Listly by Joanna James
You know that love, at first sight, is a thing when you catch a glimpse of the glimmering beaches of Sri Lanka from up above in the sky making your descent on the tarmac. Despite being covered in beaches all around, here is a list of 7 most intriguing beaches that we think you should not miss!
Without a doubt, this stretch of beach is one of the most gorgeous in Sri Lanka. This palm-lined beach stretch is the perfectly well-shaded beach with rather shallow waters making it an ideal family beach where the little kiddos can run wild and free. Moreover, even better is the fact that the beach is located within only a 2-hour drive from the commercial capital of Colombo and hence is the perfect day trip as well! Between October and mid-April is the best time to drop by and while you are visiting make sure to drop by the turtle research centre in the neighbourhood too! Splendid accommodation options are available with providers such as Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts with absolute proximity and some great deals too.
Situated about 100 kilometres south of Colombo, Hikkaduwa is more reputed for its energetic party culture than its splendid beaches. The bars and clubs in this city are bursting with energy at nights as the music keeps spinning and booze keeps flowing. Nevertheless, the beach is still a key destination attraction and is best adored among crowds for the vibrant corals stretching into the sea making snorkelling a rather pleasurable activity to engage in.
The cobbled pathways lined on either side with pastel-coloured buildings inside the fort of Galle are such a nostalgic sight and takes you decades back to an ancient city with its elegantly lit alleyways! Among some of the best things to do in Sri Lanka, a visit to the fort of Galle and perhaps a climb up the lighthouse to witness the absurd beauty of the limitless ocean surrounding this little island goes unsaid. Unawatuna beach is a short bus ride from the town of Galle and is a stunning paradise perfect for your relaxing getaway.
If swarming beaches with their quirky energy are not your thing, the Mirissa beach would definitely seal the deal for you rather than the Unawatuna beach. It is much less crowded and lets you enjoy its insane sunset views amidst the million hues that the evening takes on. Perhaps a walk along the tranquil beach in the evening would amaze the little ones with a chance to pick up some beautiful mussels and stones along the way. Don’t forget to book yourself in for a whale watching tour if you happen to visit in season.
The beaches in Yala are not exactly the spot for a swim given its dangerously strong currents, but its spectacular views just make this world a better place to live in! A walk along the beach is highly recommended. What is most exciting about this beach is the neighbouring Yala nature reserve! So expect to spot some of the magnificent creatures roaming in the wilderness while on your beachside walk!
Calling all surfers on their next best adventure is the Arugam Bay beach on the east coast with its superb surf breaks supporting riders of any level of expertise. As a gesture of respect to the cultural beliefs of this Muslim-majority area, women are recommended to wear clothing that minimizes exposure. Although Arugam Bay weighs more toward the expensive side, the experience of riding in synchrony with the perfect waves and lazing under the shade of palms on the impeccably woven hammocks makes it worth every penny!
Both Uppuveli and Nilaveli beaches are situated on the outskirts of the Trincomalee town and have a collection of remarkable luxury hotels each opening up to extraordinarily beautiful stretches of private beach. Make sure to get as much early morning sunrises in as you can on your visit as good things like such are not all too common.7 Most Beautiful Beaches in Sri Lanka – The delightful strips of sandy goodness!
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.