The southwest coastline of Sri Lanka, stretching from the bustling city of Colombo to the historic town of Galle, serves as a sanctuary for couples seeking intimate beach getaways with easy access. This scenic route is adorned with picturesque beach towns such as Bentota, renowned for its tranquil waters, river safaris, lagoon water sports, and luxurious resorts. Hikkaduwa has always been a crowd favourite and is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, glass-bottom boats, and lively beachside atmosphere. The lesser-known golden sands of Kalutara, Wadduwa and Induruwa blend beauty with seclusion.
Bentota Beach is 64 kilometres south of Colombo. Renowned for its opulent beach hotels and resorts, it offers an exquisite combination of lagoon, river, and ocean, ideal for a romantic excursion with adventure. The azure waters, extensive sun-drenched sandy coastlines, and serene ambience establish Bentota as the quintessential seaside sanctuary for relaxation amidst swaying palms and golden sands.
In addition to its romantic charm, Bentota Beach is a sanctuary for water sports enthusiasts. Couples may engage in various activities, including the newly introduced skydiving and well-established pursuits such as snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, windsurfing, water skiing, and deep-sea fishing. Furthermore, Canoe Rock is a prominent diving destination where couples can explore the captivating marine life found among the coral reefs. The Bentara River is renowned for its riverboat safaris, canoeing, and kayaking. The riverbanks are adorned with verdant tropical mangrove forests, teeming with diverse wildlife. Bentota’s water sports offerings, luxurious accommodations, and picturesque beaches are ideal for couples who appreciate adventure and tranquillity.
Located less than an hour south of Bentota, Hikkaduwa Beach has been a beloved tourist destination for over 50 years. It is famous for its coral reef and clear waters, which make it ideal for snorkelling, diving, and glass-bottom boat rides. The beach’s tranquil atmosphere is perfect for strolls, sunbathing, and intimate moments.
Beyond the beach, Hikkaduwa boasts an exhilarating food scene and a vibrant nightlife that couples will adore. Numerous food stalls line the shores, and vendors on the main beach road offer plenty of opportunities to savour Sri Lankan street food delicacies. The beachfront and main road are adorned with excellent seafood restaurants, luxury resorts, and spas, providing a taste of Southern hospitality and comfort. As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with its lively nightlife, offering an evening filled with fun.
Located 8 km south of Bentota, Induruwa Beach is a lesser-known gem, perfect for a more tranquil beach experience. It offers a peaceful escape from the busier Bentota and Hikkaduwa Beaches, making it ideal for strolls along the sandy shores or simply relaxing while swimming and sunbathing. The calming atmosphere and pristine beauty of Induruwa create a romantic retreat for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Its proximity to Bentota ensures easy access to the town, restaurants, and other amenities.
Located 35 km from both Colombo and Bentota, Wadduwa Beach is an ideal day trip from the city. It boasts bright, sunny skies, soft golden sands, and calm turquoise waters. This beach offers a quieter experience than the more frequented beach resorts along the southwest coast.
Beyond its stunning beaches, Wadduwa offers opportunities to engage in several unique local experiences. Early risers can witness local fishermen hauling in their nets or bringing boats ashore laden with plentiful catches, a daily spectacle highlighting the area’s traditional fishing practices. In the evenings, the sight of fishing boats returning to shore enhances the beach’s tranquil ambience. Wadduwa is also renowned for its inland coconut plantations and traditional livelihoods, such as vinegar and toddy tapping.
*Travel Tip- December to March is the best season to enjoy the beaches on this coastal stretch.
Stretching along the coastline north of Colombo, from Negombo to Mannar, this coast is characterised by serene and secluded beaches, perfect for intimate getaways, with Negombo being the most popular destination. The golden sands of Negombo have consistently drawn visitors due to the extensive stretches of beach, lagoon, and breathtaking sunsets. Further north, the unspoilt beauty of Kalpitiya calls, with its vast lagoons and opportunities for kitesurfing and dolphin excursions. The finger-like peninsula of Mannar shines with nature’s raw beauty, where remote beaches are caressed only by the sun’s rays. During December and January, Mannar Lagoon attracts hundreds of migrant flamingoes, painting the landscape in a kaleidoscope of colours.
