Relax On Beaches
Relax on the Beaches: Sri Lanka is blessed with beautiful beaches. Visit popular coastal towns like Bentota, Mirissa, or Unawatuna for sunbathing, water sports, and whale watching while exploring other attractions as well.
Tour Overview
Duration: days / nights
Price: $
Sri Lanka has lots of beaches, about 1300 kilometers of them!
You can find all kinds of beaches there, from quiet ones where you can relax alone to lively ones where you can have a party.
Some beaches have beautiful palm trees and rocks, making them look really special.
People love Sri Lankan beaches for surfing, diving, and seeing colorful fish and coral.
On the west coast, near the airport and big cities, you'll find places like Negombo, famous for its fish market and tasty food.
Explore the stunning south coast beaches of Sri Lanka with ease by availing services like rent a car with driver, car and driver hire, and chauffeur service.
Whether you prefer to hire a personal driver or rent a van with driver, there are options available to suit your needs.
Choose from our tour packages for a hassle-free experience.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Galle, Mirissa, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, and Tangalle while private drivers or guided tour itineraries ensure you make the most of your coastal adventure.
As you go further south, you'll reach Wadduwa with its pretty sands and nice views.
Then there's Bentota, where you can try fun activities like jet skiing and boat rides in the mangrove forests.
Down south, you'll find quiet beaches with clear blue waters, perfect for relaxing.
Places like Mirissa are great for watching whales, and Unawatuna is perfect for snorkeling and seeing underwater animals.
The east coast is a bit quieter but still has beautiful beaches like Nilaveli and Pasikudah, where you can swim in shallow waters and see colorful fish.
Tour Itinerary
Galle
Galle, one of the 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, is a fascinating blend of history, nature, and culture, making it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
Within the ancient walls of the Galle Fort, you'll find a maze of colonial buildings, charming shops, stylish cafes, and pubs nestled amidst granite and coral walls.
Visitors flock here to stroll along the cobblestone streets and immerse themselves in the rich history frozen in time. But Galle offers more than just its historic charm.
Sandy beaches, colonial masterpieces, scenic river rides, and lush forest treks await exploration.
Begin your journey in the Old Town, where you can admire the Dutch Reformed Church and Anglican Church, explore the Dutch warehouses, and ascend the Aurora Bastion for panoramic views.
Dive into Sri Lanka's maritime history at the Maritime Archaeology Museum and indulge in local cuisine at the Old Dutch Hospital, now a vibrant shopping and dining hub.
Art enthusiasts will delight in the quirky galleries housed within the fort, such as The Exotic Roots art gallery.
For a change of scenery, venture 33 km from Galle to the Kanneliya Forest Reserve, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
After a day of exploration, unwind in one of Galle's heritage boutique hotels, housed within beautifully preserved colonial buildings, and immerse yourself in the luxury and history of this exotic destination.
Bentota
Nestled along the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Bentota emerges as a picturesque resort town, boasting lush greenery, swaying coconut palms, and expansive beaches that stretch along the coastline.
This rural haven is characterized by tranquil estuaries, serene lagoons, and a gentle climate, promising memories that will linger in your mind for years to come. Flowing just beyond the Bentota Bridge is the meandering Bentara River, merging gracefully with the Indian Ocean.
This waterway provides the perfect playground for an array of thrilling watersports.
The wide expanse of the Bentota estuary beckons adventure seekers, while the northern end of the beach is home to the exhilarating Paradise Island estuary, where surfing, swimming, and more watersports await.
While the Bentota beach invites you to soak up the tropical sun and frolic in the waves, a visit to the Bentota turtle hatchery offers a deeper connection with nature.
Here, you can witness the lives of endangered turtle species under conservation efforts, from their birth to their release into the open waters — an enchanting experience indeed.
Delve into the island's spice heritage with a visit to Cinnamon Island, where you can explore an age-old cinnamon plantation maintained by generations of a single family.
