Sri Lanka: beaches without waves. The best beaches in the country

23.02.2022

The amazingly beautiful island of Sri Lanka with a heavenly picture of slender coconut palms, bright colors of blooming greenery and flowers, an emerald blue ocean and colorful juicy fruits. Eyes run wide when and for your convenience detailed overview- the beaches of Sri Lanka on the map with a description. A separate list of beaches without waves. As well as the pros and cons of resorts.

All beaches on the map

marked with a yellow star resort towns, villages, beaches of Sri Lanka on the map. Some places are not very suitable for recreation: a dirty beach, powerful waves, the proximity of the railway and other disadvantages. More in the review.

Let's start from the western part, smoothly moving to the east. Conditionally, from Maravilla to Tangalle. Further oriental resorts and northern - from Tangalle to Trincomalee.

Maravilla


Maravilla beach

More about . A significant plus of this resort is its close location to the airport, to Colombo. Maravilla beach is not crowded, suitable for lovers of peace and tranquility. There are hotels along the coastline where entry into the water is cleared - there are no stones, coral reefs. On such beaches, you can settle down without problems without living on the territory of the hotel.

The waves are small, the entry into the water is sharp - literally 5-10 steps and the depth is felt.

Maravilla beach is suitable for swimming with children (supervised).


Fishermen in Negombo

Like Maravilla, the beach is in demand among many tourists due to its proximity to the airport. Of course, it is beautiful here - a wide, long beach framed by tropical vegetation, coconut palms, fishing boats. Here you can do beautiful photos. However, there is a minus, the coast is not too clean. Garbage, which fishermen pull out with nets, often remains lying on the sand. And, of course, greatly spoils the paradise picture.

There are waves, which is definitely not suitable for long swimming.

Conclusion: Negombo is suitable only as an intermediate point - to rest for 1-2 days after a long flight. And go to the cleaner and more beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka.

Colombo


Embankment in Colombo

The beach in Colombo is suitable only for walking along the promenade or a picnic. The water here is dirty, garbage floats in the ocean. The sand is clean, although in some places you can find plastic that is washed ashore by the current. The locals are not too fond of the ocean, rarely anyone dares to swim. Sri Lankans go on vacation to neighboring Negombo or Mount Lavinia.

Mount Lavinia


The beach at Dehiwala Mount Lavinia has beautiful name, but not too beautiful "picture". The place is not touristic. Although in the city you can find hotels, local travel agencies, rent a bike, water equipment - everything you need to get to know the island for the first time and live on it.

For the most part, they rest here locals that come from the capital of Colombo for weekends or holidays.

Dirty beach, muddy water, close location of the recreation area to the railway - you definitely shouldn't go here for a long time!

Wadduwa


Wadduwa beach

Wadduwa beach is loved by travel agencies - a large flow of Russian tourists is sent here. One of the reasons for such love is the proximity to the airport - about 40 km. The infrastructure is well developed here: the city can be reached by taxi, bus, train. In Wadduwa, there are a lot of hotels, guest houses, restaurants for every taste.

The beach is clean, the water is clean. Waves are present, although there are small areas where the "calm water".

Kalutara


Kalutara beach

Read more. Kalutara beach is conditionally divided into two zones: southern and northern. On the south side, the entry into the water is gentle, the depth can be felt sharply. This is especially unpleasant when the ocean is stormy (which happens often). If you do not know such a feature of the beach, then the wave can suddenly cover you with your head. Naturally, children should not go into the water without parental supervision.

On the north side, which happens to be unpopular with tourists, the ocean is calmer. And the entry into the water is not so steep.

The ocean in Kalutra is clear, pleasant temperature for swimming.

Conclusion: the northern part of Kalutara beach is ideal for relaxation!

Beruwala


Palm trees on the shore of Beruwala

Beruwala is one of the new resorts in Sri Lanka. Relatively recently, hotels and restaurants intended for tourists began to appear here. The village is growing, and with it the popularity of the settlement.

Rest in Beruwela is chosen by families with children - the ocean is calm and clean, there are no powerful waves. Light yellow sand without debris and stones. The path into the water is gentle.

Here, in fact, it is beautiful - a bright combination of rich colors: the sun, green palm trees, yellow coconuts, turquoise ocean, colorful fish in the ocean near coral reefs! Another plus is that turtles swim up to the shore several times a day. Reptiles in search of delicious algae, which tourists are happy to feed.

Ambalangoda


Beach at Ambalangoda

Usually, the city of Ambalangoda is not visited for the sake of a beach holiday. The beach here is small, and the ocean is restless. Moreover, neighboring Hikkaduwa, which can be quickly reached by bus, tuk-tuk or train, offers much more interesting entertainment.

