Beaches of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is blessed with magnificent, palm-fringed beaches. The islands coastlines
have been major tourist attractions over the years with the southern coast being
the first major tourist beach destination. There are a multitude of beach hotels
to choose from, including resort properties located on the south, west and east
of the country.
Negombo
This little beach town is dotted with beautiful churches dating back centuries.
With the colonisation of European invaders, many of the town’s inhabitants are still
devout followers of the Christian faith. Negambo is located a mere 7 kilometers
from Katunayake International Airport, making its beaches an ideal alternative from
the busy bustling capital city of Colombo. Watch the industrious fishermen pull
in the days catch while attending to their catamaran boats at the crack of dawn,
or soak up sunny rays on the sandy golden beaches. As Negombo is a major fishing
town, it boasts of the best and most fresh seafood around the island, with many
bars and eateries that will enchant a hungry traveller. There are a number of beach
hotels in Negambo to suit every ones pocket. If you are in the island for a short
period and are looking to spend a few precious moments on a sandy beach, Negambo
is the town for you!
While in Negambo, don’t miss out on:
Hamilton Canal: Take a leisurely boat ride along these 17th century Dutch
canal which was once used to transport spices and precious gems to the Negambo harbor.
St Mary’s Church: This glorious rose hued church was built centuries ago
and was built over a period of 50 years.
Bentota and Beruwela
Bentota is one of the most popular beach destinations in Sri Lanka. Home to a myriad
of beach hotels, this beach is conveniently located a few hours drive from Colombo.
The Bentota river is the perfect site for water sporting activities such as water
skiing, banana boating, jet skiing and canoeing. The Bentota River is also home
to small scale prawn farms and murky mangroves that can be explored by boat. Bentota
is the perfect beach destination for families tavelling together. Beruwela is located
a mere 5 kilometers from Bentota. This town is believed to be the first Moorish
settlement in the island with many Arab tradesmen living here. Located on a long
stretch of pristine beach, Beruwela is a haven for travellers who love the sun and
the sea.
While in Bentota, don’t miss out on:
Madu Ganga Boat Safari: Considered to be one of Sri Lanka’s largest wetlands,
the Madu Ganga will take to past primitive villages, small scale shrimp farming
and many mangroves home to a variety of species.
Kosgoda Turtle Hatcheries: Newly hatched turtles are nurtured and eventually
released out to sea to fend for themselves.
Hikkaduwa
This beach is a must for the fun loving tourist. The beach is dotted with lively
bars, cafes and an array of beach side shops that spring to life come sunset. Hikkaduwa’s
golden beaches are perfect for snorkeling or simply enjoying the laid back lifestyle
that is unique to this coastal village. Hikkaduwa is a popular destination for surfers
with international surfing events being held here. There are a number of beach resorts
on this stretch of beach, including the lavish star category hotels as well as back
packers inns.
While in Hikkaduwa, don’t miss out on:
Galss Bottom Boat ride: View the multihued coral reef from the glass bottom
boat rides that dot the ocean.
Snorkelling / Scuba diving / Surfing.
Galle
This living, breathing UNESCO World Heritage site is a must in your travel itinerary.
The famous Dutch Fort, covering the expanse of 90 hectares will transport you back
in time to the colonial era. The city is a kaleidoscopic mix of food, art and architecture.
Whilst Galle’s appeal has a lot to do with its colonial heritage, its beautiful
beaches scattered with large rocks hugging onto the coastline is distinctly appealing.
With the opening of the new Southern highway, one can be transported to Galle in
one hour. The Galle Fort is scattered with luxurious villas and boutique properties
whilst larger hotels are located on beach front.
While in Galle, don’t miss out on:
Whale watching off the coast of Mirissa
Dutch Museum
International Cricket Stadium
Unawatuna
Lying on a crescent shaped bay, this beach is ideal for sun worshippers. The relatively
calm waves of the bay make it perfect for long leisurely ocean swims and snorkeling
as well. Hotels are located on this horse shoe bay and have perfect views of the
turquoise blue Indian Ocean. Relatively uninhabited in contrast to other beach destinations
in Sri Lanka, visitors can enjoy the golden beaches in relative isolation.
Trincomalee
Home to some of the most scenic beaches in Sri Lanka, the turquoise waters of Trincomalee
will charm all its visitors. The white sandy beaches distinct to Trincomalee are
ideal for swimming, as the water remains shallow as far as 100 meters from the beach.
Whale watching off the coast of these beaches has become quite popular with whale
sightings on the rise.
While in Trincomalee, don’t miss out on:
Koneswaram Temple
Hot water springs
Fort Frederick
Kalpitiya
Located 150 on the west coast of the island, Kalpitiya is a peninsular that lies
between the Puttalam lagoon and the Indian Ocean. Kalpitiya is known for being a
small fishing town and one can watch the fishing boats return in the early morning
hours back to shore with the days catch. The small fishing town is also soon becoming
a major tourist destination for whale and dolphin watching. A mere half an hour
out at sea will take you to the dancing dolphins. You will experience the pleasure
of watching these beautiful sea creatures in their natural surroundings. Kalpitiya
is also located close to the famous ‘Bar reef’ which will have any scuba diving
or snorkeling enthusiast gagging at the plethora of colourful fish, mantra rays
and reef sharks in the ocean.
Arugam Bay
Voted one of top 10 best surf destinations of the World – Arugam Bay is the surfers
paradise. Whilst there are a scarce number of high end hotel chains located on this
beach, the area is mostly known for its budget friendly accommodation. Located on
the east coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay is situated 5 kms away from Pottuvil town
whilst also being located on the fringe of Yala East National Park which is home
to a multitude of wild life species.
Besides surfing (best between the months of May and November), the laid back atmosphere
of Arugam Bay means that one can sit back whilst enjoying some outstanding local
cuisine and enjoy the world passing by. This beach destination has the ideal blend
of ‘laid-back cool’ and ‘rustic charm’ that seems to be remain unchanged despite
the boom in tourism.
Pasikuda
The bay of Pasikuda is located on the east of the island. This beach is arguably
amongst the most beautiful in Sri Lanka. The azure seas, mesmerizing sandy beaches
and clear skies will excite even the weariest of travelers. The calm seas make it
a heaven for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. This beach still remains somewhat
untouched making it an ideal get away for the vacationer looking for the most relaxing
and secluded beach holiday.
