Pasikuda
An east coast bay where the water remains waist-deep for hundreds of metres offshore – exceptionally calm and safe for families and non-swimmers. Wide white sand facing north, at its best between April and September.
Trincomalee
A spectacular natural deep-water harbour on the east coast, with the dramatically sited Koneswaram Temple perched 130 metres above the sea. The beaches at Nilaveli and Uppuveli are among the least crowded on the island, with excellent snorkelling at Pigeon Island.
Arugam Bay
Sri Lanka’s most celebrated east coast surf destination – a right-hand point break with consistent waves from April to October and a warm international community built around it. The surrounding area holds lagoons, coastal temples and Kumana National Park.
Weligama
A broad open bay on the southern coast and Sri Lanka’s finest beginner surf destination, with a forgiving gentle wave and established surf schools. Famous for its traditional stilt fishermen perched above the sea on wooden poles.
Mirissa
A small crescent bay on the southern tip of Sri Lanka, beloved for warm water, a relaxed village atmosphere and one of the world’s finest whale watching channels. Blue whales are regularly encountered offshore between November and April.
Portuguese Wonder – Old Town of Galle
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications – the best-preserved fortified colonial city in South Asia. A city enclosed within 17th-century Dutch ramparts, with colonial streets, a lighthouse and a thriving boutique culture all within the fort walls. The most historically layered coastal destination in Sri Lanka.
Unawatuna
A sheltered, reef-protected cove just east of Galle – calm enough to swim comfortably for most of the year and with good snorkelling from the beach. The rocky headland above the bay offers beautiful views along the southern coastline.
Hikkaduwa
Sri Lanka’s most established beach resort, known for accessible coral reef snorkelling with sea turtles and reef fish directly from the beach. Relaxed, international and easy to enjoy at any budget level.
Bentota
A south-western beach resort where the Bentota River estuary meets the ocean, creating ideal conditions for water sports alongside the calm of a wide coconut-backed beach. The nearby Madu River lagoon is a protected 915-hectare mangrove ecosystem of exceptional beauty.
Negombo
A bustling coastal town immediately north of the international airport, defined by its Dutch canal network, active Catholic fishing community and a long beach facing the Indian Ocean. The perfect gentle first or last night on the island.