Joanna James
With its sun-drenched sands, palm-fringed shores and dazzling Indian Ocean waters, the shoreline of Sri Lanka is blessed with some truly divine beaches. Here is a quick guide to some of the best coastal hotspots to include on your beach-hopping itinerary.
Starting things off is the beach that's closest to the main international airport; located on the west coast, Negombo Beach has gained in popularity over the years amongst foreigners and locals alike. Golden sands and sensational sunsets await at this beach along with the chance to try activities such as kitesurfing. An ideal place for families, this beach also gives you a chance to watch local fishermen set off on their boats out to sea.
Bentota is the place to go to if your ideal coastal getaway should also involve some adrenaline-pumping thrills! Apart from being one of the top beaches in Sri Lanka, it also offers access to a wide range of water sports be it in the ocean or lagoon. So after you have had your fill of lazing on the sand, look to try some of these exciting activities; they include wakeboarding, jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat rides and more.
At one time, this idyllic stretch of shore was one of the island's "secret beaches"; word got around, however, and this slice of paradise became not so secret anymore! Featured on local travel sites the likes of Truly Sri Lanka, Unawatuna Beach is still a great place to get away to in order to soak up the sun. Swimming is a popular activity here, while nearby is the Japanese Peace Pagoda which offers wonderful views of the beach and the setting sun.
If you want to get a glimpse of the marine life in Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa Beach is a good place to go to. While you can enjoy working on your tan on the sun-drenched shores, you can also enjoy some snorkelling at the marine national park, witnessing a fascinating world beneath the waves. From November to April, this beach also becomes a popular spot for surfers looking to ride the waves.
Of course, if you are truly after the best waves for surfing in Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay Beach is where you need to head to. Located on the east coast, this world-famous bay features impressive waves and tubes that are a dream come true for surfers, especially from April to October. Among the highlights is the surfing hotspot known as Main Point, though there are other great spots to be found here too.
Continuing up along the east coast will bring you to Pasikuda Beach known for its white sand shores and shallow, calm waters; since the beach is protected by a bay, you will not find dangerous waves and it's a great spot for a swim or a family day out. Water sports such as jet skiing, snorkelling and kayaking can be enjoyed here along with diving excursions to reefs and underwater wrecks.Truly Sri Lanka
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