History enthusiasts will find intrigue at Galapata Viharaya, a twelfth-century temple complex boasting underground tunnels and a striking thirty- meter-high Buddha statue.
Embark on a scenic boat ride along the Madu Ganga, navigating through mangrove forests and spotting diverse bird species in their natural habitats.
Inland, the sprawling gardens of Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa offer a tranquil retreat amidst unmatched beauty. Conclude your journey with a visit to the country home of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, where stone colonnades, wrought iron accents, and lush greenery merge in harmonious splendor, inviting you to reconnect with nature at every turn.
From serene beaches to friendly fishing communities and breathtaking landscapes, Beruwala beckons as a destination not to be missed on your Sri Lankan travel itinerary, promising a truly magical experience for all who venture there.
Weligama
Weligama, a renowned surfing hotspot in Sri Lanka, is a charming coastal town nestled in the Matara district of the southern province.
Translating to "sandy village," Weligama is renowned for its picturesque bay, golden sandy beaches, and vibrant beach bars and clubs, all just 89 miles from Colombo.
This tourist destination turned tranquil fishing village boasts rocky ridges, serene cove beaches, and crystal- clear waters teeming with colorful reefs and exotic marine life, perfect for amateur surfers, snorkelers, and scuba divers alike.
Explore the traditional stilt fishing method, embark on guided bicycle tours to coconut plantations and snake farms, and delve into the town's rich history dating back to the 6th and 9th centuries.
Don't miss the chance to witness the captivating Devil Dance, a traditional south Sri Lankan performance believed to possess healing powers. After a day of exploration, unwind in one of Weligama's boutique hotels or spacious villas, nestled along the lively beach strip offering vibrant restaurants and luxurious resorts.
Experience the enchanting allure of Weligama on your next travel adventure. 04. Mirissa Mirissa, a captivating coastal gem nestled between Galle and Matara, is a must-visit destination that promises stunning sunsets and breathtaking landscapes, making it a perfect addition to your Sri Lankan travel itinerary.
Renowned for its picturesque beaches, Mirissa offers the ideal setting to bask in the sun, whether you choose to rent sunbeds, frolic in the waves, or paddle through the serene waters.
Snorkel alongside gentle turtles that frequent Mirissa's shores, or embark on a guided dive excursion to witness these mesmerizing creatures up close.
From November to April, Mirissa transforms into a prime whale-watching site, where you can cruise through calm waters to spot blue whales, dolphins, and sperm whales, while learning fascinating facts about their lives.
Explore the secluded Secret Beach, capture breathtaking views from Coconut Tree Hill, and marvel at vistas from Parrot Rock. Indulge in thrilling watersports like wakeboarding and jet skiing, or unwind at beachfront bars, where nightly parties await.
With its array of luxurious resorts and boutique hotels, Mirissa offers the perfect blend of laid-back charm and excitement for your beach getaway.
Tangalle
Tangalle beckons those seeking a tranquil escape from urban chaos, situated just a four-hour drive from Colombo.
Frequented by budget travelers year-round, this serene coastal town boasts a modest yet captivating stretch of beach adorned with mangrove forests and scenic lagoons, creating a sublime backdrop.
Tangalle's isolated location makes it an ideal sanctuary for those craving solitude away from the bustling beach hubs of Sri Lanka.
While swimming isn't advisable due to strong tides, the sheltered bay with its protective reef offers a unique natural Jacuzzi experience.
Enjoy a leisurely morning jog along the pristine shoreline or simply lounge on the sun-kissed sands. Catch breathtaking sunsets at recommended spots like Silent Beach, Goyambokka Beach, and Mediketiya Beach.
For a break from beach bliss, venture to the Mulkirigala Rock Temples, just 16 kilometers northwest of Tangalle. Ascend 500 stone steps to reach these ancient caves nestled atop a rocky hill, adorned with mesmerizing Buddha statues and 18th-century paintings.
Nature enthusiasts will delight in exploring the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, a wildlife haven boasting diverse habitats including mangrove swamps and open grasslands, teeming with birdlife and reptiles.
