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 finest between April and September. Best time to visit: April to September.
Trincomalee
A spectacular natural deep-water harbour on the east coast, with the Koneswaram Temple perched dramatically 130 metres above the sea on Swami Rock. The beaches at Nilaveli and Uppuveli are among the least crowded on the island, with excellent snorkelling at Pigeon Island. Best time to visit: April to September.
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 over decades. Best time to visit: April to October.
Weligama
A broad open bay on the southern coast and Sri Lanka’s finest beginner surf location, with a forgiving gentle wave and established surf schools. Famous for traditional stilt fishermen perched above the sea on wooden poles. Best time to visit: November to April.
Mirissa
A small crescent bay on the southern tip of Sri Lanka, beloved for warm water, relaxed atmosphere and one of the world’s finest whale watching channels. Blue whales are regularly encountered offshore between November and April. Best time to visit: November to April for whale watching.
Galle
A living UNESCO World Heritage city enclosed within 17th-century Dutch ramparts, with colonial streets, a lighthouse, an ancient church and a vibrant boutique and gallery culture all within the fort walls. The most historically layered coastal destination in Sri Lanka. Best time to visit: November to April.
Unawatuna
A sheltered, reef-protected cove just east of Galle with calm swimmable water for most of the year and good snorkelling directly from the beach. The rocky headland above the bay offers beautiful views along the southern coastline. Best time to visit: November to April.
Hikkaduwa
Sri Lanka’s most established beach resort, known for accessible coral reef snorkelling with sea turtles and reef fish directly from the beach. Lively, international and easy to enjoy at any pace. Best time to visit: November to April.
Bentota
A south-western beach resort where the Bentota River estuary creates ideal water sports conditions alongside a wide coconut-backed beach. The Madu River lagoon – a protected 915-hectare mangrove ecosystem – is one of the most atmospheric small-boat experiences on the island. Best time to visit: November to April.
Negombo
A coastal town immediately north of the international airport, defined by its Dutch colonial canal network, Catholic fishing community and a long beach facing the Indian Ocean. The natural first and last night of any Sri Lanka journey with more to offer than most visitors allow themselves time to discover. Best time to visit: November […]