Best Beaches to Swim in the West Coast - Visit the Coastal Towns and Villages for a Peaceful Swim

The seaside town of Bentota is easily accessed from Colombo via the Galle Road and the Colombo – Matara Expressway as well as the Colombo – Galle – Matara Railway line. Those who come by train or via Galle Road will find themselves in Bentota after crossing over the Bentota River. The bridge that facilitates the crossover is known to be the gateway to the Southern Province. Water sports and other water based activities are in abundance along the Bentota River (also known as the Bentara Ganga) and the ocean. The beaches in Bentota tend to be quieter and calmer and are thus, ideal for swimming.

When travelling towards Matara along the Galle Road, one will know that they are approaching Kalutara when they see the large white dagoba on the left side of the road and a towering Bo tree on the right. The Kalutara Temple marks the entrance to the seaside town of Kalutara. If you are searching for places to visit in Kalutara, the Kalutara Temple is certainly a must. Other attractions include the nearby Richmond Castle and Basket Centre. One of the more well - known beaches in Kalutara is the Calido Beach. However, this beach can be quite crowded as it is a public beach. Alternatively, holidaymakers can opt to stay at a resort such as Anantara Kalutara Resort where they can enjoy the privacy of a private beach when swimming.

Hikkaduwa, located quite close to Unawatuna, is known amongst backpackers and tourists as being a party–centric town. Fondly known as 'Hikka', many tourists and locals alike drive down to Hikkaduwa to enjoy its beaches and the famous 'cheese roti'. However, some of the beaches in Hikkaduwa have a number of coral reefs very close to the shore, making it impossible to swim. Therefore, the best option is to make your way to the lagoon in Hikkaduwa. Here, the water gradually gets deep and the current isn't as strong as in the nearby beaches. Nevertheless, be very careful when you go deeper into the Ocean as the currents can creep up on you. However, if you remain close to the shore, the water is very gentle and lends itself to peaceful swimming.

The small seaside village of Balapitiya is not known by many, but nevertheless, hosts beautiful beaches. Balapitiya is considered a small fishing village and those who stroll along the waters will find small hamlets dotting the beach. The beach in Balapitiya is serene, with soft powdery sand bordered by coconut trees that sway in the ocean breeze.

Located around four kilometres away from Hikkaduwa is the small village of Dodanduwa. Many locals and tourists alike pass through Dodanduwa on their way to more prolific destinations such as Matara or Galle, and do not pay much attention to this village. However, this is precisely the reason why the beach in Dodanduwa is pristine and beautiful – it has had less interaction with mankind when compared to neighbouring towns such as Hikkaduwa.. As such, the beach in Dodanduwa is ideal for swimming.