Don't miss the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Hummanaya Blowhole, located 12 kilometers from Tangalle, renowned as Sri Lanka's only blowhole and the second largest in the world.
Despite offering fewer amenities compared to other beach destinations, Tangalle's allure lies in its serenity and subtle charm, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat with a touch of adventure.
Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa, a gem of the southwest coast in Sri Lanka, lures travelers with its pristine white beaches and translucent waters, just a short two-hour drive from Colombo.
Once a quaint fishing village, it has blossomed into a vibrant holiday hotspot, drawing backpackers and adventurers from across the globe.
Known affectionately as "Hikka" among locals, this seaside haven promises an adrenaline rush with its array of water sports, including surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
During the dry season, Hikkaduwa offers prime surfing conditions, while casual swimmers might spot giant turtles making their way to the shore for nesting.
Dive deeper into the underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion, exploring vibrant corals and exotic marine life.
The turtle hatchery along the beach provides a unique opportunity to learn about these gentle creatures and even assist in their release into the ocean.
For nature enthusiasts, Hikkaduwa Marine Park, one of Sri Lanka's three marine national parks, showcases colorful reefs and diverse marine species, including dugongs and sea turtles.
Glass-bottom boat rides offer a glimpse into this underwater wonderland for those who prefer to stay dry.
Away from the shoreline, Hikkaduwa offers tranquil escapes, from birdwatching at Hikkaduwa Bird Lake to exploring picturesque temples and indulging in luxurious spa experiences.
Whether lounging on the sandy shores or immersing yourself in island life, Hikkaduwa promises the ultimate getaway experience.
Unawatuna
Unawatuna ticks all the boxes for a beach lover! This southwest coastal gem boasts stunning beaches, from the lively main strip with beachfront cafes and surf schools to the hidden Jungle Beach accessible by a forest trail.
Explore the vibrant town with its hipster cafes, boutique hotels, and market stalls, making it feel like a Southeast Asian haven in Sri Lanka.
Don't miss the Japanese Peace Pagoda stop Rumassala Hill for breathtaking ocean views and a cultural experience.
If you're seeking adventure, Unawatuna offers great surfing waves between November and May, with rentals and lessons available. Plus, Unawatuna is close to Galle, where you can explore the historic fort, lighthouse, or maritime museum.
This unique blend of beach paradise, quirky town vibes, and historical sites makes Unawatuna a must-visit!
Negombo
Negombo, affectionately dubbed "Little Rome" for its predominantly Catholic community, is a charming old fishing town nestled along the western coast of Sri Lanka, conveniently close to the international airport.
Steeped in history, Negombo retains its old-world allure, boasting churches, ramparts, forts, and quaint canals that harken back to a bygone era.
A stroll through Negombo offers a glimpse into coastal life, with the bustling Lellama fish market showcasing an array of freshly caught seafood.
Witness the daily routines of local fishermen as they haul in their catch, providing an insight into their traditional methods and customs.
A boat ride through the lagoon offers a tranquil escape, passing through mangrove forests and bird sanctuaries, with glimpses of shrimp farming along the way.
While Negombo's beaches may not rival the pristine stretches found elsewhere on the island, the vibrant atmosphere of beachside pubs, resorts, and hotels offers a delightful experience.
Indulge in fresh seafood and local brews as you unwind to the soothing sound of the waves.
For adventure seekers, diving and snorkeling around a 50-year-old shipwreck reveal a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful corals and marine life.
Catamaran rides and water sports, including windsurfing, provide additional thrills for those seeking excitement.
On land, remnants of Portuguese and Dutch colonization stand as testament to Negombo's rich heritage.
Explore St. Mary's Cathedral with its exquisite ceiling frescoes and wander through the old Dutch fort, reflecting the architectural legacy of colonial rule.
Additional Information
Want more info? Get in touch with our tour experts for a quote or reach out directly at +94 77 386 6402.