The Wonderful Beaches of Sri Lanka
Approaching spring we made the annual decision about the destination for our summer vacation. Thinking of beaches normally everybody lists Hawaii, Bahamas and Bali as their dream destinations.
Your mind probably does not wander to the Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka. This incredibly charming island south of India is full of sacred cities, ancient Buddhist ruins and beaches that will impress even the most well-travelled beach loving people.
Sri Lanka’s beaches are the most picturesque on the Asian continent, and the following are the ones that every traveller must visit on their first trip to the country formerly known as Ceylon.
Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is famous for its surf. The best time to surf in this amazing bay is between the months of April and October. However, if one visit in the off-season, one will still fall in love with the soft sand and the tropical paradise of the moon-shaped bay. Even better, Arugam Bay offers several oceanfront resorts and beachside guest houses that can quickly turn even who love a metropolis into well-tanned beach loving people.
Koggala
The coastal town and beaches of Koggala are located just a short tuk tuk ride from lively Galle and the historic Galle Fort. The long, golden sandy beach bordered by coconut palms and a punctuated by resorts is ideal for lovers of beach life, swimmers, surfers, snorkelers and all water sports enthusiasts. Koggala is known for its stilt fishermen, who fish while perched on single poles emerging from the breaking waves. Fishermen, combined with Koggala’s stunning sunsets, make for unbeatable photo opportunities.
Negombo
In less than one hour from Colombo’s International Airport you can be relaxing with your feet in the Indian Ocean sea sipping a cold beer. All this is possible at Negombo Beach. Negombo is known for its many restaurants, countless shops and bars with live music. It is a perfect destination to stay for a few days before continuing to other destinations, or to spend the last days of vacation there before leaving. The orange sunsets, the awesome palm trees and golden sands make it an ideal place to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s beaches.
Passekudah Bay
For sure tourists travel for a long way to reach this east coast destination, but Passekudah Bay, with its long golden beaches and crystalline waters, has never disappointed anyone. No matter how long the journey is, or what vehicle is chosen to get here, this magnificent bay satisfies every expectation. Everyone who comes here will be rewarded with some of Sri Lanka’s most incredible beaches and sea. The shallow bottom of the bay allows one to swim out a long way from the shore in perfect safety. The dream landscape and unspoiled nature make Passekudah a must-see place.
Tangalle Beach
Tangalle is the gateway to the wide-open spaces and wide-open beaches in the southeast and is also one of the best parts for exploring Sri Lanka’s beaches. It is a small town with some old-world charm. Tangalle Beach is hidden on the island’s southern coast, and venturing beyond the towns of Galle and Matara will lead you to sandy nooks between large boulders and bending palm trees. Tangalle Beach looks like a place you would find on a postcard, and you can stay in the beauty in one of many bungalows, resorts or hotels.
Uppuveli
The golden sand and lush palms of Uppuveli are enough to draw you into this beautiful coastal town, but the laid-back atmosphere and the quiet feeling you breathe make you you want to stay forever. Few places remain around the world where you can lounge on the sand in the shade of a palm tree without another soul in sight, and Uppuveli, found just 6 km northeast of Trincomalee, is one of them.
Unawatuna
Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka’s famous beaches for happening, and while it provides a bit of a spring break vibe, you will not be able to resist the town’s relaxed feeling. The beach’s hip town, where you can dine on everything from Sri Lankan rote to hamburgers and iced mochas, it is just steps from a turquoise bay that screams “paradise.” The waters are calm and ideal for swimming, and although the beach is slowly eroding, you will not find a shortage of places to hang out on the sand, including a multitude of bars and restaurants on stilts overlooking the sea.