Joanna James
Sri Lanka is famous for its stunning beaches but most often it's either the east or southern coastline that comes to mind. However, there are some amazing beaches nearer to Colombo as well.
Kalutara Beach is quite underrated and rarely appears alongside its more famous counterparts in Weligama and Arugambay when naming the top beaches in Sri Lanka but it is nevertheless a spectacularly beautiful stretch of undisturbed deep golden sand set against a deep blue ocean. The beach is located roughly around 45 minutes south of Colombo and is great for sunbathing and water sports. It isn't a very touristy beachside though there are luxury hotels in Kalutara such as the famous Anantara Kalutara Resort.
Also located in the Kalutara district but a bit further south Beruwela beach is quite a famous destination with vacationers. The area has for a long time been known for the local gem trade but its pristine unspoilt beaches are simply heavenly. There are many places to stay along this stretch but what you really want to find are holiday bungalows hidden amidst the palm groves. With a little digging, you should be able to find a good deal.
Bentota is most famous for water sports and other such activities. The ocean is warm and clear while the beaches aren't crowded and you can actually sit back and listen to the ocean and the strong sea breeze. Surfing, windsurfing and jet skiing are a few of the more popular water sports available in Bentota. Though you do have to travel at least an hour from Kalutara to reach Bentota it is truly worth it. It is quite famous with locals as well and is often the preferred weekend getaway for many people from Colombo.
Hikkaduwa has for a long time been considered the hottest location on Sri Lanka's west coast. It is famous for wild and crazy beach parties that last the weekend, superb little restaurants that serve amazing seafood dishes, vibrant bars and luxury hotels. Though Hikkaduwa's popularity has waned somewhat in recent times, mainly because the new southern highway made it easier to travel to the beaches in the south such as Mirissa and Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa remains an important and vibrant party destination in Sri Lanka's beach culture.
Mount Lavinia is located north of Kalutara and just on the outskirts of Colombo. The ocean around this beach is too strong to swim or get in to however the beachside has over the years developed a vibe of its own. Many awesome little pubs and restaurants line this wide stretch of sandy beach that stretches for a few kilometres. Mount Lavinia has always been home to many beach parties and is often an area the young locals gravitate to. The vibe along this coastline is unique as Sri Lankan beach culture is imbued with aspects of city life.
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