect for surfing, snorkeling, and exploring the lively Hikkaduwa strip.
- Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon – This beachfront resort offers a luxurious stay on Hikkaduwa Beach, one of the best spots for snorkeling on Sri Lanka’s west coast. It features multiple dining options, a spa, and a large pool overlooking the sea. The resort’s location provides easy access to Hikkaduwa’s coral sanctuary and vibrant nightlife.
- Saffron & Blue – This boutique villa is located just steps away from a secluded stretch of Hikkaduwa Beach. It offers four uniquely designed suites and a private pool surrounded by tropical gardens. The villa’s intimate setting and personalized service make it ideal for couples or small groups looking for a luxurious beach getaway.
4. 🚤 Bentota Beach – Best for Water Sports
Bentota Beach offers a wide range of water sports activities. Long stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing and beach walks. Luxury resorts line the beach, offering high-end amenities. River estuary nearby provides opportunities for river safaris. Known for its sea turtle hatchery and conservation efforts. Ideal for windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing. Calm waters make it suitable for families with children. Bentota town offers a glimpse into local Sri Lankan life.
Best Hotels Near Bentota Beach 🏨
- Cinnamon Bentota Beach – This luxury resort is set on a peninsula between the Indian Ocean and Bentota River, offering access to both Bentota Beach and the lagoon. It features elegantly designed rooms, multiple dining options, and extensive water sports facilities.
- Amal Beach Hotel – Located right on Bentota Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views and direct beach access. It features a beachfront restaurant and a pool overlooking the ocean. The hotel’s location is ideal for enjoying the long stretch of golden sand that Bentota is famous for.
- Kurumba Villas – These luxurious villas are set in a coconut grove just a short walk from Bentota Beach. Each villa features a private pool and butler service. The property’s tranquil setting and proximity to the beach make it perfect for those seeking a high-end, secluded beach retreat on Sri Lanka’s west coast.
5. 🏄♀️ Arugam Bay – Best for Surfing
Arugam Bay is world-renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. Long, sandy beach with consistent waves suitable for all levels. Laid-back atmosphere with a vibrant backpacker and surf culture. Nearby lagoons and national parks offer wildlife viewing opportunities. Famous for its beach parties and full moon celebrations. Offers yoga retreats and surf camps for enthusiasts. Local fishing village provides authentic cultural experiences. Beautiful sunrise views over the Indian Ocean.
Best Hotels Near Arugam Bay 🏨
- The Spice Trail – This boutique hotel is located near the main point of Arugam Bay, one of the best surfing beaches on the east coast of Sri Lanka. It features uniquely designed cabanas, a restaurant serving international cuisine, and a yoga shala. The hotel’s location is perfect for surfing enthusiasts and those looking to explore the less-developed eastern coast.
- Oruwa Boutique Villas – These stylish villas are situated just a short walk from Arugam Bay Beach. Each villa features a private plunge pool and a rooftop terrace. The property’s location offers easy access to surfing spots and nearby national parks, making it ideal for both beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Cozy Beach Hotel – This beachfront hotel offers simple but comfortable accommodation right on Arugam Bay Beach. It features a restaurant serving fresh seafood and organizes surfing lessons and tours. The hotel’s location in the heart of Arugam Bay provides easy access to surf breaks and the laid-back atmosphere of this popular beach town.
6. 🐢 Tangalle Beach – Best for Tranquility and Nature
Tangalle Beach offers pristine, less crowded stretches of sand. Known for its sea turtle nesting sites and conservation projects. Crystal clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Nearby rock pools provide unique bathing experiences. Fishing village atmosphere with fresh seafood restaurants. Stunning sunset views in a tranquil setting. Nearby Mulkirigala Rock Temple offers cultural excursions. Perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience.
Best Hotels Near Tangalle Beach 🏨
- Frangipani Beach Villa – This charming villa is located directly on Tangalle Beach, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It features comfortable rooms with private balconies and a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood.
- Tangalle Luxury Private Villas – These luxurious villas offer a private tropical retreat near Tangalle Beach. Each villa features its own pool and garden, providing a secluded oasis. The property’s location allows easy access to multiple beaches along Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
- Nuga Eden – This eco-friendly resort is situated near Tangalle Beach, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. It features unique tree houses and cottages, as well as yoga classes and Ayurvedic treatments. The resort’s location provides easy access to the beaches of Tangalle while offering a unique stay experience.
7. 📸 Dalawella Beach – Best for Instagram-Worthy Photos
Dalawella Beach is famous for its picturesque palm tree rope swing. Offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and sunset. Calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families with children. Natural rock pool formations create safe swimming areas. Less crowded than nearby Unawatuna, offering a more relaxed vibe. Great spot for beach photography and Instagram-worthy shots. Nearby restaurants serve fresh seafood and Sri Lankan cuisine. Turtle hatchings can often be seen on the beach.
Best Hotels Near Dalawella Beach 🏨
- The Horizon Hill Top Villa – This hilltop villa offers panoramic views of the coast and is a short drive from Dalawella Beach. It features a pool and spacious rooms with balconies. The villa’s elevated location provides stunning sunset views over the beaches of Sri Lanka’s south coast.
- Aurora Unawatuna – Located near Dalawella Beach, this boutique hotel offers a tranquil retreat with modern amenities. It features a pool, restaurant, and rooms with garden or sea views. The hotel’s location allows easy access to both Dalawella and Unawatuna beaches.
- Dharma Place – This guesthouse is situated a short walk from Dalawella Beach, offering a budget-friendly option for beach lovers. It features simple rooms and a garden area. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to the famous palm tree rope swing on Dalawella Beach.
8. 🤫 Silent Beach – Best for Solitude and Relaxation
Silent Beach lives up to its name with a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. Pristine white sand and clear blue waters offer a postcard-perfect setting. Ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Great for long beach walks and shell collecting. Offers excellent swimming conditions with gentle waves. Nearby local villages provide authentic cultural experiences. Perfect spot for meditation and yoga enthusiasts. Stunning sunrise views over the Indian Ocean.
Best Hotels Near Silent Beach 🏨
- Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort – This luxury resort is located near Silent Beach, offering a secluded tropical paradise. It features multiple restaurants, a spa, and private beach access. The resort’s extensive facilities and beautiful location make it perfect for a luxurious beach getaway in Sri Lanka.
- Palm Paradise Cabanas & Villas – Situated near Silent Beach, this resort offers a range of accommodations from rustic cabanas to luxury villas. It features a pool, restaurant, and direct beach access. The resort’s location allows guests to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Silent Beach and explore other nearby beaches.
- Goyambokka Guesthouse – This simple guesthouse is located near Silent Beach, offering budget-friendly accommodation. It features basic rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The guesthouse’s proximity to Silent Beach makes it ideal for travelers looking to enjoy a quiet, less crowded beach experience.
9. 🐠 Nilaveli Beach – Best for Snorkeling and Diving
Nilaveli Beach boasts a long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. Excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities with vibrant coral reefs. Pigeon Island National Park nearby offers more marine exploration. Less developed, providing a more natural beach experience. Ideal for swimming due to its calm, shallow waters. Popular spot for sunbathing and beach relaxation. Local fishermen offer boat trips to nearby islands. Beautiful stargazing opportunities at night due to low light pollution.
Best Hotels Near Nilaveli Beach 🏨
- Nilaveli Beach Resort – This beachfront resort offers direct access to the pristine Nilaveli Beach on Sri Lanka’s east coast. It features comfortable rooms, a pool, and water sports facilities. The resort’s location makes it perfect for enjoying one of the best beaches in the northeast of Sri Lanka.
- Cardamom Nilaveli – Located near Nilaveli Beach, this hotel offers a blend of comfort and local charm. It features a pool, restaurant, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s proximity to Pigeon Island National Park makes it ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
- C Beyond Nilaveli – This boutique hotel is situated along Nilaveli Beach, offering a luxurious beachfront experience. It features stylish rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s location on one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beaches makes it perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway.
10. 🌅 Wijaya Beach – Best for Sunset Views
Wijaya Beach is known for its stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean. Cozy beach bar scene offering tropical cocktails and fresh seafood. Natural rock pools provide safe swimming areas at low tide. Popular among locals and tourists alike for its relaxed atmosphere. Great spot for beginner surfers with gentle waves. Offers excellent snorkeling opportunities right off the beach. Nearby sea turtle hatchery provides educational experiences. Perfect blend of natural beauty and beachside amenities.
Best Hotels Near Wijaya Beach 🏨
- Unawatuna Beach Bungalows – These cozy bungalows are located near Wijaya Beach, offering a laid-back beach experience. They feature simple rooms and a beachfront restaurant. The property’s location allows easy access to both Wijaya and Unawatuna beaches.
- La Veranda di Serena – This charming guesthouse is situated a short walk from Wijaya Beach. It offers comfortable rooms with balconies and a garden area. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to multiple beaches in the Unawatuna area.
