“Shining Island“, “Pearl of Asia”, “Tear of India” – these are just a few of the many definitions that characterize the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka. For its guests, the tropical paradise has prepared an exciting variety of exotic landscapes, the ruins of ancient mysterious cities, the meditative silence of Buddhist temples and the hospitality of the locals. But the main attraction of the island are the best beaches of Sri Lanka, washed by the warm waves of the Indian Ocean, offering an idyllic vacation on soft sand among giant coconut trees leaning towards the water.

Bentota

Those dreaming of a romantic getaway in a prestigious resort should pay attention to Bentota, located in the southwest of the country. This is the land of expensive restaurants and luxurious hotels – on the shore you will not find the ubiquitous local merchants and tents with homemade souvenirs. Travelers love this corner of paradise for the highest class service, serene silence and a sense of complete harmony. People come here who want to feel the healing power of Ayurvedic practices and complete relaxation, which is bestowed by elite spas.

The indisputable advantage of Bentota is the beautiful sandy beach. Kilometers of white sand, coconut palms and azure water – this is the usual landscape that welcomes enthusiastic guests of the resort. Here everyone will find something to their liking: fans of water sports will appreciate the good conditions for surfing in the southern part of the coast, and lovers of swimming will choose the calm northern beach without waves.

Smell

The duration of this beach is relatively short – only one kilometer, but it is considered one of the most beautiful in the area. The local infrastructure is not very developed, which makes this place even more atmospheric and secluded. Not good for swimming. Despite the fact that it is located in the bay, it does not protect it from gusty winds and rough waves. Basically, it is locally chosen by surfers and fans of long walks.

To the east there are a number of calmer bays – here you can already fully enjoy swimming – calm waters are framed by clean beaches. It is noteworthy that a narrow sandy spit, which forms an island, serves as the boundary between the zones. Those who know about this miracle of Mirissa come here at sunset to see the most beautiful scenery that can only be found here.

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Unawatuna

Considered one of the best in the world. Once it was wild, but even the first local residents appreciated the beauty of the local landscapes and rather quickly “trodden” the path here. It was absolutely justified: the gold of the sand, the tropics, which approach almost close, palm trees grow almost along the ocean. It is impossible not to fall in love with this splendor! On the left side of the lagoon, the reef comes close, which is especially pleasing to divers – it is not necessary to sail a decent distance from the shore to enjoy the panoramas of colorful underwater life.

It is noteworthy that despite the appearance of some cafes and guest houses, the beach is still not completely absorbed by the modern paraphernalia of a beach holiday. The romance of the “wild” beach is preserved – you should take the opportunity and try to have time to visit here before civilization sets foot on the local gently sloping shores.

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Hiccups

Hikkaduwa is known for its picturesque lake of the same name, historical monuments and beaches. Among them, Hikkaduwa Beach and Narigama stand out. The first is a rather narrow strip of sandy beach, tightly pressed to the shore by dozens of cafes, restaurants and bars that are located along the coast. At the same time, the bottom of the beach consists of rock, and therefore the local waters are very clean, juicy turquoise and are guaranteed to attract photography fans. Those who go to this resort just for the sake of swimming should turn their attention to Narigama. This beach has occupied the territory of a cozy closed bay and has a gentle slope, which makes it undoubtedly more attractive for swimming.

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Tangalle

Tangalle is located in the very south of the country. Its rocky coastline stretches for 9 km and forms many lagoons that can be explored by boat or kayak. As for the ocean, here it shows all its power, washing mountains of golden sand onto the shore. Strong waves, steep descent and fast current do not contribute to serene swimming.

People come here to soak up the rays of the gentle sun and in silence to relax from the city chaos. You can walk for hours along the coast without meeting a single living soul. In the evenings, your only companions will be the sea turtles that come out onto the sand to lay their eggs. A huge plus of Tangalle is the proximity to the Yala National Park, spread over an area of 1,300 km 2. In this tropical jungle, you can become a member of the “jeep safari” and see leopards in their natural habitat.

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Negombo

Just a 20-minute drive from the airport in Colombo is Negombo, the oldest beach in the former Ceylon. Back in the 60s of the XX century, the first tourists, mastering the island, sunbathed here under the lush palm trees in the immediate vicinity of the ocean surf. Much has changed since then, but the lush tropical vegetation and soft sand interspersed with small shells have remained the same.

