10 Best Beach Holidays In Sri Lanka - Updated 2024

Aarti
Aarti 
Updated
| 4 min read

While researching your upcoming vacation to Sri Lanka, you will wonder why you haven’t visited this country before! Sri Lanka has got everything a traveler looks for - mountains, pristine beaches, delicious cuisine, culture, and abundant wildlife. It is no wonder why so many tourists and travelers have been paying a visit to this amazing land. There is something for everyone out there. Be it adventurous activities, exploring the rich culture and heritage, or just strolling around the city or visiting its famous attractions, Sri Lanka is going to surprise you. If you are wondering about all the places to visit, check out this guide for the best beach holidays in Sri Lanka.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 03, 2024.

1. Ahungalla (from USD 218)

Bentota river
Source: Photo by user Hafiz Issadeen used under CC BY-ND 2.0

This quiet beach town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast is perfect for getting away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated perfectly between Galle and Bentota, Ahungalla is known for its swaying coconut palm trees, crystal clear turquoise waters, and traditional hand-carved masks. Have a relaxed stay at the beach-front property, Riu Sri Lanka, which features themed restaurants, chic furnished rooms, and an outdoor pool. And be sure to explore the nearest attractions such as Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, Telwatta Bird Sanctuary, Bawa Gardens, and Bentota Lake.

Stayed at this property?

Riu Sri Lanka All Inclusive

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: Ahungalla Beach, Bentota Walallawita korale - Galle District
15.94 km (10.0 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms

2. Habaraduwa (from USD 486)

Motor boats park Koggala
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gayandream used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Tucked away along the southern coastal belt, Habaraduwa is a quiet, secluded town renowned for its pristine beaches. Home to adventure, culture, and cuisine, this small town is a short drive away from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort. Take time to explore this historic city and be sure to visit popular attractions like Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum, Koggala Lake, and the Dutch Reformed Church. You can stay at KK Beach located at Habaraduwa Central, boasting an on-site restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, and well-furnished rooms equipped with the best amenities.

Stayed at this property?

KK Beach

Wifi Available

Address: Matara Road
60.93 km (37.9 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Room service Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Garden Terrace

3. Hikkaduwa (from USD 220)

This seaside resort town, situated in Sri Lanka, is renowned for its pristine beaches, surfing and Hikkaduwa Beach which is lined with restaurants and bars. The turquoise waters are home to a rich marine eco-system. While here, you can plan a visit to Hikkaduwa Lake, Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens, and Gangarama Maha Vihara. And you could set base at Sapphire Seas Beachfront Hotel that is nestled on the golden sands of Thirangama Beach. It boasts an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, modern amenities, and a free parking facility.

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Sapphire Seas Beachfront Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: Galle Road, Patuwatha, Dodanduwa,
39.55 km (24.6 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Room service Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms

4. Kosgoda (from USD 46)

kosgoda beach sunset
Source: Photo by user seanbjack used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Nestling in the southern province of Sri Lanka, Kosgoda is a small coastal town famous for its turtles and their conservation. It has beautiful beaches and lush green surroundings. This has created an ecosystem swarming with biodiversities, such as sea turtles and birds. Here, you can plan a visit to Ahangalla Beach, Ventura Beach, Kosgoda Lagoon, and Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project. If you are on a hunt for superb accommodations in this area, check out Turtle Paradise Villa situated 1.3 km (0.3 miles) from the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. This resort has a private beach area, an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and a bar.

Stayed at this property?

Turtle Paradise Villa

Wifi Available

Address: No. 114 Middle Road Paratharakaya
12.42 km (7.8 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Room service Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle

5. Balapitiya (from USD 298)

Into the mangroves
Source: Photo by user shankar s. used under CC BY 2.0

Situated in southwest Sri Lanka, Balapitiya is a small coastal town that is still untouched and is only a short drive from Bentota. This town is also a fishing village and you will see small fishing stilts bordering the beach. What makes Balapitiya stand out, is its sweet water lagoons and the Maadu river which supports an abundance of amazing flora and fauna. The area is frequented by eco-tourists and bird watchers. Enjoy your stay at Kumu Beach which boasts of an outdoor pool, a sundeck, a shared lounge, private balconies, and garden terraces.

Stayed at this property?