Negombo Beach, a 45-minute drive from Colombo and just 20 minutes from the international airport, boasts a picturesque stretch of golden sands that gently slope into the Indian Ocean. With kite surfing, windsurfing, lagoon and deep-sea fishing, and sailing, Negombo transforms into a hive of activity during the season. The beach is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and romantic evening strolls along its expansive sandy shoreline. The colourful proa fishing boats, a unique feature of Negombo, add a vibrant touch to the seaside scenery. Negombo Beach provides a blend of enjoyment, relaxation, and indulgence, surrounded by world-class hotels, luxurious spas, lively beach bars, and upscale restaurants. A predominantly Catholic fishing town, Negombo is rich in cultural heritage, showcasing several notable churches and distinctive architectural styles influenced by its colonial past.
Negombo boasts three popular beaches: Negombo Beach, Browns Beach, and Morawala Beach. The two most popular are Negombo Beach and Browns Beach, which feature long stretches of golden sand, turquoise waters, and lovely palm trees. Morawala Beach, located in the village of Pitipana, is only 15 minutes from Negombo and is renowned for its sweeping views and stunning sunsets.
Located in the western region of the Puttalam District, three hours north of Negombo, Kalpitiya is a coastal town with fourteen local islands along its shores. It is the premier destination on the island for enjoying kitesurfing. Additionally, diving, dolphin and whale watching are also popular, with the warm ocean waters offering the opportunity to witness super pods of dolphins, sometimes numbering in the thousands off the coast.
Kalpitiya Beach is a sandy headland that protects the Kalpitiya lagoon from the Indian Ocean. Its calm blue waters and gentle breeze create a haven for kite surfers, offering exhilarating rides across the peninsula. For those less inclined towards adventure sports, the tranquil beach atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and intimate moments by the Indian Ocean. Bar Reef, Sri Lanka’s largest living coral reef, is a protected marine sanctuary with local dive sites that offer diving excursions to explore the beauty of this reef and its marine wonders.
Four hours north of Kalpitiya, Mannar boasts some of the finest secluded beaches in this part of the island. Keeri Beach stands out as the prime location. Unlike the lively shores of the southern and western coast, Keeri Beach offers a tranquil beachfront located five kilometres from Mannar town; this beach is renowned for its sunny disposition, excellent swimming spots, and picturesque fringes lined with palm trees. The small grove of palm trees is home to tribes of monkeys, adding a unique charm to the setting. With its unspoiled beauty and serene atmosphere, Keeri Beach is ideal for couples wishing to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s tranquillity.
Mannar’s northern coast also boasts enchanting beaches perfect for peaceful exploration. Pesalai Beach, with its charming scenery, provides a glimpse into the lives of local fishing communities. Vankalai Beach, a hidden gem, offers a tranquil, secluded atmosphere, ideal for barefoot strolls along its sandy shores.
*Travel Tips: Negombo’s beaches are at their best from December to March. The ideal seasons for Mannar and Kalpitiya are from mid-May to mid-October and from December to March.
The south coast of Sri Lanka extends from the historic fort city of Galle to Hambantota in the far south. The South Coast is undoubtedly the most popular beach destination in Sri Lanka, boasting numerous world-renowned seaside paradises for couples. In addition to its stunning beaches, the South offers exhilarating ocean adventures, such as whale watching, sea turtle hatcheries, surfing, and diving, which further elevate its charm. Famous for its Instagram-worthy beach locations, ocean blowholes, surf breaks, and hidden coves along jungle beaches, the southern shores frequently feature on every couple’s bucket list. The south caters to every beach desire, from the shores of Mirissa, ideal for whale watching and vibrant beach nightlife, to the secluded beach coves of Tangalle.
Regarded as one of the most renowned beach retreats in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna boasts some of the country’s most picturesque and unspoilt beaches. Unawatuna Beach is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, establishing it as a snorkeler’s paradise. The untouched coral reefs are home to various tropical fish, ensuring that diving and swimming offer a magical experience. The beach has stylish cafés and restaurants where guests can savour everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. As evening falls, the beach frequently transforms into a vibrant party scene where everyone gathers to kindle bonfires and dance beneath the stars, from locals to visitors.
For a more secluded beach experience, couples can explore Unawatuna’s Jungle Beach. This hidden gem, enveloped by lush greenery, boasts golden sand and vibrant blue waters. Accessible via a tuk-tuk ride through the jungle, Jungle Beach resembles a scene straight out of a film. Although the entrance area may be somewhat crowded with sunbed hire stands and a small café, a short stroll reveals ample open spaces.
Koggala Beach, located just a few kilometres from Unawatuna, is perfect for couples seeking adventure and relaxation. It is a surfing paradise for all skill levels, known for its consistent waves and excellent reef breaks. Several private surf schools offer lessons along the shore for beginners, allowing them to experience the excitement of riding the waves. For couples who prefer a more laid-back experience, the beach offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing on the soft sands or enjoying a refreshing swim in the sea.
