Traveloka SG
27 Apr 2018 - 5 min read
In Sri Lanka, one quintessential activity is to visit its beautiful golden sandy beaches. There are so many pristine beaches around Sri Lanka, also known as the Jewel of the Indian Ocean, that you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you’re struggling to decide where to sunbathe, dive, and swim in,Travel Trianglerecommendsthese seven stunning beaches across the island.
Credit: Zafigo
Here’s an overview of where the top seven Sri Lankan beaches are, the best times to visit, and what each beach is famous for:
The sandy shores of Unawatuna make it one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. Credit: Dominic DeGrazier/Flickr
Unawatuna is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka which is famous for calm blue waters. The unique selling point of this beach is that one could spot a whale shark if lucky.
Best time to visit:Late August and early September, as the rains start by mid-October
Famous for:
Credit: Amila Tennakoon/Flickr
If you are looking for a Sri Lankan beach holiday and wish to stay at resorts that specialise in medicine centers and relaxing spas, Bentota is the place for you. It is a perfect getaway for tourists who are looking spend a few days away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Best time to visit:End August to mid-October
Famous for:
Mirissa is the best beach in Sri Lanka known for its pristine shores. Credit: jerome courtial/Flickr
Number three on our list is Mirissa Beach. With views of aquatic wildlife in its natural habitat, Mirissa attracts people from all over the world come to Mirissa for both ecological purposes as well as for holidays.
Best time to visit:December to March to see turtle hatching, or through August to October
Credit: AlGraChe/Flickr
Arugam Bay is amongst the top beaches in Sri Lanka known especially for surfing. The blue waters of the Arugam bay provide ample opportunities for fishing and underwater photography.
Best time to visit:March to October
Famous for:
The beautiful landscape of Uppuveli in Sri Lanka. Credit: knet2d/Flickr
Uppuveli is amongst the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. If beautiful landscape, classic accommodation, and authentic cuisine are one your mind, then Uppuveli is indeed the most suitable choice. You would be amazed how the locals welcome tourists and make them a part of their festivities. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this village is packed with natural beauty and relaxation.
Best time to visit:August to mid-October
Famous for:
Hikkaduwa beach promises loads of untouched natural beauty and relaxation. Credit: Amila Tennakoon/Flickr
Hikkaduwa Beach is characterised by some of the most plush hotels and night clubs. This feature often attracts many overseas tourists. It promises loads of untouched natural beauty and relaxation for both body and soul.
Best time to visit:March to September
Famous for:
Credit: Mount Lavinia Hotel
Whether it is a boat ride or an elephant ride, Mount Lavinia is one of the best beaches to visit in Sri Lanka. Apart from having all the striking features of a beach, Mount Lavinia is a perfect destination to enjoy a great beach holiday.
Best time to visit:January to March and August to November
Famous for:
Are you mesmerised by the beauty of these beaches yet?
By Xin Lee
This article originally appeared onZafigo, a travel guide for women travellers in Asia and the Middle East, and is republished with permission.