John Wick Mattingson
The gorgeous beaches of Sri Lanka are the islands biggest treasure. These sun kissed sandy playgrounds lapped by the warm Indian Ocean are loved by all for its many allures.
Mt Lavinia Beach is a city beach; it is located just 12kms from the city centre of Colombo. Mt Lavinia is extremely popular amongst the locals and foreigners. In the wee hours of the morning the beach welcomes the early morning joggers and swimmers while by sunset the beach is a hub of activity. You will see a blend of people such as evening joggers, eager kite sellers and likewise enthusiastic kite flyers. By evening the beach is full of people out for an evening swim and dip in the rolling surf while lover's stroll along the beach hand in hand; enjoying the blaze of the setting sun. The sandy and wide beach of Mt Lavinia is home to many fine restaurants and is an excellent venue for locating a good dining spot.
Located along the Southern coast of Sri Lanka the Bentota Beach is a popular tourist resort. The place is well known for its range of water sports such as water skiing, snorkelling, jet skiing and banana boating; from Bentota one can also take on river boat tours and tour the lush Madu Ganga – River sanctuary. Bentota is located 62kms from Colombo.
Negombo Beach is located on the western coast of Sri Lanka; it is within the cosmopolitan city of Negombo which is also a sleepy fisher village. It was once a Dutch stronghold and evidence of this is rife in the many historical sites located around the hamlet. You also have the option of touring the fabulous Negombo Lagoon and exploring the mangrove forests. Due to these factors and much more some of the best beach hotels in Sri Lanka are located along the wide expanse of the Negombo Beach. Chill out, soak up the sun, enjoy the best lagoon crabs and relish the laid back vibes of this popular tourist resort. Marawila Beach is just a few kilometres away and is a sandy wide stretch of beach along which you will find excellent water sports facilities. If you are looking for luxury beachside accommodation in Sri Lanka Negombo and Marawila are good options; check out chains such as Amagi Hotels.
Passikudah and Kalkudah beaches are located next to each other on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Both beaches are loved for its idyllic settings and calm waters. A very popular tourist resort Passikudah is located 300kms from Colombo. Both beaches are close to the town of Batticaloa a place rich in historical sites.
If you are into whale and dolphin watching then Mirissa Beach is the right spot to get started. It is a rather small, private and somewhat rocky beach. At Mirissa one may indulge in deep sea fishing, bird watching, river trips and snorkelling. Between November to April whale watching around the harbour is a popular activity and tours are readily available.