Conclusion: neighboring Hikkaduwa wins.

Hikkaduwa


Hikkaduwa beach

Hikkaduwa Beach is one of the best in Sri Lanka! It has everything you need for a quality and interesting holiday. Hikkaduwa is an incredibly beautiful beach that stretches for several kilometers. Here you can not only lie on the sand or loungers, but also take surfing lessons, rent a board, get acquainted with the underwater world - diving, watch the fish in the coral reefs (you can see them with and without a mask), do yoga on the coast., go jogging or just enjoy a long walk along the miles of beautiful beach.


Turtle feeding (free entertainment)

In Hikkaduwa there is a bay behind a coral reef, which is suitable for swimming with children. She is located in National Reserve corals near the fish market. The entrance is free.

Conclusion: the perfect beach! Part of the beach (Narigama, Hikkaduwa) is surfing and swimming on the waves, the second part (Hikkaduwa, coral reef) is swimming with children, diving, snorkeling.

Halle


Embankment in Galle

If we talk about, then there are no suitable beaches for swimming. There is only a promenade near the Fort, which is pleasant to walk along in the morning or evening, when there is no scorching sun.

If you are talking about the beach in Galle, then we are most likely talking about Jungle Beach, which is located nearby. It also refers to the beaches of Unawatuna, as this village is located close to Galle.

Conclusion: there is no swimming beach in Galle.

Jungle Beach


Jungle Beach near Galle, Unawatuna

Jungle Beach can be reached by tuk-tuk or scooter from the city of Galle or the village of Unawatuna. From Unawatuna - 20 minutes walk.

The location of the beach is interesting - you need to go down to it along the road that runs through the jungle. The beach is clean, but there are stones on the sand and in the water. You should enter the water carefully, and it is better to see in advance where local or experienced travelers enter.

There are no waves.

Conclusion: Jungle Beach a good place for families with children, but you need to know where to enter the water.

Unawatuna


Wonderful located in a lagoon formed by a coral reef. The most beautiful place: clean light yellow sand strewn with small pebbles and shells, the ocean is calm - the waves are moderate. The beach is suitable for families with children.

Here you can go diving - look at the sunken ship and flocks of colorful fish, turtles. Ride a water scooter.

Conclusion: Unawatuna is suitable for families with children.

Koggala


Waves in Koggala

Detailed . Beautiful, uncrowded beach. There are no noisy bars and an abundance of restaurants on the coast. Therefore, Koggala will appeal to lovers of a relaxing holiday.

Strong waves favor surfing. Another of the water activities - diving with a mask, diving, fishing on poles.


Ahangama is a small village in the south of Sri Lanka. There are a small number of hotels and restaurants, so Ahangama is not very popular among tourists. Surf fans come here - powerful waves allow water sports lovers to enjoy 100%.

The beach is beautiful, no garbage, but the ocean is raging. Locals swim near the shore, where the water level is literally ankle-deep. Tourists swim away - crossing the zone of strong waves, the ocean is calmer there.

Conclusion: there are waves.

Weligama


Ocean in Weligama

Weligama is located a few kilometers from Ahangama. But the ocean here is strikingly different: Weligama beach is located in a bay, and is closed from the powerful current of the ocean. That is why there are no waves here. Feel free to go here on vacation with your children.

Mirissa


Beach in Mirissa

The beaches of Mirissa are very popular with tourists. The city has a well-developed infrastructure, crowded. In fact, a beautiful beach: tall coconut palms along the coast, a bright blue sky and a turquoise ocean, clean sand. The only negative is the main part of the ocean with waves.

Not far from Mirissa is a sandy spit. In this side, a bay has naturally formed in which there are no waves. Children enjoy swimming here.

Mirissa for children and family vacation.

Matara


Temple in the middle of the ocean in Matara

Matara is a large city in the south of Sri Lanka. The infrastructure is well developed here: Railway, hospitals, large stores (and even a shopping street), banks. However, beach holidays are not developed in Matara. Is it difficult to answer the question "why"? Perhaps the city lives at the expense of a different budget.

The beach is located near a coral reef, so there are no waves here. Swimming is mostly local, and even those - rarely. The Matara embankment is more suitable for pleasant, romantic walks and beautiful photos.

From Matara they go to swim and sunbathe in Tangalle, Dikwella, Mirissa.


Volleyball in Dikwella

Lovers of a relaxing holiday, hurry up to enjoy the silence and uncrowded Dikwella beach. There are rarely “package tourists” here. Moreover, there is only one large hotel and several guest houses on the coast, so you will definitely not see a large flow of tourists.

