01. UNAWATUNA – For Tranquil Blue Waters


Unawatuna is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka which is famous for calm blue waters. The unique selling point of this beach is that one could spot a whale shark if lucky. Unawatuna is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Sri Lanka and is the most “famous” beach in the country. It is a lovely banana-shaped beach of golden sand and turquoise water, surrounded by green palm trees!

Best time to visit : 

Late August and early September as the rain starts to set by mid-October.

Famous for :

  • Enjoy some water sports such as scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Get some tan at the beautiful golden sand beach
  • Take some blessings at the Temple Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya
  • Treat yourself to an Ayurveda massage and get pampered at the sanctuary spa
  • This beach is famous for turtle nesting


02. MIRISSA – For Whale Watching



Number three on our list of best beaches in Sri Lanka is Mirissa. With views of aquatic wildlife in its natural habitat, Mirissa attracts people from all over the world to come to Mirissa for both ecological purposes as well as for holidays.


Best time to visit : 

December to March to see turtle hatching, or through August to October

Famous for :

  • Mirissa is one of those beaches in Sri Lanka which is ideal for swimming.
  • West side of the beach is known for watersports, especially surfing, and a small coral reef
  • Spot dolphins and whales, if you visit in December, you may spot turtles laying eggs too.
  • Hire a boat and go fishing with the locals near the coral reef.
  • Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic massage in Ayurveda centers in Mirissa
  • A River safari would definitely be money well spent as you could see nature at its best, well spread out paddy fields hovered by migratory birds and water animals are definitely a treat to the eyes.


03. NILAVELI – For A Fine Stretch Of Sand


Nilaveli Beach is one of the best Sri Lanka best beaches. It is a broad, sandy beach, lined with palm trees and popular for fishing hotspots. Located in the northeast part of Sri Lanka, it is a 30-minute drive from the city of Trincomalee. Nilaveli is an isolated beach located on a tiny island. This is one of the most picturesque beaches in Sri Lanka.



Best time to visit : 

November to May are the best months to visit Nilaveli Beach

Famous for :

  • Stylish, spacious accommodations around the beach
  • Good for sightseeing with a generous amount of Tamil culture
  • Recreational water sports such as scuba diving
  • The hot water wells and pigeon islands 
  • An old fort from the colonial era is also present