The beach is encircled by breathtaking tropical views, creating a picturesque setting for a romantic getaway. Numerous restaurants and cafés nearby serve exquisite seafood dishes and refreshing cocktails, perfect for enjoying a meal together while soaking in the stunning surroundings. Just a few minutes away, couples can also explore the nearby Koggala Lake, which offers boat rides to discover nature and the local lake islands.
Ahangama, situated approximately 20 minutes from Unawatuna, features stunning beaches, with Kabalana Beach being arguably the most popular. Kabalana Beach provides a delightful seaside experience with plenty of activities to engage couples. This versatile beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and snorkelling, making it an exceptional all-round coastal destination.
Kabalana Beach is generally well-maintained, with lifeguards monitoring the sandy stretch during the season to ensure the safety of visitors. Couples can hire sunbeds and umbrellas for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach’s consistent, gentle waves at either end accommodate surfers of all abilities. Whether lounging on the sand or riding the waves, Kabalana Beach offers a delightful and secure environment for couples to unwind and explore.
Tangalle, located along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, is merely an hour’s drive from Galle. It boasts some of the country’s most secluded and underrated beaches. These beaches provide an idyllic setting, perfect for those who cherish nature and a touch of seclusion. The rugged landscapes and rocky outcrops amplify the charm of Tangalle’s coastal beauty, creating a tranquil beach retreat.
Goyambokka Beach and Silent Beach are among Tangalle’s finest, and they could easily be some of the best on the entire island despite being less popular than some of the more renowned names. Goyambokka Beach features a vast sandy stretch framed by rocky outcrops. Silent Beach, also known as Amanwella Beach, is more secluded and genuinely lives up to its name as it is less frequented. With stunning white sand and crystal-clear waters
Hiriketiya Beach, once a hidden paradise along Sri Lanka’s famous south coast, now boasts a vibrant surfing scene and has gained considerable recognition in recent years. This charming bay, located 20 minutes west of Tangalle, is celebrated for its dramatic, gnarly waves that attract surfers due to the natural curvature of the land. The beach is surrounded by lush palm forests that cascade over golden sands, creating an idyllic landscape. Hiriketiya’s laid-back atmosphere, complemented by its clear turquoise waters and rustic beachfront cafés, is perfect for those seeking a relaxed beach life. Couples can enjoy surfing, yoga, or unwind while observing monkeys in the trees and watching surfers at sunset.
Dalawella Beach, just minutes from Unawatuna, is renowned for its world-famous Instagram photo spot: the beach swing rope. With a rope swing suspended over the water, this bent palm tree offers a distinctive experience and excellent photo opportunities. Swinging out over the ocean at sunset produces stunningly beautiful photos; however, a fair warning: it is trickier than it appears!
Another highlight of Dalawella Beach is the constant presence of sea turtles swimming in the calm ocean. While it is an excellent spot for turtle-watching, remember to respect their space as you enjoy these graceful creatures gliding peacefully through the water.
Weligama Beach, which translates to ‘sandy village’ in the local dialect, is a charming retreat for sun and surf enthusiasts. This picturesque fishing town has increasingly attracted couples, particularly those eager to learn to surf. The half-moon-shaped shallow bay features gentle waters, ideal for swimming and surfing, and local surf schools offer lessons.
Situated only 15 minutes from Mirissa and 40 minutes from the historic city of Galle, Weligama Beach features beachfront cafés, delightful restaurant shacks, and local surf schools. Couples can unwind on the golden sands, savour a refreshing king coconut, and immerse themselves in the relaxed island beach atmosphere. Numerous local shacks provide day beds for those who prefer lounging comfortably while taking in the stunning beauty of Weligama Beach.
Mirissa Beach is a tranquil haven on the south coast for couples seeking a relaxed seaside escape. This previously low-key village has grown increasingly popular in recent years. Mirissa is famous for its whale-watching tours and coastal village charm. Three of the most famous beaches in Mirissa are Turtle Beach, Mirissa Main Beach, and Secret Beach, which have become some of the most famous on the island. Each beach area features soft white sands shaded by palm trees dotted with charming wooden shacks offering bites to eat or refreshing coconut water.
Mirissa has also gone global with two Instagram-worthy spots along its shores: Coconut Tree Hill and Parrot Rock. For couples, Mirissa Beach offers an ideal blend of relaxation and activity. Here, visitors can unwind in the shade, savour a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant, or dive into the inviting waves for swimming, bodyboarding, or surfing.