The beach is conditionally divided into two parts: on the one hand, a coral reef with an incredibly beautiful underwater world - there are no waves here, on the other hand, a wide beach with a strong current.

Unique place! Suitable for traveling with small children.

Of the minuses - the village of Dikwella is located far from the airport.

Tangalle


Palm grove in Tangalle

Big City The southern province of Tangalle, is located 35 km from Matara and 200 km from Colombo. Due to the considerable distance from the airport, the beaches of Tangalle are not oversaturated with tourists. Although there is something to see!

Out of season, for a few hours of walking, you will not meet a single person on the beach.

Tangalle Beach is an amazing picture, but it will be difficult to swim, because of the powerful waves. This resort will appeal to fans of morning and evening walks, jogging. There are incredible sunsets here. On the shore is more interesting than in the water.

Conclusion: not for children.


Hambantota, although located off the coast of the Indian Ocean, is not tourist resort. Travelers who want to get acquainted with famous natural attractions stop here: Yala Park, Udawalawe Park, Ussangoda, Kataragama temples, other resorts of the island.

Arugam Bay


Embankment in Arugam Bay

The city of Arugam Bay is a developed, tourist destination popular with travelers visiting the country during the summer months. July, August, September is the high season in this part of the island.

On the coast there are cafes, restaurants, budget guesthouses, luxury hotels. There are water equipment rentals. You can go surfing in Arugam Bay.

Amazingly clean and beautiful beach. Hangout place for surfers.

Arugam Bay Beach is child friendly. There is a calm lagoon where the waves are relatively "quiet". Locals swim here, as well as visiting families with children.


The large city of Kalmunai is still recovering from the 2004 tsunami and civil war which ended in 2009. The coastal zone is dirty - plastic garbage that is thrown ashore by the ocean current is rarely removed. From time to time, you can smell a fishy smell on the shore - there are a lot of fishing boats here, the unnecessary part of the catch is left to wait for its time on the sand.

If you are going to this side of the island of Sri Lanka, then it is better to drive a little further and stop at the beautiful beaches of Trincomalee.

Conclusion: not suitable for recreation.


Batticaloa is not considered a tourist destination. Although the fishing village is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, there is no beach holiday, as such. As in the case with the city of Kalmunai, it is better to go on vacation to Trincomalee or Pasikudhoo.

The beaches are calm and not crowded. On weekends and holidays, locals rest on the coast.

Ocean with waves.

Trincomalee


Coral reef in Trincomalee

Pearl of the northeast coast. The pristine beauty of the tropics! Beaches of unique beauty.

You can often find a description that Trincomalee is a sparsely populated resort. However, this is not the case - there are tourists here during the season, although not as much as in the popular Hikkaduwa or Mirissa.

The famous beaches of Trincomalee are Upuveli (4 km from the city) and Nilaveli (12 km from the city).

Upeveli is a beach where there are no waves! Pure, fine sand, the ocean is also crystal clear, a pleasant bright blue color, the water temperature is ideal.

There are also no waves on the beaches of Nilaveli, the entrance to the water is gentle. The bulk of vacationers are locals who visit the beaches on weekends and on holidays. Beautiful, clean, uncrowded.

Conclusion: a wonderful place to stay with children.

Sri Lanka beaches on a map without waves

The beaches of Sri Lanka without waves are only in those places where the water area is surrounded by a coral reef. Or in naturally formed lagoons.


List of beaches without waves - read more detailed review here:
  1. Maravila
  2. Kalutara (northern part)
  3. Beruwala
  4. Hikkaduwa
  5. Jungle Beach
  6. Unawatuna
  7. Weligama
  8. Mirissa
  9. Trincomalee

Season and weather when to go

The southern and western part of the island is happy to welcome guests of the island from mid-late November to mid-late April. Ideally - December, January, February. The air temperature in the season, on average, is 30C. Water - 28C.

The eastern and northern parts are characterized by good weather in the spring and summer months - March, July, June, August, early September. The most popular resorts in this part of the island are Trincomalee, Arogam Bay.

Dirty Beaches You Shouldn't Go To

List of beaches where you should not stay for a long time:

  1. Matara
  2. Colombo
  3. Mount Lavinia (for 1-2 days)
  4. Negombo (as a waypoint)

The beaches of Sri Lanka, according to travelers and vacationers, are among the top ten for tourism in winter. White sandy beaches, bright, hot sun, relaxation under the shade of palm branches, the purest azure water., incredible exotic landscapes. Fans of exotic, recreation and tourism are waiting for a lot of beaches, leisure, nature of extraordinary beauty. This is truly a piece of paradise that everyone should discover.

