Garlanded by the glistening blue waters of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka’s 1340-kilometre-long coastline hugs the island country. Blessed with watersport thrills, hidden coves and bewitching bays, Sri Lanka’s scenic seascapes lure beach-lovers, surfers, divers and partygoers from across the globe.
From the cliff-fringed shores of Unwatuna to the gin-crystal waters of Mirissa and the rolling waves of Weligama, we’ve curated a list of the best beaches in Sri Lanka.
Where golden shores are kissed by rolling surf, the quaint resort town of Bentota rests on Sri Lanka’s west coast. Serenaded by technicolour sunsets that melt into the blue of the Indian Ocean, Bentota’s natural beauty is undeniable, while a cluster of premium hotels and restaurants adds a splash of luxury. Fondly known as the watersports capital of Sri Lanka, head to Bentota Beach to get your adrenaline soaring with water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkelling and kayaking. A beloved gem of the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Bentota’s tranquil charm is sure to bewitch all who visit.
Best time to visit: The popular beach town of Bentota pulsates with life from November to March.
Whale watching at Mirissa
Tucked away on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, the picturesque sea town of Mirissa teases with its surreal blue whale sightings and surf-friendly turquoise waters. Dotted with coconut trees that sway in the ocean breeze, hidden beaches cradled by woody hills, and tidal rock pools, Mirissa unveils a tropical paradise.
Experience the sheer magic of spotting an enigmatic blue whale or glimpse playful dolphins splashing around, snorkel in the camouflaged coves, or simply wait for dusk to spill its colours on the sky-wide canvas with an epic sunset. As night falls, Mirissa twinkles with buzzing beach shack parties, which pump out peppy music and an electrifying atmosphere.
Best time to visit: Get the best seats to enjoy whale watching when you visit Mirissa between October and April.
Palm tree swing ropes in Unawatuna
If the aromas of delicious seafood curries being stirred in the seaside restaurants don’t tether you to the enchanting shores of Unawatuna, the sight of its gnarly waves will do the trick. Clutching onto the southern fringes of the Sri Lankan coast, Unawatuna is only six kilometres from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of Galle Fort.
The uniquely banana-shaped beach curves neatly and makes way for novice surfers to catch their first waves and swimmers to enjoy a splash in the shallows. Swing over the lagoons from the famous palm tree rope swing or take a short scenic hike to visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Moreover, if you’re craving good ol’ Melbourne-style brunch and freshly roasted coffee, head to Skinny Tom’s Deli, famed for its coconut ice-crushed drinks and mouth-watering shakshuka’s.
Best time to visit: Bustling Unawatuna Beach makes for a great escape between October and April.
We loved our stay. All the staff we extremely lovely and were willing to assist us. The breakfast and dinner was amazing. The facilities were great. Recreation staff did yoga and aquatics for my daughter and mum which was great – Thanks Sumal !
10.0
Mary S.AU · 18 escapes · 1 review
We had a great stay. With the mix up with our flights we could have not have more help from the team thank you
10.0
Kevin L.AU · 1 escape · 2 reviews
Cant fault this beautuful hotel and facilities
10.0
Mariam D.AU · 2 escapes · 1 review
I had a wonderful stay at Shangri-La Colombo. The hotel is beautiful, elegant and extremely comfortable, but what really stood out was the level of service. The staff were genuinely warm, welcoming and attentive throughout my stay and made me feel very well looked after.
My room was lovely, quiet and comfortable, with a beautiful view, and everything was exceptionally clean and well maintained. The breakfast and dining options were excellent, with a great variety of high-quality food.
The location is also fantastic and very convenient for exploring Colombo. After a busy day out, it was such a pleasure to come back to the hotel, relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Overall, I had a fantastic experience and would absolutely stay at Shangri-La Colombo again. One of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka and highly recommended!
10.0
Upul G.AU · 6 escapes · 2 reviews
Exceptional as always at Shangri-La Colombo. The Deluxe Twin Lake View Room was spacious and immaculately presented, and the property's position on Galle Face makes it hard to beat. What keeps us returning, though, is the people: Nadun at Shang Palace was attentive and genuinely warm, Kasun Srinath at Central restaurant handled our group of 10 with real professionalism, and Mr. Susantha at Chi Spa delivered a superb treatment. This hotel has become our home away from home in Colombo, and we'll be back again next year.
