What do you say about an island beach dream vacation?
The answer is always yes!
This time, our destination is the small island in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, which offers authentic cultural experience and incredibly beautiful beaches.
Moreover, Sri Lanka has amazing seafood and hospitable hosts that will make your stay even better.
We compiled a list of the 7 top beaches in Sri Lanka for your next summer trip.
Unawatuna
Unawatuna is known as one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, therefore it is number one even on our list.
It is a small beach on which you will never feel bored as there are tons of stuff you can do.
You can take walks on the golden sand or hike to the beautiful “Jungle Beach”.
The water is amazing and great for relaxing as this beach is family-friendly too.
Also, you can snorkel or visit the city of Galle that is at only 20 minutes walking distance where you can explore the historic cultural remnants.
Arguam Bay Beach
This beach is an excellent choice for surfers.
It is located in a remote village in the eastern part of Sri Lanka and it is still quite secluded from massive tourist visits.
There are high waves all throughout the year, but even beginners in surfing can find their spot and enjoy.
The village of Arguam Bay is also full of sites worth seeing and it includes exclusive hotels and restaurants with a high reputation.
Mirissa
Make sure you save up time to visit the mesmerizing beaches in Mirissa, southern Sri Lanka.
This beach offers a wide range of activities and also has a lifeguard which makes it perfect for people with children.
Also, there is the so-called “Surfer’s Corner” where you can enjoy the high waves and surf.
Another exciting thing about Mirissa is that it offers whale watching at certain periods throughout the year.
In Mirissa you can also find shops, restaurants with delicious local food, and cozy houses.
Nilaveli
Nilaveli is a beach town full of beautiful beaches.
You can get there by taking a boat from Pigeon Island and spend a whole day sunbathing and relaxing at this serene beach.
Take some me-time on the warm white sand or swim in the azure water.
Nilaveli is close to the town Trincomalee which is full of restaurants that serve tasty seafood that you simply must indulge in!
Negombo
Negombo is a beach that is very close to Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, offering quiet time and perfect relaxation by the waves away from the city bustle.
This beach is crowded only in the peak season, meaning December and April, however, if you try you will discover secluded places where you can rest and ease your body and mind from the tourist crowd.
Weligama
If you strive toward extra privacy, then Weligama is the beach for you.
It is usually quieter than the other beaches in Sri Lanka but it is nonetheless beautiful.
The place is ideal for beginners in swimming and surfing.
There are several surf schools around that may help you with your first attempts.
Weligama is the perfect combination of authenticity and a relaxing atmosphere.
Sri Lanka Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Sri Lanka Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Sri Lanka sounds like the perfect beach vacation destination! I love that it offers a mix of cultural experiences and stunning beaches.