Whole families come here. While parents lie on their sun loungers and contemplate the ocean, children can safely play in a calm bay. Negombo offers its guests a wide range of entertainment. Here you can spend time riding on gentle waves on a boat or jet ski, or, armed with a mask and fins, explore the sunken ship. But you should not go far from the isolated areas of hotels – within the city, the coastal zone is not cleaned well, the water here is muddy and often brings the waste of civilization to land.

Mount Lavinia

It will take about an hour to get from Sri Lanka International Airport to the city of Mount Lavinia, where the beach of the same name is located. One of the oldest resorts in Ceylon, popular back in colonial times, today is known for its developed infrastructure and, alas, not the best coastline on the island, a narrow snake stretching for 1.7 km.

The waves on the coast are not high, but you should not trust the seeming calm of the ocean – even strong men find it difficult to resist the changeable current. The second disadvantage is the railway, passing in close proximity to the coast. You will hardly find solitude here either. The main inhabitants of the beach are numerous residents of the Asian metropolis. Why do tourists go to Mount Lanvinia? For entertainment, of which there are a dime a dozen, and for acquaintance with the ruins of the ancient city of Sigiriya.

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Takes out

Those who choose Wadduwa as their holiday destination in Sri Lanka will be rewarded with a beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere. The golden canvas of the coast, 4 km long, strewn with fine sand, is one of the most beautiful in the western part of the island. Moderate waves create good conditions for windsurfing, and at the same time safe for those who want to swim calmly in the azure ocean.

Countless shady palm trees, clear water, playgrounds for sports, restaurants and cafes offering dishes from seafood – this is just an incomplete list of what Wadduwa has prepared for her guests. For those interested in traditional healing procedures, Ayurvedic centers are open, and shopaholics will have a great time in jewelry stores where you can find inexpensive original jewelry.

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Veligama

The three-kilometer coastal strip, located 150 km south of Colombo, is almost never visited by strong monsoon winds. The incessant gentle waves scare off those who like to swim in calm water from the coast, but they are ideal for learning to surf and practicing simple maneuvers. For novice athletes, all conditions have been created here: the presence of surf schools (including those for Russian speakers), rental of equipment and boards.

Weligama is a young resort, its infrastructure is practically not developed. Locals know about shopping only by hearsay, so do not forget to pack the necessary medicines and hygiene items in your suitcase. The choice of hotels does not differ in variety either – on the coast you can find either luxurious expensive five-star complexes overlooking the ocean, or cheap guest houses located in the village.

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Arugam bay

In the southeast of the island, 320 km from the capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo, there is a multi-kilometer curved strip of pure sand. This place harmoniously combines tranquility and rhythm of life. There are many fishing villages here. Boats of local residents go out into the ocean long before dawn. If you get up early, you can see how the fishermen sort the net on the shore and lay out the rich catch on the wet sand. Tourist accommodation is moderately priced and is represented by guest houses and budget hotels.

Arugam Bay is a favorite place for surfers. The height of not too steep and long waves running across the coast reaches 1.5–2 m, which is perfect for fans of extreme boarding. Beginning athletes can get training (an hour – 2,000-3,000 rupees) and rent equipment (a day – 800-1,000 rupees).

Уппувели

If you are going to Sri Lanka in anticipation of a measured rest far from civilization, then you will find the village of Uppuveli, located in the northeast of the island, 6 km from the city of Trincomalee. There are no fashionable hotels, famous Ayurveda centers and expensive restaurants here – tourists come here for budget housing, local flavor, a deserted coast and a calm ocean protected from the elements by a coral reef.

In addition to sunbathing and water activities, Upuvelli offers its guests sightseeing. Places in the vicinity of Trincomalee are sacred to Sri Lankans who practice Buddhism and Hinduism. Here are the ruins of the Velgam Vihara Temple, built in the 1st century AD. e., towering on a 120-meter cliff Koneshwaram Temple, Fort Frederick of the XVII century and the sacred hot springs of Kanniyya, according to legend, created by the god Vishnu.

