Driving my colorful scooter along the coast and exploring Sri Lanka’s best white sand beaches was one of my favorite experiences in the country! And being honest with you, I didn’t expect that this teardrop island country offers such a wide variety of incredible spots. From white sand beaches, wide open spaces, beach rock formations to secret beaches hidden deep in the lush greenery.
Whether you are traveling with your partner, in a group of friends or you are a solo traveler, Sri Lanka has something for everyone! And what I admire the most that almost everywhere you can get by scooter, which makes your trip even more adventurous and fun! I would like to share with you a list of 9 best beaches in Sri Lanka, which stay in my mind.
1.Tangalle Beach
This laid-back fishing town of Tangalle lies on the South Coast of Sri Lanka. It is still less visited destination comparing to other popular beaches in Sri Lanka. And to be honest with you, I wish this place would never change. I admire it for being so calm and quiet, where you can truly experience local vibes and interact with residents.
2. Secret Beach
Set among lush greenery and rock formations, Secret Beach is one of my favorite discoveries in Sri Lanka. It is located relatively close to the main beach in Mirissa. As the name suggests, Secret Beach is quite hard to reach it, but you can ask locals on the way and you should be fine! You can also take a tuk-tuk which will take you directly to the point, but I recommend to walk, as you can explore rural villages on the way and see how people live outside of the tourist zone.
3. Mirissa Beach
I spent here over a week, exploring surroundings, chilling in my hammock and enjoying fresh coconuts all days long. Yeah, this is a place to relax!
Mirissa beach is famous for it’s whale and dolphin watching tours, white sand beaches, stunning sunset spots, vibrant nightlife and very good food. It was hard to leave! I couldn’t get enough of that color scheme – pure white sand, cloudless blue sky, green palm trees and lazur water.
4. Hikkaduwa Beach
I arrived to Hikkaduwa beach in late August, in the middle of the low season. This time of the year, the summer season can be found only on Sri Lanka’s east coast. However, I was very happy with the laid-back atmosphere and empty streets. The weather was perfect and accommodation very affordable.
5. Elephant Rock
Calling all surfers!
Elephant Rock is one of the best surfing spots in Arugam Bay. It offers great waves for beginners who enjoy long rides. There are few local bars set on the beach, where you can buy a coconut or fresh fruits and chill after your surfing classes. The Elephant Rock is reachable only by motor or tuk-tuk, as walking is not recommended for security reasons. From top of the Elephant Rock, you can spot few elephants. They like to come closer during the sunset.
6. Unawatuna beach
In search of the best beaches in Sri Lanka? Unawatuna beach is the right spot!
Set just 5,5 km away from Galle Fort, Unawatuna became one of the most popular beach towns in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Southern coastal belt of the country. It attracts visitors for it’s white sand beaches, beach side restaurants and cafes and vibrant nightlife. It is also a paradise for water enthusiasts willing to explore the underwater wildlife. Unawatuna beach offers numerous of diving courses, snorkeling trips, surfing classes and water scooter rides.
7. Dalawella Beach
All right to be honest with you, there is only one reason, why I came to Dalawella beach!
Calling myself an adventure catcher, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to ride the famous palm tree rope swing! At the beginning, it was a place only known by locals, who built the swing for themselves. Today, this spot became a must-see attraction for tourists willing to try something fun and adventurous in Sri Lanka. What a joy!
8. Jungle Beach
This isolated beach is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, on the way to Unawatuna. It is a popular spot for residents at the weekends, but rarely known by tourists. It is quite hard to get there, as you need a scooter to find the parking spot and then walk down through the forest. However, it is worth the effort! Walking along the bay, you can find some unique places untouched by human hands.
9. Kirinda Beach
As you probably known, I like to beat the crowds and explore the undiscovered. The great discovery was a Kirinda beach located just few minute walk from the Kirinda Buddhist Temple. This pure, wild, wide open beach is just perfect for walk after visiting the temple. Don’t expect to find tourists here. This is a place to just enjoy the nature and have a moment for yourself.