Bentota

Fans of active tourism, diving, surfing and other water sports will find perfect place relaxing on Benkota beach. In addition, newlyweds from all over the world tend to come here to spend an unforgettable honeymoon in a memorable romantic atmosphere. Wealthy people often come to sleep in this resort to make the holiday unforgettable.

9

Vaduwa is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. Sandy beaches, palm trees, blue azure water, palm trees that give a pleasant cool shade. Comfortable hotels, sports for every taste: tennis, golf, football. Diving has become a popular pastime for tourists. When diving, you can see the rich and colorful world of exotic fish and marine plants that have equipped their homes in sunken ships.

In addition to diving, there are other water sports sports: surfing, sailing. Or you can go on a calm, romantic boat trip through the canals to contemplate the beauties of the local fauna. Fans of cultural and educational tourism will like local attractions - this is the Buddhist temple of Gangatilaka Vihara in Kalutara or the city of fishermen Hambantotu.

8

Beruvella - the most prestigious and premium beach resort. Here you will find only five-star hotels, expensive restaurants and high quality service. Truly heavenly pictures open up on the local beaches, which stretch for as much as 100 km.

White sand, the purest azure water, which, due to pleasant climatic conditions always warm and, thanks to the favorable relief, always calm, without high waves and storms. The beaches are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay: umbrellas, sun loungers, tables where you can always find juicy, ripe fruits that refresh and quench your thirst during a beach holiday.

Many hotels have spas and various wellness centers. Rich families from Russia, India, and the Netherlands like to stay in Beruwella. Why India and the Netherlands? Yes, because Ceylon was once a Dutch colony. And Russians just love a pleasant holiday with a soul.

7

Negombo is a place where you can always catch a wave, the sea is rough most of the time, it is a welcome spot for kite surfers. On the long picturesque coast there are comfortable hotels for every taste, where vacationers are offered various services and entertainment both on land and on water.

6

Arugam Bay - Huge sandy beach and one of the most popular surf resorts. However, for beginners and inexperienced swimmers, this is an ideal place to study and train.

For other vacationers, this is an occasion to try something new, as well as visit an amazing corner of nature where you can see extraordinary flora and fauna, namely exotic jungles with secluded corners and numerous lakes, or you can watch wild elephants from Crocodile Rock. This place is famous for its pleasant climate and low rainfall, so the weather can not overshadow your holiday. .

5

Hikkaduwa is a joy for surfers, a thrill for tourists, as this place is characterized by high waves. However, the beach can be divided into zones where there is big waves, and where you can safely swim and enjoy swaying on the waves.

Or you can find fishing boats and try your luck at fishing by catching fish for dinner with your own hands. Soft golden sand, clear azure water and an unforgettable holiday experience await you.

4

Dikwella is the perfect place for a romantic, secluded, unforgettable honeymoon trip for honeymooners. Idyll, beauty and harmony await lovers. The picturesque, heavenly beach stretches for 3 km. Golden and soft sand, coolness from the shade of palm branches, the pleasure of swimming in the pleasant, clear blue water on the western part of the beach.

For lovers of adrenaline, risk and thrills, the central part is suitable, where you can catch your big wave. The eastern part of the beach is rocky, but nevertheless it is distinguished by the beauty of wild and unbridled nature. Picturesque bays will awaken your imagination and give you aesthetic pleasure with their views.

There are no huge hotels in the village of the same name, but this is not a minus, as there are guesthouses and a small cozy hotel complex that welcomes tourists. Great gastronomic pleasure will be delivered to you by local cafes, where delicious and healthy dishes are prepared from seafood.

3

Tangale - famous resort, but it has not received wide distribution among tourists, so the beaches are not strewn with vacationers, you can always find space and solitude. In addition, it will allow you to enjoy the heavenly sea views, exotic vegetation, the sounds of waves, birds, wind.

This resort is not suitable for active people who are eager to swim in the ocean, but this place is very attractive for surfers, because there are constantly waves, perhaps the biggest on the entire south coast.

If you love peace beautiful views, relaxation, solitude with nature or surfing, then this resort is perfect for you. There is no tourist town in this resort, but there are small hotels. There are not so many restaurants and cafes, but to satisfy the needs of vacationers and give them pleasure with delicious food and good service can.

2

Mirissa is one of the three best beaches in Sri Lanka. White sand, blue, azure water, snow-white sand, lush green palm trees along the entire coast, creating a pleasant cool shade during a hot day, it is also very pleasant to take walks along the coast under these palm trees, admiring nature and ocean views.

During the walk you can reach two bays, where there are no strong waves, and there is a very picturesque nature and the sea. This whole territory is bounded on both sides by hills, entirely composed of iron ore. Immediately behind them is a village, or rather, it is cut through in these hills and has a red color due to iron.

