Joanna James
The teardrop emerald of the Indian Ocean, with its warm tropical hospitality and astoundingly diverse natural endowments, has long seduced travellers with even an inkling of wanderlust. For a vibing coastal haven catering to every mood, here's a guide to beach hopping in Lanka.
While Sri Lanka has a rich repertoire of experiences to immerse in, from heritage hill kingdoms and storybook colonial forts to lush safaris starring imperial leopards and jewel-toned waterfall pools captured in ragged heights, its dreamy assortment of beaches are always favourite escapes. Each steeping in its own unique flavour, from the artistically wild south coast and enigmatic northern dunes to the laidback rustic east coast and vibrantly cosmopolitan western waterfronts, boredom can't penetrate the shores of Lanka! If you're all about getting splashed on quirky joyrides in banana and doughnut boats or tunnelling through crystal-blue swells and kayaking through dusty mangrove wilderness, Bentota Beach, dubbed SL's water sports capital, is an easy first choice.
Whether it's sipping aromatic amber liqueur overlooking verdant tea terraces, shopping for artsy souvenirs in picturesque colonial boutiques, or that magical glimpse of the faraway sea through parting mountain mists, Sri Lanka has countless enticements to revive your heart through adventure, inspiration, and sensory stimulation. For beaches that will let you undulate silently in pure nature, the traditionally flavoured close-knit fishing villages of eastern Lanka are the perfect getaways. Whether it's taking in the colourful fishing boats and glistening nets at golden Trinco beach, exploring charming Pigeon Island's coral reefs, lounging at gorgeous Marble Beach, or the care-free enchantments of Uppaveli, you won't be disappointed!
Whether it's roaming through the cobbled-stoned streets lined by the vintage technicolour buildings of the Dutch Fort, taking the iconic train ride to Ella's hilltop settlements to zipline over rainforest vistas and plunge into cool cascades or shopping and foodie escapades in the eclectic mazes of Colombo, SL has no shortage of ambient diversions. For turquoise waters with low-riding frolicsome waves and an immense, shallow bay to peacefully begin your surfing journey, Weligama beach should be your go-to destination. If you're researching luxury tours in Sri Lanka to begin a well-heeled exploration of its breathtaking coastline, venture no further than Walkers Tours.
Where every moment is a memorable polaroid of sunsets painting silken waters, surf-perfect breakpoints, and quaint lodgings full of open-hearted welcome, Arugam Bay proffers a different brand of hospitality that is more salt of the earth and is full of wide-ranging beach allure.
Full of Instagrammable nooks, secret beaches, and cinematic lookout points, Mirissa hosts the perfect nature-kissed props to dress up in your best summer attire, pose before sensational scenes, and fulfil your dream of starting a travel blog!
An iridescent and untouched west coast gem, Kalpitiya is considered to be off-the-beaten-track and deliciously refreshing with its dreamy ocean sanctuaries, friendly marine wildlife, eco-friendly amenities, and varied recreational specialities like kitesurfing, 4 WD races across beach dunes, and relaxing in retro-chic waterfront hideaways.
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.
