4 minutes reading time Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka also formerly known as Ceylon is known for its rich history, abundance of wildlife, and not forgetting its pristine beaches.
This pearl in the ocean is home to a vast array of endemic species including marine life. While the central part of the island is home to hills of tea plantations of arguably the world’s finest tea. This country boasts flavorful spices and cuisines which continues to draw crowds of people.
Sri Lanka has been named the top 5 travel destinations to travel by popular travel magazines such as travel and leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.
Here’s the top 5 must visit beaches in Sri Lanka you don’t want to miss out the next time you visit Sri Lanka!
1. Mirissa Beach
Mirissa beach is one of the popular beaches in Sri Lanka, well known for its nightlife, large stretch of beaches, and its beach boy’s culture.
As you can imagine the vibe here is pretty chilled out, and most often you will be able to spot tourists more than the locals. The best time to visit Mirissa would be from November to April.
As soon as the sun sets, the place clears out, and restaurants start preparing fresh seafood which is caught during the daytime.
You can pick and choose your choice of fish and they will prepare it for you, which you can choose to eat right there on the beach.
2. Hiriketiya Beach
This secluded spot was discovered up and until recently by tourists and is getting popular for its waves and surfing.
Popular among backpackers, Hiriketiya beach is also a great spot to find cheap drinks and Airbnb’s to stay.
If you are looking around to have a bite make sure to check out Dots Bay House which is quite a famous spot among tourists, hosting occasional gigs featuring local artists and even a small scale good market of its own too!
The best time to visit Mirissa would be from November to April. If you’re looking for a place to chill your best bet is Hiriketiya beach!
3. Trincomalee
Sitting on one of the world’s finest harbors, this small coastal town is home to some of the best beaches in the country.
From its Beautiful white sandy beaches to clear blue waters this city is also rich in history and culture.
Local life is such where people don’t depend on tourism for their day to day life which is the complete opposite in the southern part of the country.
Whale watching is also a popular thing to do around here, to maximizing the chance of spotting dolphins and whales the best time to visit Trincomalee would be from March to August.
4. Hikkaduwa Beach
Popular among tourists Hikkaduwa is quite famous for its breathtaking views of sunsets, warm tranquil waters and a range of water sporting activities to do here.
Filled with a variety of vibrant colorful corals and reefs in the sea bed, Turtles can also be usually found swimming closer to the shores of Hikkaduwa.
If you’re brave enough you could even feed try feeding them!
During the high season (November -April) Hikkaduwa can be seen packed with tourists and locals who come from the capital city of Colombo to enjoy their weekend in bliss!
5. Arugam Bay
Also known as the surfer’s paradise, this beach is located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka.
Attracting top surfers from around the globe for its famed point break that surfers regard as one of the best places to surf in the country, it is one of the top surfing destinations in the world!
Surfers here can expect to share the beach with wild animals such as monkeys and elephants that roam in the forests nearby!
The ideal time to visit Arugam Bay Beach is from May to September.
From high-end luxurious accommodation to a backpacker’s paradise, this island has something to offer for everyone!
