Coastal Regions

Located south of Trinco, Pasikudah and Kalkudah are quiet villages which post war have evolved into beautiful unhurried beach resorts. The Bay in Pasikudah, possibly one of the most beautiful coastlines in Sri Lanka with its almost pool-like still ocean is best visited during the months between April and October. 14 Luxury resorts have tastefully blended into the landscape and thankfully no more development has been authorized by the local government ensuring that this resort remains uncrowned and peaceful.

Bask in the sun on the secluded beaches of Uppuveli, Nilaveli & Kuchchaveli located north of Trinco town. Discover the magnificent marine life around Pigeon Island National Park or go on a dolphin and whale-watching excursion. The continental shelf pinches exceptionally close to shore in Trincomalee which enables the ocean giants – the blue whales to approach surprisingly close to the coastline.Trincomalee’s natural harbour – considered to be the finest in the world, can be viewed from the Konewswaram Kovil & Swami Rock situated on a rock outcrop. The best time to visit for the beaches, snorkeling, and whale and dolphin watching is between the months of April and October.

Arugam Bay is considered to be among the top 10 surf destinations in the world. Throughout the period of unrest which prevailed until 2009, surfers from across the world found their way to Arugam Bay for the annual surf season from May to August. Small guest houses and relaxed hideouts are characteristic of this bay and little has changed since the end of the conflict. Deserted beaches, high swells on the surf with thrilling wave breaks, and the chilled out lifestyle make this the perfect gateway for some.

Tangalle is located at the southern tip of the island and is another quiet coastline with many secluded bays. The ambiance is generally laid back and relaxed with several quaint guest houses and small hotels dotting the area. In addition, Tangalle also has a selection of exclusive boutique properties including Amanwella, one of the two Aman Resorts in Sri Lanka. The highlight of Tangalle is the Rakawa Beach which is a 2 km stretch of protected beach sanctuary for sea turtles. Five of the seven species of sea turtles (all of which are endangered) come ashore to nest on Rakawa beach. The peak of the nesting season is from April to August. The ability to walk along the beach and encounter these amazing animals laying their eggs is a truly special experience.

The 17th Century Dutch Fort in Galle encapsulates the romance of Sri Lanka’s colonial period. The quaint, cobblestoned streets and tiny guest houses and shops and incredible sunsets while walking along the impressive ramparts are things which must be experienced when visiting Galle. Interestingly the fortified old town is enjoying an artistic renaissance and the beautiful beaches around it are dotted with luxurious villas and classy boutique hotels.

Negombo is a bustling beach resort rich in colonial influence and fishing village culture. Every street will have at least one or two colonial churches nestled between busy bazaars. The beach is clean and wide and the nightlife is interesting with a strip of local bars and restaurants which serve great Sri Lankan seafood. Its location about 30 minutes from the international airport, makes Negombo the perfect entry or farewell point to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s west coast covers the coastal belt just south of Colombo all the way down to Weligama. The west coast is more frequented by holidaymakers due to its closer proximity to the island’s capital and the main airport, and offers tropical beaches and mangrove-lined lagoons. The sandy beaches are the main attraction in the string of small towns but they also share a vibrant cultural heritage including folklore, music and dance as well as architectural influences from the Dutch period. Many temples, kovils, churches and mosques are situated along the coast. Cottage industries such as basket-weaving, mask-carving and antique restoration provide for interesting shopping.

Considered by local beach lovers as the new ‘Unawatuna,’ Mirissa has a lively group of small hotels and guest houses which contribute to a great ambiance while preserving the tranquility of a quiet beach resort not yet overpopulated with large hotels. Mirissa is also the best location from which to set sail to see the mighty Blue Whales, spinner and bottle nose dolphins and several other cetaceans. The whale watching season is from November to April.

Located on the north west coast of Sri Lanka and wedged between a great lagoon and the Indian ocean – Kalpitiya is an extremely quiet beach resort which is distinctly different to all of Sri Lanka’s other beaches. Kalpitiya is exciting for many reasons. During the period from November to April, whale and dolphin watching and snorkeling at the pristine Bar Reef are extremely special. The Kite Surfing season runs from May to October and has fast become popular with the global kite surfing community.