- Are beaches easily accessible in Sri Lanka?
- No matter where you are in Sri Lanka, you're never too far away from a world-class beach.
- How do Sri Lanka’s beaches compare to other tropical destinations?
- Lined with palm trees and covered with soft, powdery sand, these tropical beaches can rival those of the Caribbean in terms of beauty, prestige, and opportunity.
- What activities can you do on Sri Lanka’s beaches?
- Sri Lanka's beaches offer all kinds of activities and things to do.
- Where can I find more information about Sri Lanka’s best beaches?
- To learn more about the best beaches in Sri Lanka and choose the right one for your next trip, read the guide below.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s Beaches
- December to April (South & West Coasts) – Best time for sunny days, calm seas, and beach lounging in popular spots like Mirissa and Unawatuna.
- May to September (East Coast) – Ideal conditions for visiting east coast gems like Arugam Bay and Pasikuda.
- January to March – Peak tourist season with warm water, perfect for snorkeling, surfing, and sunset walks.
- October & November – Transitional months with occasional showers but fewer tourists and lush coastal landscapes.
- May to September (Southwest) – Monsoon season on the southwest coast; beaches are quieter but seas can be rough.
This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.
1. Dickwella
Relax on wide sandy shores and explore nearby tranquil coves.
Looking for a romantic beach in Sri Lanka? If you're visiting with a special someone or maybe even on your honeymoon, be sure not to miss out on Dickwella. This beach is simply breathtaking from every single angle, offering the softest, smoothest white sands and crystal clear turquoise waters. It's a beautiful spot to sit or stroll around with a loved one, and the water conditions are just right for a little paddling or swimming as well. There are some really nice dining opportunities in the area too with a lot of variety in terms of the food on offer, so you can spend a full day on the sand and then walk into town for a delicious meal to end the day in style.
2. Galle
Walk along ancient fort walls and admire stunning ocean views.
One of the most popular beaches in the entire country of Sri Lanka, Galle has so much more to offer than simply sand and sea. The local town has tons of history behind it and some simply extraordinary architecture to be admired, as well as several fascinating museums that give you a real glimpse into Sri Lankan history. If you're looking for an authentic slice of the country's culture, this is a super beach town to check out, attracting artists and travelers from all over the globe for its unique beauty and charm. There's also a forest natural reserve area nearby with a lot of wildlife to spot and scenic trails to follow.
3. Bentota
Enjoy water sports and relax in luxury beachfront resorts.
Many people visit Sri Lanka to stay at one of the country's many spa and health resorts. These locations offer the ultimate relaxation packages and are often located near stunning stretches of sand to boot. Bentota is an example, with this beach being situated just a short walk away from some of the best spas and ayurvedic resorts in the area. Crowds never really build up at this beach, so the vibe is always relaxed and peaceful and there are some fun activities nearby like cycling trails, river tours, and a turtle conservation center.
4. Unawatuna
Swim in calm waters and explore vibrant coral reefs.
Definitely one of the most famous and popular beaches in Sri Lanka. Unawatuna is well known for its golden sands and gentle green-blue waters. There's a lot to love about this beach and one of the best things about Unawatuna overall is that it caters to a lot of different activities. Whether you're simply visiting to lie on the sand and work on your tan for a few hours or actually head out on the waves for some water sports, this beach has it all. Scuba diving is particularly popular here, and the beach is conveniently located near some great facilities and landmarks like restaurants, a spa, and even a gorgeous local temple.
5. Mirissa
Watch whales and enjoy breathtaking sunset views.
Mirissa is undoubtedly one of the must-visit Sri Lanka beaches for wildlife lovers as you can catch a glimpse of all kinds of animals here. Dolphins and even whales can be seen out in the water, and turtles may be spotted in the winter as well. Not only that, but there's an extensive coral reef not too far off the shore which is a nice spot to go scuba diving or snorkeling. Fishing is popular at this Sri Lankan beach and the local town has some good spas and relaxing health centers to check out too.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents: