The 26 Best Beaches In Sri Lanka (For Swimming + More)

I spent about a month travelling around Sri Lanka, and exploring the natural beauty of this country’s beaches one one of the highlights of my trip! There are so many stunning beaches in Sri Lanka, each with its own unique charm and appeal

(Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, snorkel or just chill and relax)

The best beach for swimming is Hiriketiya Beach as it’s always calm, and secluded, but also a stones throw away from some really great bars and restaurants. For surfing, I recommend Aragum Bay and for taking stunning photos, Secret Beach in Marrisa is stunning! For a secluded and romantic beach, check out Talalla beach down south – it’s gorgeous!

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my list of the 25 best beaches in Sri Lanka, based on my own experiences and preferences.

Also check out my guide to local Sri Lankan food, and what to do on your visit here

What I look for in a beach

When I visit a beach, there are a few key factors that I consider. First and foremost is the swimmability (is that a word?) of the water. I want to be able to jump in and enjoy a refreshing swim without having to worry about strong currents or dangerous marine life. Next, I consider how crowded the beach tends to be – I prefer more secluded, peaceful spots where I can relax and unwind. Of course, for those who enjoy surfing, the quality of the surf is also an important factor. Easy access to the beach is another consideration, as is the photo-worthy Instagram potential of the scenery.

• Swimmability
• Crowdedness
• The surf!
• Access
• Instagramability (or at least how good it looks in photos!)

So, What Are The Best Beaches In Sri Lanka (My Opinion)

Right, let’s cut to the chase.

The Best Beach For Swimming – Hiriketiya Beach One of my personal favorites for swimming is Hiriketiya Beach. This crescent-shaped bay is sheltered by rocky outcrops on either side, creating calm, clear waters that are perfect for swimming. The beach itself is relatively small, which means it never gets too crowded, and there are plenty of shady spots to relax in. There are also a few cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink

The Best Beach For Photo Taking – Secret Beach Mirissa For those who love to snap photos of their travels, Secret Beach in Mirissa is an absolute must-visit. This secluded spot is tucked away behind a rocky outcrop, accessible only by a steep stairway. Once you make it down to the beach, you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear waters and a stunning view of the surrounding cliffs. The beach is relatively small and quiet, which makes it the perfect spot for a peaceful photo shoot.

Best Secret Beach – Muhathuwaram If you’re looking for a secluded spot that’s off the beaten path, Muhathuwaram is a great choice. This hidden gem is tucked away between two larger beaches, and it can only be accessed via a narrow path that winds through the jungle. Once you make it to the beach, you’ll be greeted by soft white sand and clear blue waters. There are no facilities on this beach, so be sure to bring everything you need with you.

Best Surf Beach – Arugam Bay For those who love to catch a wave, Arugam Bay is the ultimate surf destination in Sri Lanka. This small town on the east coast of the island is home to a long, sandy beach that boasts some of the best surf in the country. The waves are particularly good during the summer months, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in town for those who need equipment or instruction.

Most Romantic Beach – Talalla South If you’re looking for a beach that’s perfect for a romantic getaway, Talalla South is a great choice. This secluded spot is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, and it boasts soft sand, calm waters, and breathtaking sunsets. There are a few small resorts in the area that offer private bungalows and villas, perfect for a romantic escape.

The 25 Best Beaches In Sri Lanka (Ranked)

1. Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya is a sheltered crescent-shaped bay with calm and clear waters that are perfect for swimming. The beach is relatively small and never gets too crowded. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Dikwella city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

2. Mirissa Beach

Mirissa Beach is a popular beach for swimming and surfing. The beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day. The beach can be reached by bus or taxi from Matara city, which is about 30 minutes away.

3. Tangalle Beach

Tangalle Beach is a beautiful and secluded spot with soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 15 minutes away from Tangalle city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

4. Kalkudah Beach

Kalkudah Beach is a long and wide beach with soft sand and clear waters. The beach is known for its calm waters and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is located about 30 minutes away from Batticaloa city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

5. Kabalana

Kabalana is a popular surfing spot with great waves and a beautiful beach. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Galle city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

6. Arugam Bay Beach

Arugam Bay Beach is a long and wide beach with great waves, making it a popular spot for surfing. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot to relax and unwind. The beach is located about 4 hours away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

7. Unawatuna

Unawatuna is a popular beach for swimming and diving. The beach is known for its clear blue waters and soft sand. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Galle city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

8. Weligama

Weligama is a beautiful beach with calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a popular spot for tourists. The beach is located about 30 minutes away from Galle city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

9. Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is a beautiful spot with crystal-clear waters and soft sand. The beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, as it is home to a variety of marine life. The island is located about 30 minutes away from Trincomalee city and can be reached by boat.

