Sri Lanka is a tiny teardrop-shaped island just south of the Indian subcontinent. This small island country is surrounded by seawater, meaning it has a coastal line all around. Sri Lanka has an abundance of beautiful beaches. So, whether you travel to Sri Lanka to hike hills, enjoy a wildlife safari, visit tea plantations, or soak in historical sites, at least a day at a beautiful beach is a must.
From the east coast to the west coast, numerous beautiful white sand beaches in Sri Lanka are spread along the country’s coastline. Each beach is different from each other and offers something different to the travelers. In the southern part of the country, beaches are busy, crowded and for luxury holidays. While in the eastern part, you will find beaches perfect for surfing. If you go further north, you will find beaches famous for marine life and snorkeling. In this blog, I will share the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. Here they are:
1. Unawatuna Beach – The Relaxation Haven
- Famous for: Calm Water, Coral Reef and Golden Sand.
- Nearest Town: Unawatuna.
Just five kilometers southeast of Galle, Unawatuna Beach is the first in the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. It is also the most popular and famous among the locals and tourists, so it is crowded and busy. The water is calm here, suitable for swimming even for children, and the golden sand is also clean. The beach is shaped like a horseshoe and stretches 1 kilometer. It is also perfect for snorkeling in the coral reef near the beach.
There are some bars and restaurants beside the beach where you can enjoy your happy hour cocktails or have lunch or dinner with freshly grilled seafood by the beach. There are also plenty of hotels, guesthouses, homestays and Air B&Bs from budget to luxury available around the beach, so it is easy to access from nearby accommodations. If you like to relax on the beach, have fine dining by the beach, or enjoy your drink, this is the perfect beach for you. This beach offers everything to a solo backpacker, a luxury traveler, or a family.
Where to stay near Unawatuna Beach
Thaproban Beach House: The hotel is by the beach, and the views from the hotel are fantastic. The rooms are spacious and equipped with luxury amenities. The food is also great in the restaurant.
2. Mirissa Beach – Whale-Watching Paradise
- Famous for: Whale and Dolphin watching.
- Nearest Town: Mirissa.
Mirissa Beach is second in the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka and one of the most beautiful. With its golden sands bordered by swaying coconut and palm trees, its clear water and lively waves make it perfect for swimming and surfing. It is also ideal for learning to surf and snorkeling with turtles. Mirissa is mainly famous as a whale-watching paradise, attracting nature enthusiasts from around the globe. Between November and April, the waters off Mirissa become a migratory pathway for majestic blue whales, sperm whales, and playful pods of dolphins. The calm seas during this season make it an ideal place for spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Several tour operators in the area provide guided excursions, ensuring a responsible and eco-friendly whale-watching experience.
At the end of the beach, there is Parrot Rock, a small rock island 50 feet away. It has the best view of Mirissa Beach. But I recommend you go there in the evening and watch the sunset from there; it’s a fantastic view. The beach becomes lively after dark as all the restaurants and bars are lit with fairy lights. From swimming in the clear water, learning how to surf or marveling at the world’s largest mammals, Mirissa offers a perfect blend of serenity and excitement.
Where to stay near Mirissa Beach
Paradise Beach Club: This hotel is close to the beach and has excellent views. The rooms are spacious and equipped with luxury amenities. This hotel has a pool. The restaurant serves good food.
3. Arugam Bay – Surfer’s Dream
- Famous for: World-class surfing spot.
- Nearest Town: Pottuvil.
Arugam Bay Beach is the most popular beach in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka and the number one surf beach in Sri Lanka. It also hosts international surfing competitions, conclusively putting it on the list of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. This crescent-shaped bay offers consistently excellent waves, making it heaven for surfers. The best time to surf in Arugam Bay is between April and October. If you want to surf but don’t have a board, you can rent it at the beach.
It has several different beautiful surf spots. Elephant Rock is a fun spot and great for morning and evening surf. It is also great for beginners and intermediates with its sandy bottom and 2—to 4-foot waves.
Lighthouse Surf Point is the most northerly spot, just outside the small village and Lagoon of Komari. It is suitable for experienced surfers.
Pottuvil Point is another lovely spot for intermediate surfers with shorter rides; however, it can be inconsistent.
Peanut Farm, 20 minutes from Arugam Bay, is another fun and popular spot for beginner and advanced surfers.
There are two main spots within the Arugam Bay core: Baby Point and Main Point. Baby Point is for beginners, and Main Point is for intermediate and pro surfers.
