A golden sandy swathe, this beach is great for swimming and relaxation. There are plenty of hotels and guest houses situated along the beach, giving you full access all day long. Visitors can also embark on a boat ride along the Bentota river or visit the two private gardens of renowned architects the Bawa brothers, namely, Brief Garden and Lunuganga. Bentota is also the water sports capital of Sri Lanka. Get the adrenaline pumping with some water skiing, wind surfing, jet skiing or even some kite surfing. Those who wish to throw a little culture in to the mix, may even enjoy some lagoon fishing. Those looking for a bit of local culture may take the short drive to Ambalangoda the birth place of Sri Lanka’s famed devil masks and devil dancing.

Hikkaduwa, is great to experience and enjoy some surfing, snorkeling and scuba driving. Hire a glass bottomed boat and visit the beautiful coral gardens of Hikkaduwa and feast your eyes of an underwater riot of colour. In the night, bar hop and enjoy the equally vibrant night life of Hikkaduwa and indulge in the delicious fusion cuisine.

Kalpitiya is ideal for a beach vacation filled with snorkeling, water sports and whale watching. These waters are home to spinner, bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and the elusive Dugong. Seeing these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat is truly and awe-inspiring experience, that is not to be missed. Visitors may also make excursions to the Wilpattu Nature Reserve by boat or vehicle and marvel not only at the majesty of our deep-sea friends but our land bound fauna as well.

Mirissa, has it all from pristine beaches, to surfing, whale watching and a vibrant night life. An idyllic swathe of golden sand, sit back and enjoy the many hues of the sunset. The pristine and idyllic beauty of Mirissa or the famed Coconut Grove make it truly an instagramable experience. Mirissa is also great for snorkeling, surfing and whale watching.

Nilaveli beach, put simply, takes one’s breath away. An untouched sandy stretch of gleaming white sand, clear blue waters which remain shall and calm, Nilaveli is a beach lover’s dream come true. Ideal for sea bathing and spending endless days in the water, the serenity and calmness of Nilaveli will leave you feeling calm, rejuvenated and a beach bug like never before. Spend your days working on your tan, snorkel around the eye-catching coral reef at Pigeon Island and wave a quick hello to a turtle, or simply unwind the flat calmness of the sea. A short drive from Nilaveli, Trincomalee beach is ideal for those looking to embark on an exciting diving expedition. If you’re looking to explore the secrets of a ship wreck then Trincomalee Beach is just for you.

If you are in and around Colombo, then Mount Lavinia Beach is the local favourite. Stop by the beach for a gorgeous sunset after a heavy day’s shopping or sight seeing in Colombo city. Relax on the beach as the sunsets and then head over to the iconic Mount Lavinia Hotel for sumptuous dinner and drinks.

Less known and less crowded, the Tangalle Beach is perfect for soaking up those sun rays. Tangalle’s series of bays, creates several small private beaches and coves along the coast to be discovered, explored and enjoyed. If you are looking for a quiet beach vacation, Tangalle Beach is just for you.

Situated in close proximity to the historic Galle Fort, Unawatuna beach is one of Sri Lanka’ most famous beaches. Situated on a wide curve, and protected by a reef, this is the ideal bathing spot. As the night falls, the music begins to play and you may dance the night away at Unawatuna beach. Visitors should also make the short trip to the Galle Fort, walk along the ramparts, sample some local cuisine and even buy a few souvenirs.