A beach lover’s paradise, Sri Lanka is a tranquil and breathtakingly beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. Curious to explore this epic coastline? These are the ten most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka that you need to check out.
For a small island in the southeast of India, Sri Lanka has everything you could dream of, from lush mountainous terrain to breathtaking stretches of golden sand bleeding out into the vibrant blue waves of the Indian Ocean.
From hidden coves to popular surf beaches known for their consistent waves, Sri Lanka has a beach for everyone. Whether you want to ride the waves or relax under the heat of the sun with the coconut trees swaying overhead, you’re sure to find the perfect beach for you.
With 1340 km (833 miles) of coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning sandy stretches. Curious to learn more? Read on for our ultimate guide to the ten most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka that you need to check out,
10. Uppuveli, Trincomalee – a beautiful sandy stretch on the east coast
Located on the east coast of the island, Uppuveli is a beautiful sandy beach that is relatively untouched by tourists, especially in comparison to the popular south coast strands.
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, you can watch as the local fishermen push their colourful fishing boats out into the ocean in pursuit of the catch of the day.
Address: Uppuveli Beach, Trincomalee
9. Mawella Beach, Tangalle – a beautiful hidden sandy beach
Located on the picturesque south coast, Mawella Beach is a stunning hidden cove backed by jungle that is often missed by tourists travelling in the area.
A great spot for body boarding, surfing, and kayaking or just relaxing on the sand, it is a calm and quiet beach located a short drive off the main road between Hiriketiya and Tangalle.
Sri Lanka is home to some of the coolest experiences for your 2024 bucket list. Check them out here.
Address: XPXX+9FP، Morakatiyara Road, Morakatiyara
8. Koggala, Galle – for a picturesque beach experience
Known for its surfing and scenic views, Koggala Beach close to Galle is a picturesque tropical beach that is great for relaxing and enjoying a bite to eat. They also serve some of the best beers in the world.
Here, you can soak up the sunset, try a surfing lesson, or check out the nearby turtle hatchery. The waters are clear and blue, and the sand stretches out beneath the coconut trees, making for a picture-perfect island vibe.
Address: Modarawella Wattha, Koggala 80630
7. Arugam Bay, Ampara – a beautiful spot on the southeast coast
Located on the east coast, Arugam Bay is an absolute surfers’ paradise, especially between the months of April and October.
Even if you aren’t up for surfing, you can relax on this beautiful enclosed bay or explore the mangrove lagoons. A true gem of the southeast coast, this is one beach you don’t want to miss.
Address: Main Point Arugam Bay, Pottuvil 32500
6. Silent Beach, Unakuruwa – a tropical island paradise
Located in the small village of Unakuruwa close to Tangalle, Silent Beach is renowned across the island as one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
A semi-private beach that is relatively untouched by the growing number of tourists visiting the island, Silent Beach is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a bite to eat, and watch the waves crash on the shore.
Address: 2Q4F+722, Unnamed Road, Tangalle
5. Hiriketiya Beach, Hiriketiya – a great spot to catch some waves
Offering a boho surf vibe, Hiriketiya is the perfect place to visit if you want to catch some waves and sip on good coffee in a chic cafe.
Shortened to ‘Hiri’ by locals, there are plenty of great spots for yoga, lots of cute boutique shops, and numerous cafes where you can enjoy some epic food to suit all tastes and dietary requirements.
The beach here can get pretty busy, but the tourists come for a reason – and this spot really is something special.
Address: Hiriketiya Rd, Hiriketiya 81200
4. Unawatuna Beach, Unawatuna – known for its calm blue waters and golden sand
Located close to Galle, Unawatuna Beach is a popular spot for those visiting the island. Known for its calm blue waters and golden sand, this is the ultimate place to chill.
If you want, you can also get involved in some fun watersports activities while you’re here, with your choice of scuba diving, snorkelling, and swimming.
Address: Unawatuna Beach, 265W+RQM, Galle
3. Nilwella Beach, Nilwella – a unique beach formation offering breathtaking sunsets
Located close to Hiriketiya, Nilwella Beach is perhaps one of the most unique beaches that Sri Lanka has to offer.
Home to the beautiful Blue Beach Island, this stunning beach stretches out into the ocean in a peninsula-like form, offering some of the very best sunset views you’ll find in the whole of south Sri Lanka.
Address: Duwagahawella, Nilwella 81200
2. SK Town Beach, Matara – a gentle surf beach
Located close to Matara, SK Town Beach is another popular spot among the island’s surf community.
Officially known as Lakshawaththa Beach, this beautiful strand enjoys gentle waves and beautiful coconut trees swaying overhead. What more could you want?
Address: Meddawatta, Matara 81000
1. Rekawa Beach, Tangalle – for a tranquil island paradise
Topping our list of most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka is the incredible Rekawa Beach, located just a short drive southeast of Tangalle. One of the island’s major turtle nesting spots, you can check out the turtle hatchery and witness the cute little creatures enter the world.
A breathtaking beach with white sand, epic sunsets, and rolling waves, this is a magical spot to relax and take in the tranquil beauty of this incredible island. Rekawa Beach is also one of the places in Sri Lanka where you can see Turtles.
Address: Rekawa Road, Rekawa 82200