Coral garden discoveries in Weligama
The sandy village of Weligama, nestled along Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, serves up swimmer-friendly shallow waters and ample postcard-perfect moments. A curious blend of a bumbling fishing town and an inviting beach resort, Weligama’s energy flutters like the waves along its long sandy stretch. Take the plunge and dive into the ocean to explore the magical coral formations, go surfing or simply wade across to Sri Lanka’s only privately owned island, Taporobane Island, housing a lone Neo-Palladian mansion.
Best time to visit: Weligama’s alluring coastline plays the perfect host any time between November and March.
This is a little gem in Kendi. Our villa was spacious, clean and looking over a stunning valley. All staff members were warm and friendly. Our “butler” was the best; he looked after us very well. The food was delicious with local and international options. You must try the Sri Lankan breakfast options! Overall, it was a great experience.
10.0
Tiffany J.AU · 3 escapes · 1 review
Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa was an exceptional place to experience in every way. It was beautiful, peaceful and luxurious. The staff were outstanding, in particular the yoga classes and massages by Dulip. The food was delicious, lots of variety and the cocktails were also of a high standard. We loved our stay in this beautiful location.
10.0
Stephanie J.GB · 6 escapes · 2 reviews
Stunning resort and all the Luxury Escapes inclusions were particularly excellent. We really loved the nature walk with Newman, Bilup’s yoga classes and also the body massages with Bilup and Gianni were amazing. We would definitely return. The resort is slightly remote but we enjoyed the tranquility.
10.0
Nigel S.GB · 1 escape · 1 review
Absolutely superb! The Aarunya is beautifully situated in an elevated position (600 metres high?) in the hills north of Kandy and overlooking the stunning Knuckles Mountains. With only a handful of deluxe villas, all with plunge pools and outside bathrooms, the resort is exclusive and luxurious, peaceful and relaxing. Villas are well appointed and have quality bed linen and towels and a nice touch is the binoculars for guest use. Meals can be served in the villa or in the delightful open dining area overlooking the swimming pool with views to the mountains beyond. The grounds extend to around nine acres and offer some short walks through the resort. Staff are amazing – nothing is too much trouble and they are friendly, accommodating and efficient and are focused on guests enjoying their stay. Highly recommended throughout!
9.6
AnonymousAE
Honestly, our experience was wonderful. The service and hospitality were excellent, the room with the view was luxurious, and the food was outstanding. Definitely worth trying, even if just for one day 😍 But there were some insects in the bathroom, probably because it’s covered with a curtain — just something to be aware of.
See a turtle hatching at Kosgoda
From the endangered Olive Ridley to Leatherback, Hawksbill, Loggerhead and Green Turtles, Kosgoda’s warm, sandy shores act as the perfect cradle for marine turtles to nest. Snuggled along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Kosgoda is world-famous for its turtle hatcheries and conservation projects, as well as its enchanting beaches. Immerse yourself in an enlightening experience by learning how wounded turtles are rehabilitated and how turtle eggs are kept safe from predators before it’s time for hatching. The coastal town of Kosgoda also allures with its raw and rustic charm, delicious Sri Lankan kottu and fish ambul thiyal and therapeutic Ayurvedic massages.
Best time to visit: Visit Kosgoda during the prime turtle-hatching season between January and May.
‘Little Rome’ charms in Negombo
A stone’s throw from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Negombo’s shores are lulled by the cerulean hues of the Indian Ocean and make for an ideal first-day or last-day stop on your Sri Lankan escape. Languid and laid-back, Negombo’s rich colonial past, cinnamon trade history and churches exude a yesteryear charm.
Bask in the vintage setting or explore the sea with a healthy dose of snorkelling, windsurfing or simply boating on the bouncing waves. Affectionately christened as ‘Little Rome’ courtesy of the canals the Portuguese settlers built, the fishing town’s energy becomes even more irresistible as the sun dives into the ocean and live performances and groovy beats jazz up the evening air.
Best time to visit: Particularly pleasant during the cooler months, Negombo makes for a wonderful escape any time between October and April.
