Which Are The Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
The island nation of Sri Lanka nestles in the pleasantly warm waters of the Indian Ocean. With a coastline that extends nearly 1,600 km, the country is a tropical haven for tourists who prefer beaches as their ideal mode of vacationing.
Best Beaches of Sri Lanka
Let us take a brief tour of the splendid beaches this island nation has to offer.
Several nice beaches in Sri Lanka are scattered across the length and breadth of this country’s tear-drop-like dimension. So idyllic are the beaches here with their sparking clear waters reflecting the horizon that compiling a list of the absolute best is difficult. Even so, here we are listing some of the remarkable coastal stretches that one must explore while visiting ‘the pearl of the Indian Ocean’.
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Unawatuna:
The enduring appeal of Unawatuna Beach has led it to be named among the world’s 100 best beaches despite the devastation caused by the 2004 tsunami. It is inarguably the most popular beach in the country and one immensely beautiful as well, with its dazzling view of golden sands and turquoise waters complemented by the coastal array of lush pines. The waters here are very safe for swimming and the place is characterised by a lively vibe that adds to its beauty.
Mirissa:
Of the many south Sri Lanka beaches that are famous for their exceptional beauty, Mirissa is a true wonder. Powdery sands, clear waters, and a fringe of palm trees characterise this crescent-shaped beach that basks in an atmosphere of serenity. The setting of Mirissa Beach makes for a spectacular scenery that needs to be experienced to appreciate its true beauty. It also is an ideal spot for whale and dolphin sightings.Tangalle:
Off-white sands, azure waters, and panoramic palms define the charm of this underrated spot in Sri Lanka where quietude prevails and takes over your senses the moment you walk upon its glorious stretch. Tucked away from the humdrum of regular life, boasting an old-world vibe that makes one want to stay there forever, Tangalle is the true epitome of luxury that Sri Lanka is naturally abundant in.Bentota:
This is by far the best beach area in Sri Lanka, offering some of the best sunbathing experiences on the island. A particularly stunning tourist hotspot where a range of water sports can be indulged in, Bentota is unparalleled in the silky softness of its sands and immaculate environs that add to its already pretty quotient.Hikkaduwa:
A world-famous beach holiday destination, Hikkaduwa offers a hub of activities where nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike can indulge. The vibrancy of beach parties, the surfing opportunities, the coral biodiversity, the one–of–a–kind Hikkaduwa Beach Festival, and the ever-present buzz of tourists make this a must-visit among the top beaches in Sri Lanka.Beruwala:
Lining the picturesque west coast of Sri Lanka along its southern extent is a particular Golden Mile of Serenity that has its origins in the mile-long Beruwala beach. The sandy shores that make up the Beruwala beach reveal a beautiful expanse, with the adjoining Moragalla Beach providing yet another option for retreating to in all tranquility.Arugam:
This retreat is every inch a surfer’s paradise and makes for the best beach area in Sri Lanka. As one of the best surfing beaches in southeast Asia, Arugam Bay witnesses considerable tourist footfall. The biodiversity around this area is amazing as are the spectacular sunsets that one can enjoy here. Golden sands, calm waters, gentle waves, and an abundance of greenery make Arugam one of the most picture-perfect destinations in the island country.Marble Beach:
One of the cleanest and best beaches in Sri Lanka is the stretch of white sands that define Marble Beach in Trincomalee. Boasting a rich coral reef amidst its crystalline waters and pristine sands, the beach is made more remarkable for its uniqueness of being under the control of the country’s Air Force. The warm waters of this beach are perfect for swimming and snorkelling even as the presence of a diverse wildlife population makes for another avenue of interest to tourists here.Dalawella:
Dalawella Beach is another of the nice beaches in Sri Lanka, but what makes it popular is the iconic palm tree swing that is an Instagram favourite. The beach itself is pretty, with the setting sun creating an aura of invincible beauty, making it a much-loved tourist spot.