The beach is more than just a surfer’s retreat; its laid-back vibe, golden sands, and turquoise waters provide the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Besides surfing, there are other things that you can do in Arugam Bay, like visiting the Kudumbigala Monastery, which was built in 246 BC. You can also explore Kumana National Park, which is famous for its birdwatching and wildlife, or the ancient Muhudu Maha Viharaya temple.
Where to stay near Arugam Bay Beach
Jetwing Surf: One of the most luxurious hotels in this area, with individual sea view cabanas, a private beach, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
4. Bentota Beach – Luxury and Watersports
- Famous for: Water adventure.
- Nearest Town: Bentota.
Bentota Beach, located on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, is a paradise for beach lovers seeking tranquility and adventure. It is one of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka and is famous for its golden sand, clear turquoise waters and stretched shoreline. The calm seas during the dry season make Bentota a hotspot for snorkeling, jet skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides.
Bentota is not just about its beaches; it’s also famous for the scenic Bentota Ganga River. It offers boat safaris in this beautiful river through the mangrove forest. You can also explore the Brief Garden, a beautifully landscaped property designed by renowned artist Bevis Bawa, or visit Galapatha Purana Raja Maha Viharaya. This ancient Buddhist temple lies close to the Bentota River. You can also see the Kande Viharaya, a well-known 18th-century Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re looking for adventure, a romantic getaway, or a peaceful retreat, Bentota Beach is perfect for you.
Where to stay near Bentota Beach
Several luxury hotels, such as Taz Bentota, Cinnamon Bentota Beach, EKHO Surf Bentota, and Thaala Bentota, are clustered along the shoreline of Bentota Beach.
5. Nilaveli Beach – Untouched Serenity
- Famous for: Relaxation and photography.
- Nearest Town: Trincomalee.
If you want a getaway from a busy life and need a quiet and serene beach to relax with no crowd, this is the perfect choice for you. This is why this beach is one of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. Nilaveli Beach is one of the best beaches in eastern Sri Lanka. The beach is famous for its soft white sand and clear blue waters, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and fun. The calm waves are ideal for swimming, and you can often find colorful fish near the shore.
One of the highlights of visiting Nilaveli Beach is the opportunity to take a short boat ride to Pigeon Island. This small island is home to beautiful coral reefs and various marine life, including turtles and reef sharks, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling and diving. Coconut palm trees surround the beach, adding to its tropical charm. You can also enjoy fresh seafood from the local restaurants nearby. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore underwater wonders, or enjoy a peaceful day by the sea, Nilaveli Beach offers a serene and picturesque escape.
Where to stay near Nilaveli Beach
Nilaveli Beach Hotel: This Hotel is on Nilaveli Beach. It offers ocean-view rooms with all the luxury amenities. It also has a pool and a beachfront restaurant with good food.
6. Hikkaduwa Beach – Vibrant and Lively
- Famous for: Party vibe and Coral reefs.
- Nearest Town: Hikkaduwa.
Hikkaduwa Beach is one of the lively and colorful destinations on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka and is also one of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. It is known for its golden sandy shores and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The beach offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, where you can see beautiful corals and various tropical fish. Surfing is also a major attraction here, with waves perfect for beginners and experienced surfers.
You’ll find many beachside restaurants and bars serving delicious seafood and refreshing drinks along the beach. The town has shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. Hikkaduwa Beach comes alive at night with music and parties, creating a fun and festive atmosphere. Every year in July, an Internal Music Fest is arranged in Hikkaduwa Beach, where musicians and DJs from around the globe participate. This fest lasts 5 days and is a fantastic event for the tourists and locals. For those who enjoy adventure and relaxation, Hikkaduwa Beach is an ideal destination that offers exciting activities and the chance to unwind by the sea.
Where to stay near Hikkaduwa Beach
Coral Sands Hotel: This Hotel is also on the beach. It offers ocean-view rooms and has two swimming pools and a beachfront restaurant with good food.
7. Tangalle Beach – Hidden Gem
- Famous for: Quiet, secluded ambiance and Natural Rock Pools.
- Nearest Town: Tangalle.
Tangalle Beach in Sri Lanka is a serene and picturesque spot on the island’s southern coast and one of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. This beach is known for its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and clear blue waters. The waves here can be more assertive, making it an excellent place for beachcombing and enjoying the natural beauty. It’s less crowded than other tourist beaches, offering a peaceful escape for those looking to relax and unwind. You can stroll along the shore, bask in the sun, or listen to the soothing sound of the waves. Tangalle Beach is also a great place to watch the sunset, with the sky turning beautiful shades of orange and pink.