10. Mawella

Mawella is a beautiful and secluded spot with soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 10 minutes away from Tangalle city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

11. Casuarina Beach

Casuarina Beach is a long and wide beach with soft sand and clear waters. The beach is known for its calm waters and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 30 minutes away from Jaffna city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

12. Nilaveli

Nilaveli is a beautiful and secluded spot with soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 15 minutes away from Trincomalee city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

13. Secret Beach in Mirissa

Secret Beach in Mirissa is a secluded spot that is accessible only by a steep stairway. Once you make it down to the beach, you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear waters and a stunning view of the surrounding cliffs. The beach is relatively small and quiet, which makes it the perfect spot for a peaceful day at the beach. The beach is located about 15 minutes away from Mirissa city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

14. Galle

Galle is a popular beach town with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters. The town is located about 2 hours away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

15. Uppuveli

Uppuveli is a beautiful and secluded spot with soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Trincomalee city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

16. Kalpitiya Beach

Kalpitiya Beach is a popular spot for kite surfing and windsurfing. The beach is known for its strong winds and is a great spot to catch some waves. The beach is located about 3 hours away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

17. Koggala Beach

Koggala Beach is a beautiful spot with soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Galle city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

18. Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a popular beach town with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters. The town is located about 2 hours away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

19. Bentota Lagoon

Bentota Lagoon is a beautiful spot with calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The lagoon is surrounded by palm trees and is a popular spot for tourists. The beach is located about 2 hours away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

20. Dalawella

Dalawella is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is known for its soft sand and clear blue waters. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Galle city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

21. Dickwella

Dickwella is a beautiful and secluded spot with soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located about 30 minutes away from Matara city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

22. Trincomalee Beach

Trincomalee Beach is a beautiful spot with calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a popular spot for tourists. The beach is located about 30 minutes away from Trincomalee city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

23. Muhathuwaram

Muhathuwaram is a secluded spot that’s off the beaten path. This hidden gem is tucked away between two larger beaches and can only be accessed via a narrow path that winds through the jungle. Once you make it to the beach, you’ll be greeted by soft white sand and clear blue waters. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Tangalle city and can be reached by tuk-tuk.

24. Talalla South

Talalla South is a beautiful and secluded spot with soft sand, calm waters, and breathtaking sunsets. There are a few small resorts in the area that offer private bungalows and villas, making it the perfect spot for a romantic escape. The beach is located about 20 minutes away from Matara city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

25. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is a long and wide beach with great waves, making it a popular spot for surfing. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a great spot to relax and unwind. The beach is located about 4 hours away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

26. Negombo Beach

Negombo is a popular beach town with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. The town is located about 30 minutes away from Colombo city and can be reached by bus or taxi.

Summary of all the Beaches

Beach Name	Swimmability	Crowdedness	The surf!	Access	Instagramability	Overall Ranking
Hiriketiya	Excellent	Average	Poor	Good	Excellent	1
Mirissa Beach	Good	Average	Good	Average	Excellent	2
Tangalle Beach	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Good	3
Kalkudah Beach	Excellent	Poor	Poor	Average	Good	4
Kabalana	Poor	Good	Excellent	Average	Excellent	5
Arugam Bay Beach	Poor	Good	Excellent	Poor	Good	6
Unawatuna	Good	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	7
Weligama	Excellent	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	8
Pigeon Island	Excellent	Poor	Poor	Poor	Good	9
Mawella	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Good	10
Casuarina Beach	Good	Poor	Poor	Poor	Good	11
Nilaveli	Good	Poor	Poor	Poor	Good	12
Secret Beach	Good	Good	Poor	Poor	Excellent	13
Galle	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Excellent	14
Uppuveli	Good	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	15
Kalpitiya Beach	Poor	Average	Excellent	Poor	Good	16
Koggala Beach	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Good	17
Hikkaduwa	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Good	18
Bentota Lagoon	Excellent	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	19
Dalawella	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Good	20
Dickwella	Good	Poor	Poor	Poor	Good	21
Trincomalee Beach	Excellent	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	22
Muhathuwaram	Good	Good	Poor	Poor	Good	23
Talalla South	Excellent	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	24
Arugam Bay	Poor	Good	Excellent	Poor	Good	25
Negombo	Good	Average	Poor	Good	Good	26

Sri Lanka’s Best Beaches FAQ:

Q1. Which part of Sri Lanka has the best beaches?

Sri Lanka has beaches all around its coastline, so there are great spots to visit no matter where you go. Some of the most popular areas for beach lovers include the southern coast, the east coast, and the northwestern coast.

Q2. Which is the No 1 beach in Sri Lanka?

This is a difficult question to answer definitively, as everyone’s preferences are different. However, some of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka include Mirissa Beach, Tangalle Beach, and Arugam Bay.

Q3. What is the most calm beach in Sri Lanka?

If you’re looking for a beach with calm waters, Trincomalee Beach is a great choice. The water here is usually very calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Q4. Which part of Sri Lanka is most beautiful?

Again, this is a matter of personal preference, but many people consider the southern coast of Sri Lanka to be particularly beautiful. Here, you’ll find palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets.

Q5. Which beach is best for foreigners?

All of the beaches on this list are great for foreigners – in fact, many of them are particularly popular with international travelers. However, some of the most popular spots for foreign visitors include Mirissa Beach, Unawatuna, and Arugam Bay.

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