Mirissa is very beautiful, there is snow-white sand, palm trees hang over the ocean, it is green along the entire coast. The beach begins and ends with hills, as if limiting the territory. The resort has hotels, in a bay with a calm sea, prices are higher than in other parts.

1

Unawatuna is one of the top 10 beaches in the world according to the Discovery Channel. completes the ranking of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. According to the Discovery Channel, this beach is one of the "top ten" best in the world. However, there are no large tourist complexes and expensive hotels in this place.

Most vacationers come here for at least a month. This is a great place to stay with family and children. Soft sandy beaches, safe for swimming, without strong currents, sharp deep holes, the entrance to the water is smooth. IN holiday season There are a lot of tourists, however, the infrastructure is not particularly developed.

Everything you need for a beach holiday is there. But the place still leaves a feeling wild beach". When tourists began to explore this "wild place", but it can still be mastered and mastered, discovering all the new beauties and amenities of this place.


The beaches of Sri Lanka are among the most famous. In this article, we will look at the most best beaches Sri Lanka, which are very popular with tourists, as well as what kind of sea is in Sri Lanka and where is the best place to relax on the island? Where is the best place to relax on the island, and what popular resorts and beaches can we choose?

Hikkaduwa is the best place for divers and adherents of club life. This is a beautiful large beach where diving enthusiasts can enjoy sunken ships. On the beach there are courses for beginner divers. The corals in Hikkaduwa are among the most beautiful in all of Asia. Hikkaduwa is also considered a favorite place for surfers.

Unawatuna is known for its beautiful semi-circular beach, which in 2004 was named the best in the world by the Discovery Channel. Swimming in the blue lagoon of the ocean is pleasant and safe, as the depth is only 6 meters and therefore, throughout the year you can swim here. Divers will find here the best and most amazing coral reefs, many bizarre fish and shipwrecks. A photo of this beach is shown below.

Nilaveli is located east coast islands 240 kilometers from Colombo. This is a natural harbor, which according to many travel agencies, is one of the best in the world. This beach is also considered the best for diving and surfing. This beach is known for its white sand and clear sea. Tours to this resort are among the most popular.

Negombo- the famous beach, which is located near the city of the same name, it is washed by the Laccadive Sea. It is known for its fresh seafood. This also affects tourism services, as delicacies such as squid, shrimp and lobster at the most affordable prices can be tasted in local restaurants and cafes. Negombo is one of the beaches of Sri Lanka, which has rich history, since during the colonization by Holland, fortresses and churches were built here, which have survived to this day.

Colombo- this is not only the unofficial capital of the island of Sri Lanka, but also the cultural "Mecca" of the island. There are practically no beaches here, so tourists go to nearby cities (Bentosa, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Kalutara, etc.).

Mirissa is considered the calmest, best and most beautiful beach on the coast of the Indian Ocean. This is a small beach that has a romantic atmosphere and tranquility. There is no a large number hotels (there are only about 10 of them), their size is small and they are designed for people who go on vacation on their own. You can find a description of the coastline of the coast of Mirissa on our website.

Koggala is interesting for its beautiful lake, which stretches along the line of the entire beach for several kilometers. This beach is located on the southwest coast of Ceylon.

Kalutara- This is a fairly wide coastal strip, which is covered with coarse yellow sand. For vacationers on Kalatura beach, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. Also on the territory of the beach area there is a small cafe with local cuisine. You can get here by bus or train.

His coastline located 40 kilometers from Colombo. This resort is located on the Kalu-Ganga River, which means "Black River" In the distant past, Kalutara was the main center of the spice trade. Today, this city is a modern resort with great opportunities for various sports and for a beach holiday. It is suitable for windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing, diving, spearfishing, etc.

Beruwala- This is a beach located in an ancient Sri Lankan city, which was founded by Arab traders in the 8th century. Here is one of the oldest mosques of the island - Kechimalai. Beruwala is a fairly young and rapidly developing resort. Behind last years the most modern hotels were built here, shops were improved, the tourism zone was improved. Beruvella is located at the very beginning of a long 130 km beach, which stretches along the entire southwestern part of the island. There are practically no waves here, so you can relax with children and swim without waves here all year round. The swimming season here lasts 12 months a year. That is why many people want to come to this resort, because here you can relax with your children.

Bentota is the most beautiful and romantic resort of the island of Sri Lanka, which is located in the southwest of the island, in the Galle region, on the coast of the Bentota Ganga River, which flows into the Indian Ocean. Bentosa got its name from the legend of a demon named Beem, who ruled the banks of this river. Bentota has its own airport, a turtle sanctuary, and the ancient ruins of a Buddhist temple from the 12th century. The resort is also valuable for its delicious palm wine and opportunities for diving and surfing.