Rekawa Beach, situated just 10 kilometres east of Tangalle, is a tranquil haven where surf, sand, and turtle conservation converge. This charming fishing village features enchanting beaches at one end and a lush, marshy lagoon at the other, making it ideal for beachside nature experiences. Rekawa is celebrated as a nesting ground for various species of turtles, including the rare hawksbill, leatherback, Olive Ridley, and Green turtles, which are drawn to its serene, less crowded shores. Visitors to Rekawa Beach can explore and even join local volunteers on a nighttime turtle egg hunt. The optimal time for sea turtle egg collection occurs during the calm months from January to April, with full moon days particularly favourable for sea turtles laying their eggs.
*Travel Tips: December to April are the best times to enjoy the beaches on the south coast.
Jaffna is a treasure trove of secluded romantic beach sanctuaries, perfect for those seeking beach experiences beyond the commonly trodden paths. The Jaffna peninsula typically escapes the notice of mainstream tourists. However, Jaffna boasts stunning unspoiled stretches of coastline, including Casuarina Beach, renowned for its clear, shallow waters. KKS Beach and the idyllic island beaches of Kayts and Karainagar also provide secluded shores and breathtaking sunsets amidst tranquil surroundings.
Casuarina Beach, situated in Karainagar in the northern part of the Jaffna Peninsula, is the most popular beach destination in Jaffna for both locals and visitors. Just 20 kilometres from Jaffna town, this beach is easily accessible and offers a tranquil escape with its deep, dark blue waters and gentle waves. Named after the Casuarina trees that line its shore, the beach features shallow, calm waters that are very safe for swimming or kayaking. Local fishermen utilise traditional flatboats to catch fish and access their nets laid out for prawns, which adds to the beach’s charm.
Nestled almost directly north of Jaffna, just 40 minutes from Jaffna town, Kankesanthurai, or KKS Beach as it is more commonly known, lies at the northern tip of the Jaffna Peninsula. Once the nation’s primary naval hub, this area has transformed into a family-friendly beach destination where locals gather to enjoy the sun-kissed sands and tranquil ocean waters. Renowned as one of the safest beaches in the Northern region, its pristine, untouched stretch offers a relaxing sanctuary. Couples can wade into the soothing waters and unwind after a day of exploring the city’s attractions. In addition to its shimmering waters, KKS Beach boasts views of the impressive KKS Lighthouse and Naval Port. Visitors may also explore the nearby aquarium sanctuary and the colonial remnants of Kankesanthurai, adding an element of history and adventure to their romantic beach outings.
Charty Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand just 15 kilometres from Jaffna, is the perfect getaway for couples. Situated on Velanai Island, also known as Kayts, it offers a picturesque escape only a 30-minute drive from the city. The beach is lined with palmyra and coconut trees, providing welcome shade from the sun. The warm weather, tranquil waters, and sandy shores create an ideal setting for relaxation by the sea
Akkarai Beach in Thondamanaru is only a 40-minute drive from Jaffna Town. This secluded beach is a local favourite on weekends but sees few visitors during the weekdays. The beach landscape boasts a picturesque bridge that provides stunning views of the surrounding greenery and natural scenery. Nearby, the Lord Murugan temple adds a significant cultural element to your visit.
*Travel Tip: The Best Time to explore the Beaches of the North is between May and September.
Sri Lanka’s East Coast, stretching from the historic port city of Trincomalee to the world-renowned surf haven of Arugam Bay, is home to numerous hidden beach gems and surfing sanctuaries. With its endless coastline, Sri Lanka always has a beach in season; while the West Coast experiences its off-season, the East Coast comes alive, with its prime beach season running from May to October. This coastline is characterised by stunning stretches of largely untouched beaches, offering a magical escape from the crowds of the southern and western coasts. Trincomalee’s Nilaveli Beach boasts powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for snorkelling and dolphin-watching. In contrast, Passikudah’s shallow bay is perfect for wading and romantic beach strolls. Further south, Arugam Bay exudes a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for surfing. The East Coast’s natural beauty, tranquillity, and vibrant culture make it an alluring destination for couples seeking to explore beyond the ordinary.
Nilaveli Beach, located about 16 kilometres north of Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s east coast, is undeniably one of the finest beaches in the country. This less-crowded paradise offers a tranquil retreat along a route adorned with a lagoon, lush coconut palm groves, and herds of cattle belonging to the locals.
