Joanna James
Beach lovers, Sri Lanka, the tropical little island floating on the Indian Ocean offers a breathtaking number of beaches, that are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and sunbathing!
For some peace, quiet and tranquil waves that are perfect for the lazy beach lover, Dalawella and Unawatuna are the best options. Dalawella beach offers soft lapping waters, compared to the ginormous waves that usually hit the island's coastlines! Thanks to the reef surrounding the area, you can enjoy a nice swim in the natural pool which is enclosed by the reef. Stop by at the Wijaya restaurant for a delicious wood fired pizza before heading back to the refreshing waters. If you're on the lookout for an adrenaline pumping activity, walk a bit further away from this restaurant, and you'll find a towering coconut tree with a rope swing. Hop on and let the breeze take you on the most thrilling ride of your life. Unawatuna on the other hand is a tourist haven. With beach side restaurants and bars bordering the shore line, grab a beer as you perfect that summer glow on the golden sandy beach. If you're famished, try out the local seafood.
For lovers of the sea, HIkkaduwa is the perfect place for you. Don't forget a pair or snorkels though. The waters around this tourist-town is abundant with marine life. Prepare to be amazed with colourful fish, lively reef gardens and sometimes even sea turtles! If you wake up early and walk along the shore, you're sure to find some friendly sea turtles trying to make friends with beach go-ers. In Sri Lanka, beach holidays are some of the most popular options for families, couples and friends, as there are many things to do. If you're not in the mood for snorkelling, simply lay on the golden shore and take in the warm rays of the golden sun or enjoy a dip in the cool ocean waters. Hikkaduwa is also famous for surfing enthusiasts.
Speaking of surfing, Arugam Bay is definitely your GO-TO destination if you're a surfing enthusiast. Grab your board and get ready to break through the meanest and greatest waves in some of the most popular break spots on the east coast of Sri Lanka. Getting to the east coast from the main city of Colombo, might be a bit time consuming and tricky, especially if you're a first time visitor. It's recommended to enlist the help of a tour agency such as Walkers Tours, or you might end up going on the complete opposite direction! Arugam Bay has mostly a backpacker vibe, and there'll be plenty of budget friendly options for accommodation for those interested.
The beaches of Tangalle, are more like the hidden gems of the island. Not as tourist centric as the other beaches, but Tangalle offers more than its fair share of breathtakingly beautiful blue waters and dazzling coastlines. However, do keep in mind to always be alert when swimming, as the currents are somewhat stronger in this area. The ideal time to bathe in Tangalle beaches are between November to April. Once monsoon season hits, be careful when heading to the beach and the waves can get pretty nasty and wild!
Slowly emerging as a popular tourist destination, Mirissa is mostly popular for whale and dolphin watching tours. Book your tour immediately, if you want to see the biggest mammal gliding along the blue waters!
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