Sri Lanka, also known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, boasts 1500 kilometers of coastline (930 miles) adorned with paradisiacal beaches. From charming coves with golden sand to miles-long stretches of white powdery sand dotted with palm trees. Engage in a game of beach volleyball or lounge on a beach bed at one of the cozy beach bars. The most beautiful beaches are found in the south and east of Sri Lanka. Below, you’ll read about the 8 most beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka.
Ultimate Beach Days at Dikwella Beach
If you’re looking for a day of beach relaxation, then Dikwella Beach is the place to be. This expansive beach is largely protected by promontories, reefs, and sandbanks, resulting in calm waters ideal for swimming. The beach is well-equipped with plenty of beach beds, chairs, and lively beach bars, making it perfect for spending an entire day. Take a dip in the sea, order a delicious lunch, and conclude your day with a beautiful sunset and a tasty cocktail. This is one of the finer beaches in Sri Lanka.
Upcoming Beach Destination: Ahangama
Also situated in the south of Sri Lanka is Ahangama, where you can indulge in ultimate relaxation at one of the many beachside hotspots. Marshmallow Café and Cactus Café are both located right on the beach, within a short walking distance of each other. These are charming beach bars where you can enjoy great food, soak in the ambiance, and enjoy a view that never gets old.
The Not-So-Secret Secret Beach
Many beach destinations in Sri Lanka have a ‘Secret Beach’ nearby, and so does Mirissa. Secret Beach isn’t much of a secret anymore, as many people have discovered this hidden gem. Nevertheless, this stunning, small bay remains one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. It boasts crystal-clear waters surrounded by palm trees and rocks. Mornings tend to be quieter here, but afternoons can get quite busy, especially during sunset, as Secret Beach is a popular spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. During the high season, a lively beach bar opens up, playing music and creating a festive atmosphere.
One of the Coolest Beach Destinations: Hiriketiya Beach
Hiriketiya Beach is one of the coolest beach destinations in Sri Lanka. Located in the small village of Dikwella on the south coast of Sri Lanka, it has developed its own identity over the years, becoming more popular than Dikwella itself. Despite its small size, Hiriketiya Beach is a popular spot for surfers and beach lovers seeking a vibrant atmosphere. Surrounding ‘Hiri,’ as it’s affectionately called, are numerous excellent restaurants, cozy beach bars, surf schools, and comfortable accommodations. Hiriketiya Beach is the kind of place where you end up staying longer than planned.
Chillin’ and Bodyboarding at Mirissa Beach
As the name suggests, Mirissa Beach is the main beach of Mirissa. Mirissa Beach is a wide stretch of sand where you have plenty of space for swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding. There’s always someone on the beach renting out bodyboards and surfboards, so grab a board and hit the waves! If lounging is more your vibe, there are plenty of cool beach bars to check out. Oh la la Beachbar and Restaurant and Salt Mirissa are both fun spots on Mirissa Beach.
Tip: Prefer swimming in a large pool instead of the sea? Find a cozy spot at Paradise Beach Club to spend the day.
Stroll Across the Sandbank of Blue Beach
If you’re into unique beaches, a visit to Blue Beach is a must. A pure white sandbank connects Blue Beach Island to the mainland. It’s fun to walk across the sandbank and snap some tropical photos. Here’s the exact location of Blue Beach. You can easily visit this beach from Hiriketiya.
Enjoying Kabalana Beach
For a delightful beach day in Sri Lanka, head to Kabalana Beach. It’s the largest beach in Ahangama and has everything you need. Lounge on a comfy beach bed, grab a fresh coconut from one of the stalls, and admire the surfers in the distance. There are always enough people around for a game of volleyball or other activities, so you can easily spend a whole day here. By late afternoon, it’s a cozy spot to watch the sunset and make plans for the evening. This beach is close to Ahangama.
Surfing in Weligama
For perfect waves for beginner surfers, head to Weligama, a neighboring village of Mirissa. You’ll find many shops on the beach renting out surfboards, and it’s the perfect place to take lessons at one of the surf schools. Worked up an appetite from surfing? The delicious bowls at Nomads Cafe & Boutique will hit the spot! Craving some ice cream? Seek out the Cruising Smoothly cart along the beach for a delicious-looking and tasting treat.
