Joanna James
Sri Lanka is home to a number of stunning beaches. While the beaches in the South are the most popular, there are a number of Northern and Eastern beaches, which are also worth visiting.
The Dickwella Beach is best visited between February and April, and August and October and has become popular only in the recent past. Better known as a honeymoon destination, the Dickwella Beach is ideal for swimming. Its shallow waters make for leisurely swimming as well as great snorkelling. Those residing in a nearby resort will also be able to enjoy the delectable seafood cuisine of the area.
Galle is certainly one of the more crowded coastal destinations – its popularity has increased in the recent years due to ease of access from the capital due to the Expressway and the quaint and serene atmosphere of the Galle Fort. Those visiting Galle can bathe in the Galle Beach but the ocean is probably better experienced from Unawatuna or the nearby Jungle beach. However, there are numerous attractions in the area such as the Martin Wickramasinghe Museum and the Japanese Peace pagoda.
The Hikkaduwa Beach is probably one of the most well known beaches in Sri Lanka. Best visited from March to September, the Hikkaduwa Beach is ideal for some peaceful relaxation. Because the infrastructure in the area has developed over the last few years, tourists will be able to find luxury resorts as well as nightclubs in the area. It is also possible to snorkel because the Hikkaduwa coral reef is intact even after the 2004 tsunami.
The Induruwa Beach is one of the more understated beaches found along the southern coastal belt. It is ideal for travellers who find the Hikkaduwa and Galle beaches to be overcrowded. The Induruwa Beach is best visited between January and August and is ideal for sunbathing. Those who reside in Induruwa can also opt to visit nearby attractions such as the Bopath Ella waterfall, the Maadu River, as well as the Batatotalena cave.
The coastal town of Negombo is well frequented by travellers to Sri Lanka because it is extremely close to the Bandaranaike International Airport. While the town itself has been heavily influenced by the Dutch, especially in its architecture, due to the Dutch occupation of Negombo in the 18th century, the town is also home to a stunning beach, which can be accessed by anyone residing in a hotel in Negombo. However, those who wish for a slightly different experience can opt to stay at a resort such as Arie Lagoon, which provides you access to both the Negombo Beach, as well as the Negombo lagoon.
Mirissa has become synonymous with tourism and is now home to a large number of resorts, bars, pubs and restaurants. Its serene waters have attracted travellers both globally and locally and are one of the most visited coastal towns in the country.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
