When you think of Sri Lanka, before the tea fields and temples, it is above all the beaches that come to mind because there is no shortage of them! Golden and white sand beaches, small lagoons, wilderness, few countries can compete with “the pearl of the Indian Ocean”. We can divide the beautiful country of Sri Lanka into three swimming friendly areas. Find below a small overview of the beaches of Sri Lanka:
The beaches in the south and west are without doubt the best known beaches to the public because they are numerous, easily accessible and they benefit from a favorable climate from November to April. The weather is also favorable for the rest of the year but the sea currents might be stronger and more dangerous. In that case we recommend a hotel with a swimming pool overlooking the beach and ocean! So which beach suits you best?
These beaches are intended for those who want tranquility and only wish to hear the sound of the wind in the palm trees. The ocean can be strong in these places but the beaches are sumptuous. Kalpitiya is known for its kitesurf spots and the region is worth a detour because it is little explored apart of those who practice this sport.
Similar beaches can be explored in Kosgoda, Ambalangoda.
It is "The place to be" for many travelers because it was the first beach in Sri Lanka to be visited by tourists. They are the ones who made the reputation of the beaches of Sri Lanka. Pretty bays, a large choice of bars and restaurants, this is the ideal place to end your trip to Sri Lanka in apotheosis!
To the left, to the right, we also explore Jungle Beach, Koggala, Matara.
These are the most famous spots on the south coast even though you can surf in many other places. In general, the surfing spots are also places where you can enjoy parties and good restaurants in the surroundings.
To the left, to the right, we also explore Blue Beach, Ahangama, Dicwella, Midigama.
The beaches at the east coast are the so-called postcard beaches. They offer white sand beaches and numerous shades of blue. They stretch as far as the eye can see. Accessible from March to September, they’re worth the long road in order to be discovered. If three seaside resorts dominate the landscape, like everywhere in Sri Lanka, it is enough to drive 20 minutes to the left or the right to find yourself on a stretch of deserted beach.
White and golden sandy beaches as far as the eye can see, I name the beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli. Beyond the classic “farniente”, you can consider diving, catamaran cruises, boat trip to spot blue whales or even exploring the Pigeon Island National Park while snorkeling. There is no lack of activities.
This bay has the peculiarity of being shallow, unlike the majority of the beaches of Sri Lanka which fall steeply into the ocean. It makes it the ideal place for swimming and bathing with the youngest family members. The place lends itself to rest, swimming and creating memories for families. For the more curious, we can organize thematic tours in the city of Batticaloa located an hour away.
Arugam bay is a world renowned surf spot. The majority of visitors are backpackers or sportspeople coming to Sri Lanka with the sole intention of riding the waves of this region. The beaches follow one another endlessly, one more sublime than the other. Land inwards, they are surrounded by rice fields and lush vegetation if you get there before June. The rest of the year, the sun prevails over the greenery. It is also THE best corner of Sri Lanka in terms of restaurants. For the more active, there is no shortage of activities with the Kumana National Park, the lagoon or the numerous small archaeological sites and temples scattered around the area.
The northern beaches are largely overlooked because they are still little explored. You may not know it, but the civil war cut off access to this part of the island for almost 30 years and it is now possible to venture there without letting it go since 2012 only. Everything remains to be discovered! Note that Sri Lankans, if they bathe, often do so fully clothed. On previously mentioned beaches, female travelers in bikini no longer offend anyone, but when you venture to northern beaches, it is best to swim covered (with a saree for example) to avoid insistent looks.
Surfing, catamaran cruises, hidden bays, your travel expert will be able to share with you the secrets of the Sri Lankan coast, whatever your preferences are. It is time to visit us to discover them with your own eyes.