Just two kilometres off the shores of Nilaveli, Pigeon Island Marine Sanctuary beckons with its crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling and exploring the vibrant coral reef. Named after the rock pigeons that roost there by the hundreds, Pigeon Island adds a unique charm to the beach’s appeal. Further north of Nilaveli, one can discover the striking Red Rock Beach, renowned for its distinctive reddish rocks.
Kalkudah Beach, situated just a few kilometres from Pasikuda Bay on Sri Lanka’s east coast, is a delightful retreat for couples. This 4 km stretch of sand offers a vision of tranquillity, perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to the busier Pasikuda Bay. The beach, significantly affected by the 2004 tsunami, has since been restored to its former glory and boasts the softest sands and azure blue waters.
Unlike Pasikuda, Kalkudah is considerably quieter and more remote. It features fewer amenities and stalls, so it is wise to come prepared with refreshments. The beach, fringed with palm trees and rustic surroundings, offers a serene and intimate setting. The occasional fisherman and wandering cattle provide the only usual distractions, making Kalkudah Beach an ideal place for couples seeking solitude and a tranquil beach experience.
Pasikuda Beach, with its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, is a tranquil destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. From May to September, it provides the finest beach experience in Sri Lanka, featuring clear skies, warm ocean waters, and exceptional water clarity. This makes it ideal for snorkelling, diving, sailing, and various water sports. The gentle curve of Pasikuda Bay ensures enjoyable swimming, solidifying it as a year-round beach destination.
Pasikuda boasts upscale resorts that provide spa treatments, unique experiences, and star-rated cuisine. The southern part of the bay retains its local charm, with guesthouses, hawker stalls, and fishing boats adding to an authentic Sri Lankan flavour. During the high season, the waters come alive with jet skis, kayaks, and sailing boats, making Pasikuda an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure for couples.
When tourists mention Trincomalee Beach, they often refer to Uppuveli Beach, which is the more popular of the two. Uppuveli Beach, situated in Trincomalee, boasts a lively atmosphere with various thrilling water sports and activities. One of the highlights of this experience is deep-sea diving, where visitors can explore numerous shipwrecks from before European colonisation.
Uppuveli Beach is a stunning, vast expanse of sandy coastline with crystal-clear, tranquil waters. Owing to its captivating surroundings and lively atmosphere, this beach draws a considerable local and holiday crowd during the season. Couples can enjoy deep-sea diving and thrilling water sports or unwind at the bars and restaurants lining the beach.
Arugam Bay combines untamed nature with vibrant culture. Its rugged coastline showcases long, deserted beaches surrounded by lush, overgrown jungle, lagoons, and world-class waves crashing onto tranquil, secluded bays.
Arugam Bay Beach is the heart of the beach scene, offering a vibrant atmosphere where local fishermen launch their boats, surfers ride the waves, and beach bars serve refreshing coconuts and cocktails. Spend endless days relaxing on the soft sands, attempting to surf, or simply soaking up the tropical vibes. The beach is surrounded by bohemian beach clubs, hippie cafés, and surf shops, which enhance its unique charm while maintaining a remote feel.
Discover some of the more secluded beaches, such as Peanut Farm Beach. This beach is located south of Arugam Bay and boasts unspoilt beauty and excellent waves. With no buildings or hotels in sight, it exudes a deserted island atmosphere where travellers can unwind amidst the natural splendour. Nearby, Elephant Rock Beach, featuring its stunning natural rock formation, provides a picturesque backdrop for romantic moments, while Lighthouse Beach offers a tranquil setting for couples to relax and rejuvenate.
Kottukal, with its extensive unspoilt sands and more upscale hotels, provides a more refined beach setting where one can immerse oneself in the local culture. Every Saturday, throughout the season, locals and visitors gather to witness the sunset, savour street food, and enjoy the authentic flavours of the East.
Muhathuwaram Beach is yet another gem of the eastern coastline. Conveniently located one mile from Batticaloa Town, it offers more than merely scenic beauty. The nearby historic temples, churches, and kovils captivate visitors and enrich the area’s cultural appeal.
The stunning lagoons and swaying palm trees enhance the allure of the beach, making it a picturesque destination. Experience the region’s unique traditions, rich culture, and unspoiled tropical wonders. Muhathuwaram is a lesser-visited beach in Batticaloa that provides a tranquil setting.
Sri Lanka’s unbroken coastline boasts trendy, vibrant, and unspoiled hidden gems, providing a wealth of options for those keen to uncover the island’s finest beaches, which stretch from north to south and east to west. This comprehensive list highlights the most romantic beaches in Sri Lanka by province. Allow a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking beaches to enhance your experience on this paradise island.