Nilaveli

Snow-white Nilaveli – according to travel companies, is the cleanest in Sri Lanka. Its coastline is perfect for those who appreciate the calm waves, giving vacationers the opportunity to swim safely. Those who prefer coolness to the hot rays of the sun will also fall in love with it – palm trees here almost come close to the water, creating a thick shadow.

Do not leave Nilaveli unattended and fans of diving. 5 km from the coast is Pigeon Island (Pigeon Island), surrounded by a coral reef. Diving to a depth of 8–20 m, lovers of the underwater world watch with interest the life of the inhabitants of the kingdom of Neptune: exotic fish, Malagash sharks, stingrays, barracudas and sea turtles. There are octopuses, cuttlefish and dolphins here.

Beruvela

The town of Beruwela, located 79 km from the airport in Colombo, combines signs of fishing villages, which attract with calmness, positive and national color, and a modern, lively resort, known for a variety of hotels: from simple boarding houses to large hotel complexes operating on an all-inclusive basis. “. But the main advantage of Beruwala is its beaches. The coastal strip up to 100 m wide, bordered by palm trees and washed by sapphire-colored waves, is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in the country.

Families with children appreciate the gentle slope into the water, providing ideal conditions for swimming and playing. The reef located parallel to the shore, which was chosen by colorful fish and giant sea turtles, attracts diving enthusiasts to Beruwala. The highlight is the Bentota River flowing into the ocean, which makes it possible to ride a boat among the mangroves and see crocodiles.

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Induces

The sleepy village of Induruwa in the west of Sri Lanka is a 4 km long desert coast, along which several hotels have been built among palm trees and mangrove trees, aimed at guests with medium and high incomes. A wide beach with light soft sand is ideal for walking, but the ocean here is not averse to showing its strength and unbridled character. Fans of swimming are better off opting for the nearby picturesque lagoon.

Don't expect much from Induruwa's infrastructure. Several cafes, a market and small shops – that's all that the resort offers to travelers. If you want to diversify your vacation, then go explore the surroundings of the city. Nearby is a turtle farm, where you can watch the cubs that have just hatched from eggs. Local travel agencies also offer a boat trip along the Madu Ganga River, the banks of which have chosen monkeys, crocodiles, monitor lizards and exotic birds as their home.

Ahungalla

Picturesque palm groves and a 2.7-kilometer paradise beach located in the southwest of the island create a peaceful atmosphere that residents of megacities dream of. This place is ideal for swimming in crystal clear waters, diving and leisurely walks along the coast. On your way you will meet crabs of all sizes, and if you're lucky, then caretta caretta turtles, hurrying to lay their leathery eggs in the golden sand.

If you choose Ahungalla, be sure to visit the Kande Viharaya Temple, located 20 km away, which houses the world's largest statue of a seated Buddha. Those who wish to improve their health can undergo a course of procedures at the Ayurvedic Center, where they practice the most ancient methods of healing the body and soul. Fans of outdoor activities will not get bored here either – they will be offered rock climbing, rafting, fishing and parasailing.

Ambalangoda

15 km from Ahungalla is a place surrounded by authentic huts, created for secluded relaxation. An open beach, unspoiled by civilization, will meet you with light soft sand, a gentle entrance to the ocean, calm lagoons and beautiful rocks that adorn the shore. This is the land of untouched nature, soothing silence and enchanting sunsets. The infrastructure in Ambalangoda is minimal.

Here are a couple of travel agencies, several inexpensive hotels and supermarkets. From entertainment, you will be offered to visit the Karandeniya Maha Vihara Temple, famous for the 35-meter statue of the reclining Buddha, explore the mines for the extraction of moonstones and take a boat safari along the Madu Ganga River, the banks of which are covered with mango forests. The main attraction of Ambalangoda is the museum of traditional wooden masks.

Narigama

Along the western coast of the island, 128 km from Colombo, the city of Hikkaduwa stretched. Back in the 60s of the last century, a fishing village was located on this site, but today tourists are greeted by a resort famous for its wide coastal strip, colorful coral reefs and fun parties. The most popular beach in Hikkaduwa is Narigama Beach – a corner of the turquoise ocean, coarse sand, azure skies and green palms.