- Amanda Beach Villas – These villas offer a luxurious stay near Wijaya Beach, featuring private pools and modern amenities. They provide a secluded retreat while still being close to the beach. The villas’ location allows guests to easily explore the beautiful beaches around Unawatuna and Galle.
⛱️ Best Beaches by Region in Sri Lanka
1. ☀️ South Coast: Sun-Soaked Paradise
South coast offers some of Sri Lanka’s best beaches for a perfect holiday. Hiriketiya Beach is a horseshoe-shaped bay ideal for surfing and swimming. Best time to visit is between November and April for plenty of sunshine. Tangalle beaches provide a secluded experience with palm-fringed shores. South coast is perfect for a laid-back beach getaway.
2. 🌅 East Coast: Off-the-Beaten-Path Beauty
East coast is often overlooked but boasts stunning, less-crowded beaches. Best time to visit is from May to September when weather is dry and sunny. Nilaveli Beach is a golden sand strip perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Nearby Pigeon Island is a must-visit for diving enthusiasts. East coast beach towns like Trincomalee offer a blend of beach life and culture.
3. 🏄♂️ West Coast: Vibrant Beach Scene
West coast is home to Sri Lanka’s most popular beaches and lively coastal towns. Negombo, near Colombo, is a great starting point for beach adventures. Must-try experiences include sunset beach bars in Hikkaduwa and surfing in Weligama. Galle Fort and nearby beaches offer a mix of history and relaxation. Dolphin spotting and fresh seafood are highlights of the west coast.
4. 🏝️ North Coast: Untouched Beauty
North coast is relatively undiscovered, offering pristine beaches for off-the-beaten-path experiences. Casuarina Beach in Jaffna boasts a unique landscape lined with casuarina trees. North coast beaches provide a sense of seclusion and untouched natural beauty. Perfect for those seeking a quieter, more remote beach experience. Explore the north coast for a different side of Sri Lanka’s coastal wonders.
🌊 Best Beach Activities in Sri Lanka
🐠 Snorkeling and Diving: Hikkaduwa Beach on the south coast is renowned for vibrant coral reefs. Nilaveli Beach on the east coast offers secluded snorkeling spots. Crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life make for excellent diving. Best time for snorkeling and diving is November to April on the south coast, May to September on the east coast.
🏄♂️ Surfing: Arugam Bay on the east coast is a world-famous surf spot with consistent waves. Weligama Beach on the south coast is perfect for beginners learning to surf. Surf breaks suitable for all levels can be found along the coast. Best time for surfing is from November to April on the south coast.
🐋 Whale Watching: Mirissa Beach is famous for boat tours that offer whale and dolphin watching. Best time for whale watching in Mirissa is from November to April. Chance to spot majestic blue whales and playful dolphins. Unforgettable wildlife experience on the stunning Indian Ocean.
🏝️ Beach Hopping: Discover hidden gem beaches along Sri Lanka’s coastline. Dalawella Beach known for its Instagram-famous rope swing. Jungle Beach near Unawatuna offers a secluded spot surrounded by lush greenery. Hiriketiya Beach is a perfect horseshoe-shaped bay for swimming and surfing. Passikudah Beach boasts a long strip of golden sand with calm, shallow waters.
🌅 Beachside Relaxation: Sri Lankan beaches offer the perfect setting for ultimate relaxation. Soak up the sun on golden sands and work on your tan. Sip on a refreshing coconut or cocktail at a beachside bar. Get lost in a good book while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore at sunset for stunning views.
🕍 Cultural Experiences: Many beaches in Sri Lanka are located near cultural attractions and local villages. Visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near Unawatuna Beach. Explore the Dutch colonial architecture and vibrant art scene in Galle. Discover local fishing villages and markets near Negombo Beach. Interact with friendly locals and learn about their way of life.
📅 Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka Beaches
1. ☀️ South and West Coasts: November to April
Best weather from November to April with plenty of sunshine. Perfect for exploring popular beaches like Unawatuna and Mirissa. Ideal time for water sports and beach activities. December to February are busiest; November and March offer fewer crowds. Great for whale watching and surfing on the south coast.
2. 🌊 East Coast: May to September
East coast shines from May to September with dry, sunny weather. Best time to visit Arugam Bay for world-class surfing. Ideal for snorkeling and diving around Pigeon Island. Perfect period for exploring beaches like Nilaveli and Passikudah. Less crowded than the south coast during this time.
3. 🌴 Year-Round Beach Destinations
Some beaches remain relatively dry throughout the year. Tangalle on the south coast offers year-round beach opportunities. Kalpitiya on the west coast is great for kitesurfing any time. Passikudah on the east coast has a longer beach season. These spots are ideal for escaping crowds and seasonal weather patterns.