Kumu Beach

Wifi Available

Address: 670/5, Galle Road, Welagedara,
21.79 km (13.6 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Room service Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Laundry

6. Negombo (from USD 84)

Negombo, Sri Lanka - panoramio (12)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Luboš Holič used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Located just 10 km (6 miles) from Bandaranaike International Airport, this beach town has a bunch of decent hotels, attractions, and multiple beaches for you to explore. Tourists either start their trip from Negombo or end their trip here, because of its proximity to the airport. You can stay at Pledge Scape, a five-star property facing the beach that features an outdoor pool, an in-house restaurant, a terrace, a fitness center, and elegantly furnished rooms with modern amenities. Also, explore the closest landmarks such as Negombo Beach Park, Dutch Fort, Negombo Beach, and many more.

Stayed at this property?

Pledge Scape

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: No. 5, Seneviratne Place Kudapaduwa, Negombo
88.11 km (54.8 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Terrace

7. Tangalle (from USD 186)

Eveninglight at Tangalle Beach, Sri Lanka
Source: Photo by user Peter Addor used under CC BY 2.0

Nestled in the southeast region of Sri Lanka, Tangalle is famous for its vast stretches of land and virgin beaches. The city displays an old-world charm and boasts many ‘perfect’ beaches nearby. And if you’re looking for a place to stay during your visit here, check out Turtle Bay located in Kalamatiya, just steps away from the beach. This boutique hotel features an outdoor pool, an Ayurvedic spa, well-furnished rooms with modern amenities, and an on-site restaurant and bar. Explore the nearby attractions such as Tangalle Lagoon, Mulkirigala Rock Monastery, and Kalametiya Lagoon.

Stayed at this property?

Turtle Bay Boutique Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: Kalamatiya
111.14 km (69.1 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Restaurant Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Fishing

8. Koggala (from USD 62)

Sunset at Koggala
Source: Photo by user Jan Arendtsz used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Renowned for having one of the longest shorelines in Sri Lanka, Koggala is situated close to Unawatuna. It is not as crowded as its neighboring towns, making this place a quiet haven for tourists looking for a more relaxing getaway. With the longest beach and coastline in the country, this town has grabbed a lot of interest over the years. While vacationing here, stay at Hotel Kabalana nestled on the beachfront as it features an outdoor pool, a garden, a bar, and a shared lounge. Don’t forget to explore the nearby attractions such as Kushtarajagala, the Japanese Peace Pagoda, Koggala Lake, and Galle Fort.

Stayed at this property?

Hotel Kabalana

Wifi Available

Address: Matara Road
64.96 km (40.4 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Garden Terrace

9. Moragalla (from USD 60)

Bentota beach, Sri Lanka
Source: Photo by user Asela Jayarathne used under CC BY 2.0

Nestled perfectly between Bentota beach and the Beruwala beach, Moragalla is a haven for beachgoers who are on a lookout for a secluded beach during their holiday. Other than relaxing by the beach all day long, you could also explore places like the Bentota river, Brief Garden, Ventura Beach, and Kande Viharaya Temple. While here, you could stay at the Sagarika Beach Hotel that is located on Moragalla Beach and features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared terrace, a balcony, and other world-class amenities.

Stayed at this property?

Sagarika Beach Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: 4th Lane , Moragalla ,Beruwala
1.87 km (1.2 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Parking Pets allowed Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Free parking Internet services

10. Nilaveli (from USD 70)

Sonnenaufgang
Source: Photo by user pixel.fabian used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Looking for serious beach time during your stay in Sri Lanka? This could be your golden ticket. With golden sands and an inviting ocean, Nilaveli is a coastal town in the Trincomalee District, that is known for its diving and snorkeling activities. You could stay at Anilana Nilaveli that’s nestled within lush gardens and features a large outdoor pool with a sun terrace, elegantly furnished rooms, and an on-site restaurant. This beachfront property is also close to attractions including Fort Frederick, Pigeon Island, and Kanniya Hot Springs.

Stayed at this property?

Anilana Nilaveli

Address: No. 1508, Irakkandi, Trincomalee
282.93 km (175.9 mi) from Kande Vihara Temple

Visit Sri Lanka for an unforgettable vacation

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country and is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. There are so many places you could visit for your next holiday here. You will surely enjoy this beach vacation unlike any other.

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Born in Mumbai and brought up in Bangalore, India, Aarti is a full-time freelance writer by profession. She is a lover of everything the ‘blue dot’ offers—world cultures, off-the-beaten tracks,...Read more

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