In January, surfers come here to hone their skills, sliding on giant waves. In February, the elements calm down a bit, and families with children fill local hotels. For kids, expanse is expanse – a gentle coast, warm water and a small calm lagoon. At this time, life begins to emerge on the snow-white sand – tiny turtles hatch from eggs and rush to the ocean.

jungle beach

South of Colombo, 76 km from the airport, Unawatuna, a popular resort with developed infrastructure, pristine nature and a large selection of inexpensive hotels, has been a constant delight for tourists for many years. The ocean coast is represented by a quiet bay, fenced off from raging waves by a double coral reef. Surfers will be bored here, but couples can safely come to Unawatuna without fear for the children.

There is a secret place in Unawatuna located 1 km from the main beach. Hire a tuk tuk taxi and it will take you to a true paradise surrounded by the jungles of Roomassala. The coastal strip 100 meters long seemed to have descended from the Bounty brochures. The ocean surprises with its unusual green color and calm disposition. Waves are a rare visitor to Jungle Beach. Despite the isolation, everything here is prepared for the convenience of tourists: sun loungers are placed under the palm trees, there is a shower, a toilet and a cafe on the territory.

Polhena

In the very center of Matara, the largest city in the south of Sri Lanka, a chain of small beaches stretched along the coast, united by the name Polhena. All of them are protected from the raging elements by a 4-kilometer coral reef, so there are no waves here even during the monsoon season. This area is popular with both tourists and locals. The Sri Lankans are afraid of the open ocean and prefer to swim in a calm bay that resembles a huge lake.

A big plus of resting on Polhen is its proximity to civilization. In Matara you will find shops, restaurants for every taste, cinemas, museums, nightclubs that are not inferior to European ones, and interesting sights: the Church of St. Our Lady, the Dondra lighthouse, the Buddhist temple of Veherahena and the snake farm. In addition, the city is an important transport hub of the country – from here you can go on a short trip to nearby Dikwella, Mirissa and Weligama.

Dickwell

The snow-white coastal strip in the style of “bounty” will open to the eyes of those who decide to spend their holidays in the picturesque village of Dikwella, located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. This place was created for leisurely walks and acquaintance with the realm of lush tropics and majestic waterfalls. The coastline stretches for 2 km and is reliably protected by rocks and a reef, which makes Dikwella the best for swimming in the south of the country.

You should not look for entertainment or vibrant nightlife here – those who are interested in a relaxing holiday come to the resort. It has both remoteness from a busy highway, and a small number of hotels. But if you still get bored, basking in the warm rays of the sun, go on a date with the sights of Dikwella: the Vevurukannala Viharaya Temple and the Howling Hole, a natural 25-meter fountain gushing from impregnable rocks.

Which one to choose for families with children

When choosing a suitable place for a vacation, parents always face the question of the safety of the resort. To a large extent this applies to Sri Lanka. The island is surrounded by the ocean, which means that the coastal zone is stingy with quiet places where your baby can safely wallow in the gentle surf. For a family holiday, it is wiser to choose a few beaches, separated from the raging waves by reefs. Even in the summer months, when monsoons rage on the south side, comfortable weather is established in the northeast, favorable for families with children.

During this period, one of the best beaches for the younger generation is Nilaveli Bay – the most beautiful place on the northern coast, protected by a coral reef. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, here you can watch dolphins and whales. If you arrived in the country with a child, feel free to choose a cozy, calm beach located next to the Dickwella Resort SPA hotel (Dickwella Bay) as your location. Due to the small cape, there are almost no waves here. No less popular among families are western Wadduwa and southern Unawatuna, famous for the high temperature of the water on the coast, slight tides and a gentle entrance to the calm ocean.

In order for the long-awaited vacation not to turn into constant concern for your children, before buying a tour, familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of holidays in Sri Lanka with children.

Pros:

Minuses:

Best time to travel

The entire territory of the island is dominated by a warm subequatorial (in the northeast) and equatorial (in the southwest) climate, a distinctive feature of which is high air humidity (70–90%). The temperature is not subject to significant fluctuations and ranges from +25 to +33 °C all year round. The ocean warms up to +30 °C. Like most tropical islands, Sri Lanka is characterized by the presence of only two seasons, formed by steady winds – monsoons. They determine the storms and showers in the country. The largest amount of precipitation falls from the second half of May to September, when the time of the southwest monsoon comes to the west coast.