Nearby, there are charming guesthouses and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local seafood and fresh tropical fruits. If you’re up for an adventure, you can explore the nearby rock formations and hidden coves. Tangalle Beach is perfect for those who love nature and want a tranquil beach experience.
Where to stay near Tangalle Beach
Serein Beach Hotel: This hotel is on the beachfront, simple, and quiet. It offers ocean-view rooms with all basic amenities. The hotel also has a swimming pool and a restaurant with good food.
8. Uppuveli Beach – Calm and Unspoiled
- Famous for: Snorkeling, swimming and relaxing.
- Nearest Town: Trincomalee.
Uppuveli Beach is a peaceful and inviting on the island’s northeastern coast. The beach is known for its soft golden sands and calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. That’s why it is on the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka. The gentle waves are ideal for families with children; you can often see small fishing boats anchored nearby. One of the best things about Uppuveli Beach is its laid-back atmosphere, where you can unwind and escape from busy city life.
You can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, enjoy the beautiful sunrise, or sit under the shade of a palm tree and read a book. The beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling, as the waters are home to colorful fish and marine life. Nearby, you’ll find cozy guesthouses and beachside cafes offering delicious local dishes and fresh seafood. Uppuveli Beach is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience Sri Lanka’s coastline’s natural beauty and tranquility.
Where to stay near Uppuveli Beach
Trinco Blu by Cinnamon: This luxurious 4-star beachfront resort offers ocean-view rooms with all modern amenities. It also has a swimming pool and a beachfront restaurant with delicious food.
9. Passikudah Beach – Shallow Waters Galore
- Famous for: Snorkeling, swimming and relaxing.
- Nearest Town: Kalkudah.
Passikudah Beach is one of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka and is a true paradise on the island’s eastern coast. The beach is famous for its shallow, turquoise waters, ideal for wading and swimming. You can walk out quite far into the ocean with the water only reaching your waist, making it perfect for families with children and those who aren’t strong swimmers. The soft, white sands are ideal for sunbathing and building sandcastles. Passikudah Beach is also great for water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing, and you can even try sailing.
The area is dotted with luxurious resorts and cozy guesthouses, providing plenty of accommodation options. The nearby coral reefs make for excellent snorkeling and diving spots where you can see vibrant marine life up close. Passikudah Beach offers a relaxing and scenic getaway with plenty of activities to entertain everyone. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore underwater wonders, or enjoy the calm and beautiful surroundings, Passikudah Beach is a fantastic destination.
Where to stay near Passikudah Beach
Several luxury hotels, such as Anantaya Resort and Spa, Sun Siyam Pasikudah, Uga Bay, Amaya Beach, Anilana Pasikuda, and Breeze Pasikudah, are clustered along the shoreline in Bentota Beach.
10. Weligama Beach – For Surfing Beginners
- Famous for: Learning to surf and sandy shoreline.
- Nearest Town: Weligama.
The last of the top 10 beaches in Sri Lanka, but not the least, is Weligama Beach. It is a charming destination on the island’s southern coast. It’s known for its long stretch of sandy shoreline and gentle waves, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and water activities. The beach is particularly famous for surfing, and it’s a wonderful place for beginners to learn, thanks to the consistent, easy-to-ride waves. You’ll often see local surf schools offering lessons right on the beach. The shallow waters also make it a fun and safe place for swimming.
Weligama, which means “sandy village” in Sinhalese, lives up to its name with beautiful, soft sands. The beachfront is lined with palm trees, adding to the tropical atmosphere. You can take a leisurely walk along the shore, collect seashells, or enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Nearby, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants serving delicious local and international dishes, perfect for grabbing a bite after a day in the sun. There’s also a lively market where you can shop for souvenirs and fresh produce. Weligama Beach is a wonderful place to unwind, learn to surf, and soak in the laid-back vibe of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Where to stay near Weligama Beach
W15 Weligama: W15 Weligama is a luxurious 4-star beachfront hotel with bay-view rooms and modern amenities. It has an outdoor swimming pool and an in-house restaurant with good food.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka is a true paradise for beach lovers. With coastline all around, it has some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the world. Each beach has a unique charm and appeal, from the serene Nilaveli Beach to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Hikkaduwa. Whether you’re seeking water sports adventure, peaceful relaxation, or unforgettable marine encounters, Sri Lanka’s top 10 beaches have something for everyone.
So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and embark on an adventure to explore these incredible beaches. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, the beaches of Sri Lanka promise unforgettable memories and a true escape to paradise.