4. 🌧️ Monsoon Seasons
Southwest monsoon affects west and south coasts from May to September. Northeast monsoon impacts east coast from October to January. Monsoon seasons can offer unique, lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Some travelers enjoy the dramatic beauty of stormy seas and empty beaches.
🎭 Cultural Experiences at Sri Lanka Beautiful Beaches
🦀 Culinary Adventures: Explore local seafood restaurants along the coast for fresh catches. Try grilled tuna or spicy crab curry in beachside shacks. Experience aromatic Sri Lankan spices in traditional dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste king coconut water on the beach. Many coastal towns offer cooking classes to learn local recipes.
🎨 Local Traditions and Crafts: Witness stilt fishing, a unique traditional fishing method, in Weligama. Visit turtle conservation projects in Hikkaduwa to support local efforts. Explore vibrant markets in beach towns for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Participate in traditional mask-making workshops in southern coastal villages.
🧘♀️ Wellness and Spirituality: Enjoy traditional Ayurvedic treatments in beachside wellness centers. Practice yoga and meditation on serene beaches at sunrise. Visit small coastal temples for a spiritual experience. Participate in full moon poya day ceremonies at beach temples. Learn about Buddhist and Hindu influences in coastal communities.
🎵 Music and Nightlife: Experience vibrant beach parties and live music scenes in Arugam Bay. Attend full moon parties for a unique blend of beach culture and music. Enjoy traditional Sri Lankan dance performances in coastal hotels. Listen to local musicians playing on the beach during sunset. Participate in drum circles and beach bonfires for a cultural twist.
🏛️ Art and Architecture: Explore Dutch and Portuguese colonial architecture in Galle Fort. Visit local art galleries showcasing Sri Lankan artists in beach towns. Admire traditional fishing boat designs along the coast. Discover ancient rock carvings near some beaches in the south. Participate in sand sculpture competitions on popular beaches.
🏙️ Best Beach Towns in Sri Lanka
1. 🌴 Unawatuna: Tropical Paradise
Unawatuna is a favorite beach town on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Home to one of the best beaches with palm-fringed shores and crystal-clear waters. Main beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Nearby Jungle Beach offers a more secluded experience. Charming town with laid-back vibe and great seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the grilled fish at beachfront eateries.
2. 🐳 Mirissa: Whale Watching Wonder
Mirissa is a stunning beach town famous for whale watching. One of Sri Lanka’s best beaches with soft sand and great surfing conditions. Must-do activities include whale watching tours, climbing Parrot Rock, enjoying beach bars, and surfing. Visit the Instagram-famous Coconut Tree Hill. Shoulder season (April-May or September-October) offers lower prices and fewer crowds.
3. 🏄♂️ Arugam Bay: Surfer’s Paradise
Arugam Bay on Sri Lanka’s east coast is a mecca for surfers and beach lovers. Home to one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beaches with golden sand. Main beach great for swimming and sunbathing, while point break offers world-class surfing. Laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit destination. Perfect for relaxation and adventure.
4. 🏰 Trincomalee: Historical Coastal Town
Trincomalee in northeast Sri Lanka blends history and natural beauty. Beaches like Nilaveli are some of the best on the east coast. Long strip of white sand and calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t miss a boat trip to Pigeon Island for snorkeling among coral reefs and sea turtles. Explore nearby historical sites for a well-rounded experience.
5. 🌿 Tangalle: Off-the-Beaten-Path Beauty
Tangalle on the south coast is perfect for exploring secluded beaches. Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, including Goyambokka Beach. Great base for nearby attractions like Mulkirigala Rock Temple and Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary. Ideal for experiencing Sri Lanka’s coastal beauty without the crowds. Relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Sri Lanka ❔
Is Sri lanka worth visiting?
Yes, Sri Lanka is definitely worth visiting. It offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and affordable travel options.
What is Sri Lanka famous for?
Sri Lanka is famous for its pristine beaches, ancient cultural heritage, important temples and sanctuaries, tea plantations, diverse wildlife (especially elephants and leopards), and warm hospitality.
What is the nicest part of Sri Lanka?
Some of the most popular and beautiful areas include:
- The Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura)
- Kandy and the Hill Country
- Southern beaches like Unawatuna and Mirissa
Is Sri Lanka beaches safe to swim?
Many Sri Lankan beaches are safe for swimming, but caution is advised as some areas have strong currents. Child-friendly beaches include Mt. Lavinia, Bentota, Beruwala, Unawatuna, and Pasikudah.