The sun often hides behind clouds, the wind speed is 5–8 m/s. In the northeastern part of the island, winds blowing from China bring bad weather from June to October. Given the climatic nuances, the winter months are considered to be the optimal time for a holiday in Ceylon. During the day the air temperature reaches +31 °C. Ocean waters are not inferior, warming up to + 28 ° C. Rain at this time is a rare guest – only short-term showers can pass at night. Closer to April, the thermometer is inexorably creeping up. In May, clouds cover the sky, bringing torrential downpours. In November, the weather becomes comfortable and stable again, giving a start to the holiday season.

Which hotel to choose

Many tourists go to Sri Lanka just for the sake of a beach holiday, and therefore it will be more comfortable to choose a hotel that will have all the necessary amenities and at the same time will have optimal accommodation.

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort 5*

This resort is located on a secluded site right on the cliffs, which offer impressive panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can comfortably stay in private villas decorated in traditional Sri Lankan style. The huge outdoor swimming pool, thanks to comfortable weather conditions, is open almost all year round.

Guests can relax in the spa, work out in the fitness center or spend time on the tennis courts. You don't have to worry about food – there are a number of restaurants on the territory that represent Mexican, Japanese, Italian and local cuisines. Wine tastings are also held here. The staff speaks English, French, German and Italian.

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Shangri-La's Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa 5*

This Shangri-La hotel is surrounded by historical sites. The windows offer a view of the almost untouched by civilization part of the beach. The resort's grounds are truly vast, with a signature spa offering wellness services, a golf course and a small, authentic village home to traditional local craftsmen. The rich design of the rooms is designed to emphasize both the peculiarities of the local culture and the unity with the natural world. The hotel complex also includes two restaurants serving national Sri Lankan cuisine and various options for oriental cuisines: Chinese, Malaysian, Thai.

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Heritance Negombo 5*

The hotel is located in close proximity to the city park and the church of St. Anthony. The hotel infrastructure includes a number of facilities: an outdoor swimming pool, a pool with a view, a fitness center, spa, terraces for relaxation and sunbathing, a tour desk. Free parking is available for hotel guests, but reservations should be made in advance. Spacious rooms in light colors convey a feeling of freshness. There is also an on-site restaurant serving international and Sri Lankan cuisines.

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Amari Galle 5 *

Situated in the beautiful resort town of Galle, this hotel is close to local attractions such as the ancient fort or the Dutch Church. The swimming pool is open for adults, children enjoy spending time swimming in the pool with a shallower depth. The hotel provides a range of beauty and wellness services. A children's club is open to work with children.

Rooms feature modern technology and are individually decorated in muted colours. You can rent a car or arrange a shuttle service directly at the hotel. The latter should be discussed in advance. The hotel complex includes three restaurants, each of which has an à la carte menu. Local chefs represent both Western and Eastern types of cuisine.

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Lankavatara Ocean Retreat 4*

Juicy tropics, thin trunks of coconut palms and white buildings – the hotel is located on a picturesque stretch of coast in the immediate vicinity of the Tangalle lagoon. The hotel has a number of swimming pools, including an infinity pool, a gradually increasing depth pool, an outdoor year-round pool, a children's pool and others.

There is a lounge area for relaxation. Guests can take advantage of health or beauty services. Water sports such as diving or snorkeling are available on this stretch of beach. The hotel has secure parking and a shuttle service. The local restaurant serves Italian, French and European cuisine. The local menu mostly consists of seafood.

Calamander Unawatuna Beach 4*

The hotel is located right in the bay of Unawatuna. Descent to the sea will not take more than a minute. Local waters are famous for their purity and tranquility. The hotel has three unique pools that break records for length and size in the Asia-Pacific region. A pool with a colored facade makes a special impression – the play of light, painted in juicy shades, looks especially bewitching on the clear surface of the water.

The hotel is perfect for outdoor activities: volleyball, tennis, yoga, kayaking, diving, snorkeling or other water sports – guests are free to choose. The hotel complex includes a restaurant, which is famous for its seafood dishes, and two bars with author's design. It is noteworthy that the hotel staff is fluent in Russian.

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