Bentota is the most favorite honeymoon beach. There are many four and five-star hotels that offer the highest quality service, and many kilometers of sparsely populated beaches - a relaxing holiday and comfort. Beginning divers choose it, as the sea or ocean here offers the most transparent water and picturesque coral reefs.

An unforgettable experience and a flurry of emotions will give a visit to Sri Lanka, a country rich in clean and calm beaches with white sand, coconut palms. This country is fully capable of satisfying all the needs of even the most demanding tourist: there are all conditions for an ideal beach holiday.

There are ancient cities in Sri Lanka, rich in the most amazing temples and other objects cultural heritage. Nature will not leave indifferent both children and adults - waterfalls, mountains covered with green forests, endless tea plantations. But today we will talk about the beaches of Sri Lanka, of which there are an amazing number. If some resorts such as Unawatuna are on everyone's lips, then many will read the names of others for the first time.

The best beaches in Sri Lanka

All resorts of the island can be divided into two categories:

  • Popular with tourists, where it is always fun and crowded. They are located in the west and east of Sri Lanka.
  • Secluded quiet places in the east of the country, where there are not so many tourists, but the underwater world fascinates with bizarre forms.

What are the beaches of Sri Lanka are very popular with tourists from all over the world?

Most Popular Resorts

This beach is located 38 km from the capital of Colombo and is the closest in relation to international airport(only 15 km). It is very popular among tourists due to its convenient location. Among the advantages of the resort we name the following:

Due to these features, Negombo is the most popular place for a good but short vacation. Therefore, those tourists who have compiled an extensive program for themselves, including visits to ancient cities and excursions, must allocate 2-3 days to get acquainted with resort vacation Sri Lanka.

Unawatuna beach

This is a good and popular resort located 160 km from the airport. This is a beautiful picturesque place where there are a lot of tourists, while Unawatuna large sizes is not different. The resort is located in a small lagoon and is surrounded by a coral reef that protects it from the ocean. Therefore, the waters here are calm, but there are no waves - they break on the reef. That is why Unawatuna is a very popular resort.

Unawatuna is an ideal place for a family vacation, as its western part is quite shallow. The abundance of hotels of various price ranges, family guesthouses, restaurants, souvenir shops - these are the additional advantages of this place. Those who have visited this resort recommend that you definitely try the local fish - on Unawatuna it is fresh and amazingly tasty. Nearby are the cultural attractions of Sri Lanka:

Wadduwa beach

This resort, popular with tourists, is located 40 km from the capital. Its advantages include extensive network hotels of various price ranges. Here everyone will meet the highest level of service and comfortable rooms. There is nothing better for a beach holiday.

Bentota

It is the most developed resort in Sri Lanka, where there is an abundance of restaurants, hotels, spas, and there is an opportunity to go diving. The resort is located 100 km from the airport and away from the highway with heavy traffic, so cleanliness and comfort reign here. The beach is long and wide, with fine white sand, the ocean is calm here, there are few vacationers, so this place will be ideal for a romantic trip for a couple in love. Amazing nature here it is preserved in almost all its original glory.

The Bentota resort is also suitable for families with kids: there are many hotels equipped with their own pools, and there are almost no waves on the ocean.

Comfortable island resorts

The island has not only large resorts such as Unawatuna, but also less well-known, but no less convenient beaches for business people.

The beaches of Sri Lanka, which are described in this material, are not only beautiful, but also convenient for tourists. So, the advantages of Weligam include:

Mount Lavinia beach

It is a city beach located in the suburbs of the capital of the island of Sri Lanka, Colombo. This resort is one of the most ancient, but mostly locals gather on the beach, there are few tourists here.

You should not choose this beach for relaxation purposefully, because the sand here is yellow, in the off-season weather leaves much to be desired, and storms bring an abundance of garbage to land. However, the resort is located close to the city, so it often becomes a real salvation for those who come to Sri Lanka on business.

Beaches for youth recreation

This is an ideal place for youth recreation. The features of the resort are:

Interestingly, the Hikkaduwa resort combines two beaches: one is for surfing, there are big waves; the second is for swimming, the ocean is calm here.

In Sri Lanka (the photo of the beaches clearly illustrates this), a reverse current is often observed, so even with the calmest ocean, care must be taken.

Arugam Bay beach

This is a real paradise for surfers. There are a lot of hotels and cafes here. You can live in a bungalow or a bamboo hut on the shore, saving at the same time. The main part of the inhabitants of the resort are surfers.

