Sri Lanka has an irresistible array of beaches which offer a fabulous variety of adventurous experiences for all age groups.
Mirissa Beach
Travellers get to enjoy a really special treat while cavorting on the golden sands and seas of the southern coastal town of Mirissa, a short hop away from historic Galle. Heading south to the little coastal town of Mirissa you are in for another wilderness treat. This is a rare opportunity for sightings of some of the world’s biggest mammals of the ocean depths. While you are certainly mesmerised by the graceful antics of the spinner dolphins, striped dolphins and spotted dolphins, look further away and set your sights on their colossal companions—blue whales, Bryde's whales, sperm whales and fin whales. The sighting rate is on average over 80% in Mirissa. November-April is best for this exclusive whale watching safari as the pods start migrating from the southern hemisphere to the Bay of Bengal’s warmer feeding places. Kalpitiya village, about 160km north of Colombo is another blue whale watching hotspot.
Trincomalee Beach
Trincomalee too is also one of the best places in the world to see blue whales! From June to late September this lovely beach is a paradise on earth, By the way, if you are around Trincomalee grab the opportunity to head out to nearby Pigeon Island which is hugely popular with water sports buffs. Savour those superb aqua adventures snorkelling and scuba diving along the stunning 200m long and 100m wide coral reef.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Nature-watch buffs can expect to spend many happy moments exploring the natural wonders of the planet on a nesting turtle tour at this calm and clean beach. The turtle hatchery here offers a delightful window to the miracle of the birth of the new babies in the tanks and the waiting period when they are old enough to be released into the sea. You can even participate in the emotionally moving adventure of helping release them, for a small fee.
Arugam Bay
Surfing enthusiasts from around the world just cannot resist the allure of Arugam Bay legend for its fantastic surfing experiences. Magic is created when the sea and surfer become one, while losing themselves at a heavenly break of around 600m with waves rising as high as 8ft. Even beginners can learn the ropes in its tamer waters from professional outfitters located here at the beachside surf-n-dive shops. Another popular surfing hub is Peanut Farm beach, and Panama Point with its scattering of colourful fishing boats manned by the local fisherman.
Tangalle Beach
Having thrilled to the wildlife wonders of Yala National Park, you shouldn’t miss going across to the serene environs of Tangalle Beach. Its uncrowded setting makes it perfect for a more private beach experience. That’s why this southern coastal haunt is a big attraction for honeymooners and couples on a romantic escapade. Tangalle Lagoon is an alluring spot for some snorkelling or scuba diving.
The calm waters of the Paraiwella Beach Park area of Tangalle are ideal for swimming. The dramatic sunsets at the beach are truly memorable. Unakuruwa Beach near Tangalle is another spot offering an attractive beach experience.
There are many other notable seaside retreats for you to explore on return trips along coastal Sri Lanka where the beaches can be clubbed with a bunch of other explorations— such as historic Galle and its heritage and culture, Trincomalee for deep insights into Singhalese culture, Bentota for its linkages with legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa’s brother, Bevis Bawa famous for his garden landscaping… and many, many more.