An island blessed with sublime shorelines, Sri Lanka offers plenty of beaches for coastal getaways. Here are just a few of the best beaches you can visit.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach| Img by: Kaushiru90 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

One of the main south coast beaches in Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving! The sun-kissed shores can get crowded though you can find a spot on the beach for yourself. There’s much more to enjoy including eclectic dining and happening nightlife too.

Pasikuda Beach

White sands and shimmering waters await at the beach in Pasikuda. Hotels and resorts can be found right by the beach such as The Calm Resort & Spa which provides easy access to the shore. The relatively shallow and calm waters are ideal for swimming, while water sports like snorkelling, jet skiing, fishing, sailing and diving are on offer too.

Negombo Beach

Nestled on the island’s west coast, Negombo Beach lies just a short drive from the international airport and is known for its golden shores and stunning sunsets. Be it lazing on the sand, swimming in the ocean, enjoying kitesurfing or embarking on a foodie tour, there’s much to look forward to when here.

Arugam Bay

One of the best surfing spots in the region, Arugam Bay and its idyllic beach attracts surfers the world over, especially from April to October. Located along the southeast coast, the beach is an ideal place to just chill-out out; however, it’s out at sea at surf spots like the Main Point, Elephant Rock and Whiskey Point where the fun awaits!