This is a genuine pearl of the island of Sri Lanka, the photos of which are fascinating. Features of the resort are very attractive for vacationers:

However, the resort has several disadvantages:

  • Strong waves.
  • Poorly developed infrastructure, so often vacationers have to pay a larger amount for accommodation and meals than in other resorts.

Sri Lanka beaches for a relaxing holiday

Maravila

This is an open resort 36 km from the airport, calm and uncrowded, with white fine sand. An ideal place for a romantic getaway for two or honeymoon. Not far from the resort there are several 2-3 * hotels, but in general the infrastructure is poorly developed.

Beach

Its length is almost 1.5 km. It is distinguished by picturesque beauty and a good hotel zone. There are cafes and bars not far from the beach, but there are so few of them that fans of noise and incendiary discos will be disappointed. But fans of a relaxing holiday will be very comfortable here.

Important! The cleanest is the northern part of the resort, and in the immediate vicinity of the Bentota Ganga river, garbage can be washed ashore.




This is an open beach 80 km from the airport, not crowded and calm, it is always clean and light sand. The infrastructure is poorly developed, but there are several comfortable 3-4 * hotels, so the place is considered an excellent option for a relaxing package holiday.

An open white sand beach with a length of just under 3 km. It is very clean here, the entrance to the ocean is gentle, resting a little, so Induruva will be an excellent option for a relaxing family vacation.

The tourist infrastructure is very weak, but there are still several 3-4 * hotels in the resort.

This is a very calm beach, where there are practically no waves and very few tourists, so relaxing here with the whole family is a real pleasure. The length of 3.5 km, clean light sand, a smooth transition to the depth - these are the features of the beach.

Sri Lanka, the best resorts of which we have reviewed above, is an ideal place for any holiday. You can arrange a real romantic trip by visiting a deserted beach, or you can go to the beach with a group of friends and go surfing. There are also calm beaches for families with the youngest travelers. In the photo you can see what it is Amazing places visits that are sure to be remembered for a long time.

Review the best resorts and beaches of Sri Lanka: map, description, season, pros and cons. Find out where the best beach holiday on the island is!

There are many wonderful resorts in Sri Lanka with good beaches and well-developed infrastructure. In this review, you will learn about the most popular resorts and beaches in Sri Lanka. We will talk about a beach holiday in Sri Lanka: what each resort is good for, how to spend time on vacation and when is the best time to go on vacation.

Map of resorts and beaches of Sri Lanka

List of the best resorts in Sri Lanka

Negombo is closer than other resorts to Colombo Airport - the distance to it is about 30 km. This is very convenient for tourists who have undergone a long flight. The place is more famous for its fishing conditions than for its beach holidays: coastal waters abound in a large number of fish, their migration period falls on a high tourist season. The Big Seafood Market is one of Negombo's most famous attractions. Negombo has reefs, which makes the place popular among divers.

Beach holidays in Negombo are mediocre: the water is muddy, some parts of the coast are occupied by fishermen, where they lay out gear and dry the fish. There are few umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as water activities, the only exception is expensive hotels.

Nevertheless, Negombo is considered one of the best resorts in Sri Lanka due to the comfortable swimming beaches that stretch along Lewis Place. In addition, there is an optimal choice of accommodation and many photogenic fishermen and beautiful landscapes.

Negombo can be visited all year round, but it is very damp in May and October - November.

(Photo © ronsaunders47 / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0)

Hikkaduwa is located 100 km from Colombo and is the leader in attendance. Divers, surfers, snorkelers, youth and family people come here. Water activities and modest night life made Hikkaduwa the busiest and best resort in Sri Lanka.

Here are the longest beaches in Sri Lanka and many hotels of different categories. The beaches are ideal for surfing - almost always a strong wave. Early in the morning, huge turtles appear near the shore, which are so accustomed to people that they take treats right from their hands.

In the center of Hikkaduwa there is a coral park where you can ride a boat with a transparent bottom or go snorkeling, order a boat trip. There are several Buddhist temples in Hikkaduwa, the most famous and popular among them is located on a small island. Entrance to the temples is free, not counting the fare. Excursions to the mines are popular with vacationers, where precious stones are mined that you can buy.

The best time to visit Hikkaduwa is from November to April.

Wadduwa is located 35 km from Colombo. In this Sri Lankan resort you will find golden sandy beaches, coconut palms, diving centers, sailboats, surfing and other entertainment. During the dives, you can see the remains of sunken ships. Tennis courts and golf courses are specially equipped for vacationers. All hotels are comfortable.

