Joanna James
Sri Lanka is an island country with stunning beaches. Some of these beaches are located on the coast of Kalutara. If you’re looking for a serene escape, here are a few suggestions.
Since you’re visiting Kalutara, Kalutara Beach should definitely be part of your itinerary. This beach isn’t exactly off the radar, but it doesn’t get as crowded as some of the more popular beaches in the country. The soft white sand is perfect for sunbathing, and the fringing waters are ideal for a morning swim. Besides the beach, there’s something else that will catch your eye: Kalutara Bridge. It’s a peaceful spot to watch the sunset and let life pass by. If you visit the beach early in the morning, you’ll catch a glimpse of local life, with fishermen casting their nets to reap the ocean’s bounty. The beach is also lined with cafes and restaurants, so if you’re hungry or thirsty, you can grab a drink and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan meal.
Next, head to Wadduwa Beach. This beach is frequented more by locals than tourists, which isn’t to say that it’s not tourist-friendly – it absolutely is. It’s just not quite on the radar, making it all the more alluring for those looking to escape the crowds. Jetskiing and windsurfing are two popular activities here. You can also try surfing – the beach offers some decent waves without the overwhelming crowds all vying for the same break. Dotted with coconut trees, the beach has a peaceful atmosphere that locals love. Residents of Wadduwa often head down to the beach in the early mornings and late evenings for a break from their daily routines. While the beach isn’t located directly in Kalutara, it’s nearby. For example, it’s only about 30 minutes from Anantara Kalutara Resort, one of the popular beach hotels in Kalutara.
Sri Lanka has many famous beaches, but Beruwala Beach isn’t one of them – which is great news if you’re after a quieter experience. It takes only 20 minutes to reach Beruwala Beach from Kalutara and about an hour and a half from Colombo. Compared to most other beaches, Beruwala Beach is quite clean. This makes it perfect for a picnic or lounging while soaking up the sun. There’s also a lively local scene, with vendors selling delicious snacks. You can try your hand at fishing here, and it’s also a great spot to watch the sunset.
Located close to Kalutara, Bentota Beach is a bit more popular than the other beaches on this list. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a quiet corner – there’s plenty of space. The beach is long, so there’s enough room for a peaceful walk along the water or a morning jog – breathing in that early morning ocean breeze is incredibly refreshing. The beach also offers activities like snorkelling and diving. And there’s an added bonus: Bentota River! Be sure to set aside some time for a boat ride on the river – you might even spot some local wildlife.
This is another beach that’s not as famous as it should be. Travellers often forget it exists, but Panadura Beach is a fantastic coastal haven near Kalutara. It offers both tranquillity and activity. Locals often come here for a swim or to simply relax on the incredibly soft sand. The beach is rich in culture and history, kept alive by nearby temples like Rankoth Viharaya. The best part about Panadura Beach is the community vibe – it’s a great spot to make friends and mingle with locals. If you ever get hungry, you can step into one of the beachside restaurants for a bite. And if you have more time, be sure to visit one of the nearby temples.
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.