Fans of excursions will not be bored - they can visit neighboring Kalutara with the Buddhist temple of Gangatilaka Vihara and the fishermen's town of Hambantotu, take a boat trip along the canals and capture local beauties.

The best time for an active and beach holiday in this resort is from October to March.

(Photo © Hash Milhan / flickr.com / CC BY 2.0)

The village of Bentota is located south of Colombo - 65 km (2 hours drive), between the mouth of the river of the same name and the ocean. It is considered the elite and best resort of Sri Lanka, a favorite beach holiday destination for romantics and those who seek solitude.

Here the largest number of comfortable hotels, sparsely populated clean beaches and the lush nature of the jungle, the famous mangrove forests grow in this area. The resort offers a lot of entertainment for its guests - sea and river fishing, an exciting safari on the river with crocodiles, excursions to a turtle farm, yacht trips and much more. For lovers of diving there is a center.

The best time for a beach holiday in Bentota is from October to April.

(Photo © lola media / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Small resort village Unawatuna is located 120 km from Colombo. Once it was a fishing village, now the rapidly developing resort is only slightly inferior in popularity to Hikkaduwa and Bentota.

This place is especially loved by tourists who have a rest on their own - the resort has many guesthouses at an affordable price. The main advantage of Unawatuna is the calm water in the ocean. Central Beach is located in a bay, and coral reefs protect from strong waves, so they are happy to relax here with children.

The entire tourism infrastructure has been created. Vacationers can go diving or snorkeling, excursion lovers can visit neighboring resort- Galle. But this place is not for solitude: the beaches of Unawatuna can be quite crowded.

The best time to visit is from December to April. Too rainy in May and October-November.

(Photo © iris0327 / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Due to their remoteness from the airport, the resorts of the northeast coast of Sri Lanka are less popular than those of the southwest. Nevertheless, Trincomalee is considered one of the best resorts in Sri Lanka and the most beautiful place islands: here is a deep-sea bay, discovered at one time by Admiral Nelson. Trincomalee itself is unique in terms of architecture - there are Muslim buildings, Buddhist and Hindu temples. You can get there by night train from Colombo (9 hours on the way) or by bus (7 hours).

According to some vacationers, the beaches of Trincomalee are the best in all of Sri Lanka. The rest is calm, there is little entertainment here, the infrastructure is still under development, most hotels are inexpensive, bars and restaurants of the same level.

The natural beauty of this place is surprising - tall palm trees and lemurs walking free. Not far from the coast - a coral island, which was chosen by divers and snorkelers, a few kilometers away are hot springs.

It is best to plan a trip from March to August, as it is too rainy in November-December.

(Photo © Images of Sri Lanka - Sequential Shots / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0)

List of the best beaches in Sri Lanka

All the beaches of the island are sandy, many of them are surrounded by coconut palms and other tropical plants. The best beaches in Sri Lanka are located on the southwest coast and are not too far from each other.

Bentota Beach

The most famous beach on the island, and according to numerous reviews of enthusiastic tourists, it is also one of the best for a beach holiday. It is here that newlyweds prefer to spend their honeymoon. A wide coastal strip, palm trees, complete privacy - these are the main advantages of this place.

Great place and almost complete lack of infrastructure. Since the beach is quite far from Colombo (5 hours by bus), it is visited by single tourists or those who have taken independent trip around the island.

(Photo © That Guy,Will / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Unawatuna Beach is located in the village of the same name. The coastal strip is not as wide as in Bentota, but the calm waters off the coast make it extremely attractive. The sand is very fine and clean, part of the territory is occupied by cafes and hotels, the rest is available for swimming and water activities. There is shallow water for swimming with kids.

Hikkaduwa Beach

The longest beach line in Sri Lanka. Orange sand and turquoise water, along the line - numerous cafes and guesthouses. Strong waves have made this place a favorite place for surfers, but there are relatively calm areas - near the Chaaya Tranz hotel. There are no sun loungers, there is enough shade from palm trees, many people come there to swim with their children. Thanks to all this, Hikkaduwa Beach is considered to be the best places for a beach holiday in Sri Lanka.

The Tangalle beach complex has long and stubbornly been included in the lists of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. This is the perfect place for a solitary holiday: you can walk a mile and not meet a single person. Any accommodation can be found. You can get to the place by bus from Colombo (6 hours).

(Photo © Šejba / flickr.com / License CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

It is difficult to predict where and who will like it more. Sri Lanka is still an amazing island, where every place deserves special attention and admiration, so it’s quite difficult to make a list of the best resorts and beaches in Sri Lanka that claims to be objective. However, we hope that our review will help you decide on the choice of a place to stay and you will have a great time.

Intro image source: © Dhammika Heenpella / Images of